remote learning information
The following information for families in the event of remote learning due to quarantine, isolation, or school closure.
- Planning for Remote Learning (a Checklist)
- The school department's Reopening Plan.
Online Classes
Are students participating in live video classes? Teachers are offering live video classes via ZOOM. Important: for these classes we have a newly updated Parent/Guardian permission form, which is required before a student may participate (see the last page of this document). While live video classes and video conferencing is offered, it is not required for attendance as assignments are posted on Google Classroom.
If my child cannot attend a live video class, can it be recorded for later? To protect student confidentiality, live video classes will not be recorded or distributed. Teachers have office hours during the school day for students with questions or who are in need of additional help.
Will Attendance be taken during Remote Learning? Attendance will be taken during remote learning in order to comply with State laws. A student will be counted as "present" if at least one of the following conditions are met:
- Daily check-in with the teacher via phone, email, or video.
- Attend live video classes.
- Evidence of completion of assignments.
What are the common online learning platforms being used?
Important: All students have a school issued Google account, which includes email and Google Classroom. For families with students in grades 4-8, please help remind them to check their emails daily. For families with students in grades PK-3, usernames and passwords are provided to parents/guardians to help these students log on.
Below, find information about the common platforms being utilized PK-8. Students have been working with these platforms regularly and are familiarized with how to navigate them.
Class Dojo - Several teachers use Class Dojo to connect with parents. Haven't connected? Reach out to your child's teacher for the code and sign up for Class Dojo here.
IXL - All teachers are using IXL for core subject skill reinforcement. For parent-friendly instructions, visit the school website.
Google Classroom - Teachers are using Google Classroom to deliver content, manage assignments, and connect with students. Parent-friendly instructions are available on the school website.
Epic! - Teachers are using Epic! as an online supplemental reading resource. Students are able to access an online library of thousands of books with their account.
Lalilo - Teachers are using Lalilo for online phonics and fluency practice and reinforcement (PK-3).
ZOOM - Teachers are using ZOOM to offer live classes daily and to offer extra help/support for students during office hours.
How will assignments be considered completed and ‘turned in’ to teachers? There are a few ways students can return assignments to teachers. All of the following are accepted:
- Google Classroom: Assignments on Google Classroom can be completed virtually using Google Docs and submitted to the teacher on or before the due date.
- Picture: Using a phone, iPad, or computer students can take pictures of their assignments/projects and email it to the teacher on or before the due date.
- Packets: Completed paperwork can be returned to the school using the 24/7 drop box on or before the due date.
How will students be graded during Remote Learning? Alexander Elementary will continue regular grading practices during remote learning. It is important for students to complete assignments according to their class schedule and submit the work as evidence. Please contact your child's teacher with questions about grading of assignments.
What about Learning Packets? - Teachers may use learning packets to supplement online learning, and specifically for students who are having challenges with internet access. For more information on learning packets, please contact your child's teacher directly.
If needed, how will I arrange for drop off / pick up of materials and assignments? There will be a 24/7 drop box located at the main entrance for families to return materials. Materials can also be made available at the main entrance for pick up during school hours. For families in need, please contact the school to make alternative arrangements.
If my child has a technical issue, what do I do? - School issued devices can usually be supported remotely for most technical related issues, so long as you have an internet connection. If your child is having technical difficulties with his/her device, please contact your child's teacher. If your child forgets his/her username or password to an account, please reach out to your child's teacher for assistance.
I have internet issues, what do I do? The school department has a limited number of mifi hotspot devices available for families in need. These devices will work so long as there exists a 4G cell phone signal in your area. These can be issued on a 'first come, first serve' basis. Please contact the school if you have a need. Alternate arrangements such as learning packets can be made as well.
Communication
How will I keep connected with the school during remote learning? Important school-wide announcements and information will occur primarily through electronic means. There are several electronic mediums the school department will utilize including the following:
- The school website will be updated with important documents and resources for families throughout the school year.
- The school Facebook page may be updated periodically with public announcements, events, activities, etc.
- School Messenger Alert System (text and email) - this system will be utilized to communicate urgent/important messages.
- Parent/Guardian Email - email will be the primary mode of communication to parents/guardians.
If I can't remember a teacher's email address, where can I find that? - Visit the staff directory on the school website for more information.
Food Service
What is the plan for meals during remote learning? - Similar to school closure in the Spring of 2020, meals will be scheduled to be delivered to families during the week who reside in Alexander. If you reside in Cooper or Crawford, meals will be available for pick up at the school. Deliveries may contain enough meals for more than one day. To better accommodate delivery of meals (especially during winter months) driveways and walkways should be maintained (shoveled and salt/sanded) and a drop-off container, such as a plastic tote, is available for the meals to be placed in. Meals will be left outside near a front door or mailbox. To sign up for meal service during school closure or for questions / more information, please contact AES Food Service at 454-2623 Ex# 3.
School Calendar
Alexander Elementary will still adhere to the approved SY 2020-21 Alexander School Department school calendar. Students will not have classes on regularly scheduled teacher workshop days and holidays. On scheduled early release days, students will not be expected to attend school work after 11am, and teachers will not be available for office hours after 11am on these days due to training and development.