Parent/Student Handbook - ADDENDUM: Virtual/Remote Learning 2020-2021 - The International School ...

Page created by Ethel Bryant
 
CONTINUE READING
Parent/Student Handbook - ADDENDUM: Virtual/Remote Learning 2020-2021 - The International School ...
Our mission is to empower students within an inclusive environment that fosters authentic experiences. In our culture of
       community, we promote academic responsibility and student agency with purposeful social connections.

                         Parent/Student Handbook - ADDENDUM:
                                 Virtual/Remote Learning
                                        2020-2021

Beginning in August 2020, The International School at Mesa del Sol (TIS) will provide its students with
instruction through a virtual program, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual instruction will align with all
state and Common Core standards and guidelines and will parallel with the rigors of the daily instruction
delivered on our physical campus.

Even when in a Remote Learning environment, TIS students are subject to, and expected to adhere to, the
policies stipulated in our main Student Handbooks. The following additional policies address particulars
pertaining to the Remote Learning environment. As a virtual learning student, there are additional rules and
expectations regarding online etiquette in order to protect all students and all staff members. Access to
remote learning must be used in a responsible, safe, efficient, ethical, and legal manner.
Parent/Student Handbook - ADDENDUM: Virtual/Remote Learning 2020-2021 - The International School ...
STUDENT AND PARENT VIRTUAL LEARNING EXPECTATIONS

The New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) requires students to attend 6.5 instructional hours or
remote/virtual learning. Remote instructional hours shall be considered equivalent to face-to-face
instructional hours during the COVID-19 public health emergency. These hours are met in a blended manner
between direct digital instruction and self-directed learning assignments. Instructional hours in the remote
setting includes, but is not limited to, the following school-directed programs:
    • one-on-one check-ins between teachers and students (for example, office hours)
    • targeted intervention, remediation, or tutoring
    • remote learning activities – with or without technology (reading/writing assignments, math problems,
        lab reports, research projects, project-based learning

Student Expectations:
    ● Students are required to attend ALL of their assigned online instructional sessions:
           ○ PYP – All 3 morning (AM) sessions OR all 3 afternoon (PM) sessions of core content instruction
              and their grade level’s assigned Specialist session (Art, PE, or Music)
           ○ MYP & High School – All 4 morning (AM) sessions, including Advisory period

    ●   Students are provided with 15-minute breaks between sessions to use the bathroom, have a snack,
        stretch, etc. Students are strongly encouraged to use these breaks accordingly in order to minimize
        disruptions to virtual sessions and maximize instructional time.

    ●   While participating in the online learning environment, all students are expected to have their web
        camera on and framed in a way that is mindful of any potentially inappropriate surroundings or
        possible interruptions to the session.

           ○   Consistent and continuous use of web cameras allows teachers to monitor students’
               attendance and participation during online sessions. Unless there are circumstances
               preventing this which are communicated beforehand to their teacher, keeping the web
               camera on during the entire virtual session is required as it allows students to effectively and
               regularly communicate, receive instruction, interact with class, and comply with work
               requirements.

    ●   Dress Code: All clothing that is visible on screen must be appropriate in content, images, length, and
        coverage. Bottoms are an acceptable length only if they fall below the fingertip when the student's
        arms are hanging relaxed at their side. No undergarments (bras/underwear) should be visible at any
        time - tank tops and sagging pants are NOT appropriate. Writing and/or images that are sexually
        suggestive, violent, disrespectful, or racially inappropriate are also not acceptable. Any symbolism of
        drugs, tobacco, or alcohol is also prohibited. While being offered in an online setting, Google
        Classrooms/Zoom are still considered learning environments and, as such, loungewear including, but
        not limited to, blankets, pajamas, and/or sleepwear are not appropriate to wear during online
        sessions.

    ●   While in the Virtual Learning Environment, students are expected to follow the TIS IB Learner Profile
        as our schoolwide Code of Conduct to provide a safe and respectful learning environment for all
        members of our community. It is expected that students keep online interactions positive and
        constructive. Even in an online learning environment, students are subject to our Discipline Matrix

                                                                                                                  2
Parent/Student Handbook - ADDENDUM: Virtual/Remote Learning 2020-2021 - The International School ...
and accompanying consequences.

