Ed Leadership had a very good article this week that is entitled: Maintaining Connections, Reducing Anxiety While School is Closed by Jessica Minahan. The article brought to light the fact that so many are feeling "whiplash, disorientation, and anxiety" due to having to revamp an instructional system with only a few days notice. The article goes on to say that "in these unprecedented times teachers are rising to the occasion creatively and quickly to shift to remote learning amidst school closures." I could not help but to reflect upon the fantastic work being done by our Manheim Central facilitators. In just a few days time, Manheim Central was up and running with meaningful academic instructional activities and with providing our learners with much needed connections. In the article, Minahan also outlines the fact that many of our students are facing unintended consequences on their mental health as a result of the pandemic. She outlines several ways in which we can work to help reduce anxiety in our learners. Providing our learners with connections, clarity, and continuity are critically important in this Online environment. The article is linked below for your reference.
My favorite quote from the article states, "When the crisis is over, students won't remember what you taught them--they'll remember that you made them feel safe and cared for." As you continue with online learning in the weeks to come, I challenge you to reflect on ways you can connect with your learners, provide them with clarity, and give them continuity and stability.
This week, let's continue to highlight the awesome work being done by Manheim Central facilitators to connect with learners, outline clear learning expectations, and offer continuity to learners during these trying times. There is much to celebrate!
