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April 16, 2021
Dear Valparaiso Schools Community,
It is difficult to believe that this unique school year is reaching its end. We are proud of our students, staff, and families for their commitment to health and safety efforts that allowed us to successfully offer in-person learning this year.
Last night, the Valparaiso Community Schools Board of Trustees was presented with proposed plans for the 2021-2022 school year. Highlights of the proposal include:
- In-person learning is the most effective and most preferred modality of learning; however, we understand the need and desire for remote learning will still be present in the fall for some students and families.
- In order to provide high quality teaching and learning to both in-person and remote learners while attending school five days a week, we will be utilizing one of our established partners, Edmentum EdOptions Academy, for grades 6-12 to provide online teachers, feedback, and grading that is aligned with VCS curriculum and Indiana standards.
- At this time, VCS is exploring the use of Edmentum EdOptions Academy at the K-5 level as well with the same structure and supports.
- Students who need to participate in remote learning will have access to school services including social-emotional learning resources, extracurricular activities, and academic support provided by VCS academic success coaches who serve as liaisons for school, home, and Edmentum.
- Additionally, daily school schedules K-12 will shift closer to the traditional length and start times of the school day for the 2021-22 school year. Any variance would be contributed to the busing viral mitigation protocols still needed for the year.
In-person Learners who become quarantined will be accommodated in the same manner as other extended absences due to illness and may include opportunities for blended synchronous learning. Please refer to the information at the following link for further details: VCS Planning Document Fall 2021.
We are seeking input from stakeholders on the proposed plans by holding a Town Hall Forum at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 28th at Valparaiso High School. The public can engage in this process in the following ways:
- In-person attendance at Valparaiso High School.
- Anyone unable to attend in-person can submit their comments/questions prior to the event at the following link: VCS Town Hall Public Participation Form which will close at 4 p.m. on April 27, 2021.
- Finally, the Town Hall will be broadcasted for viewing on the VCS YouTube channel for anyone who wishes to only watch the proceedings. Access the livestream here: https://youtu.be/iXgiaqkRrQI
The communal effort and support from our school community and the greater Valparaiso community has been instrumental in all that we have surmounted this year. We look forward to continuing to work together to do what is best for kids.
Partners in Education,
Jim McCall, PhD
Superintendent of Schools