Raise your hand if this back-to-school season is different than any other you’ve experienced before.

Most likely, everyone would raise their hand.

We are less than a month into the 2020–21 school year, and a lot has already happened. Some colleges scheduled in-person classes, only to cancel them two weeks later after COVID-19 outbreaks.

In K–12 schools, some parents have formed “pandemic pods.” These small learning groups meet outside the classroom and are led by a teacher. At the same time, other students struggle to access online learning.

In some schools across the country, students are posting photos of crowded hallways. Many of these images show little social distancing as students move between classes.

We’ve never seen anything like this before, however, we are all living through a pandemic. So how can students, parents and teachers succeed? By communicating—more than ever before.

Circumstances have changed significantly—income, ability, health, location, just to name a few. That’s why being transparent and communicating (to a level you’re comfortable with) is imperative. If you’re a parent who is an essential worker, it could be helpful for your students’ teachers to know so they understand how your schedule impacts your availability to aid with schoolwork. If someone in your home has been impacted by COVID, explaining the health situation will help explain a missed Zoom call or two.

As a college student, especially as a freshman, communication with your professors, regardless of location, will be the key to a successful school year and college career. Teachers and professors understand health considerations are more important than ever before. Regardless if it’s your health or a family member’s, a quick email to them can provide context.

You’ll see many COVID-19-related posts on how to make the most of our current situation, especially during the school year. As you’re reading, remember one important thing: COMMUNICATE!