Oakdale! Happy 2021. As a parent I find it hard to sift through all the school emails so I've prepared this cheat sheet with links where you can find more info, along with some important messages from the PTSA.
1) THE HYBRID SCHEDULE IS STARTING ON MONDAY, JANUARY 28 whether or not students are allowed back in the school building. This means our kids will be getting up earlier. The instructional school day will start at 8:00 a.m (instead of 8:30 a.m) every day (except Wednesdays). Face to face instruction will also end later than it has been, at 12:24 p.m. (instead of 11:30 a.m.) every day (except Wednesdays).
Mr. Enck will be hosting virtual town hall style google meets to review all these changes and answer questions. He's prepared videos that are helpful to watch before attending the google meets:
Hybrid Schedule Review Video
FAQ: Transition to Hybrid Video
2) Are you finding it hard to visualize what concurrent teaching is going to look like? FCPS posted a YouTube video that talks about this, and at around minute 2.45 you see what a classroom at Windsor Knolls Middle School looks like with a teacher simultaneously instructing some kids in the classroom and some virtually. I found this very helpful:
Video: Concurrent Teaching Model with Executive Director of System Accountability Dr. Jamie Aliveto and Windsor Knolls Middle teacher Tasha Brown
3) As parents we see the challenges our kids are experiencing, but the virtual model is not easy for our teachers or staff either. They need our support. Toward this end, the PTSA will be doing things in January and February that demonstrate our appreciation and support for our staff. We can do this because you (our parent community) helped us surpass our fundraising goal. Thank you so much for that and stay tuned for the cool surprises we're working on. In the mean time, take time (you and your student) to thank a teacher or staff member for something they've done that meant a lot to you. These small kindnesses (a note, a smile, a thank you) multiply enormously when we all take part.
4) Hmm, in the market for a mini waffle maker? Or maybe an infinity cube gadget toy? THESE ARE ALL THINGS YOU CAN BUY WITH THE $10 Amazon Gift card you get for participating in our Recreate a Photo Project! Not to mention, it's fun. Deadline is January 13 so don't delay!
To participate, use THIS FORM.