The coronavirus pandemic has forced Americans to stay home for over a month, which has created a positive effect on families in the Holy Cross community.

Students and their families have been spending a lot more time together compared to pre-quarantine, allowing them to do fun activities.

“We have definitely spent more time together during quarantine by watching movies, playing board games, going on walks, and baking,” described sophomore Ella Burke.

Some families are even adopting new family members to add to the fun.

Sophomore Megan Locraft explained her family’s newest additions. “We got ducks which we play with together,” said Locraft.

English teacher Maria Effertz claimed this quarantine may bring some good after all. “I am extremely grateful for this gift,” began Effertz, “it has forced our family to grow closer.”

She has been able to spend more time with her daughter during this time.

“It is a gift because [my husband and I] usually work all day, and now we are able to watch her grow,” Effertz continued.

Effertz added that her family has created a way to ensure that each person is cared for when they need it and offered time alone when necessary.

“We’ve developed a system where we ask each other ‘do you need a hug or space’,” Effertz stated.

Effertz is not the only one feeling thankful for this extended family time.

“I feel as if we have bonded well, especially with everything going on,” assured Locraft, “I think that after quarantine we are going to be really grateful for being able to spend this time together and still have fun.”

The Academy has also done a great job in highlighting activities during quarantine, with family, friends, or individually, in the Senior Spotlights and Faculty Appreciation posts. Activities that were featured include baking and cooking, games, arts and crafts, hiking, and watching shows and movies.