When it was announced recently that all students in Henry County’s public schools would start the new academic year in a virtual learning program, perhaps the most urgent question for hundreds of affected families was ho it could be accomplished if there is no stay-at-home parent during the day.
The district has formulated a plan that will be a big help for some, with the unveiling of an evening option for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. It will allow students to participate in remote learning from 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday each week, with additional independent work time to enhance the experience outside of those hours, according to officials. This is intended to help families who find the evening hours better for helping students complete lessons and work that is delivered remotely by certified classroom teachers in the district.
The plan has been created in response to feedback from parents after last spring’s sudden shift to remote learning necessitated by the COVID-19 shutdown.
“After examining the experiences from the end of last school year and listening to families across the county, we knew that our youngest learners oftentimes had more challenges with the remote environment,” said Melissa Morse, the district’s chief learning & performance officer. “After making some adjustments and enhancements, we feel that this new evening option for the families of our youngest learners will enable greater involvement from students and support from parents and guardians.”
All core content areas will be covered during the evening sessions, along with fine arts and physical education components. Resources available to students during the regular remote learning hours will also be utilized by families selecting the evening option.
“We are committed to making this year the best year for all students and staff,” said district superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis. “Through intense planning and preparation, our district is poised to elevate the remote learning experience from what people may have experienced to end the previous school year. Our teachers are amazing and have been taking part in extensive and intensive professional development to help ensure that the needs of our students will be met remotely until a time in which we can safely bring everyone back to campuses. We are ready to continue the progress our incredible students and staff have been making.”
Registration is currently underway for those families wishing to select this option for their children. Visit the district’s website, www.henry.k12.ga.us.
