It has been a few weeks since our community has returned to campus and the spirit of 'together apart' is prevalent as we become accustomed to new norms, reconnect with familiar faces, engage in learning and discovery, and enjoy some much-needed laughs.
Our teachers and students are finding creative ways to create physically-distanced human connection:
Our Kindergarten students connected with each other using a tree branch instead of holding hands.
Our Grade 8 design students are coming up with innovative ways to alleviate children’s stress and fear created by COVID-19.
Our Grade 12 Prefects organized an 80’s themed casual dress day to kick off a week of Terry Fox activities in lieu of our annual full-school run.
Teachers wear their "We are Spartans" face masks with pride, and are creating meaningful, yet safe discussions, activities, and learning opportunities every day.
The resilience and positivity of our students have reminded us yet again of the trailblazing spirit that has carried STS through ups and downs for more than 115 years. It is amazing to be reunited and to find ourselves developing new rhythms and routines. Even though so much is new, so much remains the same, and those are the best parts of STS.
So far, our return to school has gone very well. We are abiding by and working closely with Alberta Health Services to ensure we meet and exceed health and safety measures. Our focus on mask-wearing, hygiene, disinfecting, and physical distancing form the foundation for our Re-entry Plan. Building from this foundation, we have adopted a layered approach, adding other measures to ensure our students and staff are protected including, but not limited to:
- Extensive directional and informational signage;
- education and awareness initiatives;
- personal Plexiglass tri-folds;
- outdoor learning spaces;
- removal of all soft seating.
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Watch a walk-through of our modified campus spaces, led by our Grade 12 Prefects:
Our planning and preparation for school start-up has been and continues to be, conducted in consultation with experts, research, guidelines, and learning from other schools around the world. We are fortunate to have a team of professionals on our staff, including our new School Nurse, Mrs. Tara Leece, who has been invaluable in assisting us and providing support.
While at times this work was all-encompassing for our school, it was a labour of love to prepare our beautiful campus for the return of our students. Thank you to our community for remaining so positive and committed to our amazing school throughout this journey. While the global pandemic is not over and there could be a long road ahead where vigilance, innovation, and adaptability will continue to be required, the future is looking much brighter.