After Spring Break:
You will receive additional information closer to March 30 with specific details. However, our overarching goal is that distance learning for Calhoun's Lower School–Elementary students will provide continuity and structure for student learning and inquiry for the duration of any school closure. While it is impossible to replicate the intimate learning environments that LS-E students experience on a daily basis with teachers and peers, faculty members have spent considerable time and effort creating authentic learning opportunities that focus on key concepts, knowledge and skills. Learning engagements will emphasize interaction and creativity, consistency and connection. Activities and assignments for our students will involve a balance of on-screen and off-screen tasks that will vary by grade, and are designed to engage our elementary students in experiences that connect to previous learning and current curriculum.
Despite the distance between us while we are engaged in remote learning, relationships will remain at the core of our work with your children. Depending on the grade level, the interactions between students and teachers will include recorded messages to welcome students each day (third and fourth grade), and synchronous, regularly scheduled virtual "cluster meetings" to check in with fifth graders who will use their Calhoun email addresses to connect to their teachers. Teachers will have scheduled "office hours" for students and families to ask questions, along with regular opportunities to contact us by email. I can't emphasize enough how care for each other and being in community as best we can during this time will continue to sustain us.
In closing, I know that this is a lot, and that these are unsettling times. However, I am heartened by the strong community ties and connections that will keep us moving forward, together, through every step of this process. As always, please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
I wish all of you a healthy, restorative and love-filled spring break with family and friends. I look forward to seeing you, virtually or in person, in early April.
Warmly,
Debra