The new school year is off to a “wonderful” start at Washington Primary School where students have quickly adapted to a multitude of changes necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our Washington ‘winners’ are off to a wonderful start this new school year,” Principal Michelle Richards said. “Everyone was introduced to a few new things they will see in the building, such as the temperature scanners, yellow lines with direction arrows, social distancing signs and our new touchless water fountain.”
The school has an enrollment of about 350 students spread across grades K-3. Most of them are following a hybrid format that has them coming to school several days a week and studying remotely from home on the other days. Kindergarten students are able to attend full time as are participants in certain special education settings.
“Every morning is a wonderful morning when we see the busses round the circle and the cars drop off those brightly smiling faces,” Dr. Richards said. “Our students know to make a fist and place it in front of the yellow rectangle [temperature scanner] before entering the building. All is abuzz in the hallways and classrooms as we see and hear all of our students engaging in conversations, answering questions and reciting number or letter drills.”
Students have been remarkably conscientious at wearing masks at all times and following physical distancing rules. They are clearly happy to be back in school with their teachers and friends.
“The faculty and staff of Washington Primary School missed seeing the students so much that many were overcome with joy upon the arrival of those students in the building for the first time this year and others who are logging into the virtual classroom,” Dr. Richards said.
Just about every aspect of school life has been altered, but the relationships between students and teachers is just as strong as ever. It’s clear that nothing will ever be able to replace that connection.
“While this year may be different, we will still keep the Washington spirit high,” Dr. Richards said. “Every Monday is Washington Spirit Day. It is a day to wear our Washington gear; blue and white or just our Washington smiles. We look forward to rethinking our events this year. The PTA is on-board with making this a wonderful new experience for Washington’s faculty, staff and students.”
Students are going about their daily business with the same fun loving attitude and determination that they always have. “Here’s to a great year where it’s ‘Wonderful at Washington,’” Dr. Richards said.