Dear VPS families:
The recent survey on remote learning had more than 5,000 responses. We value the comments and want you to know how we will respond to that feedback.
When the governor closed schools in response to the pandemic, our teachers, principals and other staff members worked quickly to develop a system for remote learning. We know that remote learning is difficult and has shortcomings. It simply cannot compare to classroom-based learning.
Looking ahead, however, we recognize that a continuation of remote learning, either part-time or full-time, is being considered in the state’s planning process for schools next fall. Although we hope our students can return to learning in our classrooms, we must prepare for all possible scenarios by improving the remote learning system for our students and families.
What we learned in the survey
Families want more standardization and fewer applications. Many parents and their children are overwhelmed with multiple sign-ins for the numerous applications they must access to complete assignments. In addition, parents want consistency from teachers, both in communication and in the assignments given to their children.
What we will do
- We will simplify the sign-in process. Working together with educators, we will review and select a core set of applications for each grade level and use them across schools, classes and teachers.
- We will collaborate with our teachers’ association to address families’ interest in regular video conferencing opportunities for educators to meet with students in large and small groups.
- We will create more consistent practices and expectations and a uniform structure that will help our teachers and staff, families and students stay engaged in remote learning for as long as it may be necessary.
Thank you again for your comments and your continued patience, understanding and support. Please watch for further updates from VPS.
Sincerely,
Steven T. Webb, Ed.D
Superintendent