Challenges and Opportunities
4/11/2020
Although we all very much hoped our distance learning adventure would be over sooner than later, it appears that our adventure will continue for some time. It goes without saying that everyone (teachers, students and parents!) all wish we could return to school and work, but the mandates to “stay home and save lives” require that we persevere in distance learning. Like most of the children, I really miss being able to spend my days at school, singing, laughing, and learning together. Distance learning poses many challenges for young children, and though we Zoom now, it just isn't the same. Frankly, there have been times I’ve complained a bit about the many difficulties this pandemic has caused and will undoubtedly continue to cause for some time to come. Lately though, I’ve been thinking about a quote attributed to John Adams (and also many others), which has encouraged me to keep going and remain positive: Every problem is an opportunity in disguise. So, I have thought about my opportunities, and these are just a few that I came up with:
This is not meant to sugar-coat some very serious problems we face; I just wanted to share a thought which is helping me get through this difficult time. Although this crisis has brought with it many challenges and difficulties, it has also brought growth and learning – and not just for the children! Perhaps you've been experiencing this too. I will say that trying to jump the technology hurdles associated with distance learning has been daunting for me at times, and there have been a few times where I’ve totally crashed and burned! I have been grateful for the grace extended to me from our fabulous PNA families during these times. It has made me appreciate in new ways the real community we are blessed to have here. Many parents have expressed their gratitude to me for what we have done to provide learning activities, but I have to say that each week that passes makes me more and more appreciative of you and what you are doing to support your child's learning, while you are also trying to do many other things at home. I just want to tell you that you are doing a great job and I am very grateful to partner with you in supporting these amazing students.
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Melissa SmithMs. Smith has a degree in Early Childhood Education and has taught kindergarten for many years. Alaska has been home to Ms. Smith for 28 years, and she can't imagine living anywhere else! She has four children, a dog and two cats. She loves reading, camping, gardening, and genealogy! Archives
April 2021
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