KSC Announces Virtual Learning K-12 Program Option for 2020-2021 School year
The following is reposted from the Kokomo School Corporation website. Here is the link to their original post.
Dear Kokomo School Corporation Families,
Kokomo School Corporation (KSC) strives to provide educational options that fit the individual learning needs and interests of each student. These options include non-traditional school settings. As we prepare for the 2020-2021 school year, we want to make families aware of a new learning option for our students: A full-time virtual learning classroom for K-12 students. We understand that due to the recent pandemic, some students and families may not be ready to participate in a face-to-face classroom setting when the new school year arrives. With these circumstances in mind, KSC will offer a complete virtual learning option beginning in August 2020. This virtual school program is for families who OPT-IN, or elect, to enroll in this program option.
Kokomo School Corporation’s new virtual education option does NOT replace the traditional face-to-face programs that have existed for years. While these traditional face-to-face programs may look slightly different for the 2020-2021 school year, they will continue to be offered. However, our strong belief in offering quality options for all students, including for those families who may prefer a non-traditional setting, has led us to create this new virtual learning option.
The Kokomo Schools virtual option will not be your traditional online program, where content often is provided without interaction and personal support. Students will be associated directly with the Kokomo School Corporation teacher and the brick-and-mortar school where they currently are enrolled. Any students living in Howard County, and new to the district, are welcome to enroll and will be assigned to a local KSC teacher and school. Students will receive quality instruction by local, highly qualified teachers through an interactive and blended approach to learning.
KSC is confident that this personal approach will help keep all students connected while allowing a more flexible learning environment for families. Corporation officials also believe strong parental involvement is extremely important to a child's academic success. This virtual program will give parents/guardians a learning option that meets the overall health and learning needs for their children. Kokomo teachers will work closely with students and assist family members, as needed, by guiding them through lessons. Parents/guardians also will have the ability to communicate with teachers on a regular basis to assess their children’s learning progress and academic achievement. Families will have the opportunity to become actively involved in parent groups and school functions, while students will have the ability to participate in after-school activities and clubs. Teachers will provide instruction, guidance, and support, while evaluating student work; as well as tracking student attendance and academic progress. Through a design that includes communication on a regular basis, a strong partnership with families will be developed.
Kokomo School Corporation will provide a learning device to all virtual students. A virtual coordinator will work directly with families to ensure virtual learning is a good fit for the student. Virtual students will adhere to the same policies as outlined in the Kokomo School Corporation Student Handbook.
If your family would like to receive more information on the virtual learning option for the 2020-2021 school year, or if you would like to register to “OPT-IN” to this virtual learning model of instruction, please complete the “OPT-IN” survey by clicking the following link: https://forms.gle/odVkAJHNeudkAL1bA. This survey is not considered an official district-wide enrollment form. Official district enrollment will occur in July; however, by completing the survey, your response will help district officials gather specific information regarding virtual instruction interest for the next school year, and allow for preparations by teachers and staff. Please note: Completing this “interest survey” does not commit you to a virtual program for next school year. This survey will indicate that your family would like more information, or are considering this option. Finally, please remember that all families will have the option to choose a traditional school setting during open enrollment in July prior to the start of the 2020-2021 school year. While the specific structure of our traditional schools is unknown at this point, Kokomo School Corporation is preparing for the opening of our schools, in some capacity, for the 2020-2021 school year.
Please email all questions to Kokomovirtual@kokomoschools.com or call Dr. Teni Helmberger at 765-455-8000 ext. 10308.
What do you think, Kokomo?