Optional "Virtual Academy" for 2020-2021 school year

Hello families,

Yesterday, Superintendent Libby Bonesteel sent a letter to families about a "Virtual Academy." The letter is here. Here is some of the most important information:

• This year, there will be an all-virtual (at home, online) option for K-8 students.
• There will still be an in-person (at school) option for K-8 students (details here).
• Families can choose which option they want for their children.
• The choice will be for the whole 2020-2021 school year.

Some reasons families might choose the "Virtual Academy" are:

• A child is at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
• A child lives with someone who is at high risk.
• The family prefers this option.

We don't know all the details yet about the "Virtual Academy." Here are some things we do know:

• It connects with the same curriculum.
• There will be a "regular" school day with a schedule.
• Learning will be synchronous and asynchronous.
• Students can get school lunch.
• An adult at home will need to supervise the child's work (for about 5 hours/day for K-4 students, about 2-3 hours/day for students in grades 5-8).

Virtual learning is not an equal experience to in-person instruction. The Vermont Agency of Education recommends that primary students choose in-person learning when possible.

The district requests that every family fill out a survey for each child with your choice. Please fill out the survey before August 3.

If you do not fill out a survey, we will assume your child will be attending school in-person. In other words, in-person school is the "default" option.

We know that this is complicated! Please, contact any of us to ask any questions.
Hannah, Laura and Sylvia

Return to School FAQ #2 (In Person/Virtual) - posted 7/27/2020