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By Chad Klassen

K-12 ONLINE LEARNING

Education ministry introducing new guidelines for students online learning

Mar 27, 2020 | 5:19 PM

VICTORIA — The provincial government is putting the final touches on new guidelines to transition students to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

B.C.’s K-12 schools were closed indefinitely last week to help prevent the spread of the virus. The guidelines aim at helping parents and students in this virtual transition.

“This is a challenging time for families in B.C. as we work together to stop the spread of COVID-19, but it is vital students have a sense of routine and continued opportunities to learn while they are at home,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Education. “These guidelines will ensure the needs, health and safety of students are put first as school leaders actively plan to serve the unique needs of their communities.”

GUIDELINE FOR LEARNING

1. Maintain a healthy and safe environment for all students, families and employees.

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2. Provide the services needed to support children of essential workers.

3. Support vulnerable students who may need special assistance.

4. Provide continuity of educational opportunities for all students.

The announcement comes as most of the province wraps up spring break. Fleming says for students who may have difficulty working online, schools are looking at alternative approaches to find the best solution for each individual.

The education ministry is also in contact with 60 school boards across the province to ensure extra supports are provided with students with disabilities.

“Boards of education across the province are working on ways to ensure continuity of learning in their communities,” said Stephanie Higginson, president, BC School Trustees Association. “Local boards of education understand the unique needs in each community. That local connection will be key as boards roll out plans tailored to each school district in the province.”

The province has launched a website called Keep Learning BC, where families can go to find ideas for everyday educational activities. Minister Fleming says it’s unrealistic to think students will be able to get the same amount of learning accomplished at home.

“While it’s important for kids to keep learning, there is no expectation that we can duplicate a normal school day at home, and every family will need to figure out what works best for them, in discussion with their children’s teachers,” noted Fleming. “I understand that many children are experiencing anxiety, while also missing their teachers and friends, and that’s why it’s important they know the actions we’re taking are designed to keep everyone safe, and we will return to regular school life down the road. By working together and supporting each other, we will get through this.”

The website will also give parents tips on how to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic with their children and ensure good mental health during uncertain times.

For essential frontline health-care workers who need urgent care for the kids, they’re advised to contact their school principal next week to discuss arrangements.

Other parents who are deemed an essential service worker and who may need child care for their school-age children can expect to hear from their school regarding care options by Friday, Apr. 3.