March 12 marked a full year of COVID-19 impacting the world around us. As a result, our new “normal” has consisted of face masks, six-foot social distancing, and Zoom.

Though these challenges have emerged from COVID-19, the Spring-Ford community overcame them diligently. Between several school board meetings and plans regarding the safety of the school, Spring-Ford created the best plan of action for the district.

Within the 2020-2021 school year, the district has undergone several alterations in order to adapt to the unique, ever-changing circumstances presented by COVID-19.

At the start of the school year in August, the virtual model was the main method of learning for the district. Additionally, teachers, administrators, and staff were required to conform to a new learning style with new technology. As time progressed, the transition to more in-person learning occurred, which came with several other challenges.

“Our priority was to get accurate data so that we can account for students returning to the building,” said Dr. Robert Colyer, 10-12 Center Principal. “From transportation to classrooms to the cafeteria, our ability to maintain appropriate distancing measures was important.”

As availability of vaccines from manufacturers increases, such as Moderna and Pfizer, the Spring-Ford school district and schools across the world can look forward to the possibility of returning to a more pre-COVID-19 environment next school year.

Our school district has now approached the end of the third marking period, and it is evident that positive changes are coming forth. More students are transitioning to in-person learning, and the expansion of seating and other accommodations are ready to welcome the increase of students entering the school.

Moreover, society is transitioning to a more hopeful period within the battle against COVID-19, and students especially can look forward to a more ordinary environment.

Though the journey to normalcy will be difficult and more obstacles will occur, as a community, Spring-Ford will keep striving in order to adapt to the challenges presented.