Back to Class for Antilles Students

Head of School Liz Morrison helps middle school students to their classrooms after having their temperatures checked at one of four stations set up for students in the morning. (Submitted photo)
A lower school student sits within her own space, socially distanced from classmates, with her own materials to use throughout the year to limit exposure and contact. (Submitted photo)

Antilles School celebrated its 70th “first day of school” Monday, as students from all grades were welcomed back by faculty and staff, according to a news release from the St. Thomas school.

“It was wonderful to have children back on our campus,” Head of School Liz Morrison said. “We spent months preparing for this day to ensure the safety of our faculty, staff, students and their families while being physically present at school. We are looking forward to a productive year and are committed to keeping our school community engaged and healthy.”

Along with mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing protocols for students and staff, Antilles facilities team transformed the campus to allow students to utilize all indoor and outdoor spaces while ensuring safe social distancing, the school’s statement said. Drop-offs, pickups and breaks will be on staggered schedules this year to keep students within small cohorts, while physical education and recess times are also on rotation.

Hand sanitizing and hand-washing stations are set up throughout campus. And while the campus was reopened, more than a dozen families joined the first day of class in online hybrid classes.

Upper school students demonstrate how they can engage with each other during study halls while maintaining social distancing. (Submitted photo)
Assistant Head of School Shannon Harris uses a pool noodle to escort a young learner to the Early Learning Center. (Submitted photo)