This school year has been a series of small steps forward.
We offered in-person learning for all students. Most students returned to our buildings, although some who found success with virtual learning stayed in our virtual school.
We wear masks. We have hand sanitizer. We limit indoor large group gatherings.
But, we have sports. Students ride our buses. Eat in our lunchrooms.
Many days I still send “COVID” updates, alerting parents to positive cases. Reminding parents and students to wear masks, that it’s still not over.
But, we can, for the most part, concentrate on being together, learning, together, finding our way - together.
Today though was a big step.
At 5:30 AM, over 300 Novi Middle School students boarded seven buses heading for Washington DC. On bus 7 there are 48 students and 4 chaperones. I am one of the chaperones - lucky to be included.
I sit surrounded by students, listening to their chatter, watching them eat Cheetos, thin Oreos, Halloween candy.
This feels like a step forward.
Oh, we wear masks. We have our hand sanitizer.
But we are with each other. Laughing. Learning. Being together.
