When someone thinks of American schooling, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the Friday night lights, the annual homecoming, or the safe environment that students spend most of their days getting an education.

Unfortunately for most high school students, these days were cut short because of the Covid-19 pandemic that has been raging over America for the past 2 years, but now, highschool students are not only returning to school, but returning to these dances and sports.

“We will progress according to the science and district policy,” football coach Bob Lisher said. “I do believe we as a district and community are doing what we can to make the situation as normal as possible for our students.”

One example of normalcy this year is the Bulldog Football team. With a new coach and some new freshmen faces, the Bulldogs are looking to secure some hard earned victories this year.

“I am excited to have a more ‘normal’ fall sports season,” Activities Director Gary Stevanus said. “That being said, the Coronavirus could possibly force us to make changes as the season progresses.”

Last year players wore masks, had to deal with spacing, and had small practice groups. This year students and athletes have the option of going one hundred percent mask free throughout the season.

Teachers are still encouraged to promote the use of social distancing and wearing masks. 

“In the meantime, I encourage everyone to try to stay spaced out as much as possible,” Stevanus said. “Wear masks if or when appropriate, and practice good hygiene. Hopefully we will be able to continue with a normal fall sports schedule.”

“Things are a little different this year with just not as many protocols and things, but we’re still getting to compete and do the things we did last year,” cross country coach Mike Spielman said. 

School nurse Lisa Pattrick is working to test as many symptomatic student athletes as possible with the new rapid tests that the school district has access to this year.

“The students’ testing is going to be more beneficial for them to play,” Pattrick said. “So we do have that option for students to come in every morning and test if they are in close contact with a positive case but the best thing to do would be to quarantine for the minimum 10 days..”