The U.S. Department of Education reports that lack of focus and attention among K–12 students in public schools remains a significant issue post-COVID-19. According to a survey by the National Center for Education Statistics, 75 percent of public schools faced moderate to severe lack of focus among students in the previous academic year. Additionally, 83 percent of school districts believe that the lasting effects of the pandemic are still impacting the socioemotional development of students.
The survey also revealed that 26 percent of school leaders noted a severe negative impact on education due to students’ lack of focus, despite efforts to provide high-dose tutoring for lost learning during the pandemic. Furthermore, disciplinary issues such as weapon confiscation, substance removal, and cyberbullying incidents were prevalent in schools.
Schools are struggling to address the ongoing impact of the pandemic on students, as noted by NCES Commissioner Peggy Carr. Jennifer Glenn, president of the Ohio School Psychologists Association, points out that issues with student performance and behavior are symptoms of a more profound problem in the post-pandemic learning era.
Glenn highlights the national shortage of school psychologists as a contributing factor to the lack of understanding regarding students’ distractions. She also mentions the negative impact of excessive screen time on students’ attention spans. Suggestions for addressing these challenges include reinstating recess and free time, implementing more collaborative and student-led lessons, and incorporating mindfulness practices in the curriculum.
The National Association of School Psychologists recommends a standard ratio of one psychologist per 500 students, but many states fall short of this goal. Glenn advocates for improved mental wellness services in public schools and urges educators to prioritize social-emotional learning to address declining social skills and classroom disruptions.
As educators continue to navigate these challenges, Glenn emphasizes the importance of ongoing research and efforts to support students’ holistic development in the post-pandemic education landscape. Please rewrite this sentence.
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