Online classes have students, teachers, and parents stressed out. Many find it hard to get everything that is required done. With Governor Cuomo extending school closures, students, teachers, staff and many others have to stay home to slow the spread of COVID-19.

For parents, it is not easy to balance out their time with jobs and their kids at home, needing their help in school assignments. School closures in more than 37 states affect 37 million kindergarteners through 12 grade. These students now have to keep up with their school work, which is why online classes were introduced as an alternative to keep students academically active.

The Coronavirus pandemic has affected education all over the world, with closures of colleges, private and public schools. Online learning has been the way teachers are reaching out to students and making sure they are doing the work that is required of them. Natalia Betancur, a WHBHS sophomore, says that she does not necessarily dislike online school but doesnt love it. She added, “Teachers should incorporate more hands on projects.” 

The problem is that it is not as easy for teachers to reach out to students, especially to those that don’t have the ability to go online and do their work. For example in New York City about 300,000 kids don’t have access to electronic devices or the Internet. This creates a problem for students without the materials needed to keep learning. 

Another issue is that now that students are not going to school they have more responsibilities at home like chores, taking care of siblings, or supporting the family. David Alvarado, WHBHS sophomore, says that he has trouble getting some of his work done because he has much more chores and also looks after his little sisters. He said, “My sister is constantly screaming like crazy and making me unable to focus on my work.”

The amount of work given to students could create stress since asking a teacher for help could mean you might have to wait for their response through an email. This is why WHBHS has incorporated a new remote learning schedule. Certain classes give out work on certain days, which reduces the amount of work and is manageable.  However, even with the schedule, a problem that students run into is finding the motivation to do work or the right time to do it. Sophomore Paulina Herrera said, “I get distracted by shows, and when I sit down to do my work, it is hard to concentrate.” 

Even with school closures teachers, parents and students are trying their best to adapt to the changes that have been incorporated. Even if it is hard everyone must understand that it’s for the better of everyone. Stay safe and healthy WHB.