BSD Hybrid LeaRning guiDe FoR ouR unique LeaRneRS
Supporting our Unique Learners In BSD we believe in supporting all our students, no matter what they need to succeed. During these special times, we will continue to provide the variety of services that help our unique learners.
How will Special Education work in hybrid learning? We are excited to welcome students back to school for a blend of in person and remote learning. In the new format, they will continue to receive the accommodations and services outlined in their IEP and 504 Plan. When students are in person, their teachers will be teaching and delivering services to students as a whole class and in small groups. Students who are remote will use their Chromebooks and iPads to participate. Therapists will work with students in person but may also continue using phone therapy and video conferencing. As always, teachers and special education staff will consider each child’s unique needs and find ways to support all students.
What about IEP and 504 meetings? IEP meetings and 504 meetings will continue to happen remotely using Zoom, or if necessary, phone conferencing. Your school’s Special Education Coordinator or School Counselor will contact you to set up your child’s IEP or 504 meeting. As always, you have the right to request a meeting with your child's school to discuss their IEP or 504 plan at any time. Students returning to in person learning will be evaluated closely to find out if there was any impact from school closings on their IEP goals. IEP teams will meet to discuss their findings.
Contact with your child’s teachers and therapists It is critical that you work closely with your child's teachers and therapists during hybrid learning. The best way to contact them is through their school email. If you are unable to reach the teacher or therapist by email, contact the school and they can get you connected. It is our goal to work with you to provide your child with what is needed to succeed during hybrid learning.
What will hybrid learning look like for Unique Learners?
Staff may work with small groups of students whether they are in person or learning remotely. In the classroom, staff members may arrange students in small groups spaced for social distancing. At the same time, the teacher will arrange their computer so that their online students in small groups can watch and participate in class content. Teachers, therapists, and support staff will continue work together to address each child’s needs.
How do I help my child learn?
pointing, nodding / showing a picture, showing a visual, writing a clue
any verbal prompt to support the completion of the task
It’s hard to know when to step in to help your child if they are struggling. The guide shown here can help. It is always best to allow your child to complete their work independently. If your child is still struggling after they try on their own, you can help them by using different levels of prompting to help them succeed.
performing the task or showing your child what to do
lightly guiding, tapping, or nudging the student to complete the task
hand over hand prompting or physical prompting beyond partial physical prompting
English Language Learners Elementary Students will learn content and language at the same time. New students will also receive instruction in listening, speaking, reading, and writing English.
Middle and HighSchool Students will be offered an English development class where they will receive instruction in listening, speaking, reading, and writing English. They will also receive support in their regular content area classes throughout the day.
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Students who receive Gifted Services
Student learning will become more sophisticated little by little during the marking period. Lessons will be designed to move students toward expertise in the subject matter. BSD uses the Parallel Curriculum Model as the framework for curriculum development. Students identified as twice exceptional will receive gifted services and special education services at the same time.
18-21 Vocational Programs Service Source and SITE interns will receive vocational-based instruction in person. We will continue to work with District partners to determine work-based learning experiences that are available right now. SITE in-house businesses will also operate.
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We are here to help! Our teachers and support staff are here to help. They care about your children and want to see them succeed. Don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher, counselor, or therapist if you have questions or need extra support.
Brandywine School District November 2020