my first day of school after lockdown essay

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Essay on My First Day in School: Sample in 100, 200, 350 Words

• Updated on  
• Jan 23, 2024

Essay on My First Day in School: The first day of school is often considered an important day in every child’s life. It is a time of a mix of emotions, like nervousness, excitement, homesickness, feelings of shyness, and likewise. But did you know these feelings are responsible for making our day memorable?

As children, we all are like a blank canvas, easily dyed into any colour. Our first day in school is like a new world to us. As a child, we all have experienced those feelings. So, to make you feel nostalgic and refresh those special feelings, we have brought some samples of essay on my first day in school.

Quick Read: Essay on Best Friend

Table of Contents

• 1 Essay on My First Day in School in 100 words
• 2 Essay on My First Day in School Sample in 200 Words
• 3 Essay on My First Day in Day in School in 350 Words
• 4 FAQs 

Essay on My First Day in School in 100 words

It was a cloudy day when I took my first step into the compound of my school. I was carrying a new backpack that was filled with notebooks. Though the backpack was a bit heavy, instead of focusing on the weight, I was excited about the beginning of my journey on my first day in school.

My classroom was at the end of the corridor. As I entered my classroom, my class teacher introduced me to the class and made me feel welcome. Activities like reading, solving problems in groups, and sharing our lunch boxes slowly and steadily transformed the new student with a sense of belonging.

The whole day progressed with mixed excitement as well as emotions. As the bell rang, declaring the end of the school day, the school felt like a world of possibilities where the journey was more than textbooks.

To improve your essay writing skills, here are the top 200+ English Essay Topics for school students.

Essay on My First Day in School Sample in 200 Words

It was a sunny day and the sun was shining brightly. With my new and attractive backpack, I was moving through the school gate. It was my first day in school and I was filled with nervousness and excitement. From the tower of the building to the playground everything was bigger than life. As a school student, I was about to enter a new world. 

The corridor was filled with the echo of students. As I entered the classroom, wearing a mix of curiosity and excitement, my classmates and class teacher welcomed me with a warm smile. After a round of introductions and some warm-up activities, strangers gradually started tuning into potential friends. At lunchtime, the cafeteria was filled with the smell of delicious food. However, I hesitated before joining the group of students but soon enough, I was laughing with my new friends and sharing stories. The unfamiliar were now my friends and transformed my mixed emotions into delightfulness. 

The bell rang for the next class and I stepped out for new learning in my new academic home. My first day of school had many memorable stories, with old subjects and new introductions of knowledge. The day was spent learning, sharing and making new memories. 

Also Read: Essay on Joint Family in 500+ words in English  

Essay on My First Day in Day in School in 350 Words

My first day in school started by stepping onto the school bus with a bag full of books and a heart full of curiosity. It was like I was starting a new chapter in my life. After travelling a long way back, I stepped at the gate of my school. The school gate welcomed me with open arms and greeted me with a sense of excitement as well as nervousness.

As I entered the classroom, I found many new faces. Arranging my stuff on the seat, I sat next to an unknown, who later on turned into the best friend of my life. I entered my class with a welcoming smile, and later on, I turned everything in with ease. During our lunchtime, the cafeteria was filled with the energy of students. 

At first, I hesitated to interact with the children, but later on, I was a part of a group that invited me to join the table. At lunchtime, I made many new friends and was no longer a stranger. After having delicious food and chit-chatting with friends, we get back to our respective classrooms. Different subjects such as mathematics, science, and English never left the same impact as they did on the first day of school. 

The teacher taught the lessons so interestingly that we learned the chapter with a mix of laughter and learning. At the end of the day, we all went straight to the playground and enjoyed the swings. Moreover, in the playground, I also met many faces who were new to the school and had their first day in school, like me.

While returning home, I realised that my first day was not just about learning new subjects; it was about making new friends, sailing into new vibrant classrooms, and settling myself as a new student. The morning, which was full of uncertainty at the end of the day, came to an end with exciting adventures and endless possibilities. With new experiences, I look forward to new academic and personal growth in the wonderful world of education.

Also Read: How to Prepare for UPSC in 6 Months?

Also Read: Trees Are Our Best Friend Essay

My first day of school was filled with mixed feelings. I was nervous, homesick, and excited on the first day at my school.

While writing about the first day of school, I share my experience of beginning my journey from home. What were my feelings, emotions, and excitement related to the first day of school, and how did I deal with a whole day among the unknown faces, these were some of the things I wrote in my first day of school experience essay. 

The first day of school is important because, as a new student, we manage everything new. The practice of managing everything is the first step towards self-responsibility.

Along with studying my favourite subjects, I share fun moments and delicious foods with my friends in school. 

Parents are filled with emotions on the first day of their child. As school is the place to gain knowledge, skills, and experience, parents try their best to give their children the best academics they can.

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Deepika Joshi

Deepika Joshi is an experienced content writer with educational and informative content expertise. She has hands-on experience in Education, Study Abroad and EdTech SaaS. Her strengths lie in conducting thorough research and analysis to provide accurate and up-to-date information to readers. She enjoys staying updated on new skills and knowledge, particularly in the education domain. In her free time, she loves to read articles, and blogs related to her field to expand her expertise further. In her personal life, she loves creative writing and aspires to connect with innovative people who have fresh ideas to offer.

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Essay Curve

Essay on First Day of School After Lockdown

Essay on First Day of School After Lockdown: After months of remote learning and social distancing, students around the world are finally returning to school for the first time since the lockdown began. The first day back is filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety as students navigate new safety protocols and adjust to being back in a classroom setting. In this essay, we will explore the emotions and experiences of students on their first day back at school after the lockdown, and reflect on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Table of Contents

First Day of School After Lockdown Essay Writing Tips

1. Start with an engaging introduction: Begin your essay by describing the anticipation and excitement you felt leading up to your first day back at school after the lockdown. This will help to draw in your reader and set the tone for the rest of your essay.

2. Reflect on the changes: Discuss how the school environment has changed since the lockdown, such as new safety protocols, social distancing measures, and hybrid learning models. Reflect on how these changes have impacted your experience of returning to school.

3. Share your emotions: Describe the range of emotions you felt on your first day back, such as nervousness, excitement, or uncertainty. Be honest and open about how you were feeling and how these emotions evolved throughout the day.

4. Discuss your interactions: Write about your interactions with teachers, classmates, and school staff on your first day back. Reflect on how these interactions were different from before the lockdown and how they made you feel.

5. Highlight any challenges: If you encountered any challenges on your first day back at school, such as difficulty adjusting to new routines or feeling overwhelmed by the changes, be sure to discuss them in your essay. Reflect on how you overcame these challenges and what you learned from the experience.

6. Share any positive experiences: Write about any positive experiences you had on your first day back at school, such as reconnecting with friends, participating in engaging activities, or feeling a sense of normalcy. Reflect on how these experiences helped to make your return to school more enjoyable.

7. Reflect on the future: Conclude your essay by reflecting on what you hope for the future of your school experience post-lockdown. Discuss any goals or aspirations you have for the upcoming school year and how you plan to make the most of your time back in the classroom.

8. Edit and revise: Before submitting your essay, be sure to edit and revise it for clarity, coherence, and grammar. Check for any spelling or punctuation errors and make sure your ideas flow logically from one paragraph to the next.

By following these writing tips, you can create a compelling and insightful essay on your first day back at school after the lockdown. Good luck!

Essay on First Day of School After Lockdown in 10 Lines – Examples

1. The first day of school after lockdown was filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety. 2. Students were eager to see their friends and teachers again after months of virtual learning. 3. There were new safety protocols in place, such as temperature checks and mask-wearing, to ensure a safe return to school. 4. The hallways were quieter than usual, as students were reminded to maintain social distancing. 5. Teachers worked hard to create a welcoming and supportive environment for their students. 6. Some students struggled with the transition back to in-person learning, while others adapted quickly. 7. The school day was filled with reminders about the importance of handwashing and following safety guidelines. 8. Despite the challenges, there was a sense of relief and gratitude among students and staff to be back in the classroom. 9. The first day of school after lockdown served as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of the school community. 10. Overall, it was a day of mixed emotions, but one that marked a significant step towards a sense of normalcy and routine.

Sample Essay on First Day of School After Lockdown in 100-180 Words

The first day of school after lockdown was filled with a mix of emotions. There was excitement to see friends and teachers again, but also some nervousness about how things would be different. The school had implemented safety measures such as temperature checks, social distancing, and mask-wearing, which added a new layer of unfamiliarity to the usual routine.

Despite the changes, there was a sense of relief and gratitude to be back in the familiar surroundings of the classroom. The teachers worked hard to make the transition as smooth as possible, and students were eager to catch up on missed lessons and activities.

Overall, the first day back at school after lockdown was a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of both students and teachers. It was a step towards normalcy and a hopeful sign that better days were ahead.

Short Essay on First Day of School After Lockdown in 200-500 Words

The first day of school after lockdown was a mix of excitement and anxiety for both students and teachers. After months of remote learning and social distancing, returning to the classroom felt like a big step towards normalcy. As I walked through the school gates, I could see the familiar faces of my classmates, but there was a sense of caution in the air. Everyone was wearing masks and keeping their distance, a stark reminder of the times we were living in.

The school had put in place several safety measures to ensure the well-being of everyone. Temperature checks, hand sanitizing stations, and social distancing markers were all part of the new normal. It was strange to see the once bustling hallways so quiet and empty, but it was a necessary adjustment to ensure everyone’s safety.

In the classroom, desks were spaced out and plastic shields were placed on each table. The teacher welcomed us back with a mix of relief and apprehension. She outlined the new rules and protocols that we had to follow, emphasizing the importance of wearing masks and maintaining social distance at all times. It was clear that things were going to be different this year, but we were all determined to make the best of it.

As the day went on, it became apparent that the lockdown had taken a toll on everyone. Some students were struggling to focus, while others were eager to catch up with their friends. The teacher did her best to keep us engaged and motivated, but it was clear that the transition back to in-person learning was going to be a challenge.

During lunchtime, we were allowed to remove our masks while eating, but we had to maintain a safe distance from each other. It was strange to see the once lively cafeteria so quiet and subdued. The usual chatter and laughter were replaced by a sense of unease and uncertainty.

As the day came to an end, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief that we had made it through the first day back at school. It was a small victory in the midst of a global crisis, but it was a step in the right direction. I knew that the road ahead was going to be challenging, but I was grateful to be back in the classroom with my friends and teachers.

The first day of school after lockdown was a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead, we were all determined to make the best of the situation and move forward together. As I walked out of the school gates, I felt a sense of hope and optimism for the future, knowing that we would get through this difficult time together.

