Virtual Group Helps Students Navigate Middle School Amid COVID-19

PLAINFIELD, IL — The coronavirus pandemic has posed challenges for middle school students as they adapt to remote learning and getting used to the idea of not seeing their friends. To help them cope during these unprecedented times, a Plainfield School District 202 staff has created a special group.

John F. Kennedy Middle School assistant principal of student services, Amber Nickel, is continuing a group she created last fall to help students navigate the COVID-19 pandemic via Zoom video chats or phone calls.

The group, called Lunch with the Ladies…Where We Spill the Tea, is open to both male and female students.

"The premise is to chat about middle school life with topics related to friendships, handling gossip, a timeout from the café crowds, current events and social media," Nickel said.

During lunch period, groups of students meet with her to discuss various issues afflicting them.

"We talk a lot about middle school problems because to them, in the world of middle school, their problems are big problems," she said.

Through the group sessions, Nickel said she helps her students feel comfortable talking to a trusted adult about the problems they are facing.

"I help them feel comfortable to talk to me by relating to them, being an active listener and explaining to them that we have all been in their shoes," she said. "I hope to build students’ confidence, self-esteem, and advocacy."

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