Distance Learning Plan (Spring 2020)
Distance Learning Information and Resources
- Attendance
- Grading
- Calendar Changes
- Technology Support Resources
- Other Resources
- Creating Structure for Distance Learning
- Learning Activities
Attendance
Daily Attendance Grades 1-12
Each student in grades 1-12 will mark their attendance each day in the attendance app. Watch a quick video tutorial (Spanish version) on using the attendance system for additional guidance if needed.
Weekly Attendance Grade K
Each kindergarten teacher will share a form with families to record student attendance at the end of each week.
Grading
Distance learning continues to provide many new challenges to our students, families, and staff. Supporting students during this time involves not only a focus on learning, but their social-emotional needs. As we continue to implement distance learning, we know many of you have had questions about how students will be assessed and assigned grades in this new learning environment. As is the case in a traditional learning environment, our approach to grading and assessment differs at the elementary and secondary levels.
It’s also important to note that guidance from the Minnesota Department of Education continues to be refined, so as that changes our approach to assessment may also be adjusted. We will continue to update parents as changes are made.
Elementary Assessment and Grading
Our focus during distance learning is on the most critical things students need to learn and retain. Teachers will continue to mark progress toward essential learning targets, with the priority being Language Arts and Mathematics.
Our distance learning goals:
- Every student continues to receive education
- Education is equitable and every student has the opportunity to access learning
- Every student has access to appropriate educational materials
- Every student receives learning opportunities and daily interaction with a licensed teacher
Grading and Assessment:
We will still provide grades at the end of the school year in Empower and Infinite Campus. During distance learning, our focus at the elementary level is to support progress around essential learning targets by providing students with new learning opportunities while working to sustain previous learning. Ultimately, our goal is to maintain engagement with students and offer them relevant academic experiences and emotional supports during this challenging time.
Middle School & High School Assessment & Grading
- Grades assessed will reflect, as accurately as possible, student learning;
- Student learning is maximized for all students; and
- Students whose learning suffers in a distance learning environment are not punished for circumstances beyond their control.
Distance Learning Grading Plan
Teachers will continue to assess learning and calculate grades throughout the remainder of the year. Instruction will be aligned to the same goals as before the school closure, but teachers are narrowing their focus to the most essential learning outcomes. During traditional schooling, students were often able to demonstrate their learning in multiple ways and through open-ended tasks that invited student ownership and choice. These kinds of tasks become even more important during distance learning. Traditional tests taken under teacher supervision remain an important part of schooling, but they are virtually impossible to recreate during distance learning. The district will continue to support teachers and partner with families to develop ways to measure student learning that are valid and equitable.
Once final grades are issued, students will have the option of either accepting the grade, or choosing to take the class Pass (60% or higher)/No Grade. Credit recovery will be available for students who receive a “No Grade.” There will be no Incompletes given.
Continuing to provide a traditional grading option is important, especially for those students pursuing post-secondary education. We also recognize that this approach to learning is challenging for some. By offering a choice, but delaying that choice until the end of learning, we are continuing to support and encourage student engagement while providing a credit option that acknowledges the challenges our families are facing.
Your teachers, counselors, and administrators are available to answer any questions you might have about grading or what option may be best given your child(ren)’s post-secondary plans.
Early Childhood
Early childhood teachers will continue to support students and parents in their preschool and early childhood family education classes through weekly lesson plans and google meets sessions. Preschool students have been assessed twice this year and information has been shared with parents at spring conferences. Please contact your child’s teacher if you have questions or concerns.
Calendar Changes
With the governor’s announcement that distance learning will continue through the end of the school year, we are making some minor calendar adjustments to ensure teachers have time to plan and put in place resources to support students in their learning.
Non-School Days:
Per the governor’s order, Friday, May 1 and Monday, May 4 are designated planning days for districts. These are non-school days for students.
Student Support and Teacher Planning:
Starting Friday, May 8, and continuing May 15, May 22, and May 29, Fridays will look different.
- At the elementary level, students will have a regular school day in the morning and teachers will not be available after 11 a.m.
- At the middle and high school level, students will have WIN time in the morning and teachers will not be available after 11 a.m. Friday afternoons will be a time reserved for teachers to connect with colleagues and have designated time to plan for the week ahead.
No Late Start May 14
Given additional planning time added to the calendar, there will be no late start on Thursday, May 14. Daily work will be delivered to students at the usual time.
No School May 25
In observance of Memorial Day holiday.
Last Day of School
Our school year will end as scheduled.
- June 2 is the last day for elementary students
- June 4 is the last day for middle and high school students.