2020-2021 Calendar Update
On July 7, the Red Oak school board approved revisions to the 2020-2021 district calendar that will enable us to provide both face-to-face and remote instruction to all students according to their unique needs. It also gives us the flexibility to quickly transition to a more or less restrictive delivery model as circumstances change or additional guidance is provided by the Department of Education or Iowa Department of Public Health. The calendar includes a number of non-instructional days to allow teachers opportunities to engage in professional development and create blended virtual lessons prior to the beginning of school.
Although many of the details surrounding our “return-to-learn” plan have yet to be determined, we intend to resume on-site classes on August 24. Students who are physically able to attend school will participate in traditional classes Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Students who are unable to attend due to COVID-19 concerns will participate via Google Meet, teacher created videos or other technology. No face-to-face classes will be held on Wednesdays, but all students will be expected to engage in asynchronous or independent learning activities for approximately half the day. Students who are not attending regular classes throughout the week will receive direct support from teachers on Wednesday mornings. This includes individualized instruction, instructional support, progress monitoring and communication with caregivers. Wednesday afternoons will be reserved for professional development, teaming, lesson development, assessment design and deep cleaning.
These changes will not impact the preschool. We know that children in PreK programs learn best in traditional classroom settings, so we will continue to provide face-to-face instruction Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Accommodations or adaptations will be made according to enrollment numbers and the individual needs of students.
Although we cannot guarantee physical distancing, plans are being developed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and other communicable diseases. Students will be encouraged to wear face masks. All district personnel will be required to do so. The district will continue to provide students and staff training and reinforcement regarding approved preventative measures. The district is also redoubling its efforts to clean and sanitize its facilities, particularly high touch areas.