ASD Returns To School | Podcast in Place #40

It has been a year since the pandemic forced schools in Alaska to close their doors and switch to remote learning. Slowly but surely, though, students are returning to in-person classes.

In January Pre-K through 2nd grade along with some special needs programs returned, followed by the rest of the elementary grades in February. On March 15th, middle and high school students are scheduled to return.

In this episode we hear from two administrators of the Anchorage School District: Tim Andrew, a director in elementary education, and Joe Zawodny, director of secondary education.

They talk about how in-person classes have been going for the younger grades, what school will look like for middle and high schoolers, and the options that the district provides for families who aren’t ready to send their kids back yet.

Hosted by Ryan Danigole.

Interviews conducted by Quinn White.

Music by Devin Shreckengost and Kendrick Whiteman.

Alaska Teen Media Institute is based in Anchorage, Alaska. We would like to acknowledge the Dena’ina people, whose land we work on.

Many thanks to supporters of our podcast including John O'Hara and James McCoy. The views expressed in this program do not necessarily represent the views of our sponsors.

RESOURCES FOR YOUTH DURING COVID-19

Wellness resources!

• Careline: Alaska Suicide Prevention and someone to talk to line.
• Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 and TTY 1-800-787-3224 or text LOVEIS to 22522
• Call 2-1-1 or Help Me Grow Alaska 1-833-464-2527 for help connecting to resources and services or for help knowing where to start

COVID-19 tips from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention!

• How to protect yourself & others
• What to do if you are sick
• How to cope with stress

These resources provided in collaboration with the State of Alaska, Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Behavioral Health.