Welcome to a brand-new school year! This is always an exciting time for students as they look forward to returning to school after their summer break. Some look forward to attending a new school, going into a higher grade, meeting their refrigerators will get a break.

Sadly, this pandemic has dampened the excitement levels, as we are once again faced with the challenge of virtual learning; due to this COVID-19 Pandemic.


Having served as an educator for the past 31 years, I must admit, last school year was very challenging, as we sought to learn and adapt to various online learning platforms. However, with God’s covering, we persevered and achieved most of our goals.
We can join with Apostle Paul, and boldly declare, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).

As parents and guardians, you may feel weary of monitoring your children during their online classes; and yearn for face-to-face instruction to resume. However, despite this pandemic, learning must continue.

Here are a few tips that would aid in a smooth transition to online learning for both parents and students.

1. Ensure that your child has a functioning electronic device (tablet or laptop) and reliable internet service. All electronic devices should be fully charged, before logging into their classrooms each morning.

2. Set up a designated quiet workspace for your child, ensuring that all school supplies (notebooks books, workbooks, writing tools, etc.) are easily accessible. Ensure that the background is appropriate and free of distractions.

3. Familiarize yourself with your child’s school Learning Management System (LMS). Keep informed with updates from your child’s school; by checking the school’s social media platforms daily for reliable information.

4. Teach your child how to sign into their school’s learning portal. Encourage them to be responsible and accountable for their learning.

5. Encourage punctuality and good behavior. Ensure your child is properly attired.

6. Develop a positive relationship with your child’s teacher. Strong and healthy partnerships between parents and teachers can significantly reduce stress levels during this pandemic.

Parental involvement is a key ingredient in the success of students,’ as it improves academic performance and increases the students’ confidence level. Therefore, I admonish you to take an active part in your child’s education this academic year.

As we continue this virtual learning era, be mindful that, the best work ever assumed by men and women is to deal with youthful minds; hence great care should be taken in educating our youths (Ellen White, Christian Education). With the help of God, all things are possible.

--Mrs. Carla Rodgers is the Women’s Ministries leader of the Steven’s Seventh-day Adventist Church, Long Island. She is also the principal of the Mangrove Bush Primary School, South-Central Bahamas District.