Dear Eagle Families,
First and foremost, I hope that you and your family are in good health and are finding ways to enjoy the summer. The past several months have presented many challenges and added stress to so many of us. It is important that we all remember to address the physical, mental, and emotional needs of ourselves and of our family members. Please let us know if you are in need of any resources or assistance.
Last night, the Frederick County Board of Education made the decision to have students start the school year in a full virtual model. At the end of last school year, FCPS gathered student, parent, and educator feedback pertaining to their experiences with virtual learning. FCPS as well as OMS staff have spent the summer reviewing the data, reflecting on our practice, and developing plans that will enhance the virtual learning experience for our students. As was shared in last night’s Find-Out-First, the systemic enhancements to virtual learning include:
Furthermore, the Board of Education has charged staff to identify targeted small groups of students to participate in face-to-face instruction to support individualized educational needs, to ensure access to virtual options, and to address specific courses requiring in person instruction. More information will be provided to parents regarding these options. Parents/guardians will ultimately reserve the right to decline these services if they have concerns regarding their child's health in a face-to-face FCPS school building. Specific health measures will be in place to protect the health of both students and staff.
It is important to note that the full virtual model that will be utilized this year will be different than last spring’s Continuity of Learning. The academic intensity of the courses will be greater and students will earn traditional letter grades as opposed to the Pass (P) or Incomplete (iCOL) that was used last spring. I am confident that with the lessons we learned last year and the enhancements that have been put into place, our students will not only succeed in a virtual learning model, but will soar to new academic heights.
As we move into this model, I know that there are still many questions, worries, and frustrations. Please know that we are here to help and will do our best to answer any questions that you may have. A strong collaborative effort will further solidify our students success as we navigate full virtual learning. Additionally, I know that the Oakdale Middle School staff is fully committed to providing our students with the best educational experience possible.
Please continue to closely monitor your email for communications from FCPS and OMS. I will utilize Find Out First to keep you apprised of new information about virtual learning, students schedules, and other important school related information. In the meantime, do not hesitate to reach out to us with any questions via email at daniel.enck@fcps.org or by phone (240) 236-5500.
Sincerely,
Daniel L. Enck
Principal