5/11/20
by Caitlin Doherty
On March 16th, Immaculate High School began its virtual learning in response to the school’s closing due to the coronavirus pandemic. Virtual learning has been a “learning” experience for students, faculty, and staff at Immaculate. Students go through their normal school day schedule by attending virtual classes with their teachers on Microsoft Teams. They have continued to complete homework assignments, quizzes, tests, and projects online by using Google Classroom and other software.
Anna Flaherty, a sophomore, said the most challenging aspect of virtual classes is staying focused on the lessons being taught. Through this unprecedented time, she is grateful that teachers have been there to support students. “The most helpful thing teachers are doing is being understanding and lightening the homework load. After sitting at a computer for 6+ hours, it’s nice to be done with your day and have some time to decompress,” she reflected.
Anna, along with the rest of the Immaculate community, misses the atmosphere of being at school with friends and participating in after-school activities. The Immaculate community has found ways to stay connected during this time. Students, alumni, and teachers came together to perform in a virtual coffee house, clubs have continued to meet through video calls, and coaches communicate with their teams about various ways to stay in shape for sports. Beginning April 27th, Student Council held a virtual spirit week with themed dress-up days. On Sunday May 3rd, the school held a no-contact food drive to aid Jericho Partnership, a nonprofit that serves those in the Danbury community who are in need of aid. Although they cannot be together at school, Immaculate Mustangs have continued to find ways to stay connected and support those in need.