As an anticipated ice storm approaches this weekend, local school systems are proactively preparing for potential school closures and the implementation of remote learning strategies.
The Wake County Public School System is gearing up for the possibility of remote classes, with plans in place for students to bring home paper packets of assignments starting Thursday. These materials will be utilized if schools are forced to close next week.
Weather forecasts predict precipitation and cold temperatures throughout Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, with the likelihood of an ice storm, particularly on Sunday. Refreezing of any melted ice is also expected for several days following the storm.
In a similar vein, Durham Public Schools has extended guidance to families on maintaining educational continuity during snow days, while Edgecombe County Public Schools is also preparing students by providing remote learning packets and outlines of assignments in advance of the weekend. They emphasized the importance of reviewing these materials with students to ensure they are well-equipped for learning at home.
On Monday, all Wake County schools, except for those on the traditional academic calendar, are scheduled to remain in session. Traditional calendar schools will observe a teacher workday on Monday, while students on Track 3 of the year-round calendar will enter a three-week recess.
Wake County’s procedures allow for a transition to remote learning if the superintendent anticipates adverse weather conditions that could disrupt schooling. Similar protocols are in place across other school districts. Under state law, public schools are permitted to utilize remote learning for a maximum of five days each academic year.
It’s important to note that remote learning does not solely rely on virtual platforms or internet access. It may include paper-based assignments and activities in addition to online tasks. During Wake County’s remote learning period, live classes will not be held, and the focus will be on reinforcing previously taught skills and concepts, encouraging practice, and fostering creativity.
Students will have an ample window of five days after returning to school to complete any assignments received during the remote learning period.
Wake County detailed their approach for various grade levels in communications disseminated to families.
For pre-kindergarten through second grade, activities will be predominantly in the form of paper packets, which may involve skill practice, reading and writing exercises, creative tasks, and family engagement activities. Teachers will also maintain communication through the Talking Points app.
For grades three through five, assignments will be distributed via the Canvas platform, including activities that reinforce previously learned skills. Attendance will be based on logged participation, although students will only be able to take home their Chromebooks without chargers.
Middle and high school students will also utilize Canvas for their assignments, which will emphasize review and application of previously learned material. As a new semester begins next week, some assignments may include reviewing course syllabi and setting expectations. Measures will be taken to ensure adherence to Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for special education students.
For families facing challenges with internet access, options will be available to receive paper packets on Thursday.
The district aims to create a manageable learning experience for students. They encourage families to allow children to work in short bursts and incorporate breaks, balancing educational activities with rest and family time, ensuring that learning at home is both effective and convenient.