Beginning on Thursday, Oct. 15, phase two of eLearning was put into action for Broward County Public Schools. Students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School endured every rule and procedure that had been heavily discussed. The Broward County district prioritized the safety of their students and staff in their guidelines. However, now that the guidelines are in place, the teachers and students have mixed opinions on public school safety due to COVID-19.

When given the choice to return to school, the students at MSD had to make a very difficult decision based on both mental and physical health. Those who chose to return to school had no idea what to expect. Since the beginning of face-to-face learning, some students have reported feeling safe while learning on campus.

“Overall, I felt really safe at school,” sophomore Sofia Roosli said. “From what I experienced, I don’t think I’m at risk [of catching the coronavirus].”

Although some students feel safe, others are disappointed with the new layout and safety measures being enacted at school. This was expected as many students are eager to socialize after doing remote learning at home for multiple months.

“I figured that the experience would be different than that of home and that I would be able to concentrate better and focus on lectures. There are definitely less things to distract yourself with; however, I still don’t feel enticed to participate,” junior Kaori Nakamura said. “It is the same exact thing, only with way more restrictions and time limitations.”

On the other hand, the new regulations have been supported by several students, teachers and staff members at MSD.

“I am satisfied with measures that have been taken in regards to my safety. Desks were arranged and marked for teachers and necessary cleaning supplies were delivered in advance of students arriving,” math teacher Micheal Powell said. “Our administrative staff is always well-prepared, in my opinion.”

Other students, teachers and staff members have depreciated the new regulations because they feel uncomfortable, though they understand the importance of these guidelines.

“Teaching with a mask on all day is difficult, but absolutely necessary for the safety of the staff and students,” American History and AP Psychology teacher Michael Marino said.

Overall, the return to on campus learning has been highly debated between students and staff, but most are just happy to be back and socializing with others. As of now, the feeling of safety on the MSD campus remains ambivalent.