Plainfield in the last three weeks experienced a flurry of changes in the village society its developed. From the beginning of COVID-19 at the dawn of 2020 to the global media, and finally to the United States today, the place we’re in right now is fantastical.
At the start of COVID-19 concerns in February, from my perspective, the virus was almost thrown around as a joke referencing people who may or may not had a slight cough or full on flu symptoms. Everything was relaxed to a degree, until March came around the corner.
The first cases in Illinois were surfacing, and community transmission became apparent. The virus was on the loose. Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois decided on March 10 to shut down schools and limit gatherings. The state government attempted to join the battle against COVID-19 with its various mitigation measures.
From the middle of March to days forward, it became apparent Plainfield was in for the same treatment from the virus as all other areas. In reaction, Plainfield’s Mayor Michael P. Collins held virtual updates on the village’s next moves. Many other officials from fire departments and law enforcement took part in the public briefings as well.
All the while the COVID-19 pandemic surged in Cook County and crept along the border of Will County, panic buying dominated grocery stores—including Plainfield. After a series of visits to local stores such as Tony’s, Jewel Osco, and Aldi’s, the water shortage induced by panicked consumers seemed evident. The same goes for toilet paper–of all items to purchase.
On March 20, effectively reinforcing mitigation measures, Governor Pritzker ordered a stay-at-home policy for all Illinoisans. All non-essential businesses would close while other businesses considered essential such as healthcare, delivery service, and drive-thru fast food would remain open. The original plan ended the stay-at-home order on April 7 for Illinois, but on March 31 Pritzker extended the order to April 30.
The stay-at-home order extended to April 30 seemed almost expected as other states followed the same plan and Illinois had not reached its peak yet. Plainfield itself hasn’t reached its peak yet, seeing around only 40 confirmed cases.
As the COVID-19 pandemic winds out, students at South have seen a shift in learning. Now, at their very fingertips is the knowledge offered by standard curriculum in the classroom. Teachers use applications such as Google Classroom, AP Classroom, and EdPuzzle to communicate lessons and expectations for their pupils.
It’s amazing to see how fast teachers have adapted to the crisis. Many are going the extra mile to post videos explaining elements of the class’ current studies whether they surround a book or a certain theory. Educators have certainly risen to the occasion.