As we are closing the first semester and are heading into anew, there is reason to discuss the productivity of COVID-19 protocols that the school has chosen to undertake over these past several months. Early signs of success allowed for the once hybrid system of 50% in and 50% out at a time, which was then changed to ⅔ in and  ⅓ out. This new protocol seemed to receive positive feedback as more students in the classroom were able to collaborate with one another. Students at home are still able to be active in their classroom while learning from a distance. Many students have struggled participating as a whole considering that not everyone is physically present. Teachers using new platforms and various technologies have found major success in the participation of their students. 

While students have a greater learning experience, Bronxville High School students have seen a tremendous increase in the number of positive COVID-19 cases in recent weeks. As students came back to school after spending the holidays as they choose, the high school saw a drastic increase in positive cases and eventually made the switch to all remote learning for the second week back from vacation. Some students are now toying with the idea of staying home for the following weeks, despite the school going back into its regular hybrid system. This may lead to a decrease in attendance for many classes and teachers will have to rearrange their lesson plan for that particular class as the number of students present begins to thin. 

There is serious concern for the safety of students, faculty, and staff as COVID-19 cases rise in the high school. As we move on to the next semester, there is an air of uncertainty of what a Bronxville High School education will look like. Hopefully, with successful vaccines (which many teachers are taking) will ease the transition back into a normal setting once the pandemic is officially over. What the rest of the school year will like is not certain, but the students have the ability to make it what they want. Students who are eager to gain a sense of normalcy over the next few months will continue to wear masks and social distance. If you feel sick, please stay at home and let your teachers know that you will not be attending class in person that day. This way, faculty members can keep track of who is in the school on certain days, which can assist with tracing the virus. 

Recently, Principal Meyer sent all students home due to an increase in the number of positive COVID-19 cases coming out of the high school. Just before that, the elementary school had been sent home for similar reasons. Currently, there is no telling what the future may hold. Please follow all guidelines from the school and state. All students and teachers alike have been helpful throughout the school year and there is much to look forward to as we move on to the next semester.

Thank you, 
Your Friends At The Echo