Student Portal

Dear Students,

As you know, the Standard School District has made the decision to keep its schools closed and we are scheduled to begin the school year through distance learning online.

We hope that by practicing “social distancing,” we will do our part in limiting the spread of the coronavirus; however, we also recognize the impact that “social distancing” can have on your emotional wellbeing. It is common to feel anxious and overwhelmed when there are so many factors that remain unknown.

We tend to try to avoid topics that trigger anxiety and stress, but not talking about your worries may actually increase these feelings for you.

Strategies to Support You During Distance Learning

1. Talk about how you feel.

It is normal to experience a wide range of thoughts, feelings, and reactions during this time. You may experience the following:

• Stress and worry

• Fear and anxiety

• Frustration and irritability

• Helplessness

• Difficulty sleeping and/or concentrating

• Isolating or withdrawing from others

• Physical symptoms (e.g. increased heart rate, sweating, low energy, stomachaches, headaches, etc.)

It can be helpful to talk with others, write in a journal, engage in creative activities (e.g. art, music, etc.), and/or speak to someone you feel comfortable with.

2. Practice relaxation strategies:

During times of stress practicing relaxation can help soothe the mind and the body. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, frustrated, irritable, helpless, etc. Relaxing the mind and body can send messages to your brain that you are okay and help soothe those uncomfortable feelings. In addition, when you are more relaxed or calm you tend to react to stressful situations in a more productive manner.

3. Maintain a routine:

It is important to maintain as much structure and routine as possible, which can increase feelings of control and/or alleviate feelings of anxiety and/or stress.

-We know many of you have multiple responsibilities at home which is why it is important to maintain a schedule and routine. If taking care of younger siblings it is important they too have a routine and schedule.

Suggestions:

• Before you get started with remote learning, talk to your parents/guardians about their expectations for you during your time away from school and share with them the expectations of your teachers.

• Try to keep your schedule consistent when it comes to bedtimes, morning routines (including getting dressed for the day), meals, and exercise.

• It may be helpful to set-up a specific work space for yourself, so you can see the separation between home and school (try to avoid working from bed or the couch).

• Be proactive and make sure to make it a habit to do academic work daily.

4. Stay Connected:

It is important for you to stay connected to each other ( friends, peers, family). Receiving support from loved ones can have a powerful impact on your stress and sense of stability and comfort. What you should do:

• Make time for regular, personal check-ins with friends and family via text, email FaceTime, etc.

• All of the people at school that you or would regularly reach out to for academic and emotional

• Support is available via phone, email, or video chat (Google Meets)

If you are feeling isolated please REACH OUT and let someone you trust know that you are feeling that way.