Here, DigitalPromise provides some guidance on distance/remote learning with this COVID FAQ sheet. Digital Promise was created with the mission to accelerate innovation in education to improve opportunities to learn.
Over the last month, schools across the country have closed their buildings, and “hunkered down” to figure out how to reopen schools for the remainder of the school year. Las Cruces School District, closed until April 6th is expected to submit plans by April 8th for providing some form of remote instruction until the end of the school year.
For students lacking broadband access to remote learning opportunities already available, making remote learning operational will involve not only professional development for teachers, but finding access for all students. Private schools may already have plans in place based on successful models found in other countries and communities. Technology and communication systems are already in use in many districts where students have access to iPads or chrome books, and students have broadband access for learning on parents devices and phones.
Perhaps districts serving large cities such as Los Angeles Unified School District serving 700,000 students, will find new approaches solving the issue of inequities in learning through partnerships with internet providers for low cost internet and computer offers.
The Seattle School District now closed until April 24th, have an agreement with the teachers union to provide some form of remote instruction starting Monday, March 30 until April 24th. Will chrome books and 200 wireless hotspots serve the at risk students in Seattle? A survey by the school district will want to know how many kids are getting meals, and getting child care slots. Later, the district will ask about how instruction is going.