    ●   Students are expected to use respect and show proper care and handling of all technology equipment
        that they’ve checked out (Chromebooks, iPads, etc.). Any student found to be intentionally damaging
        any software or hardware will be cited for school property abuse and the student’s parent or guardian
        will be financially responsible for any damages.

    ●   When utilizing technology, proper behavior, as it relates to the use of computers, is no different than
        proper behavior in other aspects of school activities. All users are expected to use the computers and
        computer networks in a responsible, ethical, and polite manner. TIS reserves the right to monitor all
        technology resource activity from student accounts. Students are responsible for the content posted
        through their login and account activity. Sharing or using usernames and passwords with others or
        using other’s usernames and passwords is strictly prohibited.

Characteristics of the Virtual Learner:
While participating in this virtual learning environment, TIS students are held to the same academic standards
as when they are receiving physical, face-to-face instruction. Academic integrity must be maintained. Students
who choose to resort to plagiarism, cheating, or using social media to transmit any work will be subject to
disciplinary action and parents will be contacted should a violation occur. If virtual classroom Essential
Agreements and expectations are not followed, disciplinary consequences could include disciplinary action in
accordance with TIS policy and the school’s main handbooks.

Device Use/Misuse:
Improper use of any computer or the network is prohibited. This includes the following:

    ● Use of racist, profane, or obscene language or materials
    ● Using the network for financial gain, political or commercial activity
    ● Attempting to or harming equipment, materials or data
    ● Attempting to or sending anonymous messages of any kind
    ● Using the network to access inappropriate material
    ● Knowingly placing a computer virus on a computer or the network
    ● Using the network to provide addresses or other personal information that others may use
      inappropriately
    ● Accessing of information resources, files, and documents of another user without permission
    ● Vandalism, any malicious attempt to harm or destroy school equipment or materials. This includes,
      but is not limited to, computer viruses.
    ● Forgery or attempted forgery of electronic messages is prohibited. Attempts to read, delete, copy, or
      modify the electronic mail of other system users or deliberate interference with the ability of other
      system users to send/receive electronic mail is prohibited. Forgery or attempted forgery of
      documents or currency is prohibited. Deliberate attempts to create, copy or modify official
      documents or currency using district technology resources may be viewed as a violation of district
      guidelines and, possibly, as criminal activity under applicable state and federal laws.

Failure to comply with these standards may result in temporary or permanent removal of user access to TIS
Virtual Instruction.

                                                                                                              3
Attendance
Parents and guardians have the legal responsibility to ensure that their students are fully participating in
virtual school by monitoring their progress and time spent on daily course work. When a student is unable to
participate in daily instruction, parent notes/doctor notes should be submitted. Please see TIS’
Attendance/Absences Policy in the school’s main handbook for further information.

Engagement
All students participating in Virtual Learning are expected to engage in the learning environment and content.
Student engagement is measured through pacing in the course. A student is not on pace if they are not
participating in online sessions, not completing or attempting assignments, a week behind in work completion,
or not responding to teacher communications.

Parent Expectations: In order for a student to be a successful virtual learner, a true partnership must be
established between the parent, student, and the teacher. It is imperative that all parent contact information
be kept current in Synergy.

    ●   Parents are expected to set up and maintain a daily work schedule for the student, including their
        participation in virtual class meetings
    ●   Parents are expected to set up a dedicated learning space in the home - free from distractions and
        interruptions (pets, siblings, television, etc.)
    ●   Parents are expected to check TIS platforms (Google Classroom, Synergy) for assignments and grades.
    ●   Parents are expected to ensure that the student is dressed appropriately for virtual class meetings.
    ●   Ensure that the student follows the established classroom rules and expectations for virtual learning.
    ●   Maintain open lines of communication (phone and email) with teachers. Attend any virtual parent-
        teacher conferences.
    ●   Ensure that the student is communicating appropriately with teachers and classmates (email, chat
        feature, etc.)
    ●   Parents are expected to support academic integrity by allowing students to work independently and
        by monitoring resources used.
    ●   Parents are expected to ensure students are submitting assignments as directed by the teacher.
    ●   Parents are expected to communicate any issues or questions promptly to the teacher.
    ●   Parents are expected to make arrangements to pick up needed devices, supplies, and resources from
        the school. Maintain these devices, supplies, and resources and return to the school at designated
        time.
    ●   Parents are expected to follow federal and state laws regarding student privacy and FERPA. This
        includes not recording lessons or sessions and not posting photos and videos on social media.
    ●   Parents are expected to read, review, and follow the TIS Technology Use Policy as outlined in the
        school‘s main handbooks.

