Frequently Asked Questions

These are some frequently asked questions regarding Itasca ISD Remote Learning for the 20-21 school year. We will update this as information becomes available.

REMOTE LEARNING (OFF CAMPUS)

What is Remote Learning for the 20-21 school year?

Remote Learning for Itasca ISD means that the students will complete all assigned course work using high technology methods. Students will need a computer and web access. Courses will be set up for students in google classroom. Direct instruction will either be recorded and posted by the teachers or be available to watch live. Assignments will be posted to be completed daily.

Who can access remote learning?

Any parent may choose remote learning for their student(s) Pk-12th gr.

Will my student have to complete assignments during their regular school schedule?

No; however, students will have daily assignments that must be completed in order to receive credit towards attendance for the day. All daily assignments must be completed by 11:59 pm.

If a student is doing remote learning in the spring, will they have to take the STAAR test?

Yes, TEA has stated that all students will be required to take the STAAR test in the Spring of 2021.

The window for online testers has been extended. There is no option for the test to be taken at home, students will need to come on campus for that assessment. Campuses will schedule those test times in the spring.

How will remote learning be different than what students did in the spring?

Remote learning for 20-21 will differ greatly from the spring of 2020. All learning will be virtual rather than paper based. Work will not be sent out for the week; rather, it will be posted to Google Classroom daily. Attendance will also be taken based on completion of the daily assignments for each course students are enrolled in. Remote learning will be more student driven and will include direct instruction by teachers that takes place through live or recorded video.

If we elect to do remote learning and want our student to return on campus will that be allowed?

We welcome students to return to campus; however, they will need to remain on remote learning until the end of the 9 weeks grading periods. Those optional return dates are Aug 19, Oct 19, Jan 5, March 22.

What will a typical day of remote learning look like?

A typical day should follow the students regular school schedule. At a minimum students in grades Pk-5 can expect 180 minutes of work and 6-12 240 minutes each day.

Will lessons be live or pre-recorded?

We anticipate most direct instruction to be pre-recorded; however, there may be times when a teacher requests or allows for live instruction. Students would be provided that information ahead of time in order to make schedule arrangements.

Will assignments be due daily or weekly?

Assignments for the 20-21 school year for remote learning will be due daily. Any student who does not complete the daily course assignments will be marked absent.

If my student is struggling with coursework, how can he or she get help?

All teachers will keep daily office hours. In addition, teachers will hold outside school hours twice weekly. Teachers are always reachable by email or through messaging in Google Classroom.

ATTENDANCE

How will my student be counted for attendance?

The 93% attendance rule for students remains in effect even for students participating in virtual learning. Attendance will be counted for students based on their progress towards the daily assignments posted in each of their courses. Students must complete each of the daily assignments in order to be counted present for the day.

If my student does not meet the 93% attendance rule, will truancy be filed?

Yes, if students do not meet the attendance requirements, truancy will be filed.

What happens if my child has to quarantine or contracts COVID-19, will they be counted absent?

If your student (who is learning on campus) is required to quarantine, they will be transitioned to the remote learning platform. As long as the student completes the daily assignments, credit for attendance will be granted. When cleared, the student may return to on campus learning.

If my student is a remote learner and will be absent, how will I communicate their absence?

For remote learners, please either call the campus office or email the attendance clerk. Elementary email mbayse@itascaisd.net and MS/HS email kbassett@itascaisd.net.

TECHNOLOGY

What technology will be needed to access virtual learning?

Students will need internet access as well as a device to access remote learning for any portions of the 20-21 school year. All coursework will use Google Classroom as the platform for instructional delivery. Additional information for google can be found on this site.

What do we do if we do not have home internet access?

If you do not have home access and have a need, there are a couple options. First, the district will open up public access to wifi from the football field parking lot. Hilco Civic Center will also open up their wifi and finally, Hot Spots are available for checkout from the district.

What do we do if we do not have a device at home?

Due to learning being online, students will need a device, preferably with a keyboard. If your student does not have access to a device, chromebooks may be checked out from the the district.

How can we get tech support if needed?

You can get tech support by emailing rwilson@itascaisd.net or zdmay@itascaisd.net. You can also call 254-687-2922 ext 154.

GRADING

Will grading be different between on campus and virtual learning?

Grading between campus and online learning will remain the same. All district grading policies will apply to all students regardless if the student is in person or online.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

If my student is participating in virtual learning can he or she still participate in extracurricular activities like athletics and band?

Students who are participating in home learning will not be allowed to participate in extracurricular activities such as band and athletics. Any exceptions must be approved by the campus.

How will the needs of 504/Sped/ESL students be met?

All students will receive accommodations and modifications as indicated by ARD, 504 or LPAC meetings. Any changes or modifications to special services provided (ie: speech therapy, occupational therapy etc) will be discussed and agreed upon prior to change.

How will my student Gifted and Talented needs be met?

Classroom teachers will provide for the needs of all students.