Written by Tim Schmeckpeper, Assistant Principal
The COVID-19 pandemic has required an unprecedented shift in the way “school” is conducted. Remote learning on this scale is a new frontier for all of us -- students, parents, teachers, and administrators. We will continue to experience the unexpected growing pains of any new endeavor; however, the resilient D’Evelyn community will establish its own rhythm and we will make remote learning meaningful. We are all in this together. The preventative measures of stay-at-home orders, social distancing, and flattening the curve seem to be in a constant state of change. The governor has ordered schools to be closed through at least April 30th. This period of closure may extend even longer, even for the remainder of the current school year. How does one ensure that learning continues as we all settle into the “remote learning” model, perhaps for an extended period of time? If remote learning is to be successful for the long haul, we will need to rely on the partnership between students, parents, teachers, and administrators in creating the best possible learning environment. In working together to access learning, the answer may be as simple as A, B, C. Always read and follow the directions provided by the teacher. D’Evelyn has a rich tradition of high achievement. Our students are result driven. Many students are diligent in checking their Google Classroom to access their daily lesson and complete the assigned task(s). In the rush to complete the task and move onto the next class, MANY students begin work on their assignment without reading and following the directions for that assignment or task. This results in formatting errors and/or considerable time spent on producing work that is not what the assignment called for. If one is confused about the best way to complete an assignment or task, the first step should be to reread the directions. Be ready to set a schedule and stick to it. There is a certain rhythm found in the normal school day: 1st period, 2nd period, 3rd period, lunch, etc.… The routine of the normal school day is familiar and comfortable. Remote learning is new, unpredictable, and perhaps uncomfortable - at least now. The “new normal” will feel more comfortable if one establishes a regular schedule, a regular routine, and a rhythm for learning remotely. Set a wake-up time. Develop a schedule for accessing the learning materials for each class. Don’t skip meals. Turn the computer off at a set time. Schedule break times. Exercise. Sleep. Stay healthy. Take care of yourself. Communication is a two-way street. Remote learning is new for all of us. Will there be frustrations? Most certainly! Will there be times when directions are not clear? Absolutely! Will some of the tasks or assignments require technology that may not be readily available to some members of our community? Undoubtedly! As stated before, we are all in this together. One will find our D’Evelyn community of educators is more than willing to help. If there is a difficulty, if there is a technology problem, if there is a need for further clarification or extra help, if you or a family member becomes ill -- reach out directly to the teacher. Many teachers have posted “office hours” and set times for help sessions along with the preferred method for contacting them. Reach out. They will help you. They can’t help if they don’t know about or understand the problem. Comments are closed.
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April 2023
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