Essay on First Day of School After Lockdown in 1000-1500 Words

The first day of school after lockdown was a day filled with mixed emotions for students, teachers, and parents alike. After months of uncertainty and disruption due to the global pandemic, students were finally able to return to the familiar routine of attending school in person. As I walked through the school gates on that first day, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and nervousness about what the day would bring.

The school grounds were abuzz with activity as students reunited with their friends and teachers after what felt like an eternity of being apart. There were hugs, high-fives, and excited chatter as everyone caught up on each other’s lives and shared stories of how they had spent their time during lockdown. It was heartwarming to see the joy on their faces as they reconnected with their classmates and teachers, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the sense of community that our school had fostered over the years.

As I made my way to my first class of the day, I couldn’t help but notice the changes that had been made to ensure the safety of everyone on campus. Hand sanitizing stations were set up at every entrance, and signs reminding students to maintain social distancing were posted throughout the hallways. Classroom desks were spaced out to allow for proper distancing, and masks were mandatory for all students and staff. While these measures were necessary to prevent the spread of the virus, they also served as a stark reminder of the challenges that we still faced in the midst of the pandemic.

In my first class of the day, my teacher welcomed us back with a smile and a sense of optimism that was infectious. She acknowledged the challenges that we had all faced during lockdown and reassured us that we were all in this together. She encouraged us to support each other, to be patient and understanding, and to approach the new school year with a positive attitude. Her words resonated with me, and I felt a sense of hope and determination wash over me as I listened to her speak.

Throughout the day, I noticed how the teachers had adapted their lesson plans to accommodate the new reality of hybrid learning. Some students were attending classes in person, while others joined virtually from home. Teachers had to juggle between teaching in person and online, ensuring that all students had access to the same quality of education regardless of their physical location. It was a challenging task, but the teachers handled it with grace and professionalism, making sure that no student was left behind.

During lunchtime, I sat with my friends at a safe distance from each other, catching up on the latest gossip and sharing our experiences of lockdown. We talked about the challenges of online learning, the boredom of being stuck at home, and the excitement of finally being back at school. It felt surreal to be sitting in the school cafeteria again, surrounded by familiar faces and the sounds of laughter and chatter. It was a moment of normalcy in the midst of a world that had been turned upside down by the pandemic.

As the day drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to be back at school. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead, I knew that I was surrounded by a community of teachers, friends, and classmates who would support me every step of the way. The first day of school after lockdown had been a day of reconnection, of hope, and of resilience. It was a reminder that even in the darkest of times, we could find light and strength in the bonds that we shared with each other.

As I walked out of the school gates at the end of the day, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The challenges of the pandemic were far from over, but I knew that with the support of my school community, I could face whatever lay ahead with courage and resilience. The first day of school after lockdown had been a day of new beginnings, of rekindled friendships, and of hope for a brighter future. And as I looked ahead to the rest of the school year, I knew that together, we could overcome any obstacle that came our way.

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Essay on First Day of School in Lockdown

Students are often asked to write an essay on First Day of School in Lockdown in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on First Day of School in Lockdown

The unusual start.

The first day of school in lockdown was a unique experience. Instead of waking up early and rushing to catch the school bus, I woke up and turned on my computer.

Virtual Classroom

Our classroom was now a screen. The teacher’s voice echoed through the speakers, and our classmates appeared in small boxes. It felt strange, yet exciting.

Adapting to Change

The day was filled with learning new software, understanding online etiquette, and adapting to this new way of learning. Despite the challenges, the spirit of school remained unchanged.

End of the Day

As the virtual bell rang, we logged off, marking the end of our first school day in lockdown.

250 Words Essay on First Day of School in Lockdown

Introduction, the virtual classroom.

The first day of school in lockdown was marked by the shift from physical to virtual classrooms. Students logged into their classes from the safety of their homes, meeting their peers and teachers through screens. The typical hustle and bustle of hallways and cafeteria chatter were replaced by the hum of laptops and the occasional connectivity issues.

Adapting to New Norms

Adapting to the new norms was challenging. The lack of physical interaction and the reliance on self-discipline to manage time effectively were significant hurdles. However, the experience also provided an opportunity to develop resilience and adaptability, skills that are valuable in an ever-evolving world.

Emotional Impact

The emotional impact of starting school in lockdown cannot be overlooked. The isolation, the fear of the unknown, and the longing for normalcy were prevalent. Yet, the shared experience also fostered a sense of unity and empathy among students, highlighting the importance of mental health.

In conclusion, the first day of school in lockdown was a unique experience that challenged the traditional educational paradigm. It was a day of adaptation, resilience, and unity, a testament to the human spirit’s ability to persevere in the face of adversity. The lessons learned extend beyond academics, preparing students for future challenges in an unpredictable world.

500 Words Essay on First Day of School in Lockdown

The unprecedented first day of school in lockdown.

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically reshaped the education landscape across the globe. The first day of school, traditionally a day filled with anticipation, excitement, and a dash of anxiety, underwent a radical transformation in 2020.

Preparation for the Virtual Classroom

Virtual meet and greet.

Typically, the first day of school is a time for students to meet their new teachers, catch up with friends, and explore their school environment. During lockdown, this was replaced by virtual introductions and digital ice-breaking sessions. Teachers used creative online activities to establish a sense of community within the virtual classroom. The excitement of physically exploring the school was replaced by the curiosity of navigating digital platforms and tools.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

The emotional experience of the first day of school during lockdown was a complex mix of emotions. The excitement of starting a new academic year was tinged with the disappointment of not being able to physically interact with peers and teachers. The anxiety of coping with new subjects was compounded by the apprehension of dealing with technology glitches. The comfort of staying at home was offset by the challenge of maintaining discipline and focus in an informal setting.

Lessons Learned

Reflection on the new normal.

The first day of school during lockdown was a stark reminder of the pandemic’s far-reaching impacts on our lives. It signified a shift from traditional methods of education to a digital, remote learning model. It highlighted the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity. It underscored the power of technology in bridging physical distances and ensuring continuity of education.

In conclusion, the first day of school in lockdown was a unique, challenging, and transformative experience. It was a testament to the adaptability and resilience of students, teachers, and parents. It was a day of learning, not just in terms of academics, but also in terms of navigating the new reality of education during a global pandemic.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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Going Back to School During COVID: 5 Students Share Their First Day

As schools reopen amid the COVID-19 pandemic, students are facing challenges they've never imagined.  Teen Vogue' s   Fear and Learning in America   series is exploring what back to school means for students this year, and what they think about learning during the coronavirus crisis.

The first day of school is usually one filled with familiar faces, welcome-back hugs, and healthy doses of either ambition or apathy. But this year, going back to school is fraught. With the coronavirus pandemic persisting, many students are finding their first day isn't exactly what they'd imagined. 

Teen Vogue asked five students to chronicle their first day in a diary entry. Two students went back to school in person, while the others attended via Zoom. Either way, the first day carried some of the typical excitement, but mostly it was a strange experience. 

Anusha Gupta, 17, Michigan

August 24, 2020

I got up with the sun and birds. “Senior year, here I come,” I thought to myself. I got ready, grabbed a quick breakfast, and headed out the door. I was on my way to my first class of the day when I heard the bell. Students rushed past me to get to class but I seemed to be stuck in place. No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn’t — or wouldn’t — take another step. The bell rang louder and louder until I just couldn’t take it anymore. My eyes snapped wide open. Turns out that bell was actually my alarm clock, and I was still in bed, not school. My dream had only really gotten one thing right: It was indeed my last first day of school.

Never did I think that I wouldn’t even have to leave my house to kick off my senior year, but here we are! It was weird, to say the least. I half expected to wake up from yet another dream where everything could go back to how it used to be, but I soon found myself in front of my computer logging into class. Usually, my first day isn’t my teachers’ first day too, but that’s kind of the beauty of it all. In the wise words of Troy Bolton , we’re all in this together: Together through the technical difficulties, awkward silences, and Zoom fatigue (which is very real, by the way). Normally, I would see all the people I had missed over the summer and get to hug them and say hi. Instead, I found myself private chatting them on Zoom , “I like your haircut!,” “How’ve you been?” “I can’t believe everything that's happened since we last saw each other.” My friends and I would have eaten lunch together in the courtyard. Instead, we FaceTimed while all our computers charged.

I never realized how draining remote learning would be. Sitting at a computer all day feels more tiring than actually going to school. I wake up exhausted, despite eight hours of sleep. I get headaches every couple of days from all the screen time. My eating schedule is beyond irregular. But I also get to sleep in two more hours than usual. I can sit outside during class. I can grab a snack whenever I want. I can turn off my camera if I’m not feeling it. Everything is different, and we have to embrace the good and bad that comes along with it.

Despite all the challenges and mixed emotions, I actually feel really lucky. I’m able to learn without having to risk my family’s health and safety. My home is a place I love, and there is always food in the pantry. I’m old enough to handle my own schoolwork. My school provides technology for every student. My teachers are the most caring, passionate, and enthusiastic, with Bitmoji classrooms instead of real ones and breaks from our computers instead of walks around the school. It hurts me to think about the students who aren’t as lucky, students who don’t have access to the internet, who rely on school for their meals, whose parents need school for childcare. As we navigate this new world of learning, I hope we’ll be able to recognize the shortcomings of our current education system. I can’t wait to participate in the fight. Until then, I’ll be waking up tomorrow, ready for my second day of senior year.

Hannah Darcey, 17, Louisiana

August 20, 2020

The first day of my senior year. The day I had been looking forward to for the last four years. Usually, it is a day of anticipation, excitement and enthusiasm because of the many traditions, experiences and friendships that come with being a senior. But due to the pandemic, the last first day was nothing like anything I imagined at all. 

We usually have an assembly, similar to a pep rally, in which all the grades gather together in the gym. Our big senior tradition at this assembly is getting our senior sweaters. The seniors anxiously sit in the bleachers, clutching their sweaters, waiting for the principal to say “seniors present yourselves.” The whole class erupts into hugging, cheering, and overall joy knowing that they have finally earned their spot as the next leaders of the school. They proudly represent the tan brown sweaters against the dark brown sweaters worn by the underclassmen. This bond of sisterhood and connection you feel with the other girls in your class is indescribable, and it is a moment you cherish. As underclassmen, you watch the next year's seniors have their special moment year after year until finally, it's your turn. And this year, it was finally our turn. 

I was very excited to be going back to school, but also a little nervous. I was eager to be back in the place I called my second home, to be able to see my friends and teachers, and to walk the familiar halls that I had missed so much these past few months. I was looking forward to going back to a somewhat normal school day with a regular schedule again. But I was also a little hesitant to be going back, because I didn’t really know how school was going to work during this crazy time. However, I quickly learned that the faculty and staff put many procedures in place and were doing everything they could to keep us safe. 

