Email:

As we’re in the middle of Week 2 of distance learning (yes, only Week 2!), I’d encourage you to stop and reflect on everything you’ve learned over the last few weeks. These are unprecedented times, and you are doing unprecedented work learning new tools, supporting students and families, and making adjustments as you learn what works and what doesn’t when teaching students at a distance. It’s important that we keep our focus on making small changes to improve our system, and I can tell that’s exactly what you’re doing. Thank you for continuing to learn in order to do what’s best for our students during these challenging times.

This email has four important items for you as we move into Week 3.

1. Grading & Progress Monitoring

Updates on grading and progress monitoring will be coming early next week. We’ve had a committee of nearly 30 people working to develop grading guidelines that we believe put students in the best position for their future while minimizing stress in the present. Look for more information soon.

2. New Distance Learning Videos & Tools

Based on your feedback, here are two new videos for this week. These are also available on the C&I website.

• Using Google Classroom on an iPad

We know many families are using Apple devices to access Google Classroom. Here’s a quick “how-to” to help them (and you) with the ins and outs of GC on an iPad.

• Using Loom to Create Screen Recordings

Sometimes it’s easier to show something to your students with a short video than it is to give them written directions. Learn how to set up a Loom account, create an easy recording, and share the video link with your students and parents.

3. Zoom Settings

It’s important to make sure everyone is safe and secure during Zoom meetings. Please review these recommendations on how to keep uninvited guests out of your Zoom event. Also, Zoom released a new security update today (along with a “Security” button for hosts), so be sure to check out those important features.

4. Distance Learning Feedback

We’re listening to your comments and we’re making adjustments to our distance learning processes and templates. Please continue to submit your ideas and feedback using our Distance Learning Feedback form.

Thank you for all you do for the students of Crowley ISD.