FAQ

What is Van Meters plan for education moving forward?

Our online learning classes are now required for students in grades 9-12. Students are expected to meet the standards outlined for the course to receive full credit. Teachers are planning on using a P/F or Incomplete format for grading purposes. This change is being made to ensure the credit students would be earning for the course is as close to the normal level of standards met as possible.

For students in grades K-8, online learning participation is still strongly encouraged. The learning that takes place now for students in grades 6-8 will better prepare them for their next grade level. We will continue to provide feedback to help students and parents know what standards students are meeting and which ones they need more time and support to meet.

Will missed school time be required to be made up once the COVID-19 shutdown is over?

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced a recommended shutdown of all Iowa Schools on March 15, 2020. On March 16th, the Iowa Legislature agreed to waive the requirement for Iowa schools to reschedule missed school days up through April 12, 2020.

On Thursday, April 2nd, Governor Reynolds extended the shutdown of Iowa Schools until April 30th and shared at that time that Iowa schools would be required to offer lessons OR makeup the missed school time. Pleasantville Schools has opted for the Iowa Dept of Education’s approved voluntary instruction model that will meet the requirements for “continuous learning” during the COVID-19 shutdown. Since Van Meters plan is approved by the Department of Education, no school makeup time is required.

How will grades be figured for high school students and MS students taking HS credit?

Teachers are planning on using a P/F or Incomplete format for grading purposes. This change is being made to ensure the credit students would be earning for the course is as close to the normal level of standards met as possible.