Keeping schools safe is the current question facing administrators today. There are so many considerations and each school is different. The one thing I am sure of as an educational consultant is that the answers need to be well-thought out by educational experts consulting with health experts. Unfortunately, some politicians are very reticent to listen to both medical and educational professionals. This is a very dangerous path if the questions revolve around power rather than the students.
There will be many resources listed on this page that I hope will help you as you seek to keep your schools safe. I will continue to add more ideas and thoughts daily. My number one recommendation is to connect with Learning Sciences International. As an Independent Contractor for them, I can attest to the quality of their materials and their dedication to their mission. We partner with school districts, individual schools. We offer a variety of research-based solutions for you to consider in these uncertain times. As stated on the LSI website:
“We partner with schools and districts to implement tailored and proven transformation approaches, so students excel, are equipped with 21st-century skills, and your teachers are more fulfilled. Our Schools for Rigor partnerships are proven to improve student performance by strengthening core instruction and leadership practices and meet Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requirements for evidence-based interventions.“
Blended Learning
Another consideration is the possibility of blended learning as a solution. This obviously means news ways of looking at the school schedule. Learning Sciences International is also spearheading the movement to synchronous and asynchronous learning and teaming. We know that teachers need a virtual tool box now more than ever. I encourage you to look at the work that we are doing at LSI to assist teachers grow and change with the needs of our educational system. We are offering a large selection of online courses that will serve the needs of teachers, administrators and school districts.
If you wish to read even more information on Learning Sciences International you can view my separate page on the wonderful work we do. LSI wants to support you as we work together to reopen schools safely.
New Territory for Administrators
As educators journey throughthe 2020-2021 school year, school administrators and district leaders will face a number of new challenges. There are so many unknowns. Certainly we can agree that there is a definite need to exhibit innovative and effective leadership in navigating the days to come. While it may seem daunting, it is a wonderful opportunity to reshape for the better the educational world we provide our students.
Resources
I offer these two resources for your consideration. They are comprehensive and may ignite ideas and plans for your own schools:
Stay tuned for future updates! I will add more every day!
Response Magic