As Penn-Trafford students and staff adjust to a “new normal,” it seemed as appropriate time as ever to ask students and staff about how they believe hybrid learning is going. The hybrid system has consisted of a system where half of the students report to school on Monday and Wednesday, while the rest report Tuesday  and Thursday. All students attend online when they are not in school. 

“It’s not too bad, the only thing that’s bad are the math and science [classes] because of not being in class. Other than that, it’s good though” – Tommy Kalkstein (Sophomore)

“It’s been pretty good. [It has] given me a chance to fully immerse myself in my schoolwork one day, while semi-relaxing while still working on the next [day].” – Joshua Dormire (Senior)

“It’s going fairly well for me, personally. I feel like some teachers could communicate a little bit better. Obviously, it’s not an ideal situation, but it’s best for everyone.” – Jordyn Haynes (Senior)

“From a teaching standpoint, I think it’s rather difficult to teach three groups of kids. It’s probably been my most challenging year since my first [year teaching]. It’s frustrating for everyone, but if everyone did what they were supposed to do, it would be a lot easier.” – Kim Stefkovich, Business Teacher

“I love it. It’s great. I’ve never had a better school year in my life. I only do an hour of work three days a week.” – Robbie Bartram (Senior)

“[It is] definitely a struggle, learning at home, but coming to school helps a lot. Coming to school full-time would help.” – Michael Frawley (Junior)

“It’s kind of hard, I feel like I have more help in a normal year. I feel like I am trying to figure out a lot more on my own. It’s kind of been a struggle this year but I’m figuring it out.” – Katelynn Kopasko (Junior)

“I think that it’s going well for some kids, but hard for others. I don’t like the hybrid because I feel like when I’m not in school, I don’t fully understand what I’m learning” – Brooke Cleland (Senior)

Throughout these unseen times, it is clear that opinions vary. What is important is that these opinions are heard, as school and community leaders continue to make decisions about how to best handle learning during the pandemic.

Sports Editor, Nate Frye