In recent weeks and coming days, school across the United States reopen unlike any other school year. Administrators and educators have been collaborating with health care experts and government officials to determine the safest way to educate young people.
While the final plans may vary even within the same community, the needs for learning, safety, and effectiveness remain a priority. Of course, meeting some needs sometimes leaves other needs unmet. This school year may see needs for ease, clarity, and play looking a bit different.
To keep children safe, events will require more planning and consideration. Decisionmakers and parents alike may spend much time in a place of uncertainty. Each doing the best they can with the knowledge and resources they have.
Children, parents, faculty, staff and administrators may need even more support and understanding. They face unique challenges and may find themselves learning as they go.
As the school year takes off, be mindful each person may be experiencing a variety of emotions. If you have an opportunity, please turn up the volume on your compassion meter.
As the Dalai Lama says, “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.”
