IDAB, COVID-19 Distance Learning

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting public health emergency for the 2020-2021 school year, the Orleans Parish School Board recognizes that it may be necessary for the Superintendent to close school facilities. If this occurs, the school district will make every effort to ensure that students’ educational opportunities continue through distance learning. In order for students to receive high-quality educational programming through distance learning, there are minimum standards of practice that must be in place. The School Board aims to provide a high-quality educational experience that maximizes student learning and is comparable to what one would receive through traditional, on-campus learning.

For the purpose of this policy, distance learning is defined as instruction that takes place remotely, outside of the traditional classroom and primarily using online technology platforms. It can include synchronous or asynchronous learning, a hybrid of the two or other distance learning modality. Distance learning instructional programming will consist of required courses that, at minimum, lead to high school graduation and are in alignment with state standards and all policies set forth by the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) Bulletin 741. All attendance, grading and instructional minute requirements will be adhered to per Bulletin 741.

The following principles shall guide and inform the implementation of distance learning in our schools:

Schools shall provide a 1:1 ratio of technology devices to students to fully participate in the distance learning curriculum.
Schools should make every effort to connect families to resources to obtain the internet connectivity needed to access distance learning platforms.
Schools shall provide students with alternative instructional resources, such as paper based, for any interruption in internet connectivity.

Distance learning will be offered daily in core subjects except for programs that offer block scheduling on a rotating basis.
For each course in which a student is enrolled, there shall be a plan for teachers to engage with students on a daily basis, to provide weekly feedback, and to grade and monitor of student progress at regular intervals.

Teachers should plan to engage with parents on a quarterly basis to share student progress and expectations on family support of student learning.

Through a school’s distance learning platform, schools should provide standards-aligned instruction using high-quality LDOE approved curriculum.

Students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), English Language Learners and those with Section 504 plans shall receive the necessary accommodations and support to meaningfully access distance learning.

Ref: Louisiana Handbook for School Administrators, Bulletin 741, Louisiana Department of Education