It can be said without a doubt that COVID has changed the lives of everyone. The way society functions was affected by the pandemic, schools systems, and teaching methods were drastically affected. Schools were forced to shut down and teachers resorted to zoom to teach their students, but online school just wasn’t the same. The sudden change of environment and lack of pressure from teachers left students feeling unmotivated and unable to take school seriously because, in all fairness, it didn’t feel real; many students can testify to this. When asked how the journey of virtual school has been since the shut down 3 out of 3 students said that it was a bad experience for them. One student said, “It has been a bad experience, I have become less attentive since we are at home.” Another student described the journey as “horrible” with their reasoning being that they couldn’t learn anything online and they found themselves constantly getting distracted. Just recently, schools were able to open up again and in person instruction continued. 

Students were not the only ones feeling the pressure and stress from online learning. Teachers were faced with new dilemmas as they were now encouraged not only to find a way to get to every single student but also to turn their lessons into slideshows and presentations to make them more ‘virtually friendly.’ For some, it was easier than others but nonetheless it was a feat. A well respected teacher at MHS, Mr. Coney was able to give some insight on what the journey was like for him and his students. He was asked what his greatest struggle was with virtual learning to which he responded, “Trying to get the right vibe through the screen.” This can be interpreted differently by many but students at Manville High School can conclude that what he really means is that he is upset that he can’t entertain and manage the classroom as he did before, especially for when students don’t pay attention. When asked how he keeps kids motivated and engaged through the screen his response was, “You gotta act like an MC, you have to add a little bit of fun to the seriousness.” Mr. Coney was also asked if it was easier or harder to stay organized through the computer to which he said that although it was easier, it was more work. He expressed that it made him hate computers and technology and increased his dislike for students reaching out to him after hours. There are “Too many ways to get to a teacher, remind messages, emails, and zoom, it’s too much.” Students should be aware that they are driving Mr. Coney, as well as other teachers, to their breaking point! However, at the end of the day, we are all going through this together and we must all find a way to be successful!