The disruptions to schooling caused by the coronavirus pandemic made 2020 an especially difficult year for children and their parents. But what's it been like for the teachers? The Other Side talked to East Linden elementary kindergarten teacher Deborah Staples about her experiences as an educator during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Staples says it was hard for her not being in the classroom with the children. Although she believes students do best when they are learning in-person, holding classes remotely revealed insights about her students and their situations that she might not have discovered otherwise.

Staples shares what it's been like trying to get six-year-olds to keep their masks on, and the ongoing challenge of keeping them safe and socially distanced. And she opens up about concerns she had for her own safety after returning to the classroom.

Finally, Staples offers advice for parents struggling to comfort and assist their children during this challenging time.