For most of us, Friday, March 13th was a pretty normal morning. Well, except that it was Friday the 13th of a week that included a time change and a full moon. But, no biggie, right? Do you remember these images?
It feels like they were on social media last year, not last week, doesn't it?
And then we got these, as parents stayed home with kids. And we wondered if "those parents" might appreciate what we do a little more, during these two weeks.Except that two weeks is now turning into longer, as states are asking people to shelter in place.
And what have teachers done? The questions on social media: "How do you connect with kids digitally?" "What's the best platform for group chats?" "Can I read a book aloud or am I breaking copyright laws?" "How do I create digital materials?" "Who's going to help my 1st graders log onto Google?" Question after question, some with tears about not having been able to say good-bye to their students.
And then just as quickly, the reports: "I taught myself how to use Zoom and connected with my kids." "Did you know that Schoology has a platform that lets you meet in small groups with kids?" "My kids were so happy to talk with me, and I feel so relieved having seen their faces." "I sent an email to parents about what I was going to do and they were so grateful!"
What have we done? We've:
- made copies
- scanned materials
- found websites
- discovered virtual tours
- created digital materials
- recorded ourselves reading books
- recorded ourselves teaching lessons
- connected with kids in ways that felt safe to them
- called or emailed parents to let them know we'd still be in touch with their kids
- WITHOUT any additional funding or training
And that, my friends, is why no one should ever question a teacher's commitment to their job.
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