August Shutdown
If you’ve been watching, you might have noticed that I didn’t post any articles in the last month. Well, our illustrious photographer and IT person, went on a trip to Germany, so we took a break. Not a bad idea, since we had a few weather and climate issues and the beginning of a short, 36-day federal election campaign. I’m healthy and happy, after the August shutdown (not a lockdown).
This week, our school kids got to go back to a physical classroom. What a relief! Even if it means that the kids in Grades 4 and up, and their teachers and the school staff, need to wear masks in most classes. That brings me to a question: why are people thinking that young school children need to be ‘protected’ from the virus, because they are not eligible for vaccinations. What happened to all the children over the centuries who weren’t vaccinated and who lived through, and usually developed immunity to childhood diseases? If I remember correctly, school-aged children weren’t in the high mortality group during the Spanish flu of 1918-19. I don’t understand a lot about the COVID-19 virus and why we give our children so many vaccines, when their young, active bodies — if fed good food — are built for battles. The first vaccine I received was for polio at the age of 6, and I remember another at about 10 or 12, but I don’t have a record of that one.
The important thing about school, IMHO, is the social life and learning with friends. School provides security for all kinds of kids to learn and develop their talents and skills; to take risks, without fear, in guided learning environments; and to make memories with classmates and teachers. Our teachers are well-trained and trusted by students and parents alike. Our schools are among the best in the world, so I’m really happy that they are able to carry on, after 18 months of massive disruption. I’m sure those same teachers will meet the challenges of figuring out where the learning gaps are in their students, and will be able to adjust their lessons to include the different levels. Hopefully, the parents will help to fix things, without prematurely criticizing their kids’ teachers. Let’s not forget, it’s been a tough 18 months for teachers and for parents.
Let the learning continue, and may we all feel smarter for the experience. I know that I’ve undergone big changes in my lifestyle. I’m less materialistic. I’ve slowed down and taken the time to read good books and connect with friends over Zoom. And I’m still blogging!
I want to encourage my Grand Boulevard neighbours to contribute a TGIF post (<500 words). Please send it to admin@gbrra.org or suggest a topic that you’d like to explore.
Fiona