Be flexible in the timing and goals

Just like in person, each group will show up with different energy. Sometimes a group is fully communicating through the chat feature. Roll with it! Success and engagement will look different across each group.

“Sometimes as facilitators we don't always accomplish every single goal we come into a virtual session with and that's okay. What's been most effective and meaningful for our students is being able to connect with one another, have our thoughts heard and validated and feel like we're apart of a team.” -Andrea Romesser

“The time it takes is the time it takes. In a virtual setting we have the ability to show up for our students more consistently and over a longer period of time. We are not the "traditional" school most students are used to and because of that we have the ability to reach students in ways regular school does not. When we show up virtually week after week with these students’ we can be a part of a longer process for schools and students. We become something our students can to look forward to showing up for. Our impact is then on the forefront of students’ mind for a longer period. The time it takes is the time it takes.” -Chris Doyle

Connection is key

This year has shown a real lack of in-person connection and communication, especially for students. Whether a class is newly formed or has been together for years, the space to talk, share, and work together is an important factor.

“I've learned that students are craving connection and CBOBS is providing a space for students to build a network of support. We've rebuilt our program from the ground up, because now more than ever our community needs a space to reflect and share, so that they too can realize they are capable of far more than they know.” -Rice Ermilio

“Connecting in a virtual setting works and is so important for students. What's been especially energizing is hearing directly from some students how much they value and appreciate having a space to reflect, play, and share about themselves.” -Mary Odell

Make time for fun

Games, games, games. Whether a quick warm up game to get the group involved, or a group initiative asking groups to utilize newly taught communication skills, the content needs to be fun and engaging.

“Each session we deliver where we can create a space where students can feel comfortable, socialize, and have fun is a success in itself.

Times are hard, and giving our students a respite from the challenges they are facing is priority number one. And, of course, the outcome-oriented effectiveness of a program hinges on students' ability to enjoy themselves while engaging.” -Kyle Duffey

Our students are resilient!

This is not be a new learning, but rather an affirmation with every session. At so many levels, this year is one of challenge for our students; a global pandemic, continued expressions of racial inequality, virtual or distance education. Students continue to show up to sessions and find ways to engage.   

“I appreciate and admire our students. Even in a virtual setting, students are students Their energy is hopeful, capable and inspiring. I applaud the way they set their own alarms in the morning, and resiliently re-enter the zoom call after being repeatedly kicked out. Our students are amazing, and I'm thankful so all the people at CBOBS who worked under unthinkable conditions so that we could keep doing the work we believe in.” -Rice Ermilio

“Students are still willing to be vulnerable virtually during debriefs. This was something that took me aback at first because I anticipated the virtual element creating a barrier to this. Instead our content and lesson design create an environment virtually where students feel empowered to share and be vulnerable around each other.” -Khai Overton

“My favorite part of virtual facilitation is being able watch the students (and Teachers) step out of their comfort zone and try something new. Being able to work with a group of students over multiple sessions has allowed us to get to know them and build their comfort and trust with us. I love seeing a student that has not interacted or spoken much in the earlier sessions take those steps to getting their voice heard and becoming a part of the team. The students are going through so much already it feels so great to see them smiling and having fun!” -Avi Rubinsky

“Our students are RESILIENT! I have been hugely impressed by the way so many of our students have taken this challenging year as a way to grow and learn more about who they are. It's been inspiring to see their reflections and their ability to adapt.” -Andrea Romesser