Important Message from Dr. Cain
April 17, 2020 ~ To all WSD Parents
Revised Virtual Instruction Schedule Starting Monday
Good Afternoon,
We have been so impressed with the work and flexibility of our students, parents, and teachers during our building closure. We want you to know that we also understand and appreciate that the extended closure has had a significant impact on our families and that we are all trying to do our best under extraordinary circumstances. This is all new for everyone. We recognize the challenges our families and staff are facing as many are balancing school with their own careers, childcare, basic needs, stress, and potential financial concerns. Our schedules and lives are unusual and this is not a time to add unnecessary stress for our families and staff. Based on feedback we received through our community survey as well as feedback we have received from teachers and staff, it is our goal to create a healthy balance between virtual learning and the many other needs you have at home during this time.
As a result, we will be moving to a four-day (revised) schedule beginning the week of April 20.
This will provide teachers with additional time to plan their engaging lessons and it is our hope that this will also provide students with ample time for independent work as well as time for your family to relax and support one another at home during this challenging and unprecedented time.
Our plan for a four-day (revised) schedule allows for the following:
Students will engage in learning Monday through Thursday, and Friday will be a teacher planning/meeting/collaboration day.
The focus will be on quality learning Monday-Thursday with Friday as a day for students and families to catch up on unfinished assignments, relax and spend time with family or outdoors.
Teachers will utilize Fridays to plan for upcoming instruction, assess student work, collaborate with colleagues, meet with administrators, and attend to various other responsibilities
Fridays will also be used for teachers to communicate with individual students and families that may have more unique challenges or concerns, as needed. Teachers will continue to be available during their office hours on Fridays for students and families.
Grading & Assessments During Our Extended School Closure
Please access the link below to review our grading and assessment practices during the extended school closure. This document can also be found on our website under the COVID hub. For specific questions regarding grading practices and assessments, please reach out to your child’s teacher(s).
Extended School Closure: Grades & Assessments
Student Tech Hub: This is an additional resource that may be helpful for secondary students.
Calendar Update
Due to the Governor’s closure of all schools for the remainder of the school year in the State of Missouri, we have been given the opportunity to waive our inclement weather days in this year’s school calendar. As a result, we will not be making up this year’s inclement weather days. Our last day of school will be May 22nd. The last day of school for seniors will be May 14th.
We hope you are doing well and staying safe. Please continue to practice good hygiene and social distancing measures. If there is anything we can do to support you and your family during this difficult time, whether it is related to virtual learning, meal assistance, or you are feeling overwhelmed and simply need to speak with someone, please email info@wsdr4.org and we will connect you with the appropriate team member to assist you.
We are grateful for your continued flexibility and understanding as we navigate through this unprecedented time. Please take care of yourself and your family, and thank you for joining together to support each other and our students.
Sincerely,
Curtis Cain, Ph.D.
Superintendent