Frequently Asked Questions – August 8th, 2020

Here are some of the responses from the questions that were asked in our last survey on distance learning.

Question:  With the Distance Learning model, our family will need childcare.  Will the District provide childcare?

A: We understand that childcare is a necessity for many of our families and the District is working on a plan to provide childcare to the extent possible.  It will be important for you to have completed the Parent Survey that was emailed to all families and answer the question regarding your childcare needs. This information will be helpful to us for planning purposes; however, childcare is not guaranteed. More information regarding childcare is forthcoming. Thanks for your patience! 

Question:  I’m concerned about how my child will make academic growth during Distance Learning. Will there be a more consistent structure and daily interaction? My child needs daily interaction with the teacher.

A:  We are committed to providing grade-level academic instruction to your child whether in person or via Distance Learning.  Assembly Bill 77 (AB-77) was amended on June 23, 2020, to reflect Distance Learning. I encourage you to read this document using the link provided. As a District and school, this bill will serve as a guidepost for us. AB-77 includes items such as daily live interaction with the teacher, academic supports such as Designated and Integrated ELD, and Special Education and related services.

Link to AB-77:

https://static.k12insight.com//clients/_LTFileUploads/LT_chulavista/07142020_6933.pdf

Our Superintendent also addressed our plans moving forward with Distance Learning in his most recent message that you can find HERE

Question: When and how will schools reopen? Can we still have the option to do a hybrid model if we do not yet feel comfortable to be there 5 days a week?

A: As stated in our Superintendent’s message from July 15, 2020: Even though the 2020-21 school year will begin with distance learning, it is important to know that our District will continue developing plans to transition into either a hybrid learning model; which is a combination of in-person instruction and distance learning, or into a full in-person instructional model. In fact, there are three learning models CVESD could possibly offer during the 2020-21 school year, which are:

  • Distance Learning: During High-Risk Level
    • 100% of the learning occurs while the teacher and the student are in different locations.
    • Includes many new components such as daily live interaction with the teacher, and instruction that is aligned to grade-level standards provided at a level of quality and intellectual challenge substantially equivalent to in-person instruction.
    • Other criteria for delivering instruction in a distance learning model has been outlined in Assembly Bill 77, which also includes a requirement for a minimum number of daily instructional minutes, depending on the student’s grade level.
  • Hybrid Learning: During Medium Risk Level
    • A combination of in-person and distance learning. There are many variations of what a hybrid model could look like. Hybrid instructional scenarios would be designed to reduce the number of students on campus up to 50%.
    • 100% distance learning would also be an option offered to students who feel safer learning at home.
  • In-person Instruction: During Low-Risk Level
    • 100% of the learning occurs at school, in the classroom with the teacher. Distancing norms and safety protocols would be in place.
    • 100% distance learning would also be an option offered to students who feel safer learning at home.

If at any point in the school year, conditions worsen and Public Health orders the closure of schools, CVESD will be prepared to move back into a distance learning or hybrid model at any time.

Question:  My child will need a device/laptop for Distance Learning and/or we have more than one child in the home and sharing a device.  There were times when both our children could not be online with their teacher. Can we get one from the school? 

A:  Technology and Wifi will be important as we begin the school year in Distance Learning, and we want to make sure our students have what they need to be successful. For families that need a device, we definitely want to support you! Plans for a device distribution is in the works, and you will hear more about that in the coming weeks. Please email araceli.ibarraroman@cvesd.org

Question:  How will we find out who my child’s teacher is?  Will we be having a Welcome Event like in previous years?

A:  You will receive an email the week prior to school starting with your child’s class assignment. A Welcome Event will not be possible this year, however, we will find creative ways to provide you the information you need digitally.

Question:  What school supplies do I need to have ready for my child?  Will we be given a list?

A:  Your child’s teacher will let you know what supplies will be helpful to support Distance Learning for your child at home. We will communicate with you as we get closer to the start of school. We understand you want to be prepared, but we thank you for your patience as we are currently working through the shift to Distance Learning. Know that if any families need basic school supplies, McMillin will coordinate to provide them to you.

Question: Will GATE still take place? What will this look like?

A: Students identified as GATE will continue to receive embedded supports and accelerations of learning in their regular classroom as our teachers are all trained to differentiate based on student areas of strengths and growth. Our Enrichment GATE opportunities will be provided throughout the year as well. Specifics about this program are forthcoming as teachers provide support and they are still on break. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Question:  When will the school office be open?  I have questions about registration, change of address, zone transfers, residency verification, and other items

A:  Our school office is closed for the summer, however, office personnel will be responding to inquiries starting August 12, 2020. Residency Verification information is forthcoming and will be communicated as soon as possible. If you have moved and would like to update your address or be connected to the school in the location of your new home please contact our office.

Beginning August 12: Monday-Friday from 7:45-3:45pm daily

Throughout the year, we will be sending out email notifications and announcements with important information via School Messenger. If you should have any questions, please feel free to call the office at (619) 397-0103.

Stay connected by following us on:

School Website: https://mcmillinelementary.edublogs.org/

Twitter and Instagram: @McMillinCVESD

PTA Facebook and Instagram: @McMillinPta, McMillinPta