BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. — Schools back in session in Baltimore County.
The students are learning in their homes and the teachers are transforming rooms in their homes into classrooms.
Each week students are going to be given the curriculum goals — they will have an opportunity participate in live online class meetings.
And for the first three weeks everything that’s online will be printed and sent to students.
For three weeks Kaylyn Phillips has missed the sound of her buzzing 5th grade classroom at Hernwood Elementary School..
“After that first week called every single one of them just so I could hear their voices.”
A little bit of wrapping paper transformed a wall into a board.
For teachers in Baltimore County— the lead up to the online learning format meant a lot of emails, professional development and innovations.
“We are using Google newt to meet with students. Googlemeet is really cool because students can video chat,” Phillips said. “They can download the app and go in on their phones to be able to meet with me and see me to have some interaction. They can even dial in by phone. It’s very accessible which I’m excited about.”
They reworked the curriculum to try and prepare the students to close out the year on track.
It’s difficult times for teachers everywhere, but many are thankful that their administrators are helping them keep the learning going.
“Just motivating us and telling us do what you can and make sure that the students know that you are there for them. That’s important part of what we are doing letting them know we are here if they need us and we love them. That we want them to be successful and we are willing to go above and beyond for them during this time.”
Right now we know public schools are closed in Maryland through at least April 24. This plan is in place to last to the end of the school year if needed.
In the meantime the district is working to provide all students with devices to access online learning if they don’t have it.
