Goodbye 2020, Hello 2021

The Year of the Rat has been a challenging time for many of us. What began with festivities and celebrations, carried on with quarantine, online classes, and uncertainty. Nevertheless, before the middle of the year, Georgia School was back on track with on-campus classes and the entire teacher body present in Ningbo! It was a time of adaptation: new rules, procedures, and strict health measures put into place every day.  As mentioned by Grade 6 teacher, Mrs. Nida Ahangarzadeh: "2020 was a year of awakening. It surprised us all and forced everyone to face realities that we had previously set aside. Even though there were disunifying forces in the world, it was amazing to see the unifying forces and kindness that emerged from the difficult times."

Working together and supporting each other throughout the past months was essential for everyone in Georgia School. AEA Coordinator, Mrs. Rozita Petri shared that, "the year 2020 has been filled with so many unprecedented events, mostly a mixed bag of grief and hope for the future. It showed us how we need to come together and cooperate with each other, as humanity undergoes so many hardships and tribulations and that only unity can bring peace and hope to the world. I am so fortunate to be part of an amazing team of educators at GSN, who came together from all over the globe, amidst these confusing times to unite and assist our students to be the best version of themselves and to move forward with their goals and dreams." The relationship between students and teachers is also an important factor for a healthy environment at GSN, and coming back together brought feelings of joy to everyone. Grade 1 teacher Ms. Suzanna Fernandes recalled how "2020 was a rollercoaster of emotions! One thing I’ll never forget about this year: the excitement I felt when we were able to go back to the school campus and I could interact with my students in person after months away. Bring it on, 2021! I’m Georgia!"