 "This fall doesn’t have to be like the spring," writes Jenny Anderson for the New York Times. Whether you are a teacher, admin, student, or parent, once August rolls around you begin to think about the new school year. Some schools are going back with modifications, some are implementing a hybrid model, and some will start the year virtually. Regardless of how the school year begins, it will be different. There are adjustments we can make for a smooth transition and a successful school year. Read: How to Proactively Prepare for Distance Learning by Jenny Anderson (The New York Times) I recall parents discussing "homeschooling" their children this past spring. They started with such positive energy, creating colorful charts and schedules, proudly posting them online. Within a matter of days however, parents began posting their appreciation to teachers everywhere. It turned out that teaching was not exactly as simple as cute charts and ambitious schedules. I know exactly one family who had a positive school experience this past spring- and they were already an established homeschooled family. Everyone else seemed to be part of the scramble to adjust and do the best they could. The dynamic in households all over changed as parents took on the dual role of parenting and teaching their children. It does not have to be that way this fall. Unless a family makes the decision to withdraw from the school system and become full time homeschoolers, parents should take a step back so the teachers can teach and they can go back to being the parents. Once that happens, parents can once again be their child's biggest advocate and open lines of communication with the teachers. This year is going to take a lot of patience, flexibility, and understanding. Together, we can navigate the upcoming school year and set ourselves, our families, and our schools up for success.
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