New Curriculum by Lori-Anne Noyahr

April 22, 2023
Poem title: New Curriculum Poet: Lori-Anne Noyahr Poem: Post-pandemic, I inquired what would be prioritized when they return to class — literacy or history, science, or math? Where had our children fallen farthest behind? The youngest yearn to explore the world beyond their fathers or their mothers but fear to speak with one another They do not yet know masked strangers can bear smiles, make jokes, spread cheer that we hid our faces from our neighbours out of love, not fear and that laughter can transmit through cloth to bind together the lone, and lost. We must start slowly, in small collaborations— even how to throw and catch a ball. No learning can be done until we cultivate joy and belonging among them all. End of poem. Credits and bio: Copyright © Lori-Anne Noyahr Lori-Anne Noyahr has a passion for travel, exploring different cultures and seeking the commonalities that bind people together. She currently resides in Toronto where she practises anesthesiology and enjoys everyday adventures with her husband and two daughters.