On Friday afternoon, Gov. Wolf issued an order for all Pennsylvania schools to close for 10 days to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. With this order in place, the Middle School is moving quickly to prepare for virtual school beginning Wednesday, March 18 and to continue at least through March 27.

I must admit how much I’ll miss shaking hands and giving fist bumps (or more recently elbow bumps) at the main entrance to the Devey Building. Each day, there is wonderful energy coming into the building on campus and in our hallways. These difficult times will pass, but until then, I am excited that our community will be able to continue learning despite being away from campus. I am choosing to look at this challenge as an opportunity. 

In the meantime, I wanted to provide some tips on how our Middle School students can make the best of virtual school:

1.Choose one location in your home to serve as your virtual learning lab. Consider places such as the dining room table, family room, or home office. Set up a desk or table area with all of the materials you may need. 

2. Charge your digital devices! Power up your device daily and have your charging block and cords nearby. If you are running HD video or joining in Google Meet or Zoom calls, your device battery may be drained faster than using other applications. 

3. Check your Wifi connection. Make sure you can access wifi during school hours and that the learning lab location you chose has a good signal for your digital device(s). 

4. Establish a daily routine. This includes sleeping for at least 8 hours, eating healthy foods, and hydrating. 

5. Be positive! Lean into learning. Enjoy learning in your pajamas and slippers!

6. Don't forget to get some fresh air. “Mind. Body. Spirit.” Three important words here at Moravian Academy. There has never been a better time for some ME time. Play outside. Go for a run. Ride a bike. Read a pleasure book. Try some yoga. Play board games. 

And if you really get bored... Find a way to make gluten-free and delicious tasting donuts for your director. 😉

Good luck with virtual school, everyone! I know you will do great.