As coronavirus continues to spread through the country, the toll that it has on both students and teachers alike is staggering. Although Southeastern Connecticut has been lucky enough to not be deeply effected, the mental toll that the crisis has taken on us cannot be understated. Many students (And although we cannot speak for teachers, the same may hold true for them) have been unable to sleep and full of anxiety. More importantly, some students may know or be someone with coronavirus. By continuing to grade normally, we create a dichotomy where students must disclose their private physical or mental health matters to have the burden of work lifted. Additionally, students with internet access and a good home environment are given an automatic boost. We appreciate the efforts of the school to fix this, but no one should have to disclose their home status to be on the same footing as everyone else. This is why we ask that SHS go pass/fail. 

We understand the need for work and learning to continue. It is true that we must all be prepared for the 2020-21 school year and beyond that. However, grades do not show learning. At this time, they are simply an unneeded stressor when many of us cannot handle another. Of course, there is the worry that students will no longer complete their work without the motivation of grades. Non-anecdotally, this has not proven true. Logically, the majority of students who were already doing their work will continue, and those who were not will not. There is no reason to believe a major change will occur. 

Ultimately, the school has to choose between the health of students and a somewhat arbitrary letter. (Again, we would like to emphasize the importance of learning in lieu of grades.) We implore them to choose the health of students and adopt a pass fail system, excluding Q4 from our GPA calculations. Many thanks to all of the excellent teachers and staff that have been keeping our school running during these trying times. Your efforts haven't gone unnoticed by students.

(Photo from taken by Patch,)