This year marks a return to pre-pandemic normalcy in the U.S. Most school systems have lifted face-covering requirements. Most have also ended social distancing rules. But the pandemic’s long-lasting effects remain.
This year’s back-to-school season will restore a degree of pre-pandemic normalcy. But many of COVID-19 s lasting impacts remain a troubling reality for schools. Among them: student mental health reached crisis levels last year.
Students are doing "emotional check-ins" every morning. They have "calming rooms" to decompress and talk with a counselor. And schools that can find enough counselors are hiring more. Is it