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.
Charter School Opens Lines of Communication to Senior Citizens
Hoboken Dual Language Charter School in New Jersey is working with their board president and councilwoman to help one of the most vulnerable groups affected during this pandemic—senior citizens. The school created a check-in program to call senior citizens who have signed up and connect them with resources to help meet their individual needs. In addition to providing information, the callers are there to listen and comfort them with conversation during the uncertain times.
Charter Schools Adapt to Online Learning
As charter schools continue to adapt to online learning, they are focused on educational equity and meeting the individual needs of their students. Carmen Schools of Science and Technology in Milwaukee passed out Chromebooks to more than 860 students who did not have computer access and mailed more than 500 learning packets to students who were unable to get online. School leaders say the goal is to create consistency for continued learning and a supportive school community.
In Massachusetts, the principal at Baystate Academy Charter Public School discussed the strong system they have in place. This included accommodating each student who did not have computer access to help with the transition to virtual learning.
In California, the Fortune Schools network also made sure students were prepared for online classes. They placed Chromebooks in approximately one thousand students’ homes. Furthermore, they established a distance learning hub on their website as a resource for parents and teachers, featuring technology training videos, announcements, and virtual classrooms.
Kudos to the schools above and others who are standing strong on their commitment to serve their students.
If you have an uplifting story to share about educators going the extra mile, please send it to me at brittnee@publiccharters.org.
Brittnee Exum is the manager of communications and marketing at the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools.
