The Story
We sat down with Mr. Jozokos to reflect on the first week of Phase 3 at BHS.
So what does he think?
According to Jozokos, last week actually went pretty well. One of the main considerations that went into planning Phase 3 was combatting that feeling when you think you’re forgetting something but you can’t quite figure out what it is you’re forgetting. And apparently, nothing big was forgotten and things went mostly according to plan.
Challenges?
One of the hardest things about managing this giant change was trying to figure out if everyone would physically fit into classrooms. Some classes had to change rooms so they could fit one or two more students. And if more fully remote students start coming into school, more classes might have to switch too. Also parking has been a major issue. A lot of students got used to being able to drive to school and there just aren’t enough spots for everyone to be able to do that now.
Positives?
Typically when people are unhappy, they let Mr. Jozokos or some other higher power know how they’re feeling, but Jozokos hasn’t actually heard much from students and he’s taking that as a good sign. And the teachers are happy that they’re able to see classes more.
Negatives?
Some of the buses have been having a bit of trouble getting to class on time, but Jozo says that’s always the case at the beginning of the year and the bus drivers will figure it out. Another small issue has been lunches, of course. Teenagers being teenagers sometimes forget that we need to put our masks back on when we’re not eating or turning around or something. And also BHS had 3 positive covid cases this week, so not off to a great start on that front.
How can we do better?
In another one of his fond emails sent out on Saturday, Jozokos kindly reminded us to follow the rules during lunch and non-advisory days because he actually recognizes that no one wants another schedule change.
What comes next?
Hopefully, we don’t have to change the schedule again this year. The only other predicted change could be bringing fully remote students back into the building. Student council is planning to hold both a junior and senior prom and they’re trying to figure out a way to do a pep rally of some sort. More on that to come.
What does Jozokos want you to know?
Throughout this entire year, student and staff mental health has been a huge consideration for Mr. Jozokos and the administration. He particularly wants to emphasize that there are resources at the school and in the community that can help if you’re struggling. This includes any and all of the adults at the school.
The Runaway
They’re trying. We’ll see if this new schedule sticks.
What to Say…
When you’re getting vaccinated…
We have more COVID vaccine updates in New Hampshire. In these past few weeks, our state has flown through multiple covid vaccination phases. Currently, the state is in the last part of Phase 3 as of Friday. The last step in phase 3 allows anyone 16 years or older to get vaccinated. The only vaccine approved for this age group is the Pfizer vaccine, whereas the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are approved for 18+. A parent/guardian must be present at the vaccination appointment for teenagers who are 16 or 17 and they must bring identification of their age. Governor Sununu spoke out and said that things are slowly getting back to normal and he hopes others will get vaccinated. He also put out an order for all public schools to have in-person learning 5 days a week, so he’s optimistic about how covid is doing in the state. Getting teenagers vaccinated is a very important step to reach herd immunity since schools are breeding grounds for covid and other illnesses. Fingers crossed that we keep the train moving towards normalcy.
When you’re deprived of sports…
Fear not! Spring sports are in full swing. Lacrosse as well as baseball and softball tryouts finished this week. Even the teams that aren’t making cuts, like crew and track and field have already got their season started. It will be interesting to see how spring sports will handle covid, especially since athletes are starting to get vaccinated, some will even be fully immune before the season is over. For track, runners will need to wear masks the whole time, whether they are running the 100 meter dash, or the two mile. Some people have raised valid concerns about the athletes wearing masks, considering most of the season will take place in possible 80-90 degree heat (gotta love New England and our four distinct seasons). Throwers, on the other hand, are allowed to remove their masks because it “impedes their vision”. Well, we’ll see if the policy is changed after the runners pass out on the track. Maybe the runners will take a page out of the girls lacrosse players’ book and petition the school board. Other sports, such as lacrosse and crew require players to wear masks the entire time, since there is no way to distance while competing. What can we say, masks are really in style right now.
Things to Know
More prep books…
Sophomores take the PSAT and juniors take the NHSAS test next Wednesday, April 14th.
Just a liiittle bit longer…
Quarter 4 starts today.