By Leanna Yu, Editor-in-Chief
After the first week of distance learning, Principal Pamela Duszynski revealed insight on coping with distance learning and Mills’ future endeavors for starting the academic year online.
As students and staff work from home, Principal Duszynski remains hopeful that the Mills community will be able to return to campus soon–– “I am hopeful and encouraged that we are doing the right thing in terms of distance learning, so we can bring kids and staff back as soon as possible this semester.”
The first week of school was organized by Ms. Dove, the Student Activities Director, in a two day school wide orientation to (re)learn Canvas, adjust to the new online platform, and develop a sense of community. Principal Duszynski commented that the first week of school went really well: all teachers had a working Zoom link on the first day of school, despite learning the new technological features 4-5 days prior. Another concern of hers was having a drop in attendance due to distance learning, but found good participation the first week of school.
With the success of the beginning of school, Principal Duszynski claimed that school activities and events will be figured out once students have adjusted to the new schedule, distance learning, and flex. Clubs are still encouraged to meet virtually during office hours with their club advisor present. The school still has visions for virtual town halls in every grade level and the annual club fair. Additionally, Mr. Hudelson has plans for an audio performance of The Crucible to substitute for this year’s fall play (auditions occurred on August 31st via Zoom appointment). Principal Duszynski supported introducing a new aspect of theatre while in remote learning, commenting “Even though we can’t do something on stage and have people there in the audience, there’s this whole space to explore around theatre‒– radio theatre.” Although the school’s main priority is to settle into a routine with distance learning, activities and events are still being planned to keep the sense of Viking spirit and community alive.
“We are a school that’s about much more than just the curriculum.” – Pamela Duszynski
During this digital learning period, Principal Duszynski touched upon how the Mills community is continuously growing. “I would like to see us continue to do what we’re doing–– discovering new ways to connect with one another. In some way, we are becoming closer to one another.” This is seen in increased attendance in PTO meetings and students reaching out to their teachers. Additionally, teachers in the San Mateo Union High School District have been sharing their resources to make the most effective course curriculum online. For instance, Mr. Paul filmed a lab in his Chemistry classroom that teachers in Burlingame, Aragon, and Capuchino could access to show their students. Collaboration between teachers in the SMUHSD has also allowed for shared lessons and resources, like video lectures. Teachers and students alike have been finding innovative ways to keep in contact and foster connections as a community.
Remote learning has widened the achievement gap at Mills, placing another educational barrier on students who have limited access to technology at home. However, Principal Duszynski and the administration at Mills are working on concealing that gap and providing all the resources they have at their disposal beyond Chromebooks and hotspots through outreach. Principal Duszynski explained, “We have to figure out what the families and students need in order to experience success… Some students need to come on campus, be outdoors, sitting at desks, and accessing wifi to have a conducive place to learn.” If students haven’t been participating in class or are frequently absent, Principal Duszynski will go into their Zoom classes to check in with those students in a private message or break out room.
Principal Duszynski stresses on the importance of reaching out to the staff at Mills through email, Anonymous Alerts, the Wellness site, and phone. Principal Duszynski would like to say to new students, “You are not alone. Even though we are not physically together, we are still very much a part of your support network. You are our inspiration, our hope, and define the reason why we do this work everyday.”
