Letter to the Editor: Back to school: A new ‘new’ and a different ‘different’

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Here again is a brand-new and different school year, yet with the unusual elements our youth now face, such as students greeting one another, teachers and staff from behind masks — and the controversy surrounding having to do so.

Although optional, students (and staff) can elect to get tested weekly for COVID-19 at some school sites, as participating districts, including Capital, have partnered with the Delaware Division of Public Health and Quidel to offer this service.

Pupils are also living amongst the controversial issue of advocates for and against COVID-19 vaccinations. Some of their peers will not return, as some parents have opted for virtual learning instead.

An honorable mention must go to the driver shortages throughout Delaware, and then, of course, there’s the lingering possibility that schools will again close and return to full remote learning.

What hasn’t changed is the excitement of gathering school supplies and backpacks, perhaps donning new outfits/uniforms, sneakers or shoes, taking the inevitable “first day of school” pictures to commemorate this special occasion and looking forward to reuniting with the classmates who’ve been missed over summer break. Additionally, there’s the anticipation of seeing what the new school year might bring and, for some, delving proudly into middle school, junior high, freshman and senior statuses.

The bottom line is our youth still need a qualitative education. With that in mind, despite present circumstances, differences and media, prayerfully, students will be afforded an exciting and productive new “new” school year.

Dianne Scott

Dover

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