A letter sent to the families of Newark Charter students details the school’s plan to reopen.
Dear Newark Charter School Community,
Following Governor Carney’s announcement today, I write to share with you an update on the start of the 2020-2021 school year. While the general community is at a moderate spread level, student and staff safety are paramount in our decision-making.
Thank you for the feedback you provided on our recent surveys. When making our decision, your responses were considered along with the requirements and recommendations outlined in the school reopening guidance regarding transporting students and having them in buildings for in person learning. We are phasing in our instruction model and all grades K-12 at Newark Charter School will start the year in a remote learning environment for the first four weeks. Prior to early October, we will re-evaluate pandemic conditions, testing, spread in the community and make the determination whether to continue remotely or move to a hybrid learning environment at that time.
Below you will find general information to help you and your family plan the start of the new school year. While this note is simply a brief overview of the remote learning plan, expect to hear from your building principal later in August with more details specific to your student and their grade level.
*Instruction and content delivery will occur both synchronously (when teacher is present at the same time as the learners) as well as asynchronously (when learning occurs through online channels without real-time interaction).
*In addition to new technology devices for grades 4-12, we are using technology instructional platforms to enhance remote learning across K-12.
*Students will need to be “present” electronically – on a device that can support the learning platforms used by our teachers. Loaner devices for families grades K-3 who may need them will be available.
*When synchronous activities and instruction are occurring, students will be required to be in uniform. The annual used uniform sale will occur later in August. As a reminder, there are bins for used uniform donations in each building.
While I am aware that this decision may not be ideal for all families, please know that we have considered a full range of variables and feel this is the most prudent way to begin the year.
Thank you for your continued support of our students and staff as we begin a new school year adventure. Your building leadership will continue to communicate with you as our remote learning plans progress.
Stay well,
Dr. Newton