Episode 82: Pause to Ponder - Return to Remote?

Welcome to the Counter Narrative Podcast, a show designed to change the way we talk, and think, about education. By sharing stories of successes and triumphs, we aim to challenge the dominant narrative that often negatively portrays our disenfranchised populations.

I’m your host, Charles Williams. An urban educator for more than 15 years, a current school principal in Chicago, an educational consultant, an equity advocate, and the co-host of Inside The Principal’s Office.

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Remote learning isn't the solution for everyone. Some students don't have access to devices. Some don't have access to reliable and/or reliable wifi. Some don't have safe spaces in which to work. I understand because that was the case for some of my students. 

But not all of them.

We, as educators, pride ourselves on talking about personalized learning ... about differentiating our approaches to education so that all students can be successful. We also point out the hypocrisy of holding us accountable to such measures while simultaneously requiring the use of standardized assessments to measure student performance. 

Is remote learning any different?

We must admit that, while remote learning was far from ideal for many of our students, there were plenty of students who thrived in the newfound setting. There were students who suddenly became engaged and interested in their learning. There were students who finally opened up and connected with their teachers and peers. There were students who excelled. 

And yet, we are actively working against having remote learning as an option. Despite an increase in COVID cases and hospitalizations. Despite parents choosing to keep their students at home with no access to instruction. Despite knowing that it can serve as a viable solution for certain populations. 

In this episode, I share my thoughts about remote learning and question whether these decisions are being made for the best interest of our students or out of convenience for the decision makers.

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