Many things are different during this global pandemic then the last one of this magnitude 102 years ago. 

Among them: technology. 

In many ways, technology has allowed the world to go on in some semblance of normalcy. And nowhere is that more apparent than in education. 

When schools abruptly closed at the onset of the coronavirus pandemic last March, few schools had plans to move forward in the event of something like this happening. School districts scrambled to develop continuity of education plans so students could complete the school year. 

For the 2020-21 school year, the interest in remote learning has exploded. In fact, some states are reporting a 75 percent increase in home schooling applications for this school year. Even microschooling popularity is taking off. 

Here in northwest Pennsylvania, students who opt out of in-person teaching (where it is happening) do not have a shortage of options. Every district in the region has either a virtual academy, a live-stream of in-person teaching, or both. 

Of course, there are pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to enroll your child in remote learning. Epidemiologist Dr. Becky Dawson shares some advice on remote learning, as well as some ways for students to maintain safe social interaction. 

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