Bear River High School has transitioned into a hybrid schedule this week, however the dangers and complications of COVID-19 still loom over many students as some chose to continue with distance learning.

According to Bear River Principal Chris Roberts, around 15% of students will not be returning to school for the hybrid schedule, instead deciding to proceed with at-home school. Mr. Roberts further elaborated upon the reasoning behind the decisions of many of these students and families.

“There are many reasons why a student and their family have chosen to stay distance learning,” he said. “Some of those reasons include transportation issues, childcare issues or concerns about the health of the student or an immune-compromised family member.

Some students who will be continuing with distance learning during the hybrid schedule chimed in about why they decided to stay at home, providing reasons similar to the ones that Mr. Roberts had noted.

“My sister lives at my mom’s house, and she used to be how I got to school everyday,” said Junior William Phillips.

“I don’t plan on returning because my parents and the sibling that I live with don’t have the best health record, so I’d like to keep them safe as much as possible during the pandemic,” said fellow Junior Alexis Giammona.

Leilani Sauvageau, another junior, provided a different reason that Mr. Roberts hadn’t mentioned.

“I’m not returning to school yet because I decided to see how things would go for a while during hybrid,” she said. “If things go well I might end up going, but until then, I don’t want to risk it.” 

Junior Makenna Hensley attributed her decision to stay in distance learning to her increased academic success.

“I’m actually enjoying online school,” she said. “We all work differently, and for me it’s a lot easier to stay focused at home. I am much more organized and my grades are higher than they’ve ever been. Personally, I tend to feel really anxious at school and it takes away a lot of my focus. However, I’m very happy for the other kids that get to go back to school and see their friends.”

Some students, such as Giammona and Sauvageau, reported a different sentiment to their distance learning experience, their challenge with the format having a small impact on their decision to remain at home.

“[Distance learning] will definitely put more stress on me, but I know this is the best option for me and I can get through it,” said Giammona.

“In terms of education, distance learning is a lot harder for me,” said Sauvageau. “I have a hard time staying on top of work and making sure I get things turned in on time. I also feel like I learn better in the classroom.”

However, Mr. Roberts expressed his hope for students to return to school once they feel safe and able to do so.

“We hope that eventually all students will be able to return to our campus! We miss our students and miss their energy and school spirit!”