As the Spring semester marches on, we can probably all agree that this school year has been like no other. Most kids have not stepped foot into the classroom and will likely end the school year remotely. Where does that leave us for the 2021-2022 school year? The truth is that there is no way of knowing what will happen between now and next fall. Experts are cautiously predicting what next year may look like, though it’s important to remember that developments can change quickly.
- It may still be a while before mentors are invited back into schools.
- There is a chance students will be back in classrooms five days a week, in full force next school year. Although some districts may continue with a hybrid schedule well into the fall or even beyond.
- Districts will implement plans for mitigating the spread of COVID which may affect how, or even if, they resume extracurricular activities.
- It seems unlikely that young students will be receiving vaccinations by the beginning of the next school year so they will be depending on the success of adult vaccination efforts to keep them safe and healthy.
- Masks will likely continue to be worn by students, staff, and all visitors.
- Schools will be contending with learning loss as a result of accessibility issues during the pandemic and will be figuring out how to address it.
- Many students (just like us) will need to relearn social skills.
- Schools will likely continue to employ technology to facilitate things like meetings and to provide up to date communication about changes and what to expect.
There may be added stress for students who are transitioning from Elementary School to Middle School or from Middle School to High School next year. Mentors of rising 5th and 8th graders should know that their mentee is attending virtual tours, scheduling classes, and contemplating their extra-curricular activities with the schools’ counselors. Want to help support your mentee and make their transition a smooth one? An important life lesson we can reiterate is that change is always a part of life and attending a new school can be an exciting adventure. Talking about it ahead of time can help you both prepare for the transition in the fall. Check out some tips and topics of discussion here.
If you have questions, your Mentor Director is always a good source of support, information, and resources. Give them a call!
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