"It's the first day of school. It's so different, and it's so quiet. It's so many emotions."
The first day of school is always an exciting time; it's also full of anticipation and unknowns. This morning, you could feel the first-day energy and excitement at Garner Middle School, even though students were logging in at home instead of sitting in their classrooms.
"Coming back into the classroom felt really good," said teacher Katie Steinhoff. "We are about to really have an opportunity to get with kids and reach kids again."
Steinhoff teaches eighth-grade health and Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) at Garner. In her classroom, decorations line the walls. Desks are spaced out and empty, ready for students to eventually return to class.
"I have a lot of nerves. I know they have nerves," said Steinhoff. "But I am just thrilled to see little faces on my computer."
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this school year is starting with at least three weeks of virtual learning. While the hallways were noticeably absent of students, the classrooms and front offices were buzzing.
Principal John Bojescul said this first day kind of felt like any other first day.
"I really thought today was going to feel different because the kids are not physically on campus," said Bojescul. "But I will tell you what, after about 20 minutes on campus of troubleshooting issues, welcoming the staff back with a morning PA announcement, visiting the classrooms - it honestly feels no different than a regular school day."
Back in the classroom, Steinhoff and the other Garner teachers worked out last-minute tech issues, assembled their lessons, and set up their desk with all the things they would need to connect with students online.
"Prepared? Absolutely. The District offered so much professional development over the summer," said Steinhoff. "Not even just learning the different tools that we have online that we can use to interact with kids, but just being comfortable with the technology."
In the front office, staff members were busy too. The phones were steadily ringing. Some parents were stopped by in person with questions, while others picked up laptops for their kids. The Garner staff was ready to help, smiling under their masks, and doing everything they could to get these parents what they needed.
"The office is a constant buzz," said Lisa Pantuso, Administrative Assistant to the Principal. "The energy is still a positive one. We are wanting to move forward and get going with this school year."
Despite all the questions and uncertainty today, one thing stood out. These teachers and staff were ready to get back in front of their students, meet them, teach them and help them maneuver their virtual start.
"We are here. We understand what you are going through," said Bojescul. "We are parents ourselves. We have children at home, so we know exactly what you are feeling, mom and dad, but we are here for you and whatever you need."
