Heather Sanguinetti, mother of Anna Sanguinetti, ’21

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

Heather Sanguinetti (HS): I think it is a very wise decision to extend the distance learning. I agree with what was said in the letter notification that it would disrupt kids to have to try to figure everything out now, or within the next couple of weeks. To be able to adjust to going back to school so I think it was a very wise decision for Notre Dame and I’m very proud of Notre Dame. They’ve done a very good job at everything with this whole COVID situation and have kept parents informed, and I’m very proud of them.

TC: Would you prefer that your daughters were going to school on campus right now?

HS: No, I would not want my children to go to school right now on campus. There’s too many variables. Also, so many distractions with having to clean desks and wear masks, making sure they’re all doing the right thing, along with worrying about being exposed. So being home has alleviated a lot of the stress. And I think the children are better off.

TC: How do you feel about paying tuition for online school?

HS: I have no problem with paying tuition for online school. They’re still getting a good education. I’m proud of Notre Dame, my children are always doing very well, so I’m fine with what we all have to do these days, and support the school.

TC: How has your daughter staying at home affected your home and work life?

HS:  It really hasn’t affected anything. I personally have had to change for work so I’m available to my children now. And we all have set up our own little areas to do our work, and everybody seems to be doing fine so it really hasn’t affected me too much, it’s had me not have to drive the girls to school. So that has been one less thing to do.