for SchoolClosures

Asynchronous (not at the same time) Learning via itslearning

Teachers provide materials, lectures, discussion boards, quizzes/tests and assignments that can be completed within a five-day window. Students complete the work on their own schedule.

Timeline2014-15: If both inclement weather days are used, additional lost

instructional days will become asynchronous learning days

Develop content, provide training and communicate plan

2015-16 and Beyond: Remove built-in inclement weather days from school calendar

For school closures, days will be made-up with asynchronous learning

Planning for Asynchronous Learning • Positive success from 2013-14 plan to recover lost instruction due to inclement weather.

• Many FCS teachers currently utilize blended learning with students.

• District Committee developed 2014 and beyond plan, and received input from four elementary schools, two middle schools and two high schools.

Content ConsiderationsSchool closure day lessons may originate from various sources. Each lesson will contain at least one interactive activity requiring student response.

• District created resources will be used as examples/guides• 200 submitted and being reviewed

• Teacher Leader/School Level created resources

• Teacher created resources

Digital Equity Plan

FCS has identified students without internet access and provided them with Kajeet Smartspots for high speed internet access.

Private foundations and PTA/O have provided devices to students who did not have a device at home.

FCS will review policies and procedures to allow to equipment checkout using the school media centers.

School counselors and social workers will continue to help the district identify these students to bridge the equity gap.

Training PlanTeachers: The i3 team has focused on training teachers on itslearning over

the last two school years. Trainings will continue and school based Instructional Technology Specialists will be available to assist teachers as needed.

FCS will hold an Online Learning for School Closure Practice Drill on Monday, January 5, 2015 (Professional Development Day).

Online Learning for School Closure Plan will be reviewed at 2015-16 Preplanning.

Students: Each teacher will instruct students on where to find school closure activities in their itslearning classes during the first week after winter break, and students will have five days to complete the Practice Drill posted in itslearning.

Additionally, students will be reminded of their responsibility after returning from school closure days.

Training Plan (Cont.)

Parents: Parent training on itslearning has already taken place at various elementary and middle schools.

Information posted at http://www.forsyth.k12.ga.us/Page/44389

Additional trainings will be offered 6-7 pm :

Dec. 1: North Forsyth HSDec. 2: South Forsyth HSDec. 4: Forsyth Central HS

Parents will be instructed on itslearning use in general and how to assist students in retrieving lessons.

Communication Plan

Information presented to: Board of Education (televised/on district website)Parent/Community Advisory MeetingTeacher Advisory MeetingStudent Advisory MeetingAdministrator MeetingITS/Media Specialist Meetings

Information shared: On District and School Websites (will include video presentation from BOE meeting and updated FAQ)In Friday NotesIn District and School eNewslettersIn itslearningWith Local MediaAt Parent Training Sessions