Hybrid Etiquette

The first couple of weeks back from winter break as a teacher are always challenging….this year is no different. As you would expect, it is actually more challenging than ever. We are doing a hybrid model at school. Monday through Wednesday is remote, Thursday and Friday are in person.

Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are the bane of my existence.

I have spent a fair amount of time in the last couple of weeks trying to put my finger on exactly why that is. This is the realization I came to, it is the daily feeling as though I am talking to a black Zoom hole. I could be doing practically anything on my end of the screen, and all I would have looking back at me is blank stares or blank screens because some refuse to put their cameras on.

I am less worried about the work they complete than I am the social skills the majority of students lack. They don’t mean to ignore me or be disrespectful. Recently I explained that not responding = ignoring. It was very clear they didn’t realize that was what they were doing!

Middle school is an awkward time, I get that being on camera can make students feel self-conscious. I often give time to not be on camera when they are working independently….I sincerely don’t care if they respond verbally or in the chat. Just some acknowledgement that I have spoken to them and that they are hearing me!

If I could ask parents to do one thing, it would be to teach your children to respond in some way, whether it is verbal or nonverbal when anyone speaks to them. Teach them the appropriate ways to greet someone, that it is nice to ask someone “how are you?” or “how was your weekend?” Teach them some basics in regard to having good social skills.

I guess that is the take away this week….work on your social skills! Be kind, ask someone how they are, what’s new, or really anything about themselves! It will make a positive impact…..I promise!