3: The Call for Humanity

The year 2020 was one of the most memorable experiences of my teaching career. For the first time in five years, the school’s climate was under control and building morale was on the rise. My classroom was truly a sanctuary and it seemed the vast majority of my students genuinely enjoyed learning. Each of my five English classes had its own unique culture and personality, which made teaching refreshing and fulfilling. I was living a pedagogical dream.

In March 2020, staff members were notified that our district would begin conducting classes virtually. Like most of my colleagues, I anticipated a temporary adjustment that would last two weeks at most. Much to my surprise, weeks turned into months and what had begun as the perfect school year, abruptly turned into an abject nightmare.