One year since Maryland schools closed down, challenges still ahead but school leaders are hopeful

MARYLAND- It’s been a year since the announcement that Maryland school districts were shutting down due to the pandemic.

And looking back Superintendents know their school’s have changed dramatically.

“Well, it’s all been a whirlwind as far as what I’m sure all superintendents will tell you,” Lou Taylor, Worcester Co., Superintendent of Public Schools, said.

“It’s been an evolution, and it’s really hard to believe it’s been a year in some respect, it’s been a difficult year but everybody’s I think has really risen to the challenge,” Dr. Donna Hanlin, Wicomico Co. Superintendent of Public Schools, said.

I spoke with the Superintendents of Worcester and Wicomico County Public School’s.

They tell me closing their doors presented them with unimaginable challenges, such as learning to adjust to virtual learning, even though not every student had access to the internet and technology.

“So, we had a lot of work and we still have a lot of work to do because it’s unfortunate in 2021 that we still have that problem of some areas not being able to get internet access,” Taylor said.

Both Superintendents add that emotionally this has impacted students and staff as well.

“I think people’s mental health has probably has been one of the most significant challenges in everyone’s approach to the pandemic,” Hanlin said.

And with students not having in-person instruction in the beginning we are told students fell behind.

So, trying to get all students back is now a priority.

“Our next step is getting our kids back and assessing where they are academically and looking where they are socially, emotionally, and meeting those needs as well,” Taylor said.

While this year has been a troubling one, the Superintendent’s said they feel hopeful moving forward.

“I’m feeling really good about where we will be when this is all behind us a stronger, more vibrant school system,” Hanlin said.

Dr. Hanlin said they will use funding for tutoring and summer school to help get kids back on track.

She also added that she they are planning for a full on return in the fall.

Dr. Hanlin added that she is happy to have athletes back on the field, as many parents say that getting sports back was important to their students mental health.

Meanwhile, she said when it comes to graduation they have every intention of having a traditional ceremony this year.