Since the closure of all Kansas schools on March 17 through the end of the school year, De Soto High School students have had to find creative ways to fill the large gaps that a lack of traditional school has left them with.

Some students, such as senior Emma Blom, have explained how they have been spending their new free time.

“The first few days of quarantine, I did a lot of baking and cooking,” Blom said. “I made cookies, made dinner and I even made jam. I have also done some cleaning and reorganizing.”

Other students, such as senior Cameron Allen, have spent a lot of their time online with their friends to stay connected.

“I’ve mostly been playing video games since Animal Crossing just came out … I’ve been forced to have game nights with my friends over Zoom, and it’s definitely different,” Allen said.

DHS students, such as junior Alyssa Waltrip, have found other ways as well to stay connected with their friends.

“I’m still finding ways to be with friends, like driving somewhere that we can hang out while staying far enough apart,” Waltrip said. “I’ve also been FaceTiming them and watching movies with them. There’s an app called Rave that lets you watch movies and shows with your friends at the same time. It has overall not been too bad, and I haven’t lost touch with people.”

Although many students have adjusted to the new lifestyle, many still miss some aspects of their old habits.

“Surprisingly, I miss having a reason to get up earlier,” Allen said. “My sleep schedule is all out of whack.”

“I also miss going to school and seeing and hearing the noise in the main hallway or anticipating the walk with certain people to my classes,” Blom said.

However, some have grown to appreciate the benefits quarantine has brought them.

“I appreciate the fact that we sort of get a head start on what our first semester of college will look like,” Blom said. “We learn now how to manage our time and what we value, which will be really important later.”

Since many families are stuck at home for most of the day, many students’ family dynamics have shifted.

“It’s been nice seeing my family more and now they have to hang out with me because it’s not like they can go anywhere,” Waltrip said.

As Blom spends her last quarter of high school from her living room couch, she reminds everyone to take this time in quarantine as an opportunity.

“I definitely recommend doing something you wouldn’t usually do,” Blom said. “Like right now, I’m doing a puzzle and I hate puzzles, but it could help you find a new hobby you didn’t know you have. Don’t be afraid to go outside either — it is still allowed as long as everyone follows the six-feet-apart rule … lastly, spend this time with family. That is the most important take away I have. In a few months, some of us will be hours away from them, so having this time to eat dinner together or play games will be memories that last forever.”

Blom also elaborates on the importance of positivity and relationships during this time.

“Although all of this sucks, we will get through it,” Blom said. “It is a learning curve for us all and if a relationship is important to you, then maintain it and reach out and talk to people.”