                                                                                                                 4
Schedules

 PYP (Kindergarten – 5th) students are required to participate in three, 45-minute sessions of direct, virtual
       instruction and 2 hours and 15 minutes of self-directed learning, Monday through Thursday.

                                                                                                                 5
Our mission is to empower students within an inclusive environment that fosters authentic experiences. In our culture of community, we promote academic responsibility
                                                            and student agency with purposeful social connections.

                                                                    PYP Sched le for Remo e Learning
    Students will attend all three AM ​OR​ PM Sessions (45 min. each) with their assigned classroom teacher, with the exception of those families requiring alternative
    hours. Grade level teams will be responsible for weekly, collaborative planning, to ensure consistency in instructional content and delivery.
        Speciali      ill al erna e mee ing da i h heir a igned grade le el i e            h mee for PE on Monda and Wedne da ​ ​ grade on T e da and
                                                                                 Th r da
    Time                               MONDAY                      TUESDAY                  WEDNESDAY                    THURSDAY                     FRIDAY
     :30 – :00                                             CLASS Speciali Ac i i ie       Prepare for Learning                                PYP Virtual Office Hours
                                                                                                                                               (to be established by
                                    KM W           T TH PE         nd M W rd T TH ART                    hM W         h T TH MUSIC                   teachers)
     :00 – :45                                                          Zoom Class 1: MATH
                                              Class : Self directed Learning lessons videos via Canvas, Google Classroom                       Self-directed Learning
     :45 – 10:00                                                             15 MIN BREAK                                                     √ Small Group
    10:00 – 10:45                                                           Zoom Class 1: ELA                                                   check-ins/Conference
                                                                                                                                                s
                                              Class : Self directed Learning lessons videos via Canvas, Google Classroom
                                                                                                                                                with students.
    10:45 – 11:00                                                            15 MIN BREAK
    11:00 – 11:45                                                Zoom Class 1: SCIENCE/SOCIAL STUDIES                                         √ Instructional
                                              Class : Self directed Learning lessons videos via Canvas, Google Classroom                        support/review

    11:45 – 12:45                                                              HOUR LUNCH                                                     √ Family/Teacher
    12:45 – 1:15                                           CLASS Speciali Ac i i ie       Prepare for Learning                                  meetings

                                    KM W           T TH PE         nd M W rd T TH ART                    hM W         h T TH MUSIC            √ Independent work
    1:15 – 2:00                                                         Zoom Class 2: MATH                                                      and project-based
                                                                                                                                                assignments from
                                              Class : Self directed Learning lessons videos via Canvas, Google Classroom
                                                                                                                                                teachers
    2:00 – 2:15                                                              15 MIN BREAK
    2:15 – 3:00                                                             Zoom Class 2: ELA                                                 √ Self-care: physical
                                              Class : Self directed Learning lessons videos via Canvas, Google Classroom                          activities, family
                                                                                                                                                  activities, arts &
    3:00 – 3:15                                                              15 MIN BREAK                                                         crafts, journaling,
    3:15 – 4:00                                                  Zoom Class 2: SCIENCE/SOCIAL STUDIES                                             reading
                                              Class : Self directed Learning lessons videos via Canvas, Google Classroom

MYP and High School (6th – 12th) students are required to participate in 3 hours of direct, virtual instruction
                   and 2 hours of self-directed learning, Monday through Thursday.

