Jessica Lander - Teaching in the Global Pandemic - Lowell, MA USA

The teacher shares experiences from teaching immigrant and refugee students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially on a research fellowship, the teacher returned to a virtual classroom in 2020, facing challenges like internet access and student well-being. To support students, the teacher distributed mint plants and encouraged community projects. Despite difficulties, students achieved remarkable things, highlighting systemic inequalities and their resilience.

What was the teacher's focus during her research fellowship before the pandemic?

• Innovative teaching methods

• Immigrant education

• Environmental education

• Technology in classrooms

What major challenge did students face during the pandemic according to the teacher?

• Overcrowded classrooms

• Internet access issues

• Lack of textbooks

• Shortage of teachers

How did the teacher try to support her students' social-emotional needs during remote learning?

• By sending them books

• By organizing online games

• By providing online counseling

• By giving them mint plants

What was the purpose of the mint plant initiative?

• To teach students about gardening

• To provide a science project

• To create a shared experience

• To improve air quality

What did the students publish in the fall?

• A novel

• A cookbook

• A science journal

• A poetry collection

What was the focus of the students' semester-long project?

• Technology and innovation

• Sports and fitness

• Community issues

• Art and culture

What project did the seminar students contribute to?

• The Art and Culture Festival

• The Science Fair Initiative

• The We Are America Project

• The Global Education Project