Help Me "Monitor" Success

Funded Mar 15, 2021

"Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgiving, turn routine jobs into joy and change ordinary opportunities into blessings." —William Arthur Ward

Over the past year, I have learned to live in the present, count my blessings and continue to foster connections. During this time we have all experienced so much and many struggle to cope, especially children. Prior to the pandemic I would greet my students upon arrival, and engage with them throughout the day. Whether it be a warm smile, a kind ear, or just a present person. I would address their needs in person, an individual/group counseling session, Social Emotional Lessons, or a check-in or chat in the cafeteria during lunch. I could always gauge how students were feeling.

Nonverbal communication is just as important as verbal communication. Often it is a student's body language that prompts a conversation. When you have a student that is confused but they are too embarrassed to tell you, you can see the bewilderment on their face. When you have a student that may not be having the greatest of days because they are hungry or had an argument with someone in their household, you can see the anguish on their face. When a student is smiling because they get to see all of their friends that they miss, you can see the joy on their face.

I am grateful for an additional monitor to connect with my students remotely. With two monitors I am able to facilitate an activity while still being able to see my students and monitor any dialogue (chat) that occurs during our lessons/sessions. Without the use of a dual monitor I would not be able to see my students while I present my screen. Also, I would not be able to monitor the chat. So for students that may have issues with their microphones or they may be too shy, therefore I would not be able to see their comments either.

The best part about the additional monitor is that it allows me to fully engage with my students. Although, it is very different from an in person experience, it is the closest thing we have right now. Many students truly miss school. They miss their friends, they miss the staff, and they miss the routine. But they no longer have to long for the connection in counseling because it has not been restored, but has at least been re-invented. Especially for some of our students with special needs and English language learners. They thrive when they can maintain consistent connections. This not only helps them with their academic learning but it also helps with their social emotional learning and growth.”

With gratitude,

Ms. Inniss