On Monday, September 14, Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo announced that RI schools are prepared to go back to school full time (not including Providence and Central Falls). Even though that decision was made, Smithfield High School has still decided the to do a 50% hybrid plan. This is not okay. Students should be able to go back and experience what being in a classroom is like again. Not meeting teachers in person creates anxiety for students, especially the the freshman class. The virtual learning plan that took place in Smithfield starting in March, 2020, was very difficult and hard for many students. Being at home and looking through a computer to learn, was extremely difficult and took many tolls on students grades and work performance. ITeenagers need a social outlook. Part of going to school is having a place where you can be social and have a break from some of the stresses of being home. Mentally this takes a toll on students because they are stuck in the house all day having no chance to be sociable, besides staring at a computer screen. 

As a student going into Senior year at SHS, I must say that I am truly disappointed in this decision. This is going to be the class of 2021’s last first day of school, the last year that we will be in the same building as the same kids that we grew up with. The memories and experience of senior year is something that NO student should have to miss out on. 

Please sign this petition to help us try and get back in school 100%. Thank you.