Reflections

What struck me about this post, written by an incredibly talented student, is the optimism that can be found in her words. These are stressful times for sure and for everyone. Yet, as Miss Tooley points out, times like this may help us to appreciate what we do have even more.  I am thankful for her permission to share her words here.  Online Schooling Written by Jenna Tooley, Student at Granville Junior Senior High School While online schooling is not ideal, learning to adapt to doing schoolwork from home has become a daily routine. The teachers and administration have been a tremendous support system with providing students with the materials they need and being available at almost any time if students have questions. Although online schooling is much different than actually being in school every day, being able to complete all the assigned work by the deadlines has not been too difficult. Several teachers have even set up google meets and google chats during the wee...

In the late 1970s, the Hasbro toy company released a new toy known as Stretch Armstrong. Stretch was a bendable (yes, stretchy) action figure filled with purple gel. You could pull Stretch's arms for what felt like as far as you wanted and he never broke. The only time I recall Stretch being "harmed" was when we might have poked him with scissors -- on purpose. (My brother and I had to know what was inside of him causing him to stretch so far and so well.) The last few weeks of "school" have felt a little like what I imagine being Stretch Armstrong would feel like. Educators, including administrators, are being pulled in so many directions at once and it's making it hard for us to find our original shape. This new way of operating has us trying to extend ourselves to figure out what direction needs us most.  Flip your leg over your head, through your arm, and around your neck? Sure! Now use your other leg to touch your ear. Got it!  The toy Stret...