Is the 2019-2020 School Year a Wash for Teachers and Students?

The 2019-2020 school year has been a mixed bag for countless educators, especially after the abrupt closure of schools due to a global health crisis. Contrary to some beliefs, many argue that the year was far from a wash for teachers who managed to complete a significant portion of their teaching responsibilities. However, it is also acknowledged that the experiences of different institutions and regions vary significantly.

Arizona Perspective

In Arizona, at least, the school year continued for three quarters, with the final quarter sometimes being less impactful regardless of the circumstances. For high school seniors, the hodgepodge of online and in-person learning might not have been as productive as planned. According to David T., a teacher in Arizona, 'The last quarter is sometimes a wash all by itself, forget school being cancelled.' This sentiment reflects the uncertainty and challenges faced by both teachers and students.

Overall Progress

Despite the haphazard transition to distance learning, many teachers, such as Maria R. mentioned in Chicago, continue to see their students making progress. Maria R. observes, 'When I track what’s been going on the last month, they continue to make progress. That’s not a wash.' This perspective highlights the resilience and dedication of teachers and students alike.

Chicago Public Schools

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) faced unique challenges during the pandemic. The year began with a 15-day teacher's strike, followed by the sudden imposition of stay-at-home orders. When schools were forced to move to distance learning, many CPS schools were unprepared. Initially, the focus was on ensuring students still received meals and obtaining necessary technology. In contrast, private schools like the one where David T. teaches did not face these issues.

Parental and Public Reactions

Pedagogically, teachers' efforts have been mostly praised. However, parents and some CPS teachers have expressed frustration and a desire to call it a year. The governor's recent announcement regarding non-counting of online learning grades has dampened the motivation for many. As David T. mentioned, 'These grades don’t even count!! Then why bother?' This sentiment underscores the complex emotions and realities faced by students and parents alike.

Conclusion

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether the 2019-2020 school year was a wash, the experiences of teachers and students across the United States highlight the resilience and adaptability of the education system. Despite the unprecedented challenges, many educators and students continued to make strides. However, the varied and often unsatisfactory experiences also underscore the need for continuous improvement in online learning and teacher support systems.