Today, our district’s students, staff, and families take a big step forward as we launch remote learning. While none of us would make this our first choice as a system, we must continue to provide opportunities for our students to engage and continue to grow. I am confident that we can do this as long as we continue to communicate clearly, understand the challenges that we face, and work together to find solutions that serve students.
Please know that our teachers have adopted two rules for remote learning. First, they will start small. The activities and projects will be narrow in focus and easy to understand. The reduction in learning time will help keep the workload manageable. Second, they will take it slow. We recognize that everyone will adjust to remote learning on different schedules. Teachers are prepared to roll out learning activities at an appropriate pace. It is important that we all enjoy early success and gain confidence.
Remote learning is certainly going to impact your home life. It may be helpful to consider the following:
If possible, dedicate a space in your home for remote learning that is free from distraction and can remain organized to support schoolwork. Your child may be participating in video conferencing. If so, consider what area of your home would allow your child to connect with teachers and classmates with the least amount of interruption while also protecting the privacy of your other children and you.
Read everyday with your children. Consider scheduling a time in which everyone sits down to read. If you have younger children, use it for family story time. For older children, encourage them to read something that connects to their personal interests.
Find the best way to support your child in remote learning. Encourage your child to complete the work that is assigned to the best of their ability. During this period of remote learning, a student’s overall grade cannot be harmed. We are asking you to encourage your child to make their best effort.
Students are going to struggle at times. Expect this and talk to your child about the importance of working through the struggles. Perseverance is a trait that can stick with your student long after this school year. We have the opportunity to help our students grow, and we need to support that.
We will all make mistakes. Everyone involved in remote learning is a rookie, and we will learn through experience. So if your child gets frustrated or upset, respond with support, patience, and encouragement. Reinforce the expectation the errors are natural and that they can be fixed.
I know that some families may not have access to reliable internet. A number of providers are offering low-cost options:
San Jose: MediaCom-$9.95/month internet, free installation. Go to www.mediacomc2c.com to sign up.
Easton and Mason City: CASSCOM-$9.95/month for 3 months, free installation. Call 800-252-1799 or go to website at www.casscomm.com.
We will continue to explore options to help families connect to the internet. While we solve that issue, students can have access to print materials with delivery to and from home. While this adds some challenges, students will still be able to engage in learning and connect with teachers.
I would like to tell you that a return to the normal routine is just around the corner. The truth is that no one knows how long this is going to last. We can control our response. I thank you for the kindness shown, and ask you to continue showing your support and patience as we tackle the days ahead. If you have concerns, please call 217-482-5180 ext 1815 or email schoolclosure@illinicentral.org.
Sincerely,
Mike