July 17, 2020
Good morning West Shore families and staff,
When we began the development of our Health and Safety Plan, there was a trend moving toward green status across the state and restrictions being lifted. In the last two weeks, we have received a universal masking Order, recommended quarantines following travel to approximately 20 states, and limitation on group sizes. Additionally, at 2:44 p.m. yesterday, July 16, we received updated guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) and Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE).
Given these and other factors, at last night's Board Meeting, Dr. Stoltz and Dr. Whye shared the District's plans to start the 2020-2021 school year on Tuesday, August 25 with Distance Learning 2.0 and transition to in person instruction through three phases.
2020-2021 School Year - Phased Reopening Plan
Phase 1: From August 25 to September 18, all students will engage in Distance Learning 2.0. On September 10, a recommendation will be made to either remain in phase 1 or transition to phase 2 on September 21, 2020.
Phase 2: A segment of the student population will return to the building for in person instruction with priority given to elementary and high needs special education students. Throughout Phase 2, additional students and staff will return to school for in person instruction.
Phase 3: Total reopening as outlined in accordance with state, federal, and health agencies. Specific details will be shared in a revised District Health and Safety Plan prior to the start of Phase 3.
Phase 1 – Distance Learning 2.0
Based on feedback received from students, parents, and staff, Distance Learning in the fall will look very different from what was utilized in the spring.
Distance Learning Changes
- Streamlined Platforms (SeeSaw for elementary & Schoology for secondary)
- Devices for All Students (K-12) with internet and technology support (hot spots, etc.)
- Direct instruction and video lessons provided by West Shore teachers
- Online Small Group and Collaborative Opportunities
- Student support and services for students with Special Needs
- Accountability (Graded Assignments, Assessments, Attendance Checks)
- Counseling and Mental Health Support Services
- Continuation of Free Grab-and-Go Bagged Meals Program
Next Steps
- Collect additional feedback from families, teachers, and support staff to assist the District with our Phased Reopening Plans.
- Communicate information with families regarding Distance Learning 2.0 (how it will impact CPAVTS, IEPs, etc.) and device/resource distribution.
- Finalize the District’s Health and Safety Plan for approval by the Board and Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Feedback, Questions, and Concerns
During the Board Meeting, Dr. Stoltz and Dr. Whye answered several questions from the community regarding our reopening plans for the school year. We apologize for the technical difficulties and sound issues that occurred, but encourage those who have not watched the meeting to do so.
It is to be expected that viewpoints on how to return to school will be as varied as each person’s unique experience and circumstance. If after viewing the video and presentation, you have questions or comments to share. Please submit them by using our
Contact Form (select School Reopening/Health & Safety Plan as your topic).
Your patience as we navigate a situation that is changing every day is appreciated.