The past year has been difficult for everyone and many are hopeful for a better future. Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, students have been struggling to keep up with school. Last August, when Pennridge High School reopened for the new school year, students had the option to attend school in-person or fully remote, following a hybrid schedule. Towards the end of February, the high school switched to a full week of five-day classes with a modified schedule of 7:15 am to 1:00 pm. Students could still choose to learn either in-person or remotely.

In Pennsylvania alone, there have been about 958,382 reported cases and 244,490 deaths since last March. About 1,065,160 people have been fully vaccinated. Although it is predicted that over seventy percent of the population will need to be vaccinated in order to reach herd immunity, global herd immunity may not happen until the summer of 2022.

To ensure the safety of in-person students, the Pennridge School District has a set of rules including masks must be worn at all times, desks must be three to six feet apart, no face-to-face engagement, one-way hallways, hand sanitizer stations, and much more. 

There are many predictions as to what the school year will look like next year. “If everything goes as planned, we will all be back in next year,” said Pennridge School District superintendent, Dr. Bolton. When asked about his thoughts on the importance of in-person learning, he said, “We do believe that face to face instruction is best… in class with a good teacher will provide the best learning environment for students.” Underclassman Russel Bohn said, “I think it will look similar to now because Covid will not go away, but I am hoping for the best.” Dr. Bolton also mentioned that the district is planning for many different scenarios for each level of school (elementary, middle school, high school). “Case numbers have been way down from November through February,” he added.

Many people are hopeful for a better school year given the current circumstances, but only time will tell. Next school year depends on several different factors, including case and vaccination numbers. The school district is working hard to do what is best for the Pennridge community.