The class of 2024 faces the challenge of adjusting to the upper school in an unprecedented way. Through mask-wearing, social distancing, and virtual meetings, this year’s Third Formers have had to find a way to grow accustomed to the upper school life.
The school had to take several precautions in order to reopen. Beyond the physical changes, many clubs and activities have been either canceled or transferred to virtual platforms. For some, the restrictions due to the coronavirus have partially hindered the Upper School experience.
“We can’t do everything that the upper school allows,” Third Former Gavin Stamps said.
Third Former Ethan Lee also commented on the limited opportunities students are offered.
“We haven’t experienced the actual upper school yet,” Lee said. “It’s been more like a smaller version of it.”
Although students are disappointed in the reduced opportunities, the simplicity of the new schedule and the lightened workload have made the transition smoother.
“I only have two to three classes of homework,” Lee said. “That’s made it a lot easier for me.”
Third Former Render Ford also thinks the new schedule has been manageable, but he wonders about how it will play out in the following months.
“I think it’s been easier so far, but I’ve heard that a lot of people have all their hard classes in the second quarter.”
Ford also said that he doesn’t believe the COVID-19 restrictions have been too demanding.
I think they’ve kept it safe, but not super restricting. It’s been pretty open, while still keeping us safe.
Third Former Render Ford
“I think they’ve kept it safe, but not super restricting. It’s been pretty open, while still keeping us safe.”
The majority of Third Formers are relatively comfortable with the new schedule and the restrictions they’ve had to deal with.
“I think they’re prepared. I think they’ve been preparing [to go virtual] since last year,” Ford added. “But I think overall, the first month has been pretty good.”
You must be logged in to post a comment.