Despite Covid obstacles, Bulldog spirit shows

Sept. 8 introduced a new chapter for those in the Hewlett-Woodmere School District: school during a pandemic. With Bulldog spirit high and safety measures intact, students are once again lovingly surrounded by teachers, peers and staff.

Navigating mask breaks, newly designated up and down staircases, and Google Meet in Hewlett High School has surely been challenging for students and teachers alike; however, the patience and adaptability shown by all has allowed everyone a smooth acclamation period into our new norm during the coronavirus pandemic.

As of the first day of school, all students who had chosen to sign up for full-in school or hybrid instruction in August were collectively placed into hybrid learning. Instruction group A is made up of students with last names ranging from A to K and group B includes those from L to Z. On Oct. 5, all students who initially signed up for full-in school instruction began to attend school daily.

The entire Hewlett High community is extremely excited that we are slowly and safely coming back together. Principal Dr. William Galati highlighted how wonderful it was to “see students and staff in our building after six long months” and that with our commitment to “maintaining excellence in education and safety of our students and staff,” we will have a successful and healthy school year.

The week of Oct. 5 is certainly going to be fun for students. Student Council Executive Board President Ian Isseks planned our first Spirit Week of the school year. Pajama Day, Western Day, Throwback Thursday! Students are thrilled that coronavirus did not take away this Hewlett tradition. 

A classic Hewlett Spirit Week is needed now more than ever. Isseks has noticed that “students lost motivation and interest in school because of our long months in isolation.” Undoubtedly, “this is the time when we should all be reinforcing a sense of community and school pride…and keep our positive energy on an upward trajectory,” Isseks said.

On behalf of Hewlett students throughout the district, we are pleased to be back and determined to remain.