It was the year 2019 when the Covid pandemic made its impact on the world, triggering immediate responses, adjustments, and changes to all sectors of society and government. One of the sectors severely impacted was education. School leaders had to devise quick and effective ways to adjust their established practices and time-honored approaches to deal with the ideas of remote teaching, and synchronous and asynchronous learning. Moreover, the practices during the pandemic are still utilized up-to-this date such as transitioning to modular learning when in-person classes need to be suspended. Though it is commendable that students no longer are “completely absent” as they are answering modules, this practice has raised concerns over parents and students themselves who do not find the system effective. Thus, a school leader’s responsibility to ensure a smooth transition and effective educational delivery in line with these issues is crucial to sustaining motivation, engagement and continuity of learning.
First, implementing systems to track attendance, participation, and academic progress during remote learning to address issues promptly is imperative. The main concern of the parents lies on the idea that after asking the students what to answer in the module, the lessons are no longer taught in detail in the classroom as some expect the children to have learnt them (Lau & Lee, 2021). With the norm that PH shifts to modular learning mostly due to natural calamity threats, one may argue that a regular public school child helps his or her parents during these times, and no longer has time to study the lessons on his or her own. Thus, expecting that a child already knows a lesson after a day or two of modular learning is flawed. A school leader’s responsibility is to check with his or her fellow administrators and teachers if the self-learning modules (SLMs) have been properly distributed, checked, and taught. A simple thread of messages in the school’s official communication platform can do the trick. It is important to note that a good school leader does not only tell teachers what to do but prompts and motivates them to do what is right for their students through proper implementation and monitoring.
Second is by ensuring access to technology. Students’ need to use technology during modular learning may be a little, but that is the opposite case for the teachers. In some areas, modular learning is a pain because of the lacking support for the educators. Before modules are answered, they undergo an elaborate process. Teachers prepare, consolidate, print, and deliver them, and all of the mentioned processes require time, money, and technology (Alvarez, 2021). Such scenarios help teachers realize the power and impact their school leaders have on them. An excellent school leader provides unwavering support that is not limited to encouraging words but extends to what they need logistically. In that way, teachers will be more motivated to work harder and more efficiently, which of course reflects positively on the administrators they have.
Finally, a school leader plays a pivotal role in recognizing the potential stress and anxiety that both teachers and students may experience in the educational environment. It is essential for school leaders to cultivate a supportive atmosphere where mental health is prioritized. This involves actively identifying signs of distress and fostering open communication channels that encourage individuals to express their concerns. School leaders can implement programs that provide mental health resources, such as counseling services, workshops on stress management, and training for staff on recognizing mental health issues. By promoting a culture of understanding and empathy, school leaders can not only support the emotional well-being of students and staff but also enhance overall academic performance and school climate. Creating a proactive approach to mental health ensures that everyone in the school community feels valued, supported, and equipped to handle the challenges they face.
In conclusion, the current challenges significantly reshaped the educational landscape, necessitating swift adaptations from school leaders to ensure the continuity of learning amid unprecedented circumstances. As teachers and students navigate the complexities of these changes, school leaders must prioritize effective communication, technological access, and mental health support to foster an environment conducive to both teaching and learning. By implementing robust systems for tracking student progress and attendance, providing essential resources for educators, and cultivating a culture of empathy and support, school leaders can mitigate the negative impacts of these changes. Ultimately, their proactive engagement and commitment to addressing the diverse needs of students and staff will not only enhance educational outcomes but also empower the entire school community to thrive in the face of adversity. Through strategic leadership and unwavering support, schools can emerge stronger and more resilient, ready to face future challenges while continuing to prioritize the well-being and success of their students and inspire future generations.