| As we prepare to continue our Distance Learning Protocol for the remainder of the year, April 20-June 5, it is important to let you know what plans we have in place. We continue to follow the guidelines that the Department of Catholic Schools has put in place. Teachers have spent the past two weeks developing curriculum maps that outline what students will be able to learn and do by the end of this year. We will be covering the same standards that we would be doing if we were at school. However, the manner of instruction and assessment will be different. We will share a simplified version of these curriculum maps with you on Wednesday.
Instruction will include a combination of face-to-face virtual class sessions, pre-recorded videos, independent work, small group activities, and direct instruction, among others. The needs of the students vary by age, maturity and grade level, and so too, the amount of time spent online will also vary. The best way you can support your child while they are online is to allow them space to concentrate on the teacher's instructions. Move to another area if possible. Remember, if we don't make mistakes we are not learning or building resilience.
On Fridays, students will be afforded opportunities to catch up with any unfinished assignments, participate in virtual field trips, or complete a project of their choice. From now on, P.E. and Music teachers will also provide regular classes during the week. Please see their letter for further details. For teachers and staff, Fridays will be devoted to ongoing professional development, planning, collaboration, and faculty meetings. Teachers may also use this day for individual conferences and assessments or for small group meetings and for additional student support and/or interventions. Rhythm and Moves (Music and PE) Distance Learning Letter May is one of the busiest months of the school year with First Communion and Confirmation, and of course, the greatest milestone for our 8th graders, their graduation from St. Thomas More School. We know how important these significant events are to our students and their families so we will need to plan to celebrate in a different way or rescheduled for a later date. Teachers will be sharing surveys with you later this week to find out what options would work best for you and your family.
Please continue to pray for the safety of all our essential workers.
With gratitude,
Marie | 
