Lessons From the Field: Catholic School Educators and COVID-19

• In Event: Working Papers Studying New Approaches in Catholic Education

Abstract

Skilled teachers are accustomed to predictable expectations and outcomes in the familiar contexts of classrooms; yet, COVID-19 undermined the ability of teachers to plan.
This paper presents the experiences of a group of 32 urban Catholic school educators in their transition to online instruction during the pandemic. Qualitative data analysis yielded several emerging themes around crisis-planning, implementing online learning platforms, needs-assessment, communication with parents, and use of social media. Specific recommendations from participants in each of these areas are outlined. Implications for Catholic school administrators and faculty, graduate teacher training programs, and policymakers in responding to crises like the current pandemic are discussed.

Authors

• Myra Reynoso, Boston College

• Kierstin M Giunco, Boston College

• Audrey Anne Friedman, Boston College

• Charles Tower Cownie, Boston College

• Cristina Joan Hunter, Boston College