TSD9 Update
August 14, 2020
Tillamook Families,
The Tillamook School District Leadership team has been working diligently since the announcement of Comprehensive Distance Learning for the fall of 2020. We know that many questions have arisen and that families have created plans that works for you. We hope this update can help answer some of your questions. For virtual instruction information please reach out to Kara Rhodes 503-842-4414 x1035.
Comprehensive Distance Learning (CDL) Important Facts
We know that CDL creates a lot of challenges, particularly for working families and high school students providing care to younger children and/or working outside of the home. We have taken this knowledge, and the input from the family surveys to create a flexible plan that we hope better meets the needs of all. Here is what you can expect:
- Students are not be expected to be on a device from 8:15-3:15 each day.
- All work for the week will be uploaded at one time. Students will have 7 days to complete work allowing them to get things done on days and times that work for them and you.
- There will be daily opportunities for your child to interact with his or her teacher and peers. Connection, social-emotional support, and relationships will continue to be a primary focus. At the elementary level, students will be placed in a homeroom class with a teacher. Optional Zoom/Google Meet meetings will be offered daily. All district teachers will have regular office hours and will be available via email, Zoom/Google Meets, and/or phone.
- Elementary students will receive progress information every other week.
- All students (Pre-k thru 12) will utilize CANVAS to access their coursework.
Canvas is a learning management system that allows teachers to provide instructional support, class calendars, assignments, and resources for students in a safe online environment. See below for helpful CANVAS links.
- Acellus will be the program utilized to provide virtual instruction. Students will be given an assessment in the first week of class to determine skill levels. Instruction will be adjusted based on where the individual student is. See below for helpful Acellus links.
- Teachers will be providing lessons for enrichment/extension for those students needing more, as well as interventions/supports for those students needing extra individual help. IEP, 504, and Title services will be provided in a flexible fashion that meets individual family needs.
- Devices will be made available for all students Pre-k thru 12 who need them.
- Training on both CANVAS and Acellus will be provided for both parents and students.
- All of this has been developed to support our students for both virtual, hybrid, and full in-person learning. Transitions between programming will be seamless should we be forced to change.
- Attendance (daily contact) will need to be recorded each day. We are currently working on a plan that allows flexibility and ease for our students and families.
Helpful Informational Links
Director of Virtual Education Hired
Kara Rhodes (past Tillamook High School teacher) has been hired as the district's Director of Virtual Education. When it is again safe, and we transition back to school, families will have the option to stay online for the remainder of the year and beyond. Kara will be leading this work and can answer any questions families have about Tillamook's Virtual Program. Kara can be reached at 503-842-4414 x1035.
Tillamook County Receives $350,000 Grant for Connectivity
Tillamook County recently received a $350,000 grant for connectivity. Families who do not currently get internet access based on where they live may soon be able to. Towers will be going up in many outlying areas to provide access where they now can't.
In addition, financial assistance may be available for families who qualify based on income. Staff will be reaching out to families who indicate they currently do not have internet on registration paperwork to provide specific information and assistance.
Meal Deliveries will begin in September
We continue to wait on Oregon Department of Education guidance regarding meal deliveries. Please know that we do plan to deliver meals beginning in September but we may have to make some changes based on state-level expectations.
Tillamook School District
The mission of the Tillamook School District is to prepare our students with the academic, artistic, and social skills necessary to become positive contributors to a changing world.
