Jennifer Hager
Shen Wai International School (SWIS) expat staff members who have remained in Shenzhen throughout the COVID-19 outbreak have been busy carrying out distance learning programs for students since Feb. 3.
Secondary school principal Jennifer Hager from the United States, secondary school assistant principal of student affairs Fritha Jameson from New Zealand, and activities and athletics coordinator Allan Moore from Canada ended their vacations early to return to Shenzhen after finding out that the school break was extended due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.
The school leadership team quickly put together a long-term solution toward maintaining a robust learning environment for their students, resulting in the SWIS Distance Learning Program, said Hager.
Hager has remained in Shenzhen since Jan. 27. Thanks to the distance learning solution, SWIS students are still having robust interactions with teachers and peers. Additionally, parent representative meetings are still being hosted regularly, and satisfaction surveys are disseminated among students and parents.
Jameson arrived back in Shenzhen on Jan. 31. She gave an overview the school’s three distance-learning approaches that are being utilized during the outbreak period: Virtual assemblies for each grade level, daily check-ins with students, and optional twice-weekly mindfulness sessions for each grade. She believes that the majority of students and families are very much engaged and have adapted well.
Moore, whose two children are SWIS Grade 2 and Grade 4 students, has been in China for the entirety of the COVID-19 outbreak. He has never before experienced a situation of this severity but said SWIS could arrange outdoor activities on the school field and facilities. Regarding school operations, he said that protocols have been rigorously followed, with the school cleaned and disinfected daily.
He was impressed to see “dedicated teachers adapt very quickly to new technology, communication issues, time zone differences and the differing needs of their students considering distance learning.”
The school and their community have given them strong support throughout the COVID-19 outbreak. Through active communication via WeChat groups, they are kept informed on relevant information. “For expats in Shenzhen, the Shenzhen Daily and EyeShenzhen have provided helpful tips for living in the city at this time.” Jameson said. Moore expressed their hope that the rest of the world would look to the strength of the people of this country rather than find ways to divide and demean.