By ADRIANA GUTH-BOROWSKI – The rising numbers of COVIDovid-19 across the United States have caused changes in every aspect of life. This can be seen in the closure of schools across the nation, including IHS, which has slowly transitioned into online distance learning. 

The closure of all Pennsylvania schools has caused the implementation of online learning practices across the state. IHS has begun the use of Google Classroom and Google Hangout video for the education of students. 

Quarter four at IHS is ungraded, and it is up to the student to complete the work. Uncompleted assignments result in an email to a parent or guardian. 

“I feel that things are going pretty smooth,” stated freshman Anna Failor. “One thing is I wish teachers would post less at a time. It is nice to know what we are doing but looking through all my work at once is a little overwhelming.” 

The Advanced Placement classes are preparing to take an online AP exam. The exams are modified and shorter than the traditional paper format. Most exams include an essay that lasts around 45-minutes. 

Students who participate in the dual enrollment program through IUP are still responsible for a grade in the college class. 

“It is nice I get to work from home, but it is annoying to get a lot of busywork that isn’t counting towards a grade,” senior John Makara stated.  “It is hard to do both my IUP class and the high school classes because they are not very fun. In addition to doing school work, it is nice to have free time to do stuff at home.” 

With the transition, students have to adapt to a different style of learning. The online format cuts down on face-to-face learning. In addition, students don’t have the 40-minute a day learning structure. 

“I like how relaxed online school is,” said junior Sandy Milby. “I bought a planner to make sure that I was getting all of the assigned work done on time. It is nice to know that this school work is a temporary solution, and we will eventually be back to normal.” 

[Photo by: Adriana Guth-Borowski]

Photo Caption: “Junior Alexis Single adjust to the new world of distance learning.