“School” has forever changed for students, educators and parents because of covid-19.

Students have engaged in learning without personal contact with teachers and peers. Virtual activities, instructional packets and independent work have replaced traditional practices. Educators have provided instruction to students through continuous e-learning experiences and ensured that families without internet access receive materials. Parents have assumed a supportive yet supervisory role at home as they exchange information with teachers while monitoring their children’s work.

School officials must plan for the education of students for the next school year immediately. This must be accomplished with the greatest sense of urgency because the CDC published new guidelines April 28 designed to help schools reopen safely.

As plans are being made, educators must be determined to diligently establish authentic partnerships with parents to increase engagement so they maintain their strong connection to their child’s learning.

Finally, educators from different types of schools must collaborate with those from cyber schools to learn the best practices for total or partial virtual teaching and learning next year.

I believe these changes will be sustained beyond next year.

Deborah M. Vereen

Crawford-Roberts

The writer is CEO of Pittsburgh-based Families With Us.

The writer is CEO of Pittsburgh-based Families With Us.

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