This post is part of an ongoing series sharing the positive stories that have come out of the challenges our schools are facing. To see all of the posts in this series, click here.
In a short amount of time, COVID-19 has changed the way we live. The term social distancing is a new norm—and families around the world are forced to adapt to new routines. While the lives of many have changed significantly, one thing that has remained consistent is the drive of school leaders and teachers to continue serving their students the best way they can. Despite the problems many Americans are facing, there are many examples that show how educators are going the extra mile.
Charter School Maintains Sense of Community
Teachers and students at Common Ground High School in Connecticut are sticking together during difficult times. The school has been delivering fresh produce such as eggs, red peppers, chives, spinach, potatoes, nonperishables and milk bottles to families from the school’s own farm.
When it comes to online learning, each student was already equipped with a Chromebook. Students received laptops during their freshmen year. As students and teachers adapt to the distance learning environment, many are focusing on positivity and finding ways to make virtual class more fun. One teacher noted how he noticed a student performing better without distractions from the classroom. Another made things more interesting with an appearance from her cat during a lesson and students joining in with their pets as well.
Charter School Teacher Wins Teacher of The Month
A Florida new station recognized a kindergarten teacher at Governors Charter Academy in Tallahassee as Teacher of the Month. This sweet clip shows her accepting the award. Congratulations to Jennifer Doxsee who has been teaching kindergarten for three years!
Charter School Keep Students Motivated
Teachers and school leaders at Democracy Prep Public Schools are making sure their students feel special. Teachers at one of the network’s schools in San Antonio made one young student’s birthday wishes come true when they surprised him with a car parade to wish him a happy birthday. His reaction was caught on video. In a separate effort to keep students motivated and encouraged, the network shared a video on YouTube recapping the first two weeks of distance learning.
DSST Public Schools Establishes COVID Family Relief Fund
In another showing of schools going above and beyond to meet the needs of students, DSST Public Schools in Colorado created a COVID Family Relief Fund to support the 7,000 students, family, and staff in their network. Their goal is to raise $50,000 for food and other important needs.
If you have an uplifting story to share about educators going the extra mile, please send it to me at brittnee@publiccharters.org.
Brittnee Exum is the manager of communications and marketing at the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools.
