GMSD Enhanced Online Learning vs. GM GOLD

How does the GMSD enhanced online learning option differ from GM GOLD?

The most significant difference between the two options is that the district’s 2020-2021 enhanced online learning option will be using the GMSD curriculum, and will be instructed by district teachers. Teachers will use a student-centered learning approach to present both asynchronous and synchronous learning and students will develop skills on how to learn effectively on a digital platform.

Another distinction is that the synchronous learning offered in the 2020-2021 enhanced online learning option will allow students to participate in classes with their peers and friends. Whether through whole groups, small groups, or in pairs, students will have opportunities to connect with their peers through academic activities and assignments.

GM Gold is a more traditional online learning option that is designed similarly to outside cyber charter school learning programs. Students mainly work asynchronously (independently) to complete modules of learning. The modules are due each week, and students attend a daily homeroom which provides a constant check-in with a teacher. Each course of study takes about an hour a day commitment. There are teacher office hours and writing and math labs that are synchronous learning opportunities within the program. Participation in GM Gold is expected to be a year-long commitment.

Unlike outside cyber-learning charter schools, in both the 2020-2021 enhanced online learning option and GM Gold, students enrolled are Governor Mifflin students and can participate in all school and extracurricular activities including clubs, sports, music, and many other district activities.

How does the GMSD enhanced online learning option differ from a cyber charter school?

GMSD offers a multitude of benefits unmatched by an outside cyber charter school:

• All courses are taught by Pennsylvania State Certified Governor Mifflin School District teachers*

• All of our courses follow the same curriculum or standards that are being taught in the school building, maintaining the same rigor and engagement as GMSD’s in-person instruction with the added flexibility of the online environment.

• Fully online students can participate in all in-school and extracurricular GMSD programs and events, including clubs, athletics, band, etc.

• Structured schedule for elementary students to manage screen time. Secondary students will have more asynchronous time than synchronous time in online courses which provides more flexibility.

*For secondary students: If a course is not available in the enhanced online learning option, it may be necessary to provide a specific course or courses through the use of our GM Gold program to meet student scheduling needs. In these cases, student courses would not receive instruction through district teachers, but rather through teachers in the district’s contracted online program, VLN.

Is the GM enhanced online learning opportunity the same program that was offered this past spring?

No. The remote learning that our families experienced this past spring was in response to the emergency closing. At that time, we were operating under the continuity of education plan guidelines.