The committee discussed the newly released color-coded map regarding COVID risk, what schools and districts are deciding across the State. Mr. Swan shared what parent feedback he has received in the planning process for re-opening including a consistent schedule for students (but not all day in front of a computer) and clear expectations for parents so that they can understand how best to support their children.

School leaders are creating a parent orientation that incorporates some technology learning/training.

One of the biggest lesson learned was what the best technology tool would be going into the Fall and creating consistent ways to set up Google classroom to be accessible to students and parents and all of the tools that will be utilized go through Google classroom so students and families only have to learn one platform, not all of those outlined in the plan.

The committee discussed the support that will be put in place for these populations of students as well as the evolving guidance from DESE from Spring to present day.

Also discussed was data as it relates to the numbers of students with IEPs and ELs in each grade, the multi tier system of supports that have always been in place, will continue to be, and how the remote environment will be challenging in some ways, but also how some technology tools will actually really support student needs.

Teachers will have professional development to support them in ensuring that instruction is strong within the parameters of the re-opening plan.