50p
Keeping Safe Beyond the Gates
For some, the November Midterm Break arrived far too quickly and for others, break could not have come soon enough. With our first substantial break, staff and students were excited to return home, get some rest, and fuel up for the weeks ahead. Students packed their bags and eagerly prepared for their travel to wherever they may have been going; all were eager and enthusiastic and yet there was a lingering feeling of apprehension and worry. “I’m glad to rest and enjoy the energy of a different place for a week, but I anxiously await the moment I get to have my feet in the dorm again” commented Adrienne R, Hope ‘21.
Eight months ago, in early March, our student body left for home and were later informed of our inability to return. Adrienne explains that “When we came back to Brentwood in September, it had been exactly six months since the day we left”. Though last year we were able to power through the final term on Zoom, the in-person experience of learning together within the Brentwood Community is something that is cherished by all staff and students. The opportunity we students have at Brentwood to continue learning in person during the pandemic this school year is unlike most other schools across the country.
We are fortunate enough to have an amazing Covid Team here at Brentwood consisting of Mr Shadlock, Mr Burton, Mr McPherson, Ms Murtland, Mr Patel and Mr Sullivan. Without this super team, we would not be here. The Covid Team has developed a plan to keep kids safe on campus, but beyond the gates, it’s up to us. It’s definitely difficult as teenagers to say no to certain social events. Kennedy M, Hope ‘21 explains that what helps her remain committed to practicing Covid-safe behavior off campus is “remembering that the decisions I make off campus will directly affect my Brentwood family and my ability to return to my home away from home”.
Before leaving for break, a primary topic of conversation in our house meetings was the prospect of staying healthy, particularly in regards to Covid. House Captains and House Parents lectured students on avoiding anything that could be potentially Covid unsafe. My houseparent, Ms Hedquist, said “Be smart!” and I think that those wise words have truly spoken to all of the Hope girls.
Though we were on break, all the same rules applied. This is a period of time when Covid cases are spiking in Canada, and it's important now more than ever to be aware. The goal was to return to Brentwood healthy, well rested and ready to work hard!
So far, so good.
Zosia S, Hope ‘21
Eight months ago, in early March, our student body left for home and were later informed of our inability to return. Adrienne explains that “When we came back to Brentwood in September, it had been exactly six months since the day we left”. Though last year we were able to power through the final term on Zoom, the in-person experience of learning together within the Brentwood Community is something that is cherished by all staff and students. The opportunity we students have at Brentwood to continue learning in person during the pandemic this school year is unlike most other schools across the country.
We are fortunate enough to have an amazing Covid Team here at Brentwood consisting of Mr Shadlock, Mr Burton, Mr McPherson, Ms Murtland, Mr Patel and Mr Sullivan. Without this super team, we would not be here. The Covid Team has developed a plan to keep kids safe on campus, but beyond the gates, it’s up to us. It’s definitely difficult as teenagers to say no to certain social events. Kennedy M, Hope ‘21 explains that what helps her remain committed to practicing Covid-safe behavior off campus is “remembering that the decisions I make off campus will directly affect my Brentwood family and my ability to return to my home away from home”.
Before leaving for break, a primary topic of conversation in our house meetings was the prospect of staying healthy, particularly in regards to Covid. House Captains and House Parents lectured students on avoiding anything that could be potentially Covid unsafe. My houseparent, Ms Hedquist, said “Be smart!” and I think that those wise words have truly spoken to all of the Hope girls.
Though we were on break, all the same rules applied. This is a period of time when Covid cases are spiking in Canada, and it's important now more than ever to be aware. The goal was to return to Brentwood healthy, well rested and ready to work hard!
So far, so good.
Zosia S, Hope ‘21