faq
Why is the schedule different the first week of school?
We recognize that the transition to middle school can be challenging and there is a lot to learn, so even when we are in person, we always have an altered schedule for the first few days. We decided to do this in distance learning, as well, so we can better help our students transition to middle school and online learning. By having two, longer classes each day, there will be more of a chance for teachers and students to get to know each other, and for teachers to share all of the necessary information students need to know to be successful during online learning.
What does "office hours" mean?
"Office hours" is the part of the day where students can receive additional help from teachers. Each of us are available at this time to meet with students in smaller groups to re-teach, answer questions, or re-assess students' understanding of a concept. Students might be called in by teachers during this time, or students may request to meet with teachers on their own. If they are called in by teachers, attendance is required.
We highly encourage students to take the initiative to ask for help during this time.
Which electives are offered at Cascade?
We value electives and know how important it is for students to have a well-rounded education where they can explore, learn, and be creative outside of academic classes. We offer music, PE, and art, and all electives will take place during 5th period.
How will each class period be structured?
Beginning the second week of school (September 21), each class period will be 50 minutes long. During each class period, there will be time for about 30 minutes of teacher-led instruction (either done synchronously or asynchronously) and about 20 minutes of applied learning, in which students practice the skills they have just learned independently or in groups.
For more information, please go to the schedule page of this website.
What is the difference between "asynchronous" and "synchronous" learning?
In both distance learning and if/when we move to hybrid learning, students will be learning two ways: synchronously and asynchronously.
Synchronous learning refers to live Zoom classes and meetings, when students will be working directly with teachers and peers. Synchronous learning will happen at least once per day for each student.
Asynchronous learning refers to the learning students will be doing with the help of pre-recorded videos from teachers, and the work they do independently.
For more information, please go to the schedule page of this website.
Attendance
Unlike distance learning in the spring, attendance is now required every day, as outlined by the Oregon Department of Education. During synchronous learning (Zooms), teachers will take attendance. During asynchronous learning (pre-recorded videos or interactive slideshows), students will be responsible for taking attendance for each class period by attendance in each class every day through a Google Form.
If your student misses a class, an auto-dial call will be made at the end of each day.
We understand that this is a new and challenging situation for everyone, and we also acknowledge that everyone's home situation is very different. Please communicate with us regularly; we want to support you as much as we can.
Grading
Unlike spring distance learning, grading is required, as outlined by the Oregon Department of Education. We use a proficiency model, and grades are weighted so that assignments/prep work is worth 80%, and assessments are worth 20%. Students are encouraged to change and re-do assignments based on teacher feedback.
Teachers will grade individual assignments in Google Classroom so students can see comments and change or re-do their work, but overall grades will be tracked in Home Access.
Technology Help
Please visit the Bethel Technology Help Desk, and either enter a Help Desk Ticket or call 541.607.1450.