Covid-19 & Classes 2020

5 April 2020Jensa NG, Mack ‘23

As COVID-19 surges around the world like the roaring wildfires that ravaged Australia this past winter, Brentwood, along with the rest of the schools in British Columbia, must make some changes and sacrifices. But, thanks to the power of Zoom, schooling at home has been made possible.

While Brentwood students might have seen this pandemic as a chance for an extended break from school, I hate to be the bearer of bad news: classes must go on. Just think of all of our Grade 12s, then consider all their hard work over the past six and a half months, going to waste. Clearly, a few months of Zooming is the best way to make the most of an unfortunate situation. The learning continues!

The Brentwood faculty is aware that there may be many hiccups ahead, but they are prepared for whatever technical challenges may come. And they are backed up by an irreplaceable IT team, led by Mr Lee. Teachers are ready for feedback from their students on how to improve our classroom learning, and students are very willing to offer advice!

Initially, when asked what students believe will be challenging with online classes, they answered: “clear communication” – Oscar L, Ellis ‘23; “poor technical connection” – Jaxon M, Rogers ‘23; “the different time zones, and kids having to watch the classes which means less participation” – Dylan G, Whittall ‘23. While these were the most common responses, perhaps foremost on the minds of the Meta 9 teachers is the daily struggle of keeping a virtual classroom of 14-year-old boys engaged in academics, while sitting in front of their laptops all morning … not playing video games. For weeks.

As the first two weeks of classes wrap up, opinions have changed and alterations have been made. Brentwood faculty have accepted the fact that online learning is a challenge. Another fact, that Mr Ganley has verified many times, is how difficult it is, even for a grown man like him, to stay focused all class long.

Teachers and students have been fabulously patient and understanding throughout the past two weeks and hopefully, this will continue so we get the fantastic education we know and love.

Jensa NG, Mack ‘23

Where Students Choose To Be