IMMOKALEE - It has been almost a year since the current health pandemic rocked our nation and the world. Elementary school principals shared a bit about what they learned last year as they navigated through the COVID-19 health pandemic, but you may be wondering about some of the challenges they faced as well as those that continue.

“The biggest challenge has been maintaining a school community when parents and guests are not permitted on campus,” shares Joy Alvarez, principal at Lake Trafford Elementary. “Our parents are a vital component of student learning and communicating by phone or virtually takes out the personal effects of building school community. We strive to make this better.”

“Ensuring all students are receiving the support they need socially, emotionally, and academically is another big challenge,” adds Laura Mendicino, Pinecrest Elementary’s leader.

Eden Park Elementary’s Mark Frehe spoke about leading his staff members in a calm, composed manner while dealing with obstacles and daily unforeseen changes. “I appreciate all the support the community has shown. We are facing unprecedented times, but we can overcome these obstacles and be stronger as a result.”

“I’ve always said that nothing is hard once you have done it,” adds Margaux Horne, principal of Highlands Elementary. “Each challenge is an opportunity to learn something, try something, or master something.”

Village Oaks Elementary principal Bev Budzynski continued, “When the pandemic started last spring, we were all eager to reopen schools as a way to help our community regain a sense of normalcy. Routines and procedures were adjusted, and we followed CDC guidelines to ensure the safety of all stakeholders, all while maintaining the culture and positive climate we love at Village Oaks. We continue to provide all of our students with a learning environment that promotes student growth, a love of learning, and celebrations of accomplishments.”

“With the health requirements to keep everyone healthy and safe, our students have exceeded our expectations,” states Alvarez. “Students wear their masks, wash their hands, and remain socially distant without complaint. It reaffirms their trust in us to make sure we keep them safe.”

Horne agrees, “It is about the support, dedication, and trust that we have felt from our families. Not only do they trust us to ensure the health and safety of their students, but they support the uphill battle we face following our shut down last year.”

Alvarez concludes, “Even though classrooms may look different, the business of teaching and learning has never stopped. Teachers and students plow ahead as if nothing has changed.”