Laconia Sun Noah Lira

Mental health, attitude and behavior shifts make it tougher for schools to tackle learning gaps

BY ROBERTA BAKER, THE LACONIA DAILY SUN Mar 29, 2022

FRANKLIN — Noah Lira took his job as a social studies teacher at Franklin High School to spark enthusiasm for subjects he loves, and to make a difference. Then COVID-19 hijacked the world, taking education with it.

After 18 months of remote and hybrid learning, schools in Franklin and across New Hampshire have returned to in-person learning, with student desks further apart, masks optional, and an edgy mixture of uncertainty, energy, and relief.

Teachers are shouldering wider and deeper loads as they address social, emotional and academic gaps, which time and extra help may narrow. Most impacted are the students – including in how they view themselves, their place in the world, and how they fit back into their school.

In the post-COVID landscape, an attitude shift among students is muting the colors...

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