Coronavirus Update - March 16, 2020
School Closed
Parents and students can not come to school to retrieve items until the school is reopened.
Learning and Instructional Protocols during the Selwyn House School Closure: Information for Students and Parents
Even though the school is closed, teaching and learning can continue, albeit in a modified format. This is an opportunity to explore new modes of instruction and some contemporary topics. Content and the pace of learning may not be the same as in face-to-face classes, but we do want to use this time to continue our students’ education. This can be a positive and progressive educational opportunity.
Current Events & The Curriculum
Teachers will use these next two weeks to continue topics that began before the March break, to explore topics related to the current situation, and to consolidate learning by providing review or enrichment work. Students will be asked to read, write, research, and reflect.
We are not requiring students to participate in synchronous online classes throughout the day, although some teachers may occasionally request an online session. Students should plan on spending a few hours each morning and afternoon completing tasks assigned by teachers.
In the Senior School, students and parents may be concerned about the impact on exams, particularly required provincial exams. Currently, according to the Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement supérieur, the school closure will not have an impact on June exams. However we know that situation is subject to change, and we will update you on any developments.
Monday, March 16 is a designated pedagogical day and teachers will use this day to prepare class work.Your son should receive an email from his teachers no later than Wednesday, March 18. Our goal is for students to remain connected to their teachers and the school.
Teachers will be using email, OnCampus, Seesaw, and Google Classroom to communicate with students. Some teachers may ask students to be available at specific times to use synchronous tools such as Google Meet, Zoom or Skype, although for the most part, students will be asked to watch videos, read, write, and submit work through one of the means listed above.
Organization and Daily Schedules
Daily Routines. It is important to provide a regular schedule for students of all ages. Younger children are reassured by a regular schedule, and it allows for an easier return to school for all students.
School Work
Some students will enjoy doing the work assigned by teachers. Other students will need to be reminded to complete it. Teachers will be assigning 20 - 30 minute “chunks” of daily work per subject. This will keep students occupied, but they may need help organizing their time. Teachers do understand that students may not have their books or materials at home with them and will therefore be sending online resources to use.
Shared Worksheet for Grades 7 - 11
To facilitate the organization of student work in one place, teachers in Grades 7 - 11 will enter a summary of work on this shared spreadsheet linked below. They will send more detailed requirements of the work to students directly. Link
Communication with Teachers
Teachers will be answering emails and communicating with your son regularly. You may be copied on many of these emails, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions about assigned work.
Sleep Schedule
Help your child and teenager to maintain a regular, healthy sleep schedule with consistent bedtimes and wake-up times. Teenagers in particular may be prone to late nights and sleeping in, but this should be discouraged.
Student Support- Ms. Saunders, Mr. Lajoie, & Michelle Rath
Our learning strategists and school counselor are available for consultation via email. Online learning can be very challenging for boys, regardless of their age. Technology is hugely distracting, and we are asking students to demonstrate more self-regulation than they may be used to. Naturally, students may be anxious or upset because of the current situation and the unknown. Feel free to reach out for support strategies.
Post-secondary Guidance
Mr. Tim Lane (lanet@selwyn.ca) is available to answer questions about post-secondary guidance.
Athletics & Physical Activity
Counseling
While the school may not be in session, I would like students and parents/guardians to know that I am available and welcome emails or phone calls if you would like to discuss any concerns. I hope that you are all taking good care of yourselves, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. -Michelle Rath
Email: rathm@selwyn.ca
Phone: 514-245-0489
Digital Time
We will be relying on our technology to support communication and learning, but ensure your child has time away from his laptop, cell phone, and video games, especially right before bedtime. Students should not have access to any device in their bedrooms after a certain time. We do not want bad and dangerous habits to continue or develop. They need their sleep. We believe that this is responsible parenting. (If you want, please feel free to blame us!)
Keeping busy
Encourage physical activity, time outside, and age-appropriate chores around the house. These activities should be required, mandated, and listed on your sons’ daily schedule.
Social Distancing and Hygiene
Daily Schedule Suggestion
Selwyn House School
Website: www.selwyn.ca
Location: 95 Chemin de la Côte-Saint-Antoine, Westmount, QC, Canada
Phone: 514-931-9481
Facebook: facebook.com/selwynhouseschool