FAQ 

What will distance learning look like for my 1st grader?

I have created a comprehensive distance learning plan that meets all student's needs as well as taking into account what is appropriate for digital learning at their developmental level. Students will have a daily writing prompt and be asked to engage in independent or shared reading daily. We will dive deeply into a content area each day and receive small group instruction at their level for more meaningful learning. We will think about math on Mondays, reading on Tuesdays, writing on Wednesdays, social studies or science on Fridays, and religion and social & emotional learning on Fridays. My hope is that this structure allows both parents and students to feel comfortable in a routine and less overwhelmed by multiple subjects and activities per day. 

How can I best prepare my student each week?
Routine, sleep, and grace for ourselves, that's how I'm making this work for me! You will get a weekly schedule every Friday for the following week. In this email I will outline what we will be learning and note any changes in our schedule. You will see when your students will be in small groups on zoom. Because we have our morning meeting at 9am, students can be dressed, fed, and perhaps have some quiet reading time before starting the day with our class. I am working to make at home learning as simplified as possible with little need for print outs and material prep. 

What is the best thing I can be doing for my child during at home learning? 

Read, read, read! I am reading a wonderful book "The Enchanted Hour" by Meghan Cox Gurdon that dives into the magical research behind brain development and reading aloud to children (and adults!). If you engage in reading out loud daily with your child, whether it's a higher level novel they can't access or a cereal box, you are doing wonders for their growing brains.