Thursday, March 19, 2020

Extended School Closure

I hope this message finds everyone doing well!

As we start to make the transition to virtual learning, our teachers and staff have been working to develop remote learning opportunities for our students during this extended school closure. Counselors, social workers, and teachers will be engaging with students through Google Classroom, email, and/or virtual office hours. Contact information for our teachers and professional staff is provided here organized by department. Any questions or concerns relating to online instruction should be directed to the teacher of the course. 
While we know that many of our teachers are already checking in with students, starting on Monday, March 23rd, students will receive lessons/activities in their Google Classroom accounts. We know that families are dealing with numerous challenges, so students should expect only one to two 40 minute lessons/activities each week per class at this time. Teachers will be providing instructional feedback to all students on each assignment. Our primary goal is to maintain our connections with students and to continue developing their secondary academic skills and proficiency. Participation is expected, as teachers will be monitoring student involvement via comments, emails, and Google Classroom activity.  Participation is the key to success! An overview and link to the WG Online Learning Portal can be found here.
We ask that you continue to look for updates in the following ways: 
·         WGMS Principal Blog
·        Student and/or parent or guardian emails
·        Twitter: @Sdunhamwgms and @MJMcGrathjr
In addition, we would like to recognize all of the WGCSD staff who have been working tirelessly to organize and deliver meals and technology. Also, our incredible custodial staff who continue to work to keep all of our staff and volunteers safe. Thank you to our District Level PTA/PTO’s for arranging for volunteers and creating our first virtual spirit week. We start that with Pajama Day on Monday!

Our current plan of distance learning is based on a return to school on April 14, 2020. Due to the unforeseen nature of this virus and the caution that we will exercise to protect the West Genesee family, our plans may change. These changes will be guided by both New York State and Onondaga County. Any updates, should we need to make them, will be communicated on our district website, through my blog, Twitter and through email. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns. Take care and take care of one another.
Continued Success,
Steve Dunham
@Sdunhamwgms