The Gifts of Covid - A Year (and a bit) In Review

I would bet that when most folks look back over the past year and a half, they don't use the word "gift" in association. For a multitude of reasons, it has been hard. Understatement. 

But, I would also bet that many folks look back over the last year and a half with appreciation and gratitude for the multitude of little things that without a global pandemic might not have happened...

The *gifts of Covid. 

For me, it has been less about new understandings, and more about a greater appreciation for those things that I had already identified as essential to a successful school community. 

As we move through the last few days of this school year, here are just a few of those:

1. Change is an opportunity. 

We have been given the gift of disruption. An opportunity to pause, reflect and revisit structures, approaches, procedures and policies. 

2. Clear communication is essential.

In times of uncertainty, there is no such thing as 'over communication'. Even if the response is simply, "I don't know, but I'll find out." Repetition, transparency and consistency are all important aspects of clear communication. 

3. Everyone has a story.

Adults and children alike carry their stories with them. Understanding context takes time, trust and patience. 

4. Intention is important but/and others' perspective matters.

While we may act with the best of intentions, if these actions are not perceived as supportive/constructive/inclusive/collaborative, then that is what matters. The ability to listen, reflect and adjust accordingly is important. 

Wishing everyone a restful and safe summer. Here's to no masks and less sanitizing in September!

*With great appreciation to my colleague and friend Tina Pierik who coined this phrase!

School is So Much More

Here goes the understatement of the century...

The last year has been tough. During a pandemic, everything takes longer. And is more difficult. Tasks that at one time came as naturally as breathing now involve intentional, mindful, painfully slow consideration and planning. 

So it's no wonder that we are all exhausted. And impatient. And ready for it all to end. 

But in the midst of the many obstacles, there have been SO many more moments of gratitude. And appreciation. And new-found joy. In the simple things. The things we used to take for granted. 

The most profound of these moments comes from a greater appreciation for all that schools do. 

Yesterday I watched kids playing volleyball in the gym. They were distanced, the equipment had been sanitized and they were wearing masks. And it brought tears to my eyes. Because kids were laughing. And joyful. And for many, participating in something that "pre-Covid", they might not have. For these kids, it was a connection. A place to belong. A distraction from many months of trudging through protocols and procedures. 

If asked, most people might say that the primary purpose of schools is to "educate" students. But what I have come to appreciate more deeply in the past year is that our purpose is so much more. 

School is connection and belonging, safety and nourishment, stability and inspiration. 

School is so much more.