Editor’s Note: When Everyone Became a Teacher

Abstract

While I’ve always considered being a children’s librarian as being a teacher, I never expected how much impact the word “teacher” would have in spring 2020. With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic and school closures, many of us became full-time teachers to our own children. And that didn’t come without its challenges.

And while schools and teachers did offer online assistance, many parents—like me!—struggled to keep thoughtful and effective learning going every day.

Cooking class? Sure! I can make cupcakes! Science? Buy a tomato plant and watch it grow! Physical education meant a brisk walk around the neighborhood.