The Meitler team is continuing our work and we look forward to guiding you in envisioning how your school can continue using technology and remote learning tools effectively into the future.
Schools
Let Us Not Grow Weary
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9)
Paul’s letter to the Galatians contains, in part, guidelines for living a faith-filled life. One of those recommendations strikes me as particularly relevant to the situation we all find ourselves in with the COVID-19 outbreak.
If I may offer a very brief and high level summary of our recent experience, we first heard about this virus as a foreign malady that we hoped would stay away from our lives. Then it became an issue closer to home and we began to adjust some behaviors. Then it became a crisis and our lives changed: events were cancelled, schools were closed. As teachers and administrators we had to scramble to devise ways to keep our students engaged with their education while we all had to avoid being near each other. New issues continually emerged, and each was addressed and resolved as well as possible as we waited for the next issue.
All of this has taken an enormous amount of energy. Like any short term crisis, we were tired, but we were focused and driven to come through the crisis safe and whole. In a short term crisis, we know we could rest later. This, however, is not a short term crisis. This life altering germ will continue to challenge us for weeks and months and perhaps even years to come. Even when the rate of infection slows and the number of deaths is reduced, our society will have been changed which will require more adjustments, more energy.
Paul reminds us, however, that we can do this. We need to remind ourselves and focus on the idea that what we are doing is important, and “good.” Our children are our future. Our Catholic schools, with dedicated teachers and a moral compass infused throughout the curriculum, are essential to ensure that these children will grow up valuing faith, hope and charity.
We are, undoubtedly, weary. What Paul wants us to remember is that we cannot give up and that, in time, we will see the results of our labor and know that it was all worth the effort.
Meitler Minute
Whether you are facing a life interruption or a life disruption, Meitler is here and available to have a conversation about how to find hope and vision for your future.
Stepping into the Role of Teacher
Like me, many others around the world right now are being forced to balance the role of parent and teacher. You might not have a background in education like I do, but you are now the primary educator for your child. While some people are not able to work from home, others are balancing continuing to work full time on top of teaching your child. First and foremost, do what is best for your family. Any amount of time that you can spend with your child is only going to benefit them. As we all know, children learn differently and at different paces. If your child needs breaks throughout the day, give him/her breaks. If your child functions best from a structured schedule and routine, create one with your child. One of the benefits of you being the teacher is that you can structure your “classroom” however you need to. I truly believe our children are going to walk back into their schools with a greater wealth of knowledge because of this time at home learning from a parent.
I have been so grateful for all the resources that companies are sharing with families during this time. Use them in any way you see fit for your child. Some schools are sending out lesson plans and work for students to complete in a given time frame. Others are not able to offer virtual learning for their students. No matter the situation you are currently faced with, stay positive and do the best that you can. Our children may not be getting everything from us that they would at school from their teacher, but I know that every minute I spend teaching my son something new is a win in my book. Don’t be afraid to step out of the ordinary. Teach your child how to cook your favorite recipe, play a game together, fix up something in the house that has been neglected. These are all teachable moments and ones your child will remember forever. Remember, you are your child’s first teacher. Now that saying has more meaning behind it than before. Take it and soar and your child will be better because of you!
Meitler Minute
Today's Meitler minute pauses to reflect on the many blessings and challenges we are facing. So many people have found ways to step up and shine in their schools, parishes and businesses.
