On Monday the first graders said: Back to school! Stephanie Eckert, acting head teacher of the primary and secondary school in Gaißach, reveals how the second first day of school within a school year went for the youngest.
How was the return to school for the first graders?
Stephanie Eckert: Most of them were a little bit afraid because they didn't know exactly what to expect. You were more than three meters away. We divided the classes into small groups and picked them up at the entrance and led them into the classrooms. When they were allowed to take off their mask there, the excitement subsided.
How did the class work?
Stephanie Eckert: The first thing on Monday was that the class teachers take the students' fears away. Of course, the hygiene plan had to be explained and all the questions about Corona. And then the students should just tell how they felt at home. The fifth grade teachers in particular, who have returned to school this week, have reported back to me that there was a great need for discussion on the part of the students.
Stephanie Eckert.
How important is it for the children to start school again?
Stephanie Eckert: It is incredibly positive for her. It is a piece of normalcy. They see their comrades and their teacher again. In primary school in particular, the teacher is a very important caregiver. We recently received feedback from parents that it has become more difficult for some to learn at home. The kids just didn't want to. Our teachers showed great commitment to help in the families.
How big is the organizational effort for you at the moment?
Stephanie Eckert: Of course it's an amazing job. I now know exactly at which bus stop which student gets on, so I have to draw up a cleaning plan. But everything can be implemented well, also from the premises. The classes use the four school entrances. Fortunately, all teachers are there too. We bought special masks for the teachers who want to wear one. I hope that because the youngest students are now in alternating groups in the classroom for three hours at a time, it will also make things easier for parents. There is also emergency care and lunch care. We try to accommodate the parents as best we can.
Also read:
Lessons behind plexiglass: when distance rules are on the schedule
Learn in times of Corona: The click in the classroom
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