By Jill Harlow – Loveland, Colorado … Campion Academy welcomed 142 students back to campus for the new school year on Sunday, August 9.

Students and staff are following coronavirus safety guidelines by wearing masks and social distancing both during the in-person classes and throughout campus.

“I’m glad to be back on campus and see all of my friends again,” commented Sami Hodges, senior. “I’m thankful that the Campion Academy staff has made it possible for us to have in-person classes because having to do school online wasn’t ideal.”

Besides wearing masks and social distancing, everyday activities look a bit different this school year. Registration and move-in were done by appointment and spread out over three days to avoid large groups being together. All chapels and group gatherings are being held outside on center campus, and desks are spaced apart in classrooms. Even the cafeteria has spaced out tables six-feet apart and is only accommodating fewer than 50 people at a time.

Despite all the regulations, students are feeling positive about returning. Haley Enochs, senior, explained, “Sure it’s uncomfortable to wear a mask and not be right next to other people, but in the end, it is worth it to get that face-to-face communication with my teachers and friends.”

Students were welcomed into the new school year at the not-so-traditional “Handshake” event. The Student Association (SA) officers provided cut-out paper hands on popsicle sticks for staff and students to use to “high-five” each other in the line that stretched out to circle the entire green on center campus. Classes still competed against each other in creative games that allowed for social distancing while building camaraderie.

During worship, Kylie Wehling, SA Spiritual vice-president introduced the theme for the year: Rise. The theme was inspired by the verse Micah 7:8, “Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light” (NIV).

“Our SA team chose this theme because we want students to go to God to be able to rise above the circumstances, we have this year,” said Tiffany Dien, senior.

–Jill Harlow is communication director for Campion Academy; photos supplied