GLASTONBURY, Conn. — Monday was the first day of school for middle and high school students in Glastonbury.
Ninth grader Ibrahim Thaudeen told us why he’s most excited, “making new friends and after school activities,” he says.
Ayisha Thaudeen is Ibrahim’s mom, she has five kids in the district and is encouraging them all to stay safe, “I try to talk them into wearing the mask, they have their sanitizers, and stay a little social distance as well.”
More than 80% of the town’s grade 7-12 parents are choosing in-school education for their kids, with 2 days on campus and the rest of the week remote learning. Grades K-6 have the option to do the week in person or to learn entirely from home.
“I think the good news is people are back, everyone who wants to come back is back, I think that if things are going well those who are learning from home Will make the decision to send their children into school,” say Glastonbury Schools Superintendent, Alan Bookman.
Also new this year, a childcare center aimed at meeting district demand. Liz Cole is overseeing the effort for the district.
“We heard from teachers loud and clear that given The pandemic and the unfortunate closure of other daycare centers, and home daycares, that childcare was a real issue and getting our teachers back to work,” says Cole.
Right now all 32 slots are filled with a waiting list and a clean, safe environment is a priority, “We have increased sanitization procedures going on, extra toys so we can constantly cycle out things that we know the little ones stick in their mouths,” says Cole
Outdoor learning, block schedules, and limited access to school buildings are also part of the mix across town where Ibrahim has some advice for his classmates and mom is thanking his teachers, “You should try to make new friends, and listen to your teacher, also just try to behave,” he says.
“I want them to know that, the parents love them and they are doing a good job and God bless them,” adds mom.
The district had pushed back the start date for roughly 6,000 students to this week to give everyone a little bit more time to prepare. Students in grades K-6 will kick off their new year tomorrow.
You can learn more about the program here.