Grand River Academy provides curriculum resources (Odysseyware, k12), certified teachers, and other supports for student learning. We know that we have a tremendous responsibility in monitoring your child's learning. Learning coaches also have a tremendous responsibility for helping their students be successful at home and we thank you for your partnership in your child's education. Here are a few learning coach tips:
1.)Check your students progress frequently. If they are in 6-12, ask them to open up Odysseyware and have a conversation about grades and progress. You can celebrate with them where they are doing well and make a plan to improve areas of need.
2.)Read email. One of the primary ways that our school communicates is through email. There is important information from teacher and/or the school that will be delivered through email that may apply to your role as learning coach.
3.)Attendance is key. Monitor your student's attendance and require them to attend their required day for blended or their Google Meets for online. We find that students who attend their required day or Google Meets tend to be more successful.
4.)Set a schedule with your child and help them manage time wisely.
5.)Create a dedicated space, free of distractions, for your student to do their work in.
6.)Put in the time it takes to learn: Help your student understand that the learning is important. They need to put in adequate time on the required work in order to learn. Rushing through lessons and tasks puts your child at risk of not learning what is required. We want them to learn as much as or more than their peers in traditional schools.
7.)Ask for help: If your student is confused and your not sure how to help, contact the teacher using the established procedure for getting help. Teachers are here to help and provide students with support.
8.)Set a routine with your student. Have established times for working, taking breaks, and lunch. Predictability and routine are important when learning online. Of course, flexibility is one of the advantages of learning online. You can decide if you are going to depart from routine because of a need in your family or plans you have made as a family. Students can work at night and on the weekends if needed. But try to re-establish that routine as soon as possible.
Online learning is not easy. It takes self-discipline, self-control, organization, and a desire to learn. It also takes a dedicated learning coach. Thank you to our coaches. We truly could not do it without you.
