Allan Gargaritano, Counselor

The Catalyst  (TC): What do you think about the announcement to continue online distance learning until December?

Allan Gargaritano (AG): Personally, I knew at some point, we would find a way back into the building, but I wasn’t really sure when. I think knowing that it was okay for schools to come back wasn’t good for us. It seemed as if we were going to be able to. We’ve trained a lot of the students to kind of have this cohesion consistency for at least two semesters, so I don’t think it makes sense to switch back. I knew it was definitely going to take time to train students and staff to get back into the building, but I think waiting till the end of the semester and sort of next semester, isn’t a good place to start.

(TC): Do you prefer to be online or on campus?

(AG): I personally prefer to be on campus. Having conversations, talking to people, and having easy communication with each other, whether it’s students, teachers, or administrators, was much easier in person. Although, I understand having family and not wanting to get sick. I would love to be in the building, but I also want to be safe and want everyone else to be safe, as well.

(TC): How has online distance learning changed your teaching or counseling?

(AG): It has definitely been a big challenge, like I said, I don’t have the opportunity to say hi to students walking down the hallway. Many students come into the counseling center with some sort of issue. It has been a lot harder for me. I’m trying to be more creative. I am involved in different parts of the school this year. I am a part of the health and wellness board, so I can help the students get support, or just even going into the classrooms and doing some presentations about mental health and things like that. It has definitely taken a hit, but for me it’s all about wanting to be there and showing up for the students, so I’m trying my best.

(TC): How do you feel about teaching on campus with others who might not be that careful about hand washing, mask wearing, or social distancing?

(AG): I think it’s important that everyone plays their part. Everyone’s excited about being back at school, but also really recognizing that it’s a privilege for us, as well. We need to understand the seriousness of why it took so long for us to be back in the building. I’m hoping that when students are back again, as well as teachers and staff, that we do take it seriously because I guess the main thing for me is safety and for students to feel safe at school. I think it’s very important that students follow the rules and guidelines put in place because we’re not really sure how the future can go, but we want to be able to hang out and see each other again. Whatever rules we have to follow, I’m with it.

(TC): How has working from home affected your home or work life?

(AG): It has definitely made me be more organized with my time. I have to be sure to unplug and get outside because I could honestly sit in this seat all day long if I wasn’t being mindful. I think honestly for me checking in with myself, like making sure I eat lunch at one time or making sure I take a break and go outside or eat dinner at the right time. It has definitely made me more self conscious about how my body is reacting.