                                                                                                                                                                             6
MONDAY                           TUESDAY                  WEDNESDAY                 THURSDAY              FRIDAY

                                                                                                                                         SELF DIRECTED
            9:00     -9.45
                                      1ST PERIOD                    5TH PERIOD                    1ST PERIOD               5TH PERIOD      LEARNING

            9:45     10.00           15 Min te Break                                                                                    H H              /ELA-O

           10:00     -10.45           2ND PERIOD                    6TH PERIOD                    2ND PERIOD               6TH PERIOD           .R
                                                                                                                                                                       .
           10:45         11.00       15 Min te Break

            11:00    -1145            3RD PERIOD                    7TH PERIOD                    3RD PERIOD               7TH PERIOD   M                                  ,
           11:45     -12.00          15 Min te Break
                                                                                                                                                                   .
           12:00     -12.45           4TH PERIOD                        ADVISORY                  4TH PERIOD               ADVISORY
                                                                                                                                            D
                                     45 Min te L nch                                                                                                     30
            12:45        -1.30
                                          Break

            1.30    - 3.30 PM
                                           -D                               -D                          -D                      -D
                                       L                                L                           L                       L

                                                                                                                                            I
                                 J                         J                               J                         J                                        (IN )-
              1.30 - 2.00        B                         B                               B                         B                  D

                                 G                         G                               G                         G
                                                                                                                      I                              ,
                                 G                         G                               G                         G
              1.30 - 2.30        G                         G                               G                         G
                                                                                           K                                                                               ,
                                 M D                       K                               H                         M D
              2.00 - 2.30        H                         C                               C                         H                                         .
                                 F                         F                               F                         F
              2.30 - 3.30        J                         J                               J                         J                       Teache
                    -D                                                                                                                      ga e add         a
                                           /              : ​30 i             cla ​.                         .
               L                                                                                                                              ff ce h      f
                                           :2 /   , ​30 i​ +/-10                 : ​30 i       cla ​.
                                                                                                                                              e e ed
                                           :. 2 / , ​20 i ​.                                                                                     e    ed​.
                    -D                      (         )                 : 3 / , ​20 i ​.                         ;
               L                               30-45    .           /        ,

ASSESSMENTS AND GRADING
Teachers will provide a variety of assessments to determine student mastery of the course content.
Assessments may include discussion-based assessments, essays, project-based, and formative assessments.

Students must not assume teachers will accept late work without prior approval. At times circumstances out
of our control, such as illness, weather-related events, family issues, or other major events, would require an
exception to this policy. If this is the case, talk to your teacher. Always make every effort to contact your
teacher prior to turning in late work, if possible, or as soon as possible after. Continued failure to turn in work
on time could result in a lowered grade.

Student Support Services (Special Education, Gifted & Talented, 504)

                                                                                                                                                                               7
Special Education
TIS is committed to providing free and appropriate educational opportunities for students with disabilities.
During this public health crisis, we will continue to work with families to meet the needs of our students while
following public health guidelines.

    ●   Individual Educational Plan (IEP) Meetings: We will continue to provide families the opportunity to
        meaningfully participate in the IEP process. Staff will work with families to determine if virtual or in-
        person meetings are appropriate. TIS will make every effort to balance parent preference and public
        health guidelines.

    ●   Delivery of Special Education and Related Services: Teachers and service providers will work with
        families to prioritize services that provide access to the general curriculum and enable student
        progress toward IEP goals. Services for students will be addressed in collaboration with families on an
        individual basis.

    ●   Accommodations and Modifications: Accommodations and modifications are provided regardless of
        the educational setting. The IEP team will work collaboratively to determine the most appropriate
        accommodations or modifications in the virtual setting. General educators and special educators
        should collaborate regularly with families to ensure accommodations and modifications provided are
        appropriate in the virtual setting.

Section 504
Our department is committed to providing access to educational opportunities for students with physical or
mental disabilities. During this public health crisis, we will continue to work with families to meet the needs of
our students while following public health guidelines. When a determination regarding the learning/medical
needs are made, we will work with students and their families to set specific plans for accommodations and/or
services. Our department will work with schools to ensure all students are provided access and prohibit
discrimination according to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

    ●   We will continue to provide families the opportunity to meaningfully participate in the 504 process.
        Staff will work with families to determine if virtual or in-person meetings are appropriate. TIS will
        make every effort to balance parent preference and public health guidelines.

    ●   Delivery of Services and Support: Teachers and case managers will work with families to provide
        access to the general curriculum and enable student progress and growth. Services for students will
        be addressed in collaboration with families on an individual basis.

    ●   Accommodations: Accommodations are provided regardless of the educational setting. The 504 team
        will work collaboratively to identify alternative solutions if it is determined an accommodation is not
        appropriate or successful in a particular setting.

                                                                                                                    8
You can also read