School starts August 31^st!  We are busy getting ready to launch the best school year ever.   As we all embark into this never seen before terrain, I encourage you to embrace the limitless possibilities of greatness that are available to us all.  Staff are busy learning best practices for virtual learning and how to best utilize the technology/platforms for instruction.  Here are a few tips to assist you with making the start of the year a huge success:

• Check your email, school website, and social media regularly for updates.
• Set schedules (bedtimes, study time, reading time, meals, recreation, etc.). Many of us have not followed a rigid schedule for some time so this will be an adjustment.  School will be in session from 8:15am-3:12pm each day for learners.  The “bell schedule” will be distributed during the technology pick-up and posted on our website for your convenience.
• Create a learning space in your home that is designated solely for school time. Limiting distractions for the learner will help them to focus and engage with the teacher and peers.  It is also beneficial to signal in the brain a separation of school and home.
• Start each day by taking a deep breath. Deep inhales and exhales throughout the day can relieve stress.  Staying calm, offering grace and practicing humility will take us all a long way.

Virtual Learning

We will use a blended learning model with Microsoft Teams being the main platform for virtual learning.  What is blended learning?  Blended learning provides synchronous learning and asynchronous learning to better aid all learners.  Synchronous learning will allow students to receive real time instruction from their teachers and ask any questions they may have in mastering content.  Asynchronous will be additional support and resources to assist students when they need a reference point to refer back or clarify misunderstandings.  Students and teachers will receive a technology break in between classes. Teachers will list assignments on the Microsoft Teams platform as well as their webpages for parent access.  All grades will be recorded in SIS (Student Information System).  Parents will be able to sign up for parent portal access via SIS and you will be able to monitor grades and attendance for your student.  Teachers will enter at least 2 grades per week in SIS.

If you have any questions regarding your student’s academic progress you are able to email teachers and/or administration with questions.  You should receive a response within 48 hours of your email.  If you do not receive a response, please follow up with a call to make certain the email did not go to spam.  Student attendance will be monitored and tracked daily to make certain that students are engaged and no additional support from the school is needed during virtual learning. 

Still WE Rise,

Jana Haywood, EdD

Principal

Jana.haywood@slps.org