Plans for Distance Learning Dear Calhoun Families, Calhoun has prepared a distance learning plan to support teaching and learning in the event of school closure. The primary aims of the plan are to deliver instruction, promote student learning and maintain our sense of community. Each division has laid out clear plans and expectations for their respective needs. While elements of the plan will certainly employ the use of technology, our goal is to thoughtfully engage students in learning in a manner that aligns with the school's mission. Distance learning does not solely involve students in front of screens in virtual lessons. Our goal is to provide thoughtful instruction that maximizes learning experiences and provides a healthy amount of social interaction. Activities are intended to be age-appropriate, which in some cases will involve minimal use of technology. Though differentiated by divisions, all approaches rely on consistent communication with teachers and administrators. There will be regular check-ins from teachers and administrators, with a commitment to access and timely responses. Lower School–Early Childhood - Cluster teachers will send an email each day by 8:30am with a morning greeting and daily activities/assignments. Supplemental materials may be accessed through a grade-wide Google folder.
- Teachers will be accessible via email throughout each school day.
Lower School–Elementary - Teachers will post a schedule of assignments on the portal class pages by 8:30am.
- Cluster advisors will have daily communication with students. This will include "cluster time" for 5th graders through Google Hangouts (synchronous cluster time) and brief recorded messages from teachers for students in 3rd and 4th grades (asynchronous cluster time).
- Teachers will be available for office hours (to be determined by individual teachers).
- Students will be expected to continue with ongoing daily assignments as if they were in school, such as continuing their established independent reading time for the grade, and Dreambox and math fact practice.
Middle and Upper Schools - Teachers will post assignments/activities on the portal calendar by 8:30am each school day morning.
- Cluster advisors will convene at 9:30am through Google Hangouts, and reach out over email or Google Chat individually to clustees when needed.
- Teachers will be available for office hours from 9:40-10:30am each school day. Upper School teachers will add at least two additional office hours each week that will be scheduled during the time their class would normally meet.
- Teachers will check in regularly with students, providing updates and feedback through email and Google Hangouts.
- Teachers will communicate expectations to students on a regular basis.
- Homework and assessments will vary depending on the class, and teachers will communicate clearly and regularly with students so that they understand what they are being asked to do.
Division directors will be in touch tomorrow with additional information pertinent to their specific divisions. We recognize that students may vary widely in their reaction and comfort to a distance learning plan. While it is impossible to precisely replicate the experience of a Calhoun classroom, our faculty is committed to providing as much support as possible. If challenges should arise, please do not hesitate to reach out to your division director(s) with questions, suggestions or requests. Sincerely, The Calhoun Senior Academic Team Eric Osorio, Julie Torres, Daniel Isquith, Andrea Solomon-Gutierrez, Debra Jeffreys-Glass and Alison Rothschild |