When walking into the school, we were greeted by both familiar and new faculty members at new temperature check stations staggered at the entrances. Walking back on campus felt just as it always had, with the addition of every student and faculty member required to wear a mask with our usual uniform. It possessed the same welcoming atmosphere of love and joy and excitement. But instead of gathering as an entire school for assembly, all five grades went to homeroom and walked into a class full of desks separated as far as they could from one another. Usually our classrooms are set up in “pods” — desks of three or four, in a circle facing each other — in order to better engage with classmates. It was definitely a strange look to our usually close-knit desks. 

We watched our usual assembly from our classrooms thanks to a livestream that allowed us to still engage with what our administration needed to tell us in real time. We heard many speeches and reminders about the school year, but one important theme was that as long as we all do our part to keep each other safe, we will all be okay. I pray that everyone remains healthy, but with all the uncertainty it’s hard to tell. The administration reminded us we were all in this together and, although this is a new challenge, we were going to come out of it stronger.

 Another safety precaution implemented were one-way hallways. Walking through the school using specific pathways is something everyone is trying to get used to, but we are slowly getting the hang of it. When it came time to present ourselves with our sweaters, we did it a little different than usual. We were called from our homerooms to the parking lot in which we all spread out 6 feet apart. Although we were not able to hug each other like usual, we were still able to stand with our classmates and present ourselves in front of the rest of the school watching over the live stream. We were very lucky to know that although getting our sweaters looked a little different, our administration made sure we were still able to have that special moment we had been waiting for. After receiving our sweaters, we were able to do our senior class cheer for the first time, another very special tradition. Overall, it was a really great first day full of new experiences and challenges that we were prepared to face. 

Even though this first day back did not look at all what I had been dreaming of, it was still a special and unique and a memory that I will cherish forever. I don’t know what the future with look like for the rest of the school year, especially for memorable events like prom and graduation. But by that point in time, I just hope we are able to attend them in person without fear of the pandemic.

Taylor Pittman, 17, Louisiana

August 7th, 2020

August 7th, 2020, was going to be the best day of my life. It was the start of my senior year. As high school goes on, it is supposed to get more comfortable and the awkwardness should go away. That didn't happen this year. My mom woke me up at 6:44 a.m. and my online school doesn’t start until 8 a.m. A total bummer. I rolled over and went back to sleep and eventually woke up at 7 a.m. to take my curlers out of my hair and do my very extensive skin care routine. Sadly, I had to put on my school uniform just to “follow the school’s at-home uniform policy, ” and I logged on to my computer. I am class president, so my phone is ringing off the hook with classmates asking me questions that I don’t entirely know answers to. I log onto Google Classroom with little to no direction while my mom is taking this cheesy first-day picture of me.

Eventually, we get a notification from our academy principal on one of our many Google Classroom pages. We’re told to report to homeroom at 8:30 a.m. and that we will be introduced to our new homeroom teachers. I’m still getting calls from classmates after my principal just made the post, but I even answer my phone before I log onto our homeroom wide Google meet. Our homeroom teacher is a little frazzled, and my classmates look like they could think of a few other places they'd rather be than a Google call with the rest of us. She began to introduce herself and tell us that all our cameras have to be on for her to take attendance. Cameras started flashing on, and more disgusted faces appeared. The clock seems to be going forever on and on as she talks, and then she tells us that the school-wide culture staff has an assignment they would like us to complete. It’s an 11-minute video about the school rules and how they are still in place while we will be in virtual school until after labor day. 

We didn’t realize that we would be in one class the whole day, which was homeroom. One of my best friends just so happens to be in homeroom with me, so at our lunchtime (where we have to stay on the call weirdly enough with muted mics and cameras off) she FaceTimed me. We chat about how school just feels off this year and we wish things were different. Usually, the first days of school are filled with joy from familiar faces, stories of summer crushes, that smell of bad decisions from summer, warmth, and growth of a new year. School this year has started with an awkward beginning, but I have a slight hope that maybe the love that my classmates and I have for each other will make the best of what we have. 

I thought that staying at home for the rest of my senior year would be cool, and I would get an early taste of what online college classes felt like. Now, I slowly realize that I need to have that in-person connection with my classmates and teachers. I miss seeing my boyfriend and everyone else that I go to school with in-person because they are my home away from home. Without my second home, I feel lost in this big world with huge problems.

Lindsey Lathan-Kubalak, Maryland

August 31, 2020

Wow, the first day of school entering 11th grade, which I’m somewhat happy about, yet nervous because it’s all virtual and I learn better in person — we will see how things work out. People keep telling me, “Lindsey this year is very important, this is the year colleges really pay attention to you so focus.” 

I got up at 3 a.m., which I was not planning on doing since my alarm was supposed to go off at 6:10 a.m. OK, I got 3 hours. I go back to sleep and, what seems like five minutes later, my alarm goes off. Luckily it’s playing my favorite song, so I hop out of bed and sing the lyrics while I get ready. As I pretend to use my toothbrush a microphone, I look at an email that has my schedule for all the classes I will be having that day. It turns out my first class isn’t even till 9 a.m. I go get breakfast — even though I’m not a big breakfast person, I grab a pear. 

My first class was a disaster. I couldn't log on and I thought I did something wrong and I was worried about it affecting my attendance. It may seem like I worry about grades too much but I really do care about my grades. I have dyslexia so it's harder for me to learn things. No, I don't get my B's and D's mixed up, but it's challenging because I want to prove to myself that I am better than what I think I am. I want to go to a good college and do well. Eventually, I was able to log on and periods 2 to 4 went well. My last class was human body systems and it's just an introduction, filling out the same syllabus I do for every other class. It basically says what to do and what not to do. It’s really hard sitting on my butt for like six hours, not really moving around and looking into the screen. And, I didn’t recognize anyone in my classes. Also, it's hard having a sibling doing whatever they want because they haven't started school yet while I'm in my office trying to actually get work done. 

Tomorrow I have periods 5, 6, and 7.

Eliza Lathan-Kubalak, 14, Maryland

September 4, 2020

My first day of  High School  was great. I started off the day by waking up at 6 a.m., which I hadn't done in a long time. I did my hair and put on my uniform. I put on some makeup and got ready to go. It turned out we left our house a little early and so fortunately we stopped at Starbucks, which was one of my highlights of the day. 

When I got to school, there was a socially distanced cheering squad, which made me feel really welcome and a lot less nervous. Our first class started at  8 a.m., which was our advisory. Our advisor was really nice and fun. She is new to us so we were all figure things out. 

After a couple of classes it was finally lunch time. I was most nervous for lunch because I had no idea where to eat since we can't eat in the cafeteria. Luckily, I had a friend who has gone to the school for the past couple of years and she said I can come sit with her and her friends for lunch. That was a huge relief. Her friends were welcoming. 

After lunch (the hardest part of the day) it was off to other classes. They were so much fun. Overall it was a great first day of school.

COVID-19 Lockdown: My Experience

When the lockdown started, I was ecstatic. My final year of school had finished early, exams were cancelled, the sun was shining. I was happy, and confident I would be OK. After all, how hard could staying at home possibly be? After a while, the reality of the situation started to sink in.

The novelty of being at home wore off and I started to struggle. I suffered from regular panic attacks, frozen on the floor in my room, unable to move or speak. I had nightmares most nights, and struggled to sleep. It was as if I was stuck, trapped in my house and in my own head. I didn't know how to cope.

However, over time, I found ways to deal with the pressure. I realised that lockdown gave me more time to the things I loved, hobbies that had been previously swamped by schoolwork. I started baking, drawing and writing again, and felt free for the first time in months. I had forgotten how good it felt to be creative. I started spending more time with my family. I hadn't realised how much I had missed them.

Almost a month later, I feel so much better. I understand how difficult this must be, but it's important to remember that none of us is alone. No matter how scared, or trapped, or alone you feel, things can only get better.  Take time to revisit the things you love, and remember that all of this will eventually pass. All we can do right now is stay at home, look after ourselves and our loved ones, and look forward to a better future.

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After the Lockdown: Learning From Students' Experiences

School lockdowns are traumatic. we must listen and validate students' feelings..

Posted October 18, 2022 | Reviewed by Michelle Quirk

• What Is Trauma?
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• Every month, hundreds of schools are forced to go into "non-drill" lockdowns because of a credible threat of violence.
• Students experience "invisible wounds" after school lockdowns that need to be addressed when creating school safety plans.
• Students may experience panic attacks, soil themselves, cry uncontrollably, and/or disassociate during or after a lockdown.

Co-authored by Annalisa Enrile and Harley London.

Harley is 14 years old and in the 8th grade. This year, her school, like hundreds of schools in the United States, was forced into a lockdown because of a suspected shooter threat. Thankfully, the police and school officials found it to be a hoax. What was not false, however, was the experience of all the kids in the school for the 45 minutes they were in lockdown. This story that Harley and I are sharing is an important one, especially for kids who have this experience. But we would like to offer a trigger warning because the experience that is described is traumatic , disturbing, and violent. Please read with care for yourself.

Swatting Incidences on the Rise

The most recent research data is from 2018, during which at least 4.1 million students had to go through at least one non-drill lockdown. Of course, lockdowns are essential to keeping kids safe, but following an actual act of school violence, there has been a rise in what the FBI refers to as “swatting” incidences. Swatting is a term that is used to describe filing false reports or threats to cause chaos and provoke a law enforcement response.

Swatting incidences are dangerous because they are fake but the response from law enforcement and the community is real. There have been incidences in which people have been injured in the process. It also can erode emergency responses if it happens so frequently in a kind of “the boy who cried wolf” syndrome where the threat becomes habitual and perhaps makes responses less urgent. Whether it’s authentic or “swatting,” the reality is an emotional and psychological cost to students, teachers, and other school personnel.

Despite the rise in “swatting,” one of the things that the tragedy at Uvalde taught is that there cannot be hesitation to act, especially when children are literally caught in the crosshairs. All schools in the United States are required to have a safety plan in place. But the need for a strategic plan on paper does not always tell the whole story of what is experienced when it must be acted upon.

