How has the atmosphere of the school changed in "eight days after"? How does Dr. Hyde address Alaska's death?

When classes resume, the atmosphere has changed - everyone is much quieter, and Miles notices the silence that used to be filled by the talkative Alaska. In World Religion class, Dr. Hyde posts the question Alaska asked in her final on the board - "How will we ever get out of this labyrinth of suffering?" - and says it will remain on the board for the whole semester.