This post is part of an ongoing series sharing the positive stories that have come out of the challenges our schools are facing. To see all of the posts in this series, click here.
In a short amount of time, COVID-19 has changed the way we live. The term social distancing is a new norm—and families around the world are forced to adapt to new routines. While the lives of many have changed significantly, one thing that has remained consistent is the drive of school leaders and teachers to continue serving their students the best way they can. Despite the problems many Americans are facing, there are many examples that show how educators are going the extra mile.
Rocketship Public Schools Supports Students and Parents
The team at Rocketship Public Schools is reaching out to their students and parents to help them during the pandemic under the “CareCorps Initiative.” Each school site in the nation has members who respond to families who need help during these difficult times. CareCorps sends out a daily message to check on their students and parents and follows up with the families who ask for help. The team then connects parents and students with the support and resources they need.
Charter Schools Keep Students Engaged
A teacher at Frederick Douglass High School in Ohio reached out to her students in a creative way. She uploaded a video called the Apex challenge with fun lyrics. She reminded students that their teachers are there to support them, and she shared how students can get in touch. In New Jersey, the Unity Charter High School team is strengthening their social emotional practices. The school shared tips on how virtual learning is thriving through established routines, strong engagement, and providing parents and students with choices. An online school student at Willamette Connections Academy in Oregon echoes the importance of establishing a routine for a positive distance learning experience and being consistent.
If you have an uplifting story to share about educators going the extra mile, please send it to me at [email protected].
Brittnee Exum is the manager of communications and marketing at the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools.
