Aquinas Landmark Spring 2021

OVERFLOW Adhering to social distancing requirements in the classroom is an effective method for keeping our students and faculty safe, however, it does create an issue of space. With six feet of distance between desks, the number of students that can physically fit in a classroom is limited. To remedy this, Aquinas is maximizing space in other areas of the building for what we call overflow. In an instance when there are more students in a class than safely- distanced seats, teachers select students to report to overflow and from that location, they login to class virtually. Aquinas implemented a 1:1 technology program this school year, providing each student with a Dell laptop, thus making overflow possible. “One of the biggest advantages to being an Aquinas student is that we still get to come in to the building every single day, and so do our teachers,” said Aquinas senior Alivia Gorre. “You may be in overflow for a certain class at some point during the week, but you can still see your teachers during a free period if you missed something or you’re having difficulties.” Students attending class virtually from the overflow space in the Field House. SCIENCE LABS Making sure that education is equitable for all students whether in-person or distance learning, is a major consideration for teachers when planning their lessons. Science Department Chair and AP Biology teacher Ashley Gionta ‘06 says this has changed the way students participate in science labs. While there have been opportunities for students to participate in hands-on labs, classes also rely on the use of virtual labs. Using interactive science simulations from resources like Gizmos, and online college labs provided by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, teachers like Mrs. Gionta are able to provide students with powerful new learning experiences that help them learn scientific concepts, practice scientific methods, and better understand the nature of science. AP Biology students explore osmosis and diffusion in a hands-on lab earlier this year. 9 PASSING TIME For some time now, if you remembered when the stairwells were either up or down at Aquinas, you were showing your age. This year, however, Aquinas has returned to the old adage, “up on the outside, down on the inside.” Stairwells are one directional once again, which is not just nostalgic for many alumni, but an effective way to manage traffic flow and improve the overall health and safety of everyone in the building. Stickers placed at the bottom of each stairwell remind students which way is up and which way is down.