COVID-19 does not operate on a set schedule and students at Washington Island School are showing they are prepared to deal with whatever is thrown at them. One of the school’s remote/hybrid learners tested positive for the coronavirus earlier this school year. Despite having not set foot in the building yet this year, the student’s parent and sibling who had been in the building were forced to quarantine. Since the parent was also a staff member, they taught from home while a paraprofessional assisted in the classroom. Principal Michelle Kanipes says they have talked internally since the spring shutdown about they could still deliver a meaningful education even if it had to be done virtually. She has been happy about how the students have been able to respond when the school has had to turn on a dime with its classes.

Kanipes says only a handful of students are opting for remote learning this year with others being homeschooled or attending a virtual academy. Even though sports have been canceled for the most part, she adds they have been able to still participate in some events like the Wisconsin Academic Decathlon program without leaving the island.

Picture courtesy of Washington Island School District