Norms and Expectations for Online Learning
St. Anne’s-Belfield Lower School
Our core purpose: To inspire and prepare the next generation
of exemplary citizens and visionary leaders.
Our core values: Integrity, Curiosity, Diversity, Creativity, Agency, Impact
The online learning program for Lower School students at St. Anne’s-Belfield is designed to deliver academic instruction and community-building opportunities from a distance when a student must be off campus due to extended illness. We believe that students need to experience online school with as much opportunity for growth in agency, creativity, curiosity, and perseverance as possible. We recognize the challenges that arise due to the need for young children to be supported by an adult in their presence while also learning to navigate the classroom experience independently.
Please consult the School’s online learning policy to understand the parameters and process for accessing online instruction.
Expectations of Students
Schedule:
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Students should follow the grade level schedule and be present for synchronous instructional moments as determined by their teacher(s), which may include Morning Meeting, Chapel, and other community moments in addition to core academic classes. Following the schedule will require adult support, particularly for students in kindergarten - second grade. Co-curriucular class content may include synchronous touch points.
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Students, with support from families, should use Canvas to access class materials.
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Students should attend classes from an established, well-lit workspace that includes access to class materials and supplies.
Dress Code:
Communication:
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For academic work and communication, families should email teachers. Please note that teachers may only be available to respond at the conclusion of the school day.
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Students engage in class by questioning, discussing, listening, and collaborative problem-solving. These are focal points in our academic program. These behaviors support the development of enduring skills that translate beyond a student’s growth in Lower School. Teachers will establish expectations around specific features in Zoom, including the chat feature, breakout rooms, and the camera. Online students are expected to work within the norms established and communicate with teachers when they encounter challenges.
Academic work and assessments:
Technology Norms for All On Campus and Online Students
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Whether learning on campus or online, students will abide by the guidelines and existing technology use policies in the Student and Family Handbook.
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Students will use the school-owned device for school work only.
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Students will only use virtual backgrounds on Zoom approved by teachers.
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Student device cameras will be on unless a teacher gives permission otherwise.
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Students will abide by all Zoom norms for their grade.
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Students will not record, screenshot, re-post, or otherwise capture or share digital content created on the School’s platforms.
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Students will not add anyone to a School Zoom call or share the link and/or password.
Parent Support of Online Learners
Online learning creates unique challenges and opportunities for Lower Schoolers. To prepare students to gain the most from the online experience, parents should establish healthy routines and expectations that support their child’s growth and needs. At times adult support and supervision will be necessary for a successful online experience. Parents are also encouraged to allow for as much independent learning as possible. It is important that your child experience online school independently so as to mirror the in-class experience as closely as possible and maximize opportunities for growth in agency, curiosity, and creativity. The School will work with families to support a healthy and developmentally appropriate balance.
The following components will help families support student’s online learning experience:
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Establish and maintain a structure for each school day your child is online, including a regular wake-up time and bedtime. Set clear expectations with your child about the school day hours. We encourage families to help students learn the schedule, consult a clock, and set timers as needed.
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Students attend classes. Parents and guardians support from a distance. Students participate in classes. Parent questions and comments should be shared with teachers offline.
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Consult Canvas with your child before the start of each day to support students familiarizing themselves with the plan.
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Teachers will make every effort to update, adjust, and publish plans for the following day by 9 pm the evening before. It is important that families understand that lesson plans may shift and be tweaked in order to respond to the needs identified in prior lessons.
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Additionally, content and instruction may shift during any given lesson to meet the needs of students in the moment.
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Make an advance plan for how and when your child can ask for help from teachers, including the grade level online support teacher, and you. Having a plan will support students’ necessary growth as independent learners.
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Set up a workspace for your child in an area that is free from distractions and offers easy access to school supplies and internet access.
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Make sure to plan for breaks during the day. Encourage your child to spend recess times away from the screen, and encourage physical activity and play during PE time and at the end of the day.
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Parents do not assist students with assessments.
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Enforce the expectation that your child’s school-owned device is to be used solely for school work.
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For academic work and communication, please email teachers or support your child emailing teachers.
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For technology challenges families should email teachers and the help desk (helpdesk@stab.org) to inform them. Please be aware that responding to tech issues takes time.
Please note that recording, screenshots, re-posting, or otherwise capturing or sharing digital content created on the School’s platforms is not permitted without prior consent from the division head. Adding others to the School Zoom call and sharing links and passwords beyond our school is not permitted.