TVDSB teachers to survey students for tech needs as learning moves online
CBC
Teachers across the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) are sending emails and making calls to their student families as they gear up to begin online learning this week.
Because different schools and families have different needs, some students will be back in virtual classrooms on Wednesday, while others won't be logging in until Monday.
In an email sent to parents and guardians Monday night, the board says students will transition to online leaning "as soon as possible." Teachers are now tasked with firguring out which families need Chromebooks or other technology to help with online school.
The move comes after the Ontario government announced all schools will go virtual on Wednesday, with the earliest possible return to in-person learning on Jan. 17.
"We understand this last-minute change is disappointing for many families and we will work hard to support our students and families as best we can throughout this time", said Mark Fisher, director of education for TVDSB.
"At Thames Valley, we are committed to following the direction of the ministry and our local health units, and hope that by doing so students will be able to return to in-person learning safely and as soon as possible."
While many students have their own laptops and Chrome books from pervious stints of online learning, many families will require a loaned device from the school board.
"Families who require the loan of a TVDSB computing device are asked to email or call the school office or contact your child's teacher to request the loan of a TVDSB computing device," the email sent Monday read.
Emails from teachers to parents and guardians obtained by CBC News show the expected start dates for synchronous or real-time online learning will vary, with some students starting as early as Wednesday, while others will begin next week. Asynchronous activities, such as online learning tools and games, are being recommended to keep students occupied.
The school board says further information will be sent to the families and guardians of students with special needs by Monday, Jan. 10.
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