The purpose of the article is to reveal the features of changes in the perceptions and behavior of various groups in the education system during the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors analyzed the results of two focus groups conducted in the summer of 2021. Interns of the Scientifi c and Educational Regional Center for Monitoring Research, Gagarin SSTU. As a result, diff erences in the perception of social isolation by students living with families and single people were found. It became possible to bring together the lessons of the pandemic for civil society and various social cohorts, including families raising children with disabilities. Regardless of the development of the situation, with an optimistic attitude and the support of loved ones, you can cope with the diffi culties that have arisen. The pandemic exacerbated inequality and social problems, but at the same time acted as a catalyst for positive changes in social reality.