Student’s perspective on semi-attendance

On October, Tuesday the 13th, we were able to go back to school; this was what we had been waiting for since March. Going back, seeing our teachers and our friends, being able to talk to people who are not on the other side of the screen. Yet things are not what they used to be, we can't go and hug our friends, we can't walk around the school during recess, we must wear facemasks, and not all our classmates are there with us. I mean, I'm happy we can go back, but these boundaries, although necessary and important for everyone's safety, do make everything a little sorrowful. For the few students that have gone, it has been a quite different experience; however, the school’s preparation and planning regarding protocols have been nothing but great. In fact, it has made them feel safe.

 I asked some girls to give me their opinion on semi attendance and it was quite varied. Some of them said that they thought it was good that we were able to go back for several reasons. For starters, some say that even though the pandemic is still going, and we don't have a vaccine yet, life has to keep going and we need to return to our everyday activities, like work and school. Some students also believe that although virtuality is a great tool that has allowed us to continue studying under this circumstance, it is not the best way to learn. Students also consider the social aspect of the school is important. We haven’t seen each other for several months and these social interactions are necessary for our personal growth. Finally, they point out that for many girls it is easier to focus at school rather than in their homes, where they cannot easily be engaged and interested in the classes. 

 Others have some sort of mixed feelings about it. They say that even though it is a good alternative, it has a risk of contagion for girls, teachers, workers, and their families, even if we follow all the biosecurity protocols. They also said that probably class activities will be more complicated since some students will be in the classroom and others won't. This might impair the class, but overall, they do think it can be a great opportunity. Little by little both students and teachers will be able to adapt better and return to our new “normal” lives soon.

 On the other hand, some students believe that the hybrid model isn't the best option and that we should continue completely virtually until 2021, or until there are fewer risks. Right now, we have the option to continue virtually and students seem adapted to it; yet a few more months won't make that big of a change, instead, there are many unnecessary risks if we attend. 

 This is a complicated situation none of us were expecting, and I believe we do need to come together as a community and make sure everyone around us is safe. However, I also think that students need to go back to school, we need to change spaces and see other people. Most of us are tired of being in the same place for months. This opportunity of returning to school is a great chance to go out, even if it's just school, a place we took for granted and now we yearn.

 Look how the first day of school went here