Distance learning has taken on many different forms
By Mimi Vanderhaven
For the 7,660 students in Mentor Schools, online distance learning began the week after spring break on Tuesday, March 24. Although it might have been a shock for some families, the teachers and administration of one of the largest districts in the state had been preparing for some time and swung swiftly into action.
“We are blessed to have achieved a 1:1 technology initiative—one electronic device for every student in the system—so students were able to use those,” says Kristen Kirby, director of community relations for Mentor Schools.
A far different situation than blizzard bags, with online distance learning, the teachers are tasked with unrolling new material for the students to master. The new school day is from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., but students can do schoolwork and complete assignments anytime.
“We encourage teachers to be creative, allowing them to use the platform that best fits their teaching style and the material, whether that’s Google classroom, Schoology or SeeSaw, just to name a few,” she adds.
“There are a bevy of innovative approaches going on. For instance, a math teacher at the high school is breaking up the class into groups based on comprehension levels, having them work together, and then popping into the unique groups during the day. A few elementary teachers begin each day with a group meeting in Zoom so the kids can see each other and connect, a nice vehicle to avoid social isolation.”
In addition to the teachers rallying together in the crisis, Kristen also mentions the hardworking custodial staff members, who kept the schools properly disinfected during the weeks leading up to closure, as well as the IT staff members who work tirelessly answering parent and student emails about getting their systems set up.
“As important as learning, we are proud to still offer grab-and-go food bags for families who participate in the Free and Reduced Lunch Program,” she says. “The number has grown to 400 meals a day, offered at Mentor High School.”
The Mentor School system educates 7,660 students from pre-K to 12th grade in seven elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school and one school for students with autism. For updates, visit MentorSchools.net.