Thread by @TexasTribune

1/ We spoke to two 2020 Texas Teachers of the Year about their hardest challenge yet: Taking care of their students during a pandemic.

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#txlege #txed

2/ Switching to entirely virtual classrooms has been emotionally and logistically challenging for thousands of teachers who rely on hugs, body language and routine to connect with students, especially those who may lack support and stability at home.

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3/ Karen Sams — an elementary school teacher — hasn’t seen her students in person since March 13.

She has tried to keep in touch with all of them since, but there are two third graders she hasn’t been able to reach at all. bit.ly/2ymrcnm

4/ Even more so than during the regular year, the coronavirus pandemic is forcing teachers to become social workers and counselors for their students.

Some families who attend Sams’ school live in areas where they can’t easily access the internet.
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5/ Michelle Sandoval, another 2020 Texas Teacher of the Year, used to advise students on what lipstick to wear to their quinceañeras or how to wear a tie.

Now, she also has been using video conferencing to check in on her students’ health and safety.

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6/ Many of Sandoval’s students may not have access to regular meals or medical attention. Others aren’t engaging in classes or are just missing.

She has made contact with about 90% of her students but can’t reach those without phone or internet access.

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7/ If Sandoval notices a student living in a house with broken windows or wearing the same clothing days in a row, she will call a counselor who can get them help. bit.ly/2ymrcnm

8/ These teachers know some students will emerge from the pandemic shutdowns largely unscathed.

But many already seem to be slipping away. Some may not have access to regular meals.

Others aren’t engaging in online classes.

Some are just missing.

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