First-Hand Experience

I was taking a test in math class, so the room was completely silent. Suddenly, I heard sirens and then we heard the PA system turn on, but no one was saying anything, so, we thought the principal accidentally turned it on. After a few moments, the principal said in a shaky voice, “Teachers, please lock your doors and close the blinds; we are in a lockdown. I repeat, we are in a lockdown.” 1 minute later: Everyone quickly stopped the test. I looked at my friends, and we immediately got down. Everyone was panicking trying to grab their phones and hide under the desks. One of my classmates whispered, “Guys shut up and hide.” First, we got on the ground, then my teacher had us crawl to another classroom. I crawled into a corner, but unfortunately, I was by a window so I wanted to move but was frozen there. 10 minutes later: The PA system went off again. The principal said, “Teachers and students please remain calm and silent, we are still in lockdown.” At that point, the majority of us were freaking out. The girl in front of me was crying and hugging her friend. I didn’t know what to do, so I just started praying to calm me down. I didn’t know where my friends were. I only saw two of my friends from the other class across the room, lending their phone to other classmates. One of my classmates tapped me on my shoulder and then held my hand. 5 minutes later: The phone in one of the classrooms rang, and a bunch of my classmates were whispering and crying. I realized then that the elementary students were probably so scared. 30 minutes later: Suddenly the door opens. Everyone was scooting away and hiding. But we learned that it was one of the teachers getting water for a student who had passed out. 45 minutes later: The PA system went off again. The principal announced, “Teachers, you may go back to teaching again. We will contact parents to pick up the students.” The lights turned on and everyone was crying. I ran up to all my friends hugging them and crying. I felt relieved. I don’t normally cry but I just couldn’t stop crying.

Invisible Wounds

Harley’s story emphasizes the potential trauma that children feel when they experience a lockdown, even if there is no active violence. The fear and anxiety may last well beyond the “all clear” is given. Dr. Marleen Wong , leading expert on childhood trauma and one of the original developers of Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools and Psychological First Aid calls these “Invisible Wounds.” Just as Harley’s story demonstrated, the invisible wounds of school lockdowns are immediate, urgent, and often both physical and emotional.

A Washington Post yearlong focus on school violence found that children aged as young as 4 years have participated in lockdowns where they have had to do things like hide in darkened rooms or learn how to “play dead” or camouflage themselves for survival. It is not uncommon for children and youth to soil themselves, pass out, panic, or cry during or right after these experiences.

Trauma-Informed Practices

There are some key things to address the trauma children may have following a lockdown.

I told my mom I needed a couple of days off after the lockdown and she let me stay with my grandparents. I think parents should listen to their kids. We aren’t lying when we say we are scared or nervous. Not all my classmates were allowed to do that. The next day, there was another threat called in and another lockdown. I don’t know how I would feel if I had to go through it all over again so soon. A lot my friends were sending me pictures and videos because they now carried their phones with them. One of my friends told me how scary it was—almost worse than the day before.

Dr. Kennedy, a.k.a. " Millennial Parenting Whisperer ," works with parents to help them foster resiliency and empathy, reminding parents about the power of really listening . Harley’s mom said, “I have to trust that she knows what she is feeling and validate that information. I took a look at her workload (no big assignments due), we talked about how long was appropriate (two days) and what she would do while she took time off (spend time with her grandma, paint, and journal). I want her to feel safe coming to me with what she is experiencing, but, even more, I want her to be able to name what she is feeling and act on that.”

Dr. Steve Hydon, Director of Social Work in Schools at the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work states, “Parents ought to embrace Dr. Bruce Perry's six R’s: Relational, Relevant, Rhythmic, Repetitive, Rewarding, Respectful. These six R’s are what Perry identified as core considerations for trauma-informed care when implementing therapeutic interventions and experiences.

School violence remains a reality that schools, communities, and families will have to continue to face. However, engaging in trauma-informed practices can help the healing process, especially when safety plans are developed and other strategic decisions are made. Most importantly, the voices of students themselves should be expressed, listened to, and included in how solutions are created. After all, they, along with their teachers, administrators, and school staff, are right at the epicenter.

Greco, V. (2021). The Casualties You Don’t See: The Omnipresent Trauma of School Shootings. Dress Rehearsals for Gun Violence: Confronting Trauma and Anxiety in America’s Schools, 1.

Osher, D., Mayer, M. J., Jagers, R. J., Kendziora, K., & Wood, L. (Eds.). (2019). Keeping Students Safe and Helping Them Thrive: A Collaborative Handbook on School Safety, Mental Health, and Wellness [2 volumes]. ABC-CLIO.

Schildkraut, J., & Nickerson, A. B. (2022). Lockdown Drills: Connecting Research and Best Practices for School Administrators, Teachers, and Parents. MIT Press.

Annalisa Enrile, Ph.D. , is a Clinical Professor at the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, turning classrooms into brave spaces to train the next generation of change-makers.

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My diary: Reflecting on school life one year after the first lockdown

I spent a long time thinking about how I could describe how the past academic year, which is when I realised I had documented my journey in my diary. Here are a few excerpts to find out what life has been like over the past year:

March 1st 2020:

Today was a good day. I just finished my Biology flashcards, which means I now have notes for every subject. Only two months and 29 days until my GCSEs!

March 18th 2020:

The government has announced that schools will be shutting down on the 20th and that GCSEs are cancelled! The last two years of effort and months of revision feel like they were a waste of time—all those notes, flashcards and interventions for nothing.

March 20th 2020:

Today was the last day of Year 11; the school was empty. There were only around 30 of our year in school today, instead of the usual 150. Everyone else was self-isolating or, more likely, didn’t see the point of coming to school. There were no lessons today, just an assembly, then we left; no ceremony, nothing. This is far from what I imagined my last day of secondary school would be like.

March 23rd 2020:

Today, I have what the school calls ‘online learning’. Seems a bit counter-intuitive as GCSEs have been cancelled. But, if GCSEs are scored on predicted grades, I might as well continue working and keep my expected grades high.

REFLECTION:

After my GCSEs were cancelled, I lost almost all my motivation to study and engage with online learning. I remember thinking that if there are no tests, what is the point of revising? It would have been easy for me to give up. However, I kept studying and doing all the work I was set for me because I knew I had to keep my predicted grades high just in case something changed. Being cut off from all my friends was difficult, but for some reason, I just kept on working, and to my delight, on March 19th, one day before results, the government scrapped the GCSE algorithm (which it had planned to use to award grades) and stated that they would be using predicted grades. I was right!

August 20th 2020:

Today was results day, and I got FANTASTIC results. I’m so happy! The next step is the sixth form. Next year will be a good year.

Looking back on this period, there a two main lessons I learnt:

1) Even if a teacher says, “don’t worry, this isn’t a real exam; it won’t contribute to your final grade”, you should treat that exam as if it is the final one. This is precisely what happened to me, and these “unimportant” exams ended up determining my GCSE results. Don’t wait until the actual exam to start proper revision. Get a head start and do it now.

2) Don’t get into the habit of procrastination. There is so much advice about how to stop procrastination, which goes along the lines of “make to-do lists” or “create a schedule”. But what I’ve learnt is that if you are a procrastinator, the easiest way to stop is to start the task you are avoiding. Once you start, it is easy to finish. So if you are a student reading this and have homework or revision to do, just sit down and make a start, whether it’s writing the first line in an essay of answering the first question; don’t plan, just do.

I hope that my experiences have been insightful and even relatable. Thank you for reading.

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The first day of school: how COVID-19 has changed our schools and how we can be public supporters of public education

Assistant professor of social studies education william toledo looks at the changes coming this back-to-school season.

In just a few days, public schools in Reno and across Northern Nevada will reopen their doors to K-12 students. The first day of school is often met with some anxiousness and excitement from teachers, parents, and students, as they consider the challenges and successes they will encounter over the course of the school year.

However, this year brings with it a whole new set of challenges. Since March 2020, the world has struggled to adapt to and deal with COVID-19, a dangerous novel virus still with many unknowns  [1] . As researchers continue to study COVID-19, we are finding answers to some of our questions, including an important one as schools open: yes, young people can carry, transmit, and catch COVID-19  [2] . Which leads to an important new question: how does COVID-19 change the profession of teaching?

The first change is the most important one: schools must be physically safe for students’ and educators’ return . Safety in the era of COVID-19 encompasses many factors, an important one being the percentage of positive COVID-19 tests within a county or city. The American Federation of Teachers states that in-person school is safe only when fewer than 5% of coronavirus tests in an area are positive  [3] . Beyond this important statistic, NPR reports that there are a variety of factors that should be in place as public schools open: 6-feet of physical distance between desks, small class sizes, consistent, mandatory mask policies for adults and children, frequent replacement of HEPA filters in air ventilation systems, and more. It is key that teachers, parents, and community members examine their district’s reopening plan to determine if a district is ready to open safely. If not, encourage the district to implement strict safety protocols and to only open when COVID-19 numbers are sufficiently low in a community.

Second, teachers face an enormous pedagogical change: educators must meet the needs of in-person and remote (online) learners, sometimes simultaneously . This is a big undertaking for our teachers and educational support staff as districts try to iron out specific plans for what the physical structure of schools will look like. For teachers, there are different steps to take to help with a smooth transition to new blended class formats: using similar or the same curricular materials and sequencing for in-person and remote learners  [4] , facilitating student engagement with one another from safe social distances and online  [5] , and relying on one another for support and guidance. In a world of “physical distancing,” it is important for teachers to not “socially distance” from one another. Educators should stay connected, and rely on one another for support and collaboration as they adapt to new modes of instruction.

Third, and closely related to each of the first two points: we must all be generous with ourselves and one another as we enter uncharted waters . The fall 2020 return back to school is not going to be “business as usual,” and we must all be flexible. It is quite likely that some schools will open, and close, possibly even more than once. It is also quite likely that mistakes will be made, and that safety protocols need to be amended or adjusted. A key to the success of our public schools during COVID-19 is public support. It is important that parents and community members be flexible and understanding of this shift as educators begin teaching in the midst of what is currently uncharted territory. Additionally, it is key for teachers to be generous with themselves; we are currently asking a great deal of our educators, working in already underfunded public schools. They are now being asked to return to the classroom as frontline workers, and they deserve and have earned public support. We must listen to teachers, and what they tell us about what is or isn’t working as schools reopen, and adjust accordingly.

There is no doubt about it: COVID-19 presents a significant challenge for public education. However, as we have seen time and time again throughout history, our teachers are resilient; they are qualified; and they are doing one of the most crucial jobs in the world: preparing future generations of citizens to engage in an everchanging and evolving society. If you are a teacher, please know this: your community supports you. If you aren’t a teacher yourself, make sure a teacher gets the message: we have your backs, and we are in this together. 

• What We Know and Still Don’t Know About COVID-19 by Carla Cantor and Caroline Harting (July 22, 2020).
• Nearly 100k children tested positive for COVID-19 in last two weeks of July by Ben Kesslen (August 10, 2020)
• How Safe Is Your School's Reopening Plan? Here's What To Look For by Anya Kamenetz, Patti Neighmond, Jane Greenhalgh, Allison Aubrey, & Carmel Wroth. (August 6, 2020)
• How to Make Lessons Cohesive When Teaching Both Remote and In-Person Classes by Sarah Schwart (August 5, 2020)
• How to Make Lessons Cohesive When Teaching Both Remote and In-Person Classes by Sarah Schwartz (August 5, 2020)

William Toledo is an Assistant Professor of Social Studies Education in the College of Education at the University of Nevada, Reno. Dr. Toledo's research focuses on (a) social studies education in pre-K-12 classrooms and (b) the experiences of LGBTQ+-identifying teachers in public schools.

