Starting second semester, students have the option to remain remote or begin hybrid learning. Regardless of what option a family chooses, students will need to adjust to new schedules, new guidelines, and new feelings.

With District 156 starting hybrid learning on January 20, students should expect a much different school setting due to the safety precautions that have been put into place.

Students who have chosen hybrid learning should expect to see changes such as: wearing masks, social distanced desks, four minute passing periods, limited locker use, and more. The MCHS Second Semester 2021 Hybrid Learning plan is designed so that, on “face-to-face days,” students can connect with teachers and classmates in a COVID-friendly way.

“Schools have been shown to be not major spreaders of the virus and we will continue to practice all the best safety guidelines,” reports Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Carl Vallianatos. 

Students will still be expected to complete work asynchronously on their “off days,” be they “orange” or “black.”

The decision to go back has been pushed by many students, staff, and parents, many of which are having difficulties with remote learning and are eager to go back.

“I am excited to go back to school partially in person because so much of what makes school tolerable is the social aspect of it,” sophomore Taylor Wickenkamp explained. “I hope this will be a step towards ‘normal’ and helps any students that have been struggling over online school get back on track.”

“We look forward to students having face-to-face contact with teachers twice a week,” added Vallianatos, “so that they can build connections again in person and participate in hands-on activities, labs, and other experiences difficult to replicate remotely

Those who have signed the waiver will continue remote learning until after spring break, at which point they will then have the option to switch to hybrid if they can.

“I’ve decided to continue to do remote learning because I believe it’s what’s best for my family,” tells sophomore Mara Torres. “I know that the school is going to do everything in their power to keep everyone safe and healthy, but taking into consideration the amount of households present, I don’t think that would be the most educated option for me personally.” 

The students that choose remote will log on at 7:35 a.m. and go to all 8 classes on their designated day, so they are on the same schedule as hybrid students. 

Students should familiarize themselves with the plan to prepare for the upcoming transition.