Back to School 2021: The State of Our US Classrooms
The past 18 months have been nothing short of a tumultuous ride for US educators, students, staff, and families. Thrusted into virtual learning, the pandemic has also exacerbated the disparities among communities of color. The digital divide became apparent as students and families scurried to connect to reliable internet, circumnavigating limited resources and lack of access to functioning laptops across many vulnerable districts.
What’s more, digital literacy among families was put to the test, as parents now had to help their children navigate through the digital world of teaching and learning many were not prepared for. This is not even mentioning families where English is their second language. These challenges and so much more have plagued our school system and our American families.
The Delta Variant reared its ugly head as of late, adding to the list of cases among students and staff. With mask and vaccine mandates inconsistent across state lines, it is without question we are all still trying to engage damage control to say the least.
Yet, even still in this time, we have seen the resilience, elasticity, and tenacity of every stakeholder in our school system across the country. There is still a beacon of hope on the shores just along the horizon, not if but when we make it out of this as a nation.
With the intersectionality of racial justice and a push for equality, this is also a time for us to reimagine education, making it more accessible and equitable for all!
We at Project 214 are committed to creating opportunities for students and teachers to continue to thrive, despite their current circumstances that can be extremely daunting with every new day to mark off on our school calendar.
Education remains the great equalizer, and now more than ever this fundamental right needs its crusaders to be ever present and passing out glasses of water along the way.
We stand in solidarity with every educator, school leader, support staff, brave-hearted student, and supportive family member as we embark on this new year--though still facing the woes and blows of COVID, we shall overcome!
Project 214 stands as your ally, your cheerleader, your resource! Stay tuned for the unique ways #P214 intends to show up for YOU this school year.
Take a breath, breathe deep... you’ve got this!
Wishing you a successful and safe school year!
In solidarity,
Mrs. G