By: William Toledo, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Social Studies Education

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First Day at School Post-Pandemic

18 February, 2022

Lockdown has changed our lives drastically. It has restricted us to the vicinity of our homes. It has also changed the way we used to function and has created a new normal for us. This includes working and studying from home. For the first few months, most of the workers were working from home and students were unable to join the school and they had to pursue their studies online. It was a huge adjustment as studying at home meant staring at screens for the entire duration of the classes. This also meant limited interaction with their friends and teachers and no sports for most of the time.

The situation is getting slightly better now, and everyone is going out for their daily chores. The best schools in Gurgaon have also been reopened and students cannot wait to start their schools, meet their friends and teachers. The first day at school is usually filled with familiar faces and welcome-back hugs. However, this year, going back to school can be full of anxiousness due to the pandemic as it is still not completely over. Many students are discovering their first day at school isn’t exactly what they’d dreamed of. Meeting up with friends and getting together for a game of football is no longer a fantasy but students are facing difficulty in going back to school. The classes are no longer limited to screens and social interactions are surely beneficial for children.

If you are a resident of Gurgaon and looking to enroll your child in the  best school in Gurgaon , then Alpine convent school which is the best school in Gurgaon is a perfect choice for you. The school is ready to welcome their students with the same familiar atmosphere but with all the precautionary norms to keep students safe and healthy. The classrooms, assembly hall, sports complex, school buses and library are well sanitized. Sanitizer outlets are installed in the school premises at many spots. Every student must go through a temperature check to make sure they are healthy to join the school.

The vision and mission of Alpine school and how exactly they fulfill it makes them the best CBSE school in Gurgaon . They wish to mold their students in such a manner that they become a responsible citizen of the world. They teach their students values and morals that make them stand out in society. The students are provided with a safe environment where they learn how to modulate their thought process and learn beyond textbooks. It helps them become the leader of the future and take ownership towards their own growth. If you wish to make your child the best version of themselves, Alpine convent school is the best school in sector 10. The school has a legacy since 1966 of advanced infrastructure, course curriculum, highest quality education and enriching their lives with morals and values.

The Alpine school is one of the best schools in Gurgaon sector 10. It has highly qualified and professional teaching staff. Affiliated with the  Central Board of Secondary Education  (CBSE), the school is a perfect blend of Indian roots with updated and international course structure. This helps the students stay ahead of time and learn valuable lessons. The lessons learnt in classrooms are beyond textbook knowledge.

They enable the child to learn through real life examples and educational concepts. The school inculcated the feeling of togetherness and yet teaches individuality to every student enrolled in their school. The lesson plans are planned by the best of the faculties in the form of projects, charts, assignments and extra-curricular activities. The school boasts about the quality of teaching methods and staff. Their hiring process is thorough and takes on cream-of-the-cream for their students. It is their firm belief that a teacher can help a student achieve their utmost potential.  The teaching staff at Alpine school is empathetic and supportive which makes the institution the best school in sector 10 albeit best CBSE school in Gurgaon.

The practicality of the course structure keeping the overall growth and development of the children requires for them to get together. Learning values such as leadership and kindness happens when children get to interact with each other. Not only limited to values, the practical courses that required lab work also lagged in the time of lockdown. Alpine school takes care of the course curriculum planning in such a manner that it is helping students adjust to the new normal and course structure.  the course every year is an amalgamation of Indian and International study material. This helps the students stay updated on the subject matters.

Even though students might be anxious or excited to return to their classrooms, nothing has changed at Alpine accepts the precautionary standards. The teaching staff is available to help the students reach their potential and learn new things in the classroom every day. If you want to invest in the future of your child, Alpine convent school is the way to go. Send your child to the best schools in Gurugram  and watch them soar to new heights of excellence.

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Read these 12 moving essays about life during coronavirus

Artists, novelists, critics, and essayists are writing the first draft of history.

by Alissa Wilkinson

The world is grappling with an invisible, deadly enemy, trying to understand how to live with the threat posed by a virus . For some writers, the only way forward is to put pen to paper, trying to conceptualize and document what it feels like to continue living as countries are under lockdown and regular life seems to have ground to a halt.

So as the coronavirus pandemic has stretched around the world, it’s sparked a crop of diary entries and essays that describe how life has changed. Novelists, critics, artists, and journalists have put words to the feelings many are experiencing. The result is a first draft of how we’ll someday remember this time, filled with uncertainty and pain and fear as well as small moments of hope and humanity.

• The Vox guide to navigating the coronavirus crisis

At the New York Review of Books, Ali Bhutto writes that in Karachi, Pakistan, the government-imposed curfew due to the virus is “eerily reminiscent of past military clampdowns”:

Beneath the quiet calm lies a sense that society has been unhinged and that the usual rules no longer apply. Small groups of pedestrians look on from the shadows, like an audience watching a spectacle slowly unfolding. People pause on street corners and in the shade of trees, under the watchful gaze of the paramilitary forces and the police.

His essay concludes with the sobering note that “in the minds of many, Covid-19 is just another life-threatening hazard in a city that stumbles from one crisis to another.”

Writing from Chattanooga, novelist Jamie Quatro documents the mixed ways her neighbors have been responding to the threat, and the frustration of conflicting direction, or no direction at all, from local, state, and federal leaders:

Whiplash, trying to keep up with who’s ordering what. We’re already experiencing enough chaos without this back-and-forth. Why didn’t the federal government issue a nationwide shelter-in-place at the get-go, the way other countries did? What happens when one state’s shelter-in-place ends, while others continue? Do states still under quarantine close their borders? We are still one nation, not fifty individual countries. Right?

• A syllabus for the end of the world

Award-winning photojournalist Alessio Mamo, quarantined with his partner Marta in Sicily after she tested positive for the virus, accompanies his photographs in the Guardian of their confinement with a reflection on being confined :

The doctors asked me to take a second test, but again I tested negative. Perhaps I’m immune? The days dragged on in my apartment, in black and white, like my photos. Sometimes we tried to smile, imagining that I was asymptomatic, because I was the virus. Our smiles seemed to bring good news. My mother left hospital, but I won’t be able to see her for weeks. Marta started breathing well again, and so did I. I would have liked to photograph my country in the midst of this emergency, the battles that the doctors wage on the frontline, the hospitals pushed to their limits, Italy on its knees fighting an invisible enemy. That enemy, a day in March, knocked on my door instead.

In the New York Times Magazine, deputy editor Jessica Lustig writes with devastating clarity about her family’s life in Brooklyn while her husband battled the virus, weeks before most people began taking the threat seriously:

At the door of the clinic, we stand looking out at two older women chatting outside the doorway, oblivious. Do I wave them away? Call out that they should get far away, go home, wash their hands, stay inside? Instead we just stand there, awkwardly, until they move on. Only then do we step outside to begin the long three-block walk home. I point out the early magnolia, the forsythia. T says he is cold. The untrimmed hairs on his neck, under his beard, are white. The few people walking past us on the sidewalk don’t know that we are visitors from the future. A vision, a premonition, a walking visitation. This will be them: Either T, in the mask, or — if they’re lucky — me, tending to him.

Essayist Leslie Jamison writes in the New York Review of Books about being shut away alone in her New York City apartment with her 2-year-old daughter since she became sick:

The virus. Its sinewy, intimate name. What does it feel like in my body today? Shivering under blankets. A hot itch behind the eyes. Three sweatshirts in the middle of the day. My daughter trying to pull another blanket over my body with her tiny arms. An ache in the muscles that somehow makes it hard to lie still. This loss of taste has become a kind of sensory quarantine. It’s as if the quarantine keeps inching closer and closer to my insides. First I lost the touch of other bodies; then I lost the air; now I’ve lost the taste of bananas. Nothing about any of these losses is particularly unique. I’ve made a schedule so I won’t go insane with the toddler. Five days ago, I wrote Walk/Adventure! on it, next to a cut-out illustration of a tiger—as if we’d see tigers on our walks. It was good to keep possibility alive.

At Literary Hub, novelist Heidi Pitlor writes about the elastic nature of time during her family’s quarantine in Massachusetts:

During a shutdown, the things that mark our days—commuting to work, sending our kids to school, having a drink with friends—vanish and time takes on a flat, seamless quality. Without some self-imposed structure, it’s easy to feel a little untethered. A friend recently posted on Facebook: “For those who have lost track, today is Blursday the fortyteenth of Maprilay.” ... Giving shape to time is especially important now, when the future is so shapeless. We do not know whether the virus will continue to rage for weeks or months or, lord help us, on and off for years. We do not know when we will feel safe again. And so many of us, minus those who are gifted at compartmentalization or denial, remain largely captive to fear. We may stay this way if we do not create at least the illusion of movement in our lives, our long days spent with ourselves or partners or families.

• What day is it today?

Novelist Lauren Groff writes at the New York Review of Books about trying to escape the prison of her fears while sequestered at home in Gainesville, Florida:

Some people have imaginations sparked only by what they can see; I blame this blinkered empiricism for the parks overwhelmed with people, the bars, until a few nights ago, thickly thronged. My imagination is the opposite. I fear everything invisible to me. From the enclosure of my house, I am afraid of the suffering that isn’t present before me, the people running out of money and food or drowning in the fluid in their lungs, the deaths of health-care workers now growing ill while performing their duties. I fear the federal government, which the right wing has so—intentionally—weakened that not only is it insufficient to help its people, it is actively standing in help’s way. I fear we won’t sufficiently punish the right. I fear leaving the house and spreading the disease. I fear what this time of fear is doing to my children, their imaginations, and their souls.

At ArtForum , Berlin-based critic and writer Kristian Vistrup Madsen reflects on martinis, melancholia, and Finnish artist Jaakko Pallasvuo’s 2018 graphic novel Retreat , in which three young people exile themselves in the woods:

In melancholia, the shape of what is ending, and its temporality, is sprawling and incomprehensible. The ambivalence makes it hard to bear. The world of Retreat is rendered in lush pink and purple watercolors, which dissolve into wild and messy abstractions. In apocalypse, the divisions established in genesis bleed back out. My own Corona-retreat is similarly soft, color-field like, each day a blurred succession of quarantinis, YouTube–yoga, and televized press conferences. As restrictions mount, so does abstraction. For now, I’m still rooting for love to save the world.

