Oceanside students have a safe return to school

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Though it was different than any other previous year amid the precautions taken during the coronavirus pandemic, Oceanside students and staff returned to school on Sept. 8 with enthusiasm.

“Our reopening of schools has gone very well,” Superintendent Dr. Phyllis Harrington said. “The feedback we have received from teachers and parents has been very positive in terms of the preparation we have undertaken in order to welcome students and staff to return. Most importantly, our students appear happy and acclimating to being back in their school buildings. We are also hearing good things about the start of school for our students who are learning remotely.” 

Oceanside High School Castleton students and staff welcomed new Principal Edward Michalenko as the 2020-21 school year began. Michalenko has worked in alternative education for 10 years. At Castleton, he said he aims to keep the focus on students, staff and the relationships within the school community, and to meet the challenges that have arisen from Covid-19.

“Education is not one size fits all,” Michalenkso said, “It’s rewarding to help students find success outside of the traditional model.” He credited professors and mentors who are “out of the box thinkers” for inspiring and helping to shape his educational values and practices.

 

Courtesy Oceanside School District; compiled by Mike Smollins