Back to the Classroom!

Administrators, teachers, and staff eagerly greeted the students whose families opted for face-to-face instruction at elementary schools on Monday, November 9th. Some special groups of middle school students also returned to school. 

Castle Hills kindergarten teacher Erin Sanna says she prefers teaching the youngest scholars at the school in person even though she says it is difficult not touching those who need guidance with things like how to properly hold a pencil. Still, she was thrilled when one student ran into the building screaming her name when he saw her in person instead of on Zoom. “It was so much fun seeing my students. I am not sure who was more excited, me or the students, but it was a blast. We laughed and their positive energy was so refreshing. They look so different from Zoom! And of course, they look very different with a mask on their faces! They were pretty shocked to see me in real life as well!” she said.

Katie Zimmerman, a veteran teacher at Wilmington Manor, is also among those teachers who are providing face-to-face instruction. Zimmerman says her biggest challenges under the “new normal” are getting youngsters to wear their face masks properly throughout the school day and not being able to physically touch her students. “I’m a hugger so it’s hard not to give hugs!”

We are well prepared to keep our staff and students safe as we return to in-person instruction.  We have acquired personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies to make sure that we are able to follow all of the protocols in place:

  • More than 11,000 reusable face coverings were ordered for Colonial students and staff. 
  • More than 100,000 disposable face masks were ordered to support students, staff, and visitors that are in need of a replacement mask 
  • 2,000 face shields with additional shields provided by DOE/DPH and Highmark.
  • More than 11,000 KN95 masks were ordered to support our custodial and nursing staff.
  • More than 50,000 gowns were ordered with additional supplies donated by DOE/DPH. 
  • 24,000 boxes of gloves were ordered for schools and other divisions. 
  • 10,000 thermometers were ordered to support student temperature checks at home. 
  • More than 8,000 floor, wall, and door signs to inform students and staff of best practices in safety