At the Paris Review , Matt Levin writes about reading Virginia Woolf’s novel The Waves during quarantine:

A retreat, a quarantine, a sickness—they simultaneously distort and clarify, curtail and expand. It is an ideal state in which to read literature with a reputation for difficulty and inaccessibility, those hermetic books shorn of the handholds of conventional plot or characterization or description. A novel like Virginia Woolf’s The Waves is perfect for the state of interiority induced by quarantine—a story of three men and three women, meeting after the death of a mutual friend, told entirely in the overlapping internal monologues of the six, interspersed only with sections of pure, achingly beautiful descriptions of the natural world, a day’s procession and recession of light and waves. The novel is, in my mind’s eye, a perfectly spherical object. It is translucent and shimmering and infinitely fragile, prone to shatter at the slightest disturbance. It is not a book that can be read in snatches on the subway—it demands total absorption. Though it revels in a stark emotional nakedness, the book remains aloof, remote in its own deep self-absorption.

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In an essay for the Financial Times, novelist Arundhati Roy writes with anger about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s anemic response to the threat, but also offers a glimmer of hope for the future:

Historically, pandemics have forced humans to break with the past and imagine their world anew. This one is no different. It is a portal, a gateway between one world and the next. We can choose to walk through it, dragging the carcasses of our prejudice and hatred, our avarice, our data banks and dead ideas, our dead rivers and smoky skies behind us. Or we can walk through lightly, with little luggage, ready to imagine another world. And ready to fight for it.

From Boston, Nora Caplan-Bricker writes in The Point about the strange contraction of space under quarantine, in which a friend in Beirut is as close as the one around the corner in the same city:

It’s a nice illusion—nice to feel like we’re in it together, even if my real world has shrunk to one person, my husband, who sits with his laptop in the other room. It’s nice in the same way as reading those essays that reframe social distancing as solidarity. “We must begin to see the negative space as clearly as the positive, to know what we don’t do is also brilliant and full of love,” the poet Anne Boyer wrote on March 10th, the day that Massachusetts declared a state of emergency. If you squint, you could almost make sense of this quarantine as an effort to flatten, along with the curve, the distinctions we make between our bonds with others. Right now, I care for my neighbor in the same way I demonstrate love for my mother: in all instances, I stay away. And in moments this month, I have loved strangers with an intensity that is new to me. On March 14th, the Saturday night after the end of life as we knew it, I went out with my dog and found the street silent: no lines for restaurants, no children on bicycles, no couples strolling with little cups of ice cream. It had taken the combined will of thousands of people to deliver such a sudden and complete emptiness. I felt so grateful, and so bereft.

And on his own website, musician and artist David Byrne writes about rediscovering the value of working for collective good , saying that “what is happening now is an opportunity to learn how to change our behavior”:

In emergencies, citizens can suddenly cooperate and collaborate. Change can happen. We’re going to need to work together as the effects of climate change ramp up. In order for capitalism to survive in any form, we will have to be a little more socialist. Here is an opportunity for us to see things differently — to see that we really are all connected — and adjust our behavior accordingly. Are we willing to do this? Is this moment an opportunity to see how truly interdependent we all are? To live in a world that is different and better than the one we live in now? We might be too far down the road to test every asymptomatic person, but a change in our mindsets, in how we view our neighbors, could lay the groundwork for the collective action we’ll need to deal with other global crises. The time to see how connected we all are is now.

The portrait these writers paint of a world under quarantine is multifaceted. Our worlds have contracted to the confines of our homes, and yet in some ways we’re more connected than ever to one another. We feel fear and boredom, anger and gratitude, frustration and strange peace. Uncertainty drives us to find metaphors and images that will let us wrap our minds around what is happening.

Yet there’s no single “what” that is happening. Everyone is contending with the pandemic and its effects from different places and in different ways. Reading others’ experiences — even the most frightening ones — can help alleviate the loneliness and dread, a little, and remind us that what we’re going through is both unique and shared by all.

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Healthy 41-year-old man dies from mosquito-borne virus EEE: 'Sudden and rare'

A healthy 41-year-old man in New Hampshire has died after contracting eastern equine encephalitis, a rare but serious virus spread by mosquitoes.

The man, identified by his family as Steven Perry, tested positive for the virus known as EEE or triple E, and was hospitalized with severe central nervous system disease, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services said on Tuesday.

Perry was a resident of Hampstead, a town in southern New Hampshire about 45 miles north of Boston.

The 41-year-old was healthy and had no underlying medical conditions, his family told affiliate NBC Boston . However, Perry's disease progressed rapidly, and he went to the hospital on Aug. 12.

Perry died one week later at Massachusetts General Hospital on Aug. 19, 2024, according to his obituary .

"It is with heavy hearts that the family acknowledges that Steven left those that he loved far too soon after being stricken by a sudden and rare brain infection," the obituary read.

Previously, Perry tested positive for eastern equine encephalitis, a rare infection caused by a virus spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, TODAY.com previously reported .

It is the first human case of eastern equine encephalitis in New Hampshire in 10 years. The last human EEE infection reported in the state was in 2014, when authorities identified three cases, including two deaths, the DHHS said.

EEE cases have also been reported in Massachusetts, Vermont, Wisconsin and New Jersey.

So far in 2024, at least five human cases of eastern equine encephalitis have been confirmed in the U.S. All five were the more severe (neuroinvasive) form of the disease, according to the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

At this time, the case count is on par with previous years. Only a handful of cases are reported in the U.S. annually — in 2019, there were 38, the highest in a decade, TODAY.com reported previously.

Most people infected with EEE do not develop symptoms. If symptoms do occur, these typically begin two to 10 days after being bitten by a mosquito and include fever, chills, muscle aches, and joint pain.

EEE can also cause severe neurologic disease. About 5% of people infected with the virus develop severe swelling of the brain or the spinal cord, Dr. Daniel Pastula, chief of neuro-infectious diseases and global neurology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, previously told TODAY.com.

Symptoms of neuroinvasive EEE include a high fever, behavioral changes, vomiting, seizures and coma. About 30% of people with EEE will die, per the CDC . However, many survivors are left with lasting mental and physical problems.

Most cases are reported between July and September, with activity peaking around August. As the end of summer approaches and the U.S. enters peak mosquito season, the threat of mosquito-borne diseases looms.

“We believe there is an elevated risk for EEEV infections this year in New England given the positive mosquito samples identified,” New Hampshire state epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan said in a release.

In Massachusetts, several communities are on high alert due to a recent case of EEE in a man in his 80s. The case has prompted officials to spray for mosquitoes and some towns to enact voluntary curfews and nighttime park closures.

What's more, the U.S. is also seeing increased activity of another mosquito-borne virus, West Nile . As of Aug. 27, there have been 289 cases of West Nile virus reported in 33 states, per CDC data .

There is no treatment or vaccine for eastern equine encephalitis. Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to protect yourself against EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases.

The CDC recommends people take the following steps:

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent
• Wear pants and long sleeve shirts outdoors
• Limit activity outdoors from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active

Caroline Kee is a health reporter at TODAY based in New York City.

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Greater Good Science Center • Magazine • In Action • In Education

Five Lessons to Remember When Lockdown Ends

A lot of people I know have been starting to wonder about life after the shelter-in-place orders have been lifted. What will it be like? What will the new normal be?

The answers to those questions will depend a lot on where you live, what your experience has been like, and what you make of it all.

Living in a city that imposed shelter-in-place orders 10 weeks ago, as of this writing, my own life has been a mixed bag. I shifted to working at home pretty easily, but it’s been hard finding a routine and avoiding distractions. I’m connected with friends online, but I miss their physical presence. Plus, my sleep and mood have suffered as anxiety looms over the future of our society.

I don’t want to negate these feelings or ignore our losses. But, as a writer for Greater Good , I can’t help but see some positives coming from this crisis, too. Reflecting on this moment has been a learning opportunity for me and for all of us—a chance to focus more on what matters and to think about living life differently going forward.

Here are some lessons I want to hold on to once sheltering in place is lifted.

1. Being with others is key to happiness

Many of us have been relying on social media and Zoom meetings to stay in touch with people during the pandemic. But, while I’m grateful that I can keep up with friends on Facebook or visit with folks via videoconferencing, these aren’t really the same as seeing people in-person.

Why? For one thing, social media doesn’t always bring us closer together. People often heavily curate what they post online to make their lives appear carefree and wonderful, which leaves little room for sharing vulnerability—an important way to connect with others. And, of course, there’s also a lot of alarmist news and clickbait on social media that can wreak havoc with your happiness. If you’re looking for deeper connection there, you’re bound to be disappointed.

Zoom conferencing is an improvement, as you can see people face to face and have actual conversations. But it’s tough to read body language on Zoom, and so it’s harder to pick up on how people are feeling. Also, the science of touch shows us that we humans crave physical contact, which neither Zoom conferencing nor social media can provide. This loss is especially profound for those living alone, where the lack of any physical affection has been particularly hard.

So, while I may continue to use available online tools to stay connected with faraway intimates, I’ve also gained a newfound appreciation for in-person get-togethers. Making more time in my life to be with the people I love and to express affection when we are together is something to bring forward from this experience.

In the near-term, as restrictions lift, I hope to have more physically distant backyard visits with friends and family. While we cannot hug, we can at least look each other in the eye. When the crisis has passed, I plan to prioritize spending more time gathering in groups of diverse people for concerts, sporting events, ceremonies, dancing, and more. The emotional high and sense of connection we get from being in the physical presence of others sharing an experience together is inspiring and sacred. Not only will I appreciate that presence so much more after shelter in place is over, doing so will deepen my sense of common humanity—something that when scaled up can build a kinder, more connected society.

2. Reducing stress is good for everyone

There have been a lot of things to stress out about during this pandemic, for sure. The risk of losing our jobs, becoming sick, or inadvertently infecting a beloved relative is frightening. Having to quarantine at home has kept us from employing our usual ways of coping with stress—like going out with friends or exercising at the gym. And being fed a constant diet of dire and alarmist news has amplified our anxiety and sense of helplessness, making us lose sleep.

Being in a constant state of high alert is not good for our minds or bodies—or for those around us, either. Emotional contagion is real , which means feeding our own stress and fear affects others, too. That’s become even clearer as so many of us find ourselves in closer quarters with family members or roommates whose moods feed off of each other.

However, one silver lining of staying at home is that it’s forced many of us to slow down some and find new ways to manage stress and anxiety. Perhaps you’ve finally learned to meditate —something you’d heard was good for you but never really attempted. Or maybe you’ve pulled out a notebook and journaled about your experience or taken a happiness course online . Some have turned to drawing, planting a garden, or playing a musical instrument. All of these have the potential to improve your mental health and could be worth holding on to once you are set free again.

