Here at Chape Hill High School(CHHS), we are not immune to the exponential growth of the Omicron variant of COVID-19. After the holidays, for those who’ve travelled, hung out with friends, or even just went outside many of those people were exposed to or likely had COVID-19. The risk of COVID was and continues to be a static force of concern within our community, which is why it is vital we take action. It is as such considerably reckless of the CHHS administration to continue school in-person. Unanimously, the students of CHHS agree that the decision to go back online would be best not only for our safety, but our mental health as well.

  In regards to safety, the spread of COVID has doubled the rates of when we first went into online learning, however the same logic has not been applied here. This presents an issue as many students have noticed this same fact, which has gone to delegitimize the decisions of the CHHS, and overall CHCCS, administrations as shown in the comments section of their Instagram @ChapelHillCarrboroSchools. Please note, this serves as an astute observation and does not intend to disrespect or attack the CHHS/CHCCS administration.

  In addition, factors such as worrying about our loved ones having COVID already presents strenuous circumstances and for many, this has been one of the most difficult years for students’ mental health. As of now, our previous mental health specialist, Mr. Priest, no longer works under the CHHS administration and has not been replaced. CHHS has not adequately considered or provided accommodations for students in need of mental health help as the transition from Wednesdays off and breaks between classes to all periods every week day with high workloads has been extremely stressful. Many of my peers have detailed their failing mental health and how the online school format would genuinely help the stress they have regarding school and safety, which is why I come to you in hopes that you will consider getting CHHS back online.

  I would also like to state that as a student at CHHS, this conclusion and subsequent plea has come from gathering multiple student accounts saying that online school would put minds at ease for a better, safer option as opposed to the fear and anxiety surrounding the current circumstance.

Overall, it is in the best interest of the CHHS/CHCCS administration to return to online learning because CHHS students want a safer, less mentally strenuous learning space.