How to Prepare for a Safe Back to School

After a long year of remote learning, schools are finally reopening to the public for in-person or hybrid learning in the fall. However, with the COVID-19 situation constantly changing, students who are preparing to go back to school must take precautions to stay healthy and safe while making the best of the new school year. To help our LA City employees who are preparing for this back-to-school season, we put together a list of the top 4 things you should do.

1. Bring Protective Gear

Protective gear will be essential for all students in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread and transmission among classmates. We recommend having hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes on hand, in all school bags, to prepare for high-touch surfaces and areas. This will allow students to regularly disinfect their hands and belongings throughout the day. Another way to avoid touching unclean surfaces is by using touchless door openers. Mask-wearing is also important - whether one is vaccinated or not - since it keeps both students and staff safe. In fact, some schools may implement mask-wearing for teachers and students to promote a healthy school environment.

2. Adopt New Routines

In the beginning of the pandemic, many individuals struggled to adapt to working and learning from home. Now that schools are reopening to in-person learning, students have to adapt entirely new routines again - especially since on-campus learning will not be the same as it was before the pandemic. To ease into the back-to-school transition, students and their families should adopt new changes to their routines even before the school year begins. Here are a few ways to get into the back-to-school groove: 

1. Set your morning alarms: Set your morning alarm as if it is the start of the school year. By waking up earlier than you’re used to, you can properly adjust to your school schedule.
2. Reset your body clock: It is important to get enough sleep for when the school year begins. Sleeping early and getting proper rest will not only boost your immune system but will also allow you to be more productive during the day.
3. Stick to a morning routine: Before the school year starts, make sure to follow your morning routine. This will allow you to get comfortable with the back-to-school transition. Once school starts, your body will know what to do. 
4. Get into the habit of washing your hands: Hygiene is crucial in the back-to-school transition. By getting into the habit of constantly washing your hands before and after eating and touching your face, you will be able to take these habits to school.
   
   

3. Prepare for Social Situations

After being in the comfort of their own homes for so long, it may be difficult for both kids and adults to adjust to social situations. Some individuals are already suffering from the stress and anxiety of returning to in-person learning and socializing with their peers. To prep for these social situations, it is key to practice good social habits at home before the school year begins. These include: wearing face masks, using hand sanitizers, and following social distancing. Especially for parents with children, make sure to teach them how to use their masks properly and stay hygienic. Keep in mind that many people are also experiencing social stress and anxiety - it’s not just you. As a way to decrease mental stress, it can be helpful to add a few minutes of quiet time to all morning routines. This will give individuals a chance to mentally prepare for the day ahead.

4. Boost Back-To-School Excitement

As mentioned earlier, many students may be worried about going back to school after being at home for a full year. A good way to ease tensions is to talk to loved ones about any concerns. They will be able to listen and give support during these times. Additionally, to boost back-to-school excitement, individuals can:

• Buy new school supplies to get ready for the school year. Having new notebooks, journals, lunch bags, and water bottles can enhance the excitement for the school year! New supplies signify a fresh slate for students. 
• Plan out fun back-to-school gatherings with friends. Although students may be experiencing worries and anxieties about returning to school, many are excited to see their friends. Planning out after-school activities with your close friends will enhance enthusiasm for the school year.
• Explore new school activities and courses. As schools reopen, so will the activities and organizations. Take time to see what your school is offering in terms of new courses or club activities to increase back-to-school eagerness.
• Write down your expectations for the new school year. Journaling is a good idea for people of all ages because it helps you process your feelings. Writing down your expectations for the new school year will help lift up your spirits.
  
  

Conclusion

As the school year begins, there are many opportunities for fun and merriment. Those who can prepare for a safe back-to-school experience will be able to keep themselves and their families safe from the risk of COVID-19. ACEBSA has an extensive assortment of products that can enhance a safe back-to-school experience. Check them out in our shop today!