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A way to build resilience to stress, anxiety, and anger

Then there’s the one stress-buster that beats them all: Being kind to others and helping those in need . Ask anyone who’s volunteered at a local food bank, brought a meal to a stuck-at-home neighbor, reached out to a lonely friend, tutored students online, or organized their neighborhood relief group, and they’ll tell you: Focusing your attention on others reduces your own worry and stress—a lesson easily carried forward into the new era. Not only will helping others keep us sane, it will also aid in the recovery of everyone impacted by the pandemic.

3. Showing gratitude matters

It’s pretty obvious that we should be grateful to the “essential workers” during this time of shelter in place. Food suppliers, health care workers, delivery people, and first responders have taken on risks to themselves for the benefit of everyone else.

How can we possibly repay them? By showing a little gratitude and paying the kindness forward.

Before the pandemic, most of us probably didn’t think twice about the workers doing these jobs. Now that they are on everyone’s radar, it’s been heartwarming to see grateful citizens showing their appreciation openly by making signs, clapping or howling out their windows at night, dropping off free meals, and over-tipping service workers. Even just saying “thank you” can go a long way toward building good will .

Gratitude isn’t something we should just show to these current heroes in our midst, though.

We can show more gratitude for all of the people and things that make our life easier and happier. Showing gratitude not only feels good , it encourages more kindness and generosity in both gratitude recipients and anyone who witnesses the expression of gratitude, creating a virtuous cycle. And, since sincere gratitude is a premier social glue in both personal relationships and society at large, offering it helps build a kinder, more compassionate society—something we should all keep in mind.

4. We need less stuff than we think

Before the current shelter in place took hold, I never would have guessed how easy it is to do without so many modern conveniences. Now that shopping at the mall, getting my hair done, or popping into the grocery store for a single ingredient has become impossible, I’ve realized that I’m surviving just fine.

It’s pretty clear that we don’t need so much stuff or as many conveniences as we’ve become accustomed to. The basic essentials—food, clean water, and good health, for example—are much more important than having a manicure or buying the newest computer. Given how many of these consumer items and activities negatively impact the health of the planet, it makes sense to rethink our priorities and consider skipping some to allow everyone to have the basics for survival.

Greater Good’s Guide to Well-Being During Coronavirus

Practices, resources, and articles for individuals, parents, and educators facing COVID-19

Luckily, our well-being isn’t dependent on consumer products. Studies have found that kindness and generosity make us happier than pampering ourselves or buying ourselves stuff. It may be hard to believe; in fact, researchers often find that people underestimate the impacts of giving to others on their happiness.

But it’s true: We will likely be happier and create a healthier society if we can consume less and give more.

5. We are stronger when we act together

As communities around the world manage the pandemic, one thing we’ve all learned is that cooperation matters. Only through group effort can we do something to make a difference in the trajectory of a worldwide threat.

This became crystal clear when comparing state and national responses to the viral outbreak. Some governments were laissez-faire in their response—or even actively punished people who sounded the alarm. Others heeded early warnings and quickly put into place orders to keep people at home. The latter approach, where science was heeded and everyone pitched in to shelter in place, is what paid off in flattening infection curves and saving lives.

Of course, suffering through this time has shown us that there is still much that needs correcting. Not everyone has good health or health care, and many people are living at the edge of poverty. Some people have been forced to go to work despite the risks, and others are dying at higher rates than the general population because of a long history of discrimination. This is unacceptable and needs changing. If the pandemic has opened new eyes to these inequalities, then perhaps they’ll be more likely to become part of that change.

Seeing how willing people were to cooperate with draconian measures for the good of all gives me hope. It’s not easy to herd that many people in one direction, especially when they have to sacrifice some of their personal freedoms to do it. But working together for the common good has helped us fight the pandemic and could bode well for solving other worldwide problems requiring cooperation—like poverty, ethnic violence, and climate-based disaster.

That’s why I hope we will hold on to that lesson after we leave our homes. There is power in keeping in mind our common humanity and our sense of interconnection. If we also remember the importance of our relationships, resilience, gratitude, and doing with less, we can move forward into our un-sheltered lives again with a renewed sense of purpose and tackle some of our most difficult problems. It could be that collective, compassionate action will be the key to creating a better future for us all.

About the Author

Jill Suttie

Jill Suttie, Psy.D. , is Greater Good ’s former book review editor and now serves as a staff writer and contributing editor for the magazine. She received her doctorate of psychology from the University of San Francisco in 1998 and was a psychologist in private practice before coming to Greater Good .

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Got cold symptoms? Here’s when kids should take a sick day from school

An AP analysis of data from 40 states and DC shows school absenteeism got worse in each one except Arkansas from 2018-2022.

FILE - Fifth graders wearing face masks are seated at proper social distancing during a music class at the Milton Elementary School in Rye, N.Y., May 18, 2021. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File)

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PHOENIX (AP) — As schools reopen for another year, they are focused on improving student attendance. But back-to-school is hitting just as COVID-19 cases are increasing, raising the question: When is a child too sick for school?

School absences surged during the pandemic and have yet to recover. Nearly 1 in 4 students remains chronically absent, defined as missing 10% or more of the academic year, according to the latest data analyzed by The Associated Press.

One reason for continued high absences: After years of COVID-19 quarantines, parents are more cautious about sending children to school when they might be contagious with an illness.

When a child misses school, even for an excused absence like a sick day, it’s harder for them to stay on track academically . So schools and health experts are trying to change the culture around sick days.

Here’s what they want parents to know.

COVID guidelines have changed

During the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urged people who tested positive for COVID-19 to isolate at home for a set number of days and to quarantine after exposure to the coronavirus. In some settings, people with any mild illness were urged to remain home until symptoms were clear.

Those standards, and the caution behind them, remained for years after schools reopened to in-person instruction. That meant children often missed large portions of school after contracting or being exposed to COVID-19 or other illnesses.

This article is part of AP’s Be Well coverage, focusing on wellness, fitness, diet and mental health. Read more Be Well.

This spring, COVID-19 guidance officially changed. Now, the CDC suggests people treat COVID-19 like other respiratory illnesses , such as the flu and RSV.

Fever-free for 24 hours

If a child has a fever, they should stay home, no matter the illness.

A child can return to school when their fever has been gone for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication. Other symptoms should be improving.

What about other symptoms?

If a child doesn’t have a fever, it’s OK to send them to class with some signs of illness , including a runny nose, headache or cough, according to schools and the American Academy of Pediatrics . If those symptoms aren’t improving or are severe, such as a hacking cough, call your child’s doctor.

The guidance around vomiting and diarrhea varies across school districts. Generally, students should remain home until symptoms stop , according to American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines. Older children may be able to manage mild diarrhea at school.

“Unless your student has a fever or threw up in the last 24 hours, you are coming to school. That’s what we want,” said Abigail Arii, director of student support services in Oakland, California.

Guidance from the Los Angeles Unified School District says students can attend school with mild symptoms such as a runny nose or cold, but should stay home if they have vomiting, diarrhea, severe pain or a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius) or higher.

School districts across the U.S. have similar guidance, including in Texas , Illinois and New York .

When to wear a mask

The CDC says people should take additional precautions for five days after returning to school or other normal activities.

Masks and social distancing are no longer mandated but are encouraged to prevent disease spread. Experts also recommend plenty of handwashing and taking steps for cleaner air, such as opening a window or running an air purifier.

School districts say parents should keep up-to-date on all health examinations and immunizations for students so they don’t miss additional days of school.

AP Education Writer Jocelyn Gecker in San Francisco contributed.

This article is part of AP’s Be Well coverage, focusing on wellness, fitness, diet and mental health. Read more Be Well .

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Chronotype differences and symptom network dynamics of post-pandemic sleep in adolescents and young adults.

1. Introduction

2. materials and methods, 2.1. the participants, 2.2. materials and procedure, 2.3. statistical analysis, 2.4. ising network, 2.5. directed acyclic graphs, 3.1. mixed anova, 3.2. network analysis, 3.2.1. ising, 3.2.2. dags, 4. discussion, 4.1. sleep habits after the pandemic, 4.2. influence of chronotype, 4.3. network analysis, 4.4. strengths and limitations, 4.5. implications and suggestions for further research, 5. conclusions, supplementary materials, author contributions, institutional review board statement, informed consent statement, data availability statement, acknowledgments, conflicts of interest.

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Windal, M.; Roland, A.; Laeremans, M.; Briganti, G.; Kornreich, C.; Mairesse, O. Chronotype Differences and Symptom Network Dynamics of Post-Pandemic Sleep in Adolescents and Young Adults. J. Clin. Med. 2024 , 13 , 5020. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13175020

Windal M, Roland A, Laeremans M, Briganti G, Kornreich C, Mairesse O. Chronotype Differences and Symptom Network Dynamics of Post-Pandemic Sleep in Adolescents and Young Adults. Journal of Clinical Medicine . 2024; 13(17):5020. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13175020

Windal, Maxime, Aurore Roland, Marise Laeremans, Giovanni Briganti, Charles Kornreich, and Olivier Mairesse. 2024. "Chronotype Differences and Symptom Network Dynamics of Post-Pandemic Sleep in Adolescents and Young Adults" Journal of Clinical Medicine 13, no. 17: 5020. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13175020

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My First Day at School Essay & Paragraph

“Write a paragraph about your first day at school” or asking to write a “My first day at school essay” is a very common question for students in school exams. So, here we have compiled a rich collection of paragraph and essay about my first day at school  in simple words, for all students from class 3-12. In fact, the memory of going to school on the first day is a very sweet and unforgettable memory for all of us. This is why “My first day at school essay” and “My first day at school paragraph” are popular topics for students to practice writing.

The texts here are of different lengths, ranging from 100 to 350 words. So, it seems that at least one of them may be enough to meet your needs. At the beginning of the essays and paragraphs on my first day at school , some related questions, and at the end, we have added the meaning of difficult words in Bangla.

Table of Contents

My First Day at School Essay, 150 Words

By: Haque | For Class 4-5 | 01-01-’23

Now, as I’m going to write a short essay about my first day of school, I think of January 5, 2003. That was my first day at school. I was so excited that day thinking of school. My parents introduced me to the alphabet at home and bought me new clothes, shoes, and a bag. That’s how I got ready to start my school life.

I went to school holding my father’s hand. Dad took me to the headmaster’s room first. I offer him Salam and he replied with a smile. Then he asked me my name and a few questions, and I answered. He then wrote down my admission information and sent me to my class with the clerk.

In the first class, the teacher told us funny stories. Within a few days, I got my classmates as my friends. The day I went to school for the first will shine in my memory forever.

Word Meaning: Hold—ধরা। Smile—মৃদুহাসি। Clerk—কেরানি। Shine—জ্বলজ্বল করা। Introduce—পরিচিত করা বা হওয়া। Alphabet—বর্ণমালা।

Check also: My First Day at College Essay & Paragraph

My First Day at School Essay, 250 Words

By: Haque | For Class 6-7 | 01-01-’23

Introduction: The day a student first goes to school is a memorable day for him. He starts a new chapter of his life on that day. With so much excitement and a little fear, I set foot in a school the first day. That is what I’m going to say here.

