I am M. Lewis, a teacher at a Secondary school in the parish of St. Mary. My school is not a traditional high school so most students have some difficulty with grasping the concepts at their grade level.

Prior to Covid, these students found classes challenging and some resorted to staying way from classes or being disruptive in order to avoid their greatest fear- admitting to their reading challenges. It was my task to assist these students by providing individual attention and using various methods such as games, competitions to improve their reading levels. Some were hesitant at first but being children at heart they soon fell prey to these games and began having fun, even forgetting that they were being taught. All in all the task was difficult yet every once in a while, rewarding.

Then came Covid,

Students were now expected to embrace online learning. There were various reactions to this. The students who were independent learners before Covid had little or no difficulty transitioning. It was however difficult for the struggling readers. They hid behind 'no gadgets', 'no service/data's and uninvolved parents.

Personally I have come to accept online classes as there are some benefits to be derived. I am however aware that this might not be the answer for all students especially those who are struggling readers and lack the necessary support at home.