Our students and teachers already use iPads and laptops in the classroom, and many of you take these home to complete schoolwork.  Most students regularly use Schoology, our learning management system, to get assignments, turn in work, stay organized, and even communicate with others.  Since we can’t go to school, we’re going to use these tools even more - plus we’ll introduce you to other tools that will help us learn together. Learning this way won’t be just like what we’re used to, but it may not seem totally different, either. 

• You probably will, yes!  Schoology allows students and teachers to record audio and video, which can be shared back and forth about learning.
• In addition to Schoology, many of our teachers will use Zoom to teach lessons to classes or students or hold video chats with individuals or small groups.  Zoom is like FaceTime or Skype, only better. The Zoom app will be pushed out to your iPad or laptop on March 23.

• Our spring break runs through Monday, March 23 - then we are taking Tuesday and Wednesday to let teachers do some training (online), work together (more online), and prepare lessons.
• Online classes will begin on Thursday, March 26.  We are currently scheduled to continue learning online through April 22, hoping we can return to our campuses on Thursday, April 23. 
  

• Students should talk with families to establish a learning routine and prepare a space where you can work effectively and successfully.  This should include having a quiet space in your home where you can participate in Zoom conversations with others, for live lessons or two-way communication with teachers.  If possible, create a work space that is separate from your "play" space - away from your bedroom, tv, or gaming area.
  
• Routines are important for most people, so we ask students to talk with parents or guardians to prepare a daily schedule.  Please keep in mind that all teachers will be online and readily accessible from 10:00-2:00 each day, at a minimum.  Most students will need more than these four hours to learn and work, however, so plan your schedule to include roughly the hours you would normally be in school and/or doing homework.

• All teachers and counselors will be online and available from 10:00-2:00 each day for “office hours.”  Your school day will probably be longer than this, and your teachers’ day will be too. Having these four hours set aside, however, means that teachers can be quickly available to help, even when you’re in separate locations.  Teachers may also invite you to join a video session on Zoom during these times.
• In addition to being online and available from 10:00-2:00, we are asking teachers to check Schoology and their email at least once each evening, recognizing that students/families may have questions or needs beyond this four-hour window.  We ask for patience from our students and parents, recognizing that questions asked beyond these times may not be answered until the next day.

• Online school will look different in kindergarten than it will in fifth or eighth or twelfth grades - just like it does in regular school.  Older students will have more assignments and will usually be expected to work more independently than younger learners.
• You will likely spend a lot of time in Schoology, communicating with your teachers and getting or doing assignments.  Teachers will usually share new assignments with you in the morning, posting them in Schoology.  
• Not all assignments will be graded, and not all will require your iPad or laptop.  Technology is important to online learning, but we don’t want you on your devices all day long.
• As noted above, teachers will be available to support students online from 10:00-2:00 each day.  Students may also be invited to participate in real-time lessons or check-ins during this time.
• Most learning will be asynchronous, meaning you can work at your own pace because students will usually not be doing the same thing at the same time.

• First and foremost, we need students to follow appropriate online “netiquette” expectations that are outlined in Kirkwood’s Digital Citizenship Contract for Students.  Treating others well is important online, just like it is in the classroom, and good choices also involve being safe.
• Students should stay informed by checking your Schoology account and your district email, daily as appropriate. Yes, you have a district email address, even if you don’t know it.  
• We need you to be an active learner, doing your assigned work and communicating with teachers if you need additional support or can’t meet assigned deadlines.
• Whenever possible, create balance in your day so that you’re not sitting and/or online for hours at a time
• If you’re going to participate in a Zoom video session, please dress appropriately for school and make sure there is nothing behind you that you don’t want others to see.  When using Schoology, only submit audio/video files that are appropriate.
• Engage in all learning with academic honesty and integrity.  Do not falsify information about yourself or impersonate others online.
• Ask questions, be persistent, and work to solve problems that may occur.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help or tell others when you're frustrated or upset, but know that you can’t simply give up, either.
  

• Students who need tech support can use our online Help Desk between 8:00-4:00. You’ll quickly be put in touch with your school’s technology specialist for a chat online.  
• Most students have never used Zoom, so you won’t be alone.  If you’re new to Schoology, your teachers can help figure this out and understand how to move through courses, check and send messages, and use your calendar.
• Students may use online videos to learn more about Schoology and Zoom. We are also working on short lessons to help teachers show you how to use these tools.
• Training modules and support materials will also be accessible online for families.
• Student Guide to Schoology (Schoology Support)
• Kirkwood Core Apps and Technology for Learning (KSD Tech Support)
• Schoology & Parents: Resources for Staff (KSD Tech Support)
• How to Record Your Screen on a Mac (Apple Support)
• How to Record Your Screen on an iPad (Apple Support)

• We are currently working with several Internet carriers, exploring options for our families who may require support with WiFi and digital access to resources.
• Families in need of assistance are encouraged to share their contact information using our WiFi Request Form.

• We understand if you're a little worried about learning online or sad about missing school.  To be honest, we are too. Nothing about this experience is normal, so we must stay patient and accept there will be challenges and mistakes along the way.
• We are always better when we support each other, however, so make use of those great relationships you've formed all year long.  Be kind to your teachers, your classmates, and your family members. Don’t be afraid to tell others when you’re frustrated, upset, or sad. Work hard, just like you do in school, and be persistent when problems arise. Most importantly, know there are many adults who care about you and want to help you succeed.