Fear of new places: The first day when dad took me to my village primary school, I was very excited and a little worried about how a new place, new friends, and teachers would be. However, my fears did not last long and I easily adjusted myself.

Preparation and Admission: I was preparing myself for going to school on the first day. Mom said I would enjoy my school. To go to school on the first day, I got up early, took a bath, and put on new clothes. Head Sir greeted me with a smile and gave me a set of new books.

Relationships with Friends: I saw a lot of new faces in the classroom. They also welcomed me and became my friends in a short time.

Introduction to Teachers: We had a total of five classes on the first day at school. In the first class, the teachers introduced us and told us funny stories instead of teaching books. I liked all of them very much.

Conclusion: My first day at school was the biggest event and the brightest memory of my life. This is the day I took the first step towards a beautiful life.

Word Meaning: excitement—উত্তেজনা। Set foot in—রওনা হওয়া। Worried—চিন্তিত। Greet—সম্ভাষণ জানানো। Introduce—পরিচিত করা বা হওয়া। Towards—উদ্দেশে, অভিমুখে।

  Read also: My Last Day at School Essay & Paragraph

My First Day at School Composition, 250 Words

By: Haque | For Class 7-8 | 01-01-’23

Our life is a combination of many events and experiences. But not everything is remembered for a long time. However, some events can never be forgotten. My first day at school was such a memorable day.

It was January 1, 2000. That day my father took me to our village primary school. My school name is Chhanbari Govt. Primary School. It took me a while to find myself in the new environment of the school compound for the first time. My father took me to the headmaster’s room. My heart started beating fast. The headmaster asked me my name and some more simple questions and I answered them.

He then sent me to my class with the clerk. There I see a lot of students like me. They were strangers to me. But it didn’t take long for them to become my friends.

After a while, our first teacher entered. He first wanted to know the names of all of us. Then he said some very funny jokes. He explained to us what the mother tongue is, why it is necessary to learn, how our language is a big language in the world. We realized that he was our Bangla teacher. Three more teachers came to our class that day. They looked smiling. I like all of them.

Thus, going to school on the first day started a new chapter in my life. I think my first day at school was the most memorable day of my life. The experience of this day will remain evergreen in my mind.

My First Day at School Essay, 300 Words

By: Haque | For Class 8-9 | 01-01-’23

Introduction: Human life is full of events. Many incidents happen in the life of a man. Some of these are pleasant. We remember those for a long. Going to school on the first day is one of the brightest memories of my life. I remember that day most.

Description: It was the first day at school. I went to school very simply. The day was very interesting to me because I felt much pleasure to get education again after the break of the class 5 examination. It was my new school. According to our religious tradition, I left for school on the first day with good wishes from my parents .

Old and New Faces: I met many old classmates and many new faces there. I made several new friends, too. There was a lot of gossips. We also took down the class routine from the notice board to our notebooks. That day I recognized some new ideas of learning. Those were quite different from primary education.

The Classes: I entered my classroom along with other students joyfully. First, our English teacher entered our classroom. He tried to make us understand the importance of learning English with many practical examples. After him, the Bengali teacher entered and lectured on Bangla. He made jokes. It gave us pleasure.

The Recess: We enjoy ourselves during recess. I went to the common room with some of my friends and played indoor games for a while. Then I went to the school canteen with one of my best friends and ate Singaras and chocolates.

Conclusion: The first day at school was full of happy feelings. It gave me excitement and romance. I felt thrilled because I could learn many things of knowledge in school. Still, I remember my first day at school.

Word Meaning: Pleasant—সুখকর। Tradition—ঐতিহ্য। Gossip—খোশগল্প (করা)। Recess—অবকাশ, বিরতি। Romance—রোমাঞ্চ, শিহরণ

My First Day at School Essay, 350 Words

By: Haque | For Class 9-10/SSC | 01-01-’23

It was one day some six years ago that I first attended school as a regular student. But I still remember that day I felt as if it happened only yesterday.

I still remember the day my parents decided to send me to school. I was not at all happy on the morning when I was being dressed for school for the first time. Mother brushed my hair, dressed me in, and sent me to school with my father .

My father took me to the headmaster. My heart was beating fast. The headmaster looked at me, smiled, and said, “so, you are the son of my dear pupil and now you are going to be my pupil too.” I politely replied, “yes sir”. My reply seemed to please him. He then asked me a few questions from my books and I promptly answered them all. I was admitted into class one.

When my father left me at school to attend classes, I found myself all alone. There were so many boys and classmates. But they were all strangers to me. When the bell rang, our class teacher entered. We all stood up. Hardly had I taken my seat when my teacher put me a question. I got afraid and stood dumbfounded. My classmates laughed and I got more nervous.

I felt excited about the new school environment. The teachers taught us with love and with a smile. They have left a deep impression on my young mind.

During recess, while other boys played, I simply, looked on. I did not even eat the tiffin that my mother had given me. I was thinking of her and of my home all the time. At the end of school, I ran home and told my mother all that had happened in the school.

But it didn’t take long for my school to become my favorite place. Those who were strangers at my first meet soon became my best friends . I left there five years of my childhood. The golden memory of going to school on the first day will remain in my heart forever.

Word Meaning: Attend—উপস্থিত থাকা, যাওয়া। Stranger—অচেনা, অপরিচিত। Dumb—বোবা, মূক, নির্বাক। dumbfounded—হতবুদ্ধি, বিস্ময়াবিষ্ট। Recess—অবকাশ, ছুটি।

My First Day at School Paragraph, 100 Words

By: Haque | For Class 3-4 | 01-01-’23

The first day at school is a memorable day for all. In 2003, I was six years old. One day my father took me to Ghatakhan government primary school. I was very happy because I was going to be a student. We met the headmaster. He was very nice and a gentleman. He asked me some questions and I answered most of them. Then he granted my admission and sent me to the classroom. When I entered my classroom I was afraid to see all the unknown faces. But gradually I overcome the fear. That day I attended three classes. I enjoyed my first day at school very much.

My First Day at School Paragraph, 150 Words

By: Haque | For Class 5-6 | 01-01-’23

• How did you feel to go to school first time?
• Who did you go to school with on the first day?
• How did other classmates treat you?
• How do you remember going to school for the first time in your life?

One of the brightest memories of my life is the memory of my first day at school . When my father told me to go to school first, I was nervous. I thought a lot about what school was like, how others would treat me on my first day at school. The next morning , my mother made me ready for school. Dressed in new clothes, I walked to school holding my father ‘s hand. Dad first took me to the school headmaster’s room. He smiled and asked my name. He then called the class teacher and sent me to my class. I was amazed to see so many children like me in class. They got along well with me. Within a few days, everyone became known and friends to me. They were my classmates, my playmates. I still miss them. I will never forget the memories of my first day at school.

Word Meaning: bright—উজ্জ্বল। Brightest—উজ্জ্বলতর। Nervous—বিচলিত। Treat—ব্যবহার করা। Amazed—বিস্মিত। Got along—মিশেছিল।

My First Day at School Paragraph for Class 6-7

By: Haque | Words: 150 | 01-01-’23

Write a paragraph describing your first day at school. Mention especially your sense of joy and happiness, your experience of the Headmaster, the teachers and the students.

When I was a child, my elder brother used to go to school every day. I asked him to take me too, but my mother would not let me. So, I got upset. Then at the age of five, one day my father said it was time to go to school. It made me so happy and excited. Mom got me ready and I went with my Dad to my village primary school at 9 am. The headmaster asked me my name and a few questions, and I answered him. Then he called his clerk and sent me to my classroom. I found thirty boys and girls of my age there. I got to know my class teacher and classmates. They all greeted me with smiles. When the class was over, I went back home with a new experience of life. I won’t forget my first day of school ever.

Word Meaning: Elder Brother—বড় ভাই। Used to go—যেত। Got upset—মন খারাপ হলো। Clerk—কেরানি। Greet—স্বাগত জানানো। Experience—অভিজ্ঞতা।

My First Day at School Paragraph, 200 Words

• How old were you then?
• Did you feel nervous about going to school for the first time?
• Write a paragraph recalling your first school experience.

We all have different kinds of memories. Many are of happiness and joy, some are of sorrow. Some memories we lose, but some are so bright that they are never lost. The memory of my first day at school is still bright in my heart. I was 6 years old then. When my father told me that I would start going to school, I was very excited and nervous. What a place for school, how others would treat me on my first day at school, I wondered. The next morning my mother woke me up in the morning. Wearing new clothes, I started going to school holding my father’s hand. Dad first took me to the school’s headmaster’s room. He smiled and asked my name. Then he called the class teacher and sent me to my class. I was surprised to see children my age filling the room. They embraced me with love, everyone became my friend in a few days. They were my classmates, playmates too. I played a lot on the school field. I still think I can recognize every grain of sand in that field. I will never forget the memory of my first day at school.

Word Meaning: Bright—উজ্জ্বল। Excited—আবেগকম্পিত। Wonder—বিস্ময়, বিস্মিত হওয়া। Embrace—জড়িয়ে ধরা। Grain—কণা, কণিকা। Playmate—খেলার সাথী।

My First Day at School Paragraph for SSC

By: Haque | Words: 250 | 01-01-’23

• What was the name of the first school in your life?
• What was the reason for worrying about going to school first?
• Is the memory of going to school for the first time forgettable?
• Write a paragraph based on the memory of going to school for the first time in your life.

The day I went to school for the first time was a memorable day in my life. Then I was a six-year-old boy. My parents decided to enroll me in Motijheel Ideal School. It’s a reputed school in Dhaka . I would go to school and study, I was very excited to think about it. One morning my mother prepared me for school. He gave me a new dress. Before I left for school for the first time in my life, I was worried about new places and new people. The school was not far from our home . I walked holding my father’s hand. Within minutes we reached the school. My father introduced me to the headmaster. He asked me my name and a few other questions and was happy to hear my answer. He completed my admission process. Then a teacher took me to the classroom and introduced me to my classmates. Seeing so many new faces, I got a little nervous at first. But everyone in the classroom was very friendly. They treated me well on my first day of school. So, it didn’t take me long to get along with everyone. Even on the first day, I became friends with some of them. Dad was waiting for me at the school gate. As soon as the last bell rang, I ran to my father. When I returned home, my mother hugged me. The day I went to school for the first time has been unforgettable in my life.

Word Meaning: Enrol, Enroll—তালিকাভুক্ত করা, ভর্তি করা। Reputed—সুখ্যাত। Hug—জড়িয়ে ধরা। Unforgettable—অবিস্মরণীয়।

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