The Lion's Share
July 2, 2020
Message from the Principal:
School Reopening Updates....
This continues to be an ever-evolving situation, and this page is updated daily. There are many places on here with FAQ's that will guide families as we navigate this difficult time.
Three Options....
While I don't know exactly what it looks like yet, I know that there is going to be some flexibility between these options. For example, if you start off in the "in person" option, but COVID-19 cases in the state start causing discomfort, you can move to one of the other options.
I know that for many this may be a potentially difficult decision. If there is a specific question that I can answer to help you in this process, please don't hesitate to reach out to Robert's Email.
August 5...
Governor Ducey's executive order limited the starting of only in person options until August 17.
Each of our three schooling options will begin remotely on August 5. Please know that this will look much different than what was done during the end of last year. Teachers will receive training on the specifics related to best practice in remote learning, as well as, a new online curriculum that will better standardize learning across the grade levels.
On July 7, registration will open for you to select the option that will best suit the needs of your family (directions will come out shortly). If you do not make a selection, your child will automatically be enrolled for the "in person" option.
Classroom Arrangement....
We will be spacing students out as much as possible within the classroom and providing each student a "defined" space (many of our teachers use tables rather than desks and they will be taping the table to provide this space). Research supports that learning is social. While we want to "tap" into this, we will be trying to avoid "face to face" interactions, which could lead to more "side by side" collaboration.
In addition, we will be working to provide students with their own supplies rather than utilizing shared or "community" supplies. We realize that for many families this season has brought economic hardship, and teachers are only requesting the "essentials" to start the year. They may request additional items as needed throughout the school year.
Here is our classroom supply list for the start of the year (I wanted to get this out ASAP as I assume many will want to do this shopping online; this will be the same list for flex as well).
Limiting Large Gatherings....
In the cafeteria, students will be sitting in rows (rather than picnic style) and we will limit each table to three students to provide each student their own space. In addition, they will be seated with their classmates. Lunch times will be staggered to ensure that no more than two grade levels at a time will be in the cafeteria, thus reducing traffic by 33%. This staggering will also allow for each table to be disinfected prior to the next group coming in.
For More Information....
If you would like more information on this option, including disinfecting practices, mask requirements, and health office procedures, please see the following site:
Classroom Arrangement...
Class size will be smaller and students will be spaced out more than in the in person option.
Pending enrollment, students may be placed in a multi-grade classroom that learns via a blended learning model. This means they will be meeting in person twice a week, and the teacher will be giving other assignments for students to work on for the days they are not attending on campus.
These teachers will be specifically trained on best practice in blended learning. Again, the online portion of this model will look much different than what was done at the end of last year.
Other Details...
- Lunch and recess will be optional and dependent on grade levels enrolled
- Class will meet in person two days per week from 7:30-12:30
- Parents will need to provide transportation to and from school
- Teachers will be available every day for student questions
- District Chromebook will be available for parents that need it
For More Information...
Certified GPS Teachers...
These will be full time online teachers that specialize in using this medium to teach.
Curriculum...
This link will provide a brief overview of what the curriculum would look like for various elementary grades.
Again, a district Chromebook will be provided for any family that needs it.
For More Information....
Settler's Point Elementary
Email: settlerspointinfo@gilbertschools.net
Website: https://www.gilbertschools.net/Domain/28
Location: 430 East Settlers Point Drive, Gilbert, AZ, USA
Phone: (480)507-1481
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/settlerspride/
Twitter: @settlerspride