The Hybrid and Distance Learning models are new for all of us and so we are figuring this out together! We are here to support you in this journey. That's why we have created this list of tips, resources and recommendations that we hope you will find helpful.
Habits of Success:
Below is a list of tips for success on your virtual learning days:
- Use online virtual learning resources:
- Checking email will be important throughout this school year. This will be true for students and parents.
- Schoology will be the main platform for delivering lessons, assignments and assessments. Click here for more information about Schoology.
- Parent Portal will continue to be used for updating grades.
- Set up a workspace. A good workspace includes an area to sit and work that has limited distractions. It’s helpful to keep your school materials in your workspace so they are easy to find.
- Get organized. It is helpful to keep school materials organized in one location. It is also a good idea to use a calendar or planner to keep track of assignments, google meets, and other commitments.
- Develop a routine. This includes keeping good sleep patterns, designating regular homework times, and also prioritizing time for fun and exercise.
- Start each day with a plan. Students should start each virtual learning day by checking two sources of information: gmail and Schoology. This should give students a full picture of what they need to do for the day before they even get started.
- Set goals. Determining what you want to accomplish each time you sit down to work will help you stay focused and keep you successful.
- Prioritize work. Tackle homework in the order that works best for you. For example, some students like to get their more challenging homework done first because they know this is the time they are most focused.
- Take breaks. You get breaks during the regular school day and you will need them during virtual learning, as well. Just be sure to come back to work when your break is done!
- Limit distractions. Set aside phones, tvs, and other unnecessary devices. This will help ensure that your work time is productive.
- Attend google meets. Whether you need help on an assignment, need clarification on a lesson, or just want to check in with your teacher and classmates, it's always a good idea to attend google meets.
- Be a self-advocate. Be sure to ask for help when you need it! Your parents, an older sibling, your peers, and your teachers are all good options. Email and google meets are great options for communicating with your teachers on virtual learning days. Click here for a video on how to write a proper email.
- Be kind to yourself. Hybrid and Distance Learning presents new challenges to learning that none of us have faced before. Remember to be kind, compassionate, and give yourself grace throughout this process. We will get through this together.
Additional Recommendations:
Below is a list of additional recommendations we want to share with you:
- Take care of yourself. At RMS, we care about you and we want you to stay healthy during this COVID-19 pandemic. This includes your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Some basic ways to stay healthy include: get good sleep, get physical activity each day, eat healthy foods, and stay connected to friends and family.
- A parent’s role during Hyrbid and Distance Learning. Many parents are not sure how to support their students during Hybrid and Distance Learning. If that’s true for you, please know that it is OK. Distance Learning is new for all of us and we will figure this out together! Below are a few recommendations that parents may find helpful:
- Parents can look through Schoology with their student to see what their kids are working on and what they have submitted.
- Parents can use Parent Portal for grade updates. Again, it can be helpful for parents and students to look at Parent Portal together so they can talk about grades that are posted.
- Parents can utilize the Go Guardian Parent App to monitor their child's online activity and assist with their child's online learning. For more information on the Go Guardian Parent App, click here.
- Parents and students can email RMS teachers, counselors, and administration for help when needed.
Additional Resources:
Below is a list of additional resources we want you to be aware of:
- Technology Support:
- RMS online resources. Be sure to check your email regularly. Information will also be shared through the RMS Messenger Email Blasts, RMS Twitter and Facebook.
- ISD 728 online resources: