In March 2020, everything changed. Students across the world were suddenly taken out of school and moved to online learning as COVID-19 spread. Classes were held through video calls, and school looked completely different for almost two years. Even after students returned, the way school felt had already shifted.
COVID-19 is an infectious disease that causes respiratory and cold-like symptoms. During the height of the pandemic, the world shut down. Schools switched to online learning, restaurants and workplaces closed, and life paused in a way no one expected.
For the current senior class—who were in 6th grade when the shutdown began—those middle school years that usually include big personal growth were spent at home instead of with friends.
Ashton Hoke, TWHS Senior and Boys Soccer Captain, is one of many students whose school experience was shaped by the impact of covid-19.
“Camera off, play the game,” Hoke said. “I did not learn anything, it was pretty easy. I would just be in my bed during them. [zoom classes] I even missed going to school, because it was so boring. My soccer season got canceled. When we came back to school it was hybrid so not everyone was there so I barely saw my friends.”
Many students said they felt isolated and disconnected during that time. The usual “awkward phase” and early-teen social experiences were replaced with long days indoors and limited interaction.
“I enjoyed zoom classes because you got to chill in bed. You didn’t have to get ready for school, or speak at all. It was never a struggle, the easiest year of my life,” senior Will Gams said.
Some students liked the comfort of staying home, but others found it difficult to adjust, especially when returning to in-person school. The shift back wasn’t easy for everyone.
TWHS Senior, Michael Graffagnino, saw firsthand how students’ experiences were altered by covid-19.
“After covid ended it was odd,” Graffagnino said. “People were always on their phones, nobody was being social. It felt like it was still covid, and people were still socially distant.”
Most students agreed that the hardest part wasn’t missing schoolwork—it was missing the small everyday moments with friends. Some believed things might look different now if that time hadn’t been interrupted.
“I think more kids would be outside today touching grass, and playing together. I think it stunted people’s growth mentally and physically. There would also be less phone usage all together,” Senior Football Captain Joseph Brewu said.
Now, as seniors, many students feel they’re still making up for what was lost. They didn’t miss the assignments or hectic schedules—they missed hallway conversations, team traditions, and simply being around each other. While those years can’t be replaced, today’s seniors are rebuilding connections and finishing high school with a stronger appreciation for the moments they once took for granted.
Will Gams sums up the covid experience candidly: “That was so ass,” said Gams.
