Welcome back to school, Beaver Area! After a tumultuous 2020-2021 school year, it seems everyone is ready to get back into the groove of in-person learning.

Some seniors, such as GK Lohry, are just glad to be able to enjoy their last year at Beaver Area.

Lohry stated: “Being back in person is so relieving. Online school last year was incredibly rough; I would’ve hated to do it again my senior year.”

Senior Nicole Trkula exclaimed “I’m very excited to be back in-person seeing everyone in a classroom instead of through a screen!”

Anastasia Votilla, junior, shared some thoughts on the return to live learning.

“With everyone back in person it feels like life is slowly returning to normal; even if ‘normal’ has a new definition,” Votilla explained.

Most seniors seem to appreciate being back in person for their last year, although not being able to nap in your own bed during study hall is a drain on the sleep-deprived students. All considered, the online approach to school had its advantages, but it certainly wasn’t for everyone.

Cameron Hughes, junior, shared that in-person allows for better concentration. It also has a few downsides compared to last year’s learning.

“I just feel that the social distancing needs to be worked on a little more in terms of separating students by seats. My thoughts may hopefully change for the better on this issue now that masks are being taken more seriously. Hopefully, there’s going to be fewer cases with the mandate,” exclaimed Hughes.

It’s not just the seniors who are glad to be back! Many underclassmen, such as Jordan Lohry, sophomore, are celebrating our return to in-person.

“I’m really happy to be back in the building! Being online last year was a struggle to say the least, and I was constantly stressed. I personally thrive by actually going to school and being around others and learning hands-on, so getting to be in-person for classes right now is such a relief,” the younger Lohry stated.

Trent Liptak, sophomore, shared some thoughts as well.

According to Liptak, “Personally, learning in person is definitely a lot better than learning virtually. I feel like I’m learning more in person and that I’m having a good high school experience in general.”

While some are upset about the mask requirement, there are many advantages to the mandate. For example, teachers have a harder time recognizing you in the hallways, so they can’t pull you aside and ask about your 20 missing assignments!

Have a great back-to-school season, Bobcats!