As we embark on another fall and the start of an unprecedented school year, I hope you and your families remain safe and healthy. I had the opportunity to sit with Mr. Jeff Myers, high school principal, to understand what it's been like for an instructional leader during this challenging time. Jeff began our conversation with some advice to our alumni educators: "Be patient, be flexible, and remember that everyone - teachers, administrators, and parents - are finding themselves as a first year teacher." He continued, "Challenges will arise. Staff and students are experiencing the impact of COVID-19 and remote learning differently. We are all in this together, and together, we will grow and become a stronger community."
The Long Beach School District has been working diligently for months to prepare for students' returns. The instructional plan was developed with the input of administrators, teachers, parents, and community members. Due to the threat of school closures, Long Beach created three models of learning: fully remote, hybrid, and in-person. This enables a seamless transition between models. While professional development was provided in several technological areas, Mr. Myers points out that his staff is already ahead of fellow educators when it comes to distance learning. "The skills our educators are learning and continue to fine tune is not only important during COVID times, but will ensure that we can provide our students with information in a relevant, timely manner. The ease in which we use technology will only help propel us towards the future."
The high school staff has sought to maintain a sense of normalcy, while at the same time, implementing several state mandates to ensure student safety. Students and staff are required to wear masks, desks are separated by six feet, and the hallway is marked with floor decals to promote social distancing.
School counselors, social workers, and psychologists continue to provide ongoing academic and social emotional support to students. Existing ties with community organizations like REACH, Long Beach Aware, and South Oaks will continue to strengthen and be utilized.
In closing, Mr. Myers acknowledges the difficulties a year like this will inevitably bring, but sees strength and resilience in such a tight knit community. He explains that the students bring joy and life to the hallways. Parents support each other and the school district. Teachers are willing and able to do the work, and that together, we will be stronger than ever.
See the District's Re-opening plan here:
http://www.lbeach.org/district/school_reopening_plan
