The last time we were here together, we were sitting in our classrooms during the last period of the day, anxiously waiting for the school bell to ring. 

The last time we were here together, we were chatting and laughing well within three feet of each other. 

The last time we were here together, we were enjoying a normal school day on campus, blissfully unaware that the whole world could come crashing down around us. 

It’s been 533 days since we first moved off campus as thousands of schools across the country closed to protect against the raging COVID-19 outbreak that plagued the nation. 

This week we returned to a fully in-person school year, with primary restrictions consisting of wearing masks solely indoors and greater freedom to interact. As we emerge from the confines of the pandemic lifestyle, we find ourselves lost in what was once familiar. Sitting at a class desk is uncomfortable. Not wearing a mask outside feels unnatural. Standing within six feet of each other seems awkward. 

In March 2020, after the beginning of remote learning as a result of the pandemic, our editorial emphasized the importance of bravery through small feats such as getting up every morning and completing schoolwork. Looking back to a year ago, when we prepared to start the school year, we commended the efforts of our students and faculty who had demonstrated their resilience for months still in a remote learning environment. 

When we entered a hybrid learning environment last May, our editorial advised the community to remain on guard even though we longed to feel each other’s presence once again.

Yet, with the guidance of our peers, teachers and administrators, we can work together to recover the memories and reconstruct the positive atmosphere that the virus took from us.

Our incoming freshmen will again have the chance to enjoy a full four years of high school in-person. The connections you make in your first year here may last throughout their upper school journey, as they have for many of us.

Step outside your comfort zones and explore your unique interests at the Harker upper school. 

Join clubs or sports teams. Form bonds with peers from a variety of backgrounds. Spirit events are a great way to create meaningful memories with your classmates. 

We recognize that our sophomores have not had much on-campus experience. Reach out to upperclassmen with questions or concerns. They can offer exclusive insights on how to navigate the school year. 

Upperclassmen have not yet experienced the true weight of being role models for the younger students. Take comfort in the fact that you can make a difference in their high school journeys simply by reaching out. Let underclassmen know that you are here for them. Leaving a positive impact can be as easy as offering an encouraging smile or asking someone about their day. 

While the underclassmen lean on us, seniors might wonder who they can turn to when they don’t have the answers. The answer is clear: count on Harker’s faculty and staff, who have stood by us throughout our time at this school.

Harker teachers, the backbone of our community, worked tirelessly to provide a safe learning environment in which we can continue to thrive. Your resilience has not gone unnoticed. While we transition back into the ‘old normal’, continue to watch over us. In turn, we will strive to uphold the tenets of the Harker community. 

Follow the outlined safety guidelines in place. Wear masks indoors. Stay home if presenting any symptoms of COVID-19. Do your best to maintain the safe atmosphere at Harker. 

In a time of isolation, we remained steadfast. In this new chapter, we will continue to face each challenge head on and help one another move forward. Welcome home.