On December 8, 2020, FTHS changed from the hybrid program to full-virtual. Most students enjoyed the hybrid environment, however, the number of COVID-19 cases grew too large within the school. Charles B. Sampson, Ed.D., the superintendent sent a letter the night before the 8th informing the parents and student body that starting from Tuesday, the school district would host only virtual classes until January 4th. Now that FRHSD is heading back to hybrid, many new precautions will have to be taken in order to prevent a widespread outbreak in the school. 

From December to January, the number of cases in Monmouth County per day has generally been worse. In December, the highest number of cases per day was 484 positive cases, which occurred on the 16th. Conversely, January so far has brought a high of 643 positive cases which was on the 8th. January also had several days where the total number of cases was over 500, which did not happen in December. In fact, most days in December were below 400. 

Since students were re-introduced to in-school learning, teachers and other staff members of FTHS have been more strict about social distancing and sanitation guidelines in addition to the schoolwide guidelines. On the first day back, many teachers reiterated that social distancing must be followed. This is in order to remind students to interact with each other to prevent the possible spread of COVID-19. Aside from this, many students are still thoroughly following procedures such as wiping their desks with a sanitizing wipe and keeping their face coverings on. It is imperative that the students and staff continue to adhere to the COVID-19 rules to continue the privilege of the hybrid program.

I interviewed one of the freshmen students named Michael Marion who is currently in the hybrid program, in order to see what he thought about the situation.

What do you think about going back to hybrid?

I’m excited that we’re going back to school. It’s really fun seeing friends and just seeing people.

Have students’ behaviors changed from before winter break?

Overall, no, I don’t think so. Everyone seems the same, although I’ve only been in for a few days.

Are there any new safety precautions you think that the school should add?

No, I think that the school is doing an awesome job at protecting us from COVID-19.

Is hybrid or virtual more beneficial to you and why?

I’m going to say hybrid because I like to socialize. But, I also like to be home since you have so much more freedom.

Do you think that anything will change after the vaccine has been distributed?

Definitely, at least the two cohorts will go into school together. Perhaps even the whole school coming back in the future.

With the introduction of the COVID-19 vaccines being tested by pharmaceutical companies worldwide, it will hopefully allow students to go back to full in-school learning by the end of the school year.