Teachers at Cathedral Prep were asked to give their best advice to the class of 2021 in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. School conditions, college admissions, and emotional well-being are included in the various aspects of the senior class that have been affected by the virus.
The largest overall theme conveyed by the staff members is one of perseverance and hope. Mrs. Worline, a mathematics teacher, focused on students controlling their own outlook on the world and circumstances to make the best out of their challenges.
“Always look for the positive in every situation, no matter how small it may be,” Mrs. Worline said. “If you focus on the negative, that will be all you’ll see. When you focus on the positive, you’ll live a richer life.”
In attune with this positive message, but focusing more on communicating and caring for others, guidance counselor Mrs. Hammer gave similar advice to the senior class. The importance of caring for and connecting with others is emphasized by the school counselor. To further this advice, she explains the previously discussed actions’ relation to mental health.
“Positive social connection is the single most reliable predictor of physical health and satisfaction in life, regardless of age, race, socio-economic status or gender,” Mrs. Hammer said.
Diverting from the advice given by other teachers, Mrs. Quinn, another mathematics teacher, references the complicated environment currently present due to the pandemic. She advises seniors to choose to make the school year as normal as possible and encouraged the growth of relationships between students and teachers alike.
“Take advantage of every opportunity to learn from [your] dedicated teachers,” Mrs. Quinn said. “Spend as much time as you can bonding with your brothers as you finish this final year of high school.”
Mr. Pituch, Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs of Prep, Villa, and Mother Theresa Academy, concluded this survey by hinting at the importance of students being there for each other but went on to describe how to utilize these COVID-19 experiences in a beneficial way in the future. Mr. Pituch advises the senior class to try its best to continue with healthy practices.
“This pandemic and these changes will not last forever,” Mr. Pituch said. We all have to do our best to keep learning, growing, and living in faith, scholarship, and community. Stay strong during these tough times, learn to appreciate the good times when they come around now as well as in the future, and remember to be there for each other, always.”
