And the Band Played On

I work with some amazing people! And quite frankly, the last two days have been unlike any other in my career. In two days, we converted learning over to a system of online instruction. I'm exhausted. Judging by the looks on the faces of my peers, we all are. This feels a bit like September 11th, when our world and world view changed in an instant. There was much uncertainty as we imagined how things would be moving forward. Yesterday, we had some meetings and time for planning. It felt like an inservice day to me. Today was different. There was a sense of urgency that increased as the morning progressed. By late morning, people were walking more quickly and socializing less. By the afternoon, when students came in, people were taking charge to help families navigate this trying time.

(Drawing by Abbie, creator of cool art!)

Today, our building was open to students from noon to 7. Students were able to get materials out of their locker, get a chrome book to use if they didn't have one, and check out books to read while we are away. Some of the local internet providers have made free internet access available to people in need. Our library was a flurry of activity. I mean no disrespect to either tragedy but I couldn't help but think of the Titanic. The band played on. I volunteered to work in the evening and I was there from 5:30 until 7 p.m. Some of my colleagues never went home. Despite them having families, despite some not feeling well, despite the anxiety, they continued to help students get connected, to find just the right book. In a world that is suddenly filled with uncertainty, books provide order and stability. Books give students a chance to escape the reality and step out of their lives. In the five years before this year, I worked as an English teacher. One of my favorite aspects of that role was to help find a book that was a good fit for a student. The excitement in their voices about books had to parallel the heart with which the band on the Titanic played.

Our role as teachers is to operate in loco parentis, to act as parents while our students are in school. In a time of tragedy, it is our responsibility to remain optimistic and hopeful, to reassure students when we are feeling anxious ourselves. I saw about twenty of my students today. It felt so good to talk with them, to check-in and see that they were okay, to reassure them and let them know we will stay connected in the coming weeks. Honestly, I have no insider information, I have no knowledge of how this will play out. But yet, I couldn't help but think that I taught my last day. This hit me as I walked to my car, the sun just about set behind the houses across the school. I felt a loss, shed a couple tears while searching for a bright spot. All I have so far is that if this is true, that this was my last day, then at least I have a good excuse not to go to my own retirement party! To the ELA, Reading, Librarian, Library Tech and EL teachers who continued to practice your craft after many went home. You impressed me greatly today, more than usual. As I step into the icy unknown outside of school, I am left with a lingering picture of beauty. Thank you for that.