Chaney’s Kearns: Ready to Deliver Full Curriculum Online

Rob Kearns, principal at Chaney High School in Youngstown, is coming back strong. You can read more about Chaney at its website.

What are some ways the COVID-19 outbreak has affected your organization, and how is it rebounding?

The COVID-19 outbreak has had a huge impact on Chaney High School.  When the virus caused schools to close, our student body was clapping for the basketball team as they were preparing to board the bus to a regional semifinal tournament game. The game was canceled, and this was the last time our student body was able to be in school.  The remainder of the 2019-2020 academic school year was completed through distance learning activities.  

How has the outbreak affected your personal life?

Our family has tried to make the best of the situation. We have spent time taking family hikes in the outdoors and daily walks in the neighborhood. Our three children keep us busy even when sports and activities are cancelled or altered. I think my 8-year-old daughter Rose secretly hopes we will lock down again so we can have more family movie nights.

What steps are you taking to come back strong?

To come back strong the Chaney High School staff spent the majority of the summer learning best uses of distance-learning technology.  The Chaney staff wanted to ensure that we were prepared to deliver a full curriculum and support for students in an online setting.  We worked with the local health department to safely bring fall sports back to school.  Our boys and girls were all able to complete their fall seasons, although our student body could not attend the games. This was a point of pride for our school.

What advice are you sharing with the people you love?

I would like to remind everyone that we have an opportunity to take care of each other during this difficult time.  I would like to remind everyone to reach out to family members and neighbors.  If you are going to the store, see what you can pick up for family and neighbors who are compromised and should stay home.  When life slows down, use the opportunity to strengthen your relationships with family and friends, even if it is virtual.