Spring is when you feel like whistling or at least not sleeping all day.

"It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you've got it, you want—oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heartache, you want it so!"
― Mark Twain

"Do you remember the Shire, Mr. Frodo? It'll be spring soon. And the orchards will be in blossom. And the birds will be nesting in the hazel thicket. And they'll be sowing the summer barley in the lower fields... and eating the first of the strawberries with cream. Do you remember the taste of strawberries?"
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King


I love transitional seasons. Being born in April, I think I am hard-wired to love spring (with fall being a close second). Granted, it won't officially be spring for another two weeks(Spring Equinox); I can feel it coming. In the Christian/ western tradition, spring equals new beginnings, rebirth, and nature's awakening. 

Personally, it is easier for me to wake up in the mornings, to get outdoors for a dose of sun, and to stay up later; I feel more productive. 

I guess the Turkish Ministry of Education agrees with me. Monday, all grades will start back to in-person school. I will teach in the classroom two days a week (hybrid model). More than 50% of the students have signed up for in-person learning (it has been a year since they have been in the classroom). As I am sure many of you know there are still many unanswered questions, and there will be many issues that arise as we start. 

•  balancing the engagement of the students who are home and those who are in the classroom
• internet/ wifi connection 
• decreasing the amount of screentime 
• encouraging socialization with proper social distancing 
• proper ventilation vs. weather 
• And more ...

As many reach the first anniversary of this modern Pandemic, remember to wash your hands well and often, wear your mask correctly, and watch for SCIENTIFIC updates.