BERLIN, Md. - COVID-19 has certainly changed the landscape of education. For most public school students, virtual learning is the new norm. But private schools across Delmarva have welcomed students back.
One of those schools is Worcester Preparatory School in Berlin, and this is their third week of classes. With mask requirements and plexiglass shields everywhere, students have been able to return to campus to see their friends and teachers even with the pandemic.
Head of School Dr. John McDonald says, so far, so good.
"Everything is doing great. The kids have been fantastic, I can't be more proud of them, and our teachers have really stepped up," John said.
One of the most difficult things for students in a COVID world is the social aspect of school. Many parents worry their children will suffer from not seeing teachers and peers face to face. Because of this, Worcester Prep believes its in-person system is vital.
"Even just being together in the hallway, even though you're going one direction, you're together," McDonald said. "You feel like you're a part of your school. We also have a school counselor this year, which we're very proud of. It's been great because these kids haven't been on campus for almost nine months."
Students did have the option to attend classes virtually, but school officials say almost all students made the decision to attend in person.
New safety measures aside, these students are not allowing the pandemic to get in the way of the things they love.
If a student or teacher were to test positive for COVID-19, McDonald says Worcester Prep has plans and procedures in place, including, if necessary, a temporary shutdown. Ultimately, they would defer to the Worcester County Health Department for the best course of action.