OHS Tiger Tales

COVID-19 during the 2020-21 school year

(by Jozie Kumm Osmond Republican Intern)

For many students, the school year has looked different than in the past because of the COVID-19 outbreak in March. Students are now seeing masks worn throughout the school day, containers of hand sanitizer sitting by doorways, and teachers telling them to social distance.

How does the student body really feel about the turn of events?

“I think masks are stupid. They make me feel really tired and I can hardly breathe,” Tessa Dominguez, a senior at Osmond Community School, said.

Many students feel this way about the regulations. Some claim masks are a distraction in the classroom and it is harder to pay attention, because they feel like they can’t breathe properly.

“I think masks are great for the school day. I feel safe from the virus, and other sicknesses, while wearing one,” an unnamed student said.

Other COVID-19 regulation is social distancing. Because of recent COVID cases, students now have to sit with their sport or activity teammates in separate rooms during their lunch hour. The few who sit in the lunchroom have to be social distanced at three students per table.

“I understand why we social distance, but it’s not my favorite thing in the world because I can’t sit with all my friends,” Sarah Kelly, a senior, said.

Students with bigger friend groups feel disconnected from their friends and, when able to talk, feel like they’re shouting to have a normal conversation.

These regulations don’t apply just to the students, however, but for teachers, too. Throughout the school year, teachers must be prepared to transfer to online learning at all times.

Some responsibilities they have are making sure students are prepared for online classes and their computers and other devices are updated.

During class, teachers make sure students are sitting six feet apart, and constantly remind them to wear masks in the correct fashion.

“Personally, I dislike the COVID rules, but if abiding by them keeps us safe, then I’ll do it,” Jennifer Wiseley, the school's technology instructor, said.

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