WOODBURY — Schedule changes are the latest pandemic-related frustration for students and teachers at Nonnewaug. Many are wondering when the changes will stop or if we will ever go back to normal.

Nonnewaug, like many other schools during the pandemic, has seen a number of different schedules, as educators try to adapt to the ever-changing guidelines while balancing the educational needs of students. 

The most recent schedule change, a return to full day in-person learning, took place on Monday, March 8.

“I have lots of absences due to all the schedule changes since I am unsure of when classes start,” Nonnewaug junior Rachael Gagne said. “I always have to ask peers what time class starts and even then some of them are still not sure.”

Gagne added that she went through the trouble of printing schedules so she could be aware of class times, but it ended up being pointless because the schedule changed the next day.

Students aren’t just missing classes; they are also getting more tense and frustrated as the year goes on. Some students have also claimed that the constant schedule changes are affecting motivation and learning. 

“It’s so emotionally draining to not have consistency,” said junior Liz Scalzo. “Now that we have a schedule that works they want to change it again. … It’s incredibly frustrating because on top of the pandemic which is already stressful, we have yet to have a consistent schedule with school.”

Students’ concerns don’t just focus on the health and well-being of their peers, but with the school district as well.

“My frustration is there seems to be no student consultation,” said NHS senior Matt Daly Lehman. “[The school district] makes their decisions without any true student representation. … Extending the hours of school, while beneficial for learning, also hampers a student’s ability to maintain a steady work schedule. Those of us that have jobs, mainly ag students and seniors, should have the ability to make money before heading off into the work force or college.” 

Some students were concerned how the continued schedule changes may affect their work schedules and income. NHS teacher Dave Green added, “I know I have at least a couple of students that are literally working to help support the family because one or both parents have lost or changed their job.” 

Amidst all the negativity surrounding the schedule changes, some teachers are actually content with the changes. Agriscience teacher Jennifer Jedd said she likes the new full-day schedule because it allows her to care for the animals during the day instead of after school.