Update on Distance Learning

Below is the email from the school district. Check the district page for the most updated information https://www.nclack.k12.or.us/sped/page/coronavirus-covid-19-information

March 31, 2020

Dear NCSD Parents and Students,

Late last night, the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) shared with every school district in Oregon the state’s intent to shift from an enhanced model of supplemental education to a “distance learning for all” educational model. 

The reason ODE has mandated this “distance learning for all” model is the result of the expectation that it’s highly likely students may not return to classrooms for the remainder of this year in support of the Governor’s “Stay Home, Save Lives” order. Such an outcome was not known at the beginning of the COVID-19 situation in late February/early March. As this virus has progressed and its implications better understood, ODE’s guidance and expectations of school districts have also changed.  

In practical terms, what North Clackamas Schools (NCSD) will do in support of ODE’s expectation is undergo a shift from providing supplementary education remotely, to actually offering structured learning with graded assignments remotely for all students and grade levels.

For NCSD’s teachers, this week is being spent learning and enhancing their skills regarding online tools and resources. On Friday, April 3, teachers will begin contacting students to provide some learning support. Our technology department is working on a distribution plan to check out laptops to those families who indicated that they needed one. Those families will be contacted by our technology department soon with details on how these devices will be distributed. 

By state mandate, on Monday, April 13 NCSD will move to a distance learning for all educational model. This will allow for the grading of student work, the assessment of standards, and in the case of our high schools, the awarding of credits.

Without a doubt, this effort represents a shift, and one that will call on all our creativity and talents, along with leveraging the value of our deep partnerships with families. Successfully implementing this change will enable NCSD to reach all students to provide care, connection, and continuity of learning. We appreciate your continued patience and understanding while we develop and roll out this unprecedented new plan. Please look for additional communication about this topic during the week of April 6.
 
Thank you again and please remain safe.
 
Sincerely,
Matt Utterback