The cheer team continues to practice at school as usual, just with added precautions and safety procedures due to COVID-19.

“We follow the guidelines set by the district,” Coach Hannah Smith said. “Currently, we are to socially distance as much as possible and take temperatures at the start of practice. I have a log I have to keep every practice and ask the team members if they have any COVID-19-like symptoms. The athletes also wear masks unless they’re exerting themselves, for example when stunting, running, or tumbling.”

Because of the rules the district has provided, being able to visit other schools and participate in activities away from campus are prohibited.

“Due to COVID-19, we are unable to travel,” Smith said. “There is also no fund-raising allowed, so it is preventing us from funding our program the way we would like to. Hopefully we can soon. We really need mats for the athletes.”

Freshman Suriel Ramos said he’s used to the new schedule.

“We meet for practice on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays,” he said. “On Mondays and Wednesdays we meet at the cafeteria and practice in the grass area right outside. On Fridays we meet and practice in the gym. The only time it changes is if someone gets sick, which means we have to cancel practice for a certain period of time.”

While these rules may keep the team from doing certain things, Ramos said the team is up to the challenge.

“When we do wear our masks we have to breathe a little heavier than usual since the mask is covering both our mouth and nose, but it’s nothing we can’t handle,” Ramos said.

By Reela Schwind