Manitou Springs Middle School
November 18th, 2020
Dear Manitou Springs Middle School Families,
We will be transitioning to Remote Learning for all middle school grades during the three week period between Thanksgiving and Winter Break (November 30th - December 18th).
During this time, students will receive synchronous (live) instruction from their teachers through Google Meet. Teachers have been learning about Breakout Rooms, Polls, and other engagement tools to enhance teaching and learning in this model.
Updates and reminders for Remote Learning can be found on the Middle School Website: https://msm.mssd14.org/cms/One.aspx?portalId=57971&pageId=29254272
Reminder: 6th and 8th grade students in Cohort 2 will continue to learn in person this week on Thursday and Friday. Our 7th grade students will continue with Remote Learning this week.
Attendance in Remote Learning
Students will follow their schedule as if they were physically at school. Attendance will be taken at the beginning of each block or period. If your student will be absent or is having technical difficulties, please contact the front office at 719-685-2127.
Supports for Students
Our staff will continue to offer virtual office hours on Wednesdays to answer questions and support students. Our mental health team is also available to support students during this time. Students can submit a counseling request form to speak with our school counselor, Ms. Ward. This can be found on the middle school website under the “Counselor’s Corner” tab. Additionally, our middle school and high school social worker, Ms. Ellias, is available to support. Students can email her directly to set up a time to talk: mellias@mssd14.org
Screen Time
Teachers will incorporate screen breaks into their lessons. We recognize the need for students to take breaks throughout the day, just like they need to do when they are here at school.
Remote Learning Best Practices
To maximize student success during Remote Learning, we encourage families to help their students with the following practices:
Treat remote days like any school day: get up, get dressed, eat breakfast, and get materials ready.
Log in to class on-time or email your teacher if you will be late or absent.
Be a participant, turn on your camera, ask questions and respond in discussion.
Use the chat for class-related communication only.
If possible, set up a space for working that is quiet and distraction free.
Remote Learning Schedules
Contact us!
Website: mssd14.org
Phone: (719) 685- 2127