Why Did Maryland Schools Close?
Ever since Maryland got its first coronavirus cases, Governor Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency. Later, the respiratory disease known as COVID-19 started killing people in the state, and spreading rapidly. That’s when our governor decided to close schools for two weeks. On March 25, however, he extended this date to April 27, in order to help prevent spread. So on it went, until on May 26, the devastating news arrived that schools would remain closed for the rest of the 2019-2020 school year.
Graduates of 2020
As you may know, every year there are students who graduate from one level to the other. For example, elementary school to middle school, or high school to college. These people are considered the graduates of 2020. Because of COVID-19 these people who deserve graduations and promotion parties aren’t getting them. Governor Larry Hogan encourages schools to “get creative.” So, many schools are. High schools are hanging banners in front of every twelfth grade students home. Some middle schools are doing videos for each student. Elementary schools are doing virtual graduation via Zoom, and planning a physical promotion for a later date. Despite these efforts, students aren’t taking the distance graduations and promotions in the best way possible. Some are loving it, and thinking that they will be special, since they would be the only ones to graduate that way. Some are neutral about it. Those kids would like a physical graduation/promotion, but they would settle for virtual. Sadly, however, the majority of kids are depressed and angry about it. They would like to get what they deserve, they would like to have the things other Classes of 2020 had. In my opinion, I don’t like it, but I don’t hate it. I’m sad that we won’t get a promotion, or at least an official promotion. We are getting and online promotion, and a physical one that follows at a later date. So, I’m kind of happy about that, because we get two promotions. But, I still wanted to have it like others.
Award Ceremonies
Now, if you don’t know already, every single school in the United States of America picks a handful of 5th, 8th, or 12th graders to receive the most important school-related certificate: the Presidential Award of Educational Excellence. This is so important, because if you get the Gold award, it contains a signed letter from the President of the United States (please don’t be rude, our current one is still a president). If you get the Silver or Bronze Award, it still comes from the white house, but you don’t get a signature or a letter. Because of COVID-19, not all schools are doing it this year, but the White House is still doing it. It is your principal’s choice to do it or not. This left many students sad, but if you are a graduate reading this, most schools are still doing it, so don’t worry! Other grades have many awards too. Sadly, it doesn’t seem like a lot of schools are doing those anymore. They are trying to figure things out for the graduates. But, some teachers might be doing special things in their “classes”, so look out! I know my teacher is!
Social Emotions
If you’re a kid reading this, you may be very social, and miss your friends. In online classes, you really can’t talk to them. You might miss just hanging out with them too. Many people in the world are stuck at home, and haven’t talked to anyone in ages. I feel the same way. Being social is a very important part of life, and during these times, being social might be the only way to really stay sane. If you need to, ask your teacher to organize some fun, optional online meetings, that you can talk to your friends in. My teacher really didn’t even need to be asked, she just set up a Monday meeting that we can just talk. She also has fun meetings at noon on Friday’s and Thursdays. If you asked your teacher, I’m sure they’d understand. If you really need to talk to someone, and your teacher won’t do what you asked, you can just have a social-distance meet with them.
So, How Will It Affect Students Overall?
I think that overall, theses school closures will affect students neutrally. Students have no reason to be happy, not being able to see their friends or teachers, losing their celebrations and awards, plus, some will never see a few of their friends again. They have all the reason to be frustrated, mad, and sad. Don’t feel like you’re alone. Many teachers cried when they heard the news. Don’t feel ashamed. Additionally, teachers are making sure students get what they deserve. They’re arranging “parties” for their students, making their own cards, and hand-delivering them to each student’s house (something my teacher did 😃), and most importantly, supporting their students. So, even though students are missing out on a lot, they will surely be special. Don’t be sad, be proud.
Hi Armaan!! Loved reading this blog. I love how positive you are in such a weird time for students. Thank you for the shout out. I loved dropping off gifts! Keep writing! I am so proud of you.