LOWER SCHOOL

IN THE LOWER SCHOOL

By Anne Wooleyhand

HEAD OF LOWER SCHOOL

In February, news of COVID-19 started to become a reality at GCS. Consideration of whether to cancel special events was the main topic of discussion. Never in our wildest dreams did anyone anticipate a quarantine sending the world of education into unchartered territory.

The week before spring break, faculty learned that they would be taking their craft online. An intense training took place the day before spring break, and many teachers worked through the break to start classes upon their return. Not a day of school was missed. Faculty did a fantastic job getting lessons up and running for the students. They maintained a meaningful program for all students for the entire spring.

In the beginning, Lower School students learned a regular curriculum online and learned different technology tools and platforms. As the days went on, everyone learned to navigate Zoom, Microsoft Teams, the GCS portal, and various apps. Teachers made videos, created classroom tools in their homes, and connected with students in ways they never imagined. Students saw their teachers in a completely different light, as they met teachers’ pets and children.

The best thing about Digital Dragons is that children saw their teachers as learners as well. Establishing appropriate expectations and etiquette for online learning while providing engaging and entertaining lessons was the goal of all teachers. Sustaining our treasured community was a top priority. Lunch bunches, dance parties, trivia, Earth Day, art shows, international week, field day, and so many other events we hold dear have all been part of our Digital Dragons program. While there is no way to replicate live teaching on the beautiful GCS campus, Lower School faculty and staff did a great job providing students with a meaningful educational experience, and connections between students that are the foundation of lifelong relationships. The Lower School community is strong and resilient.

WE ARE ALL DRAGONS!

Below: Camilla Evering ’29 Facing page, clockwise from top left: Calvin George ’29; Emily Kang ’31; Cydney To ’28