Connolly: When times are tough, Apache Junction is strong

You learn the most about a community when going through tough times. It’s hard to imagine it will get tougher than it is right now with the COVID-19 pandemic.

This disease has altered everything we have taken for granted. You can’t walk into a store without a mask. We can’t visit loved ones in the hospital and our children can’t go to their school for fear they may contract or spread this potentially deadly virus. But, when times are tough, AJ is strong.

I am so impressed by how the community has jumped in to support our school district. Apache Junction Unified School District was the first to open in the state with online learning back in July. Since then, I have heard so many positive, heart-warming stories from parents about how they are adjusting to this new school year. It’s been hard for some, but we are making it work. We are fortunate to have such highly trained educators for our children. Our children are receiving a rigorous education, and that is what is important.

Even during “normal” times, our great community organizations, like the Boys and Girls Club, Apache Junction’s Parks and Recreation, and The Little Prospector daycare are superstars for what they offer. Now, they are super-heroes. They opened their doors to support families whose children needed a safe location to do their virtual learning. The school district uses para-professionals and specialists to support the online sessions at these locations. This is what makes Apache Junction so special. We support each other in times of need.

It won’t be long before our children can get back to their schools. They may still have to wear masks, social-distance and even continue using their laptops, but they will be better students due to this experience.

We will get through this terrible time and be better for it. Because in Apache Junction, we always come together unlike any other community. I am so proud to be a member of this community. We are AJ strong.

Editor’s note: Chelsea Connolly is an Apache Junction Unified School District Governing Board member. She can be reached at cconnolly@goaj.org.