Soft launch FAQs

For Distance Learning in Year-Round Schools

Published April 24, 2020

Why a soft launch?

A soft launch allows everyone the time and space necessary to prepare for a formal return to graded instruction May 11. Educators will receive any additional professional training necessary to effectively move to Distance Learning. During the soft launch, students and/or staff that are unable to participate will be identified and supported logistically so that they can participate by the May 11 formal launch of Distance Learning. If students and/or staff are missing access to the internet and/or devices, we will be working during this time to close those gaps.

What will my students be doing during the soft launch?

Students will continue learning using online materials during this time. Students should engage in learning online in the classes for which they are enrolled. During this soft launch, student assignments won’t be graded, but the lessons will contribute to student success in their areas of study. A formal return to graded instruction will occur on May 11.

Where are the lessons?

Grades TK-2

Grades 3-5

Middle School students

High School students

What other types of learning are available?

TV remains a learning option for many families. San Diego Unified School District, KPBS and the San Diego County Office of Education have collaborated on a plan to provide for continuity of learning for all students. “At-Home Learning: Where Children Matter” includes a broadcast component with standards-aligned programming in blocks by grade level, and a digital component with access to an online library of free PBS educational resources. Click Here for KPBS learning opportunities.

Are my college courses still available online?

All community college courses moved to an online format starting on March 23rd. Students need to access the SDCCD Canvas Login Page and will need to use their 10-digit College Student Identification (CSID) number and password, to access their coursework. Courses will remain online for the rest of the school year.

Advanced Placement tests

https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/about-ap/news-changes/coronavirus-update

International Baccalaureate Program

The Internal Baccalaureate Program (https://www.ibo.org/) announced the May 2020 examinations are scheduled between April 30 and May 22 for the Diploma Programme. Career-related Programme candidates will no longer be held. Depending on what they registered for, the student will be awarded a Diploma or a Course Certificate which reflects their standard of work.

What do you have for the Arts?

San Diego Unified believes a foundation in the arts is essential for every student. Please review this online curriculum created by our Visual and Performing Arts professionals.

Special Education students

Families with children receiving special education services will have equal access to opportunities. We intend to provide students in special education with the same educational benefit available to every student at this time. We are working to develop a Distance Learning plan for each child, one that will help them continue to learn, while keeping them safe. An education specialist, case manager, or related service provider will consult and collaborate with parents/guardians in an effort to provide every child with access to curriculum and instruction. Plans will provide access and meaningful educational benefits through online learning opportunities. For more information regarding Special Education services, please visit this site.

English Learners

As the District, schools, and educators engage in Distance Learning, lessons will include specific considerations to address appropriate supports and scaffolds necessary for language development as well as formative measures to note progress toward English proficiency. Planning for small group collaboration will be imperative for ELs to authentically practice language and receive feedback.

What else should I expect?

• Students independently self-pace their learning based on resources shared by the school District.

• Some educators will also curate and provide materials digitally (e.g., videos, assignments from District materials or supplemental materials) which students work on independently and submit.

• Educators may also provide differentiated, small group support through phone calls or online meetings based on student need and offer online office hours and/or telephone feedback for students.

• Student communication may take place through Seesaw, Google Classroom or Canvas.

Will my teachers contact me?

In some cases. Other times, your principal might be the one to contact you. Many educators have already been connecting with students, and that work should continue during the soft launch period. Other educators will be using this time to hone their own professional skills, so they can return to graded instruction with confidence when that transition occurs on May 11^th.

Why haven’t I heard from my teacher?

Many educators have already been connecting with students, and that work should continue during the soft launch period. Other educators will be using this time to hone their own professional skills, so they can return to graded instruction with confidence when that transition occurs. Educators will prepare for the official Distance Learning launch by participating in District provided training, while starting or continuing to reach out to students and families, as they try out new technology, platforms and ways of teaching and learning.