Resources (offline)

Due to the virulence of the COVID-19 virus and the increasing number of confirmed cases in Pennsylvania, on March 30, 2020 Governor Wolf ordered all schools closed for an indefinite period of time. With schools closed and the current social distancing restrictions in place, LEAs should be considering the implications of their instructional responsibilities now, and in the event of any future closures.

In putting forth best efforts to ensure access to continuity of education programming, we recognize the following:

• Equitable access to educational programming during the pandemic and subsequent school closures is a priority;

• Throughout the Commonwealth there are students/families that do not have access to internet and/or home devices;

• The sharing of best practices, considerations and creative innovations in making low tech options accessible to all will improve educational access for students.

Purpose:

The purpose of this document is to support LEAs with resources, best practices and considerations when planning low-tech options for families without internet, home devices or both.

Two strands we are advocating for in particular:

1. Students with limited access but many devices in the home or shared devices

2. Students with absolutely NO access