The LPSS is pleased to report that the district-wide virtual exercise over the last two days was successful and was a great rehearsal if the need to move to this learning model becomes necessary.
Schools and teachers began the transition to virtual learning by effectively communicating with parents the virtual expectations. All devices were sent home with students with some schools and teachers providing additional instructions on how to access certain programs and resources. Teachers were organized and sent home schedules and agendas for students to follow. Schools had flexibility and structured the virtual day around certain content and instructional delivery including live lessons, remote learning assignments, computer programs, recorded lessons, and/or office hours. Teachers posted assignments on Google Classroom for students to turn in assignments. Teachers also made sure that any student who missed live instruction could access videos or recorded lessons to accommodate flexible at-home learning schedules. Many teachers also offered office hours in the event students needed to discuss assignments further.
From a district perspective, overall attendance and engagement in online work were positive with a large portion of school populations logging in and completing activities on time. Teachers conducted over 10,000 virtual sessions via Zoom. According to Chief Academic Officer Dr. Mark Rabalais, “While the planning and preparation for this week have taken a tremendous amount of effort on everyone’s behalf, teachers have done a remarkable job creating digital moments and opportunities to engage students and adapting their teaching styles to the virtual format. We are extremely proud of our teachers, administrators, students, and parents for participating in our first virtual learning rehearsal.” Feedback provided by school leaders indicates that there were some unanticipated challenges, but teachers were able to address them and consider this for future plans. “Overall, I hope we have given families more confidence in the virtual process if the transition to virtual learning becomes necessary,” states Dr. Rabalais.
One of the biggest takeaways from this practice run is the number of parents reaching out last week to inquire about internet connectivity. For families who were approved for internet service and were awaiting installation of services, LPSS was able to quickly react and lend hotspots for students to be successful. As a result, LPSS has reopened applications for home internet service through our Link & Learn initiative. English and Spanish applications for internet service can be found on the LPSS website for qualifying families. We also want to remind families that internet service providers offer discounted packages.
As a reminder, after the holiday break, on January 4, 2021, LPSS will return to our learning formats of hybrid instruction for middle and high school students and face-to-face instruction for elementary school students. The January calendar is located here for easy reference.