We will continue to thrive no matter what
The past two school years will be difficult to forget. From changing perspectives to wearing hats that have never before been worn, students and staff alike have persevered to make the best of unfortunate circumstances. It may not have always been smooth, but the focus on children and their growth has remained the focus at Triad Local Schools.
Since the pandemic began, it has been easy to make excuses, complain, and become angry at the cards that have been dealt. To remain positive, to problem solve and find better ways to do things was the more difficult path to take, but it is the path taken by staff on a daily basis. We have learned, we have grown and we have all become better in our roles by having to look at our jobs differently.
Over the past two years, the following observations have been made:
■ The teacher who struggled to utilize any technology in their classroom now live streams courses, has a Google Classroom set-up to organize assignments for students and families and holds one-on-one video meetings for students who are not meeting the standard.
■ Businesses in the community understand the importance of supporting the schools and are willing to help.
■ Professional development does not always need to be obtained by attending a conference. By relying on the strengths of our employees, we can hold internal professional development and improve the organization as a whole.
■ A relentless focus on data has allowed us to drill-down and focus on specific student needs.
■ There has been more collaboration around 21st century learning strategies and how to instruct in an online environment.
■ A district-wide focus on mental health, not only in regard to students, but also the well-being of staff.
■ Students who struggle in traditional schooling can excel in virtual learning.
■ Our teachers are superheroes; they have worked harder than ever and are continuing to build relationships with in-class and virtual students while maintaining their scope and sequence for their class.
■ Staff members were willing to step into any role to help with cleanliness and transportation shortages.
■ There is power in teaming, whether that is in grade-level teams, department teams, or vertical teams. Relying on one another’s strength and sharing the workload has increased productivity.
At Triad Local Schools, we were forced to adapt to a different style of teaching that has never before been done and we remain thankful not only for our own professional growth, but also the ability to continue to instruct our kids, given any circumstance. We are thankful for our staff and community who continue to adapt and do what is best for our kids on a daily basis. The pandemic may not have an end date, but I know with all of our stakeholders, we will continue to thrive no matter the circumstance.