Plans for Reopening School

Dear North Little Rock Students, Parents/ Guardians, Faculty, and Community, 

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Thank you for your patience and cooperation during this nationwide public health emergency.  Your support will be significant in a successful school reopening on August 13, 2020.  \r\n

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The North Little Rock School District (NLRSD) will continue to follow the guidance from the Governor’s Office, Arkansas Department of Education (ADE), and the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH).  ADE has provided all school districts with "Ready for Learning"plans to ensure that teaching and learning continue, along with the support system that will allow students to be successful, allow parents to assist in learning, and support teachers in the reopening of schools.  We ask for continued patience and cooperation as the state’s guidance and directives will be implemented in school operations.  \r\n

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Since school closure on March 12, 2020, our community has gone through numerous changes but has remained committed to providing a quality education.  You will continue to receive communication regarding the updates as new information becomes available.  \r\n

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This correspondence will be one of many regarding the next steps toward reopening of school in August.  NLRSD values your input; therefore, we are soliciting your feedback during the planning phase.  You may submit your feedback at one of the following links listed further down in this communication.

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One of our goals is to create a learning environment that promotes and provides opportunities for growth and development among our student body.  We look to support all students academically, socially, and emotionally while encouraging them to strive for excellence in the classrooms and extracurricular activities.  We will continue to implement the guidelines set forth by ADE, ADH, and the Governor's office with the intention to accomplish our goal.  \r\n

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Below is a summary of options for the 2020-21 school year.  Please note, these are options and are subject to change as updated guidelines are released.  All new information will be communicated.  \r\n

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First Day of School \r\n

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August 13, 2020 - This date is subject to change based upon guidance by ADE and ADH.  

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Feedback Links\r\n

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Please fill out the forms (available in English and Spanish) or send an email to the address listed below:\r\n

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parentengagement@nlrsd.org \r\n

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https://forms.gle/C624H9N7B3Jz2bmy8   (English)\r\n

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https://forms.gle/rcqzERVVM3zfn92G9 (Spanish) \r\n

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Academic Options \r\n

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1.  Blended Learning:  Blending learning allows students to continue learning grade level or content standards through the use of technology-based and face-to-face instructional practices.  

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This option will be a traditional school day between teachers and students with on-site instruction.  All classes will be offered as normal.  Technology will be applied in certain ways to transition to online or virtual learning in the event a school closure warrants it.    

2.  Virtual Learning Academy:  This option is available for parents who do not feel comfortable sending their children to on-site learning.  This learning will be provided remotely with students using technology-based learning platforms.  Students will not be on campus and classes will be interactive with NLRSD teachers facilitating.  Attendance will be recorded and lessons will be graded as required.  Curriculum will be aligned with state standards.  Parents who choose this option will be asked to commit for the semester.  

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The NLRSD will continue to explore other academic options that will provide a safe, quality education.  Additional details will be forthcoming.  \r\n

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The Reopening Schools Task Force was created to explore current options, brainstorm potential ideas, and/ or recommend new options.  Members will collaborate to create a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document to provide additional information.  \r\n

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Learning Management System (LMS) 

An LMS is an online platform that is used by both students and teachers to deliver and receive instruction, assignments, and assessments.  NLRSD will be using the following platform approved by the ADE Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.  

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  • PK - 2: Google Classroom\r\n
  • 3 - 12:  Google Classroom\r\n
  • Special Education:  Google Classroom\r\n
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Face Coverings 

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On Friday, June 19, 2020, the ADH issued new guidance on the wearing of face coverings.  The Centers for Disease Control and the Arkansas Department of Health are advising the use of cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus.  The guidance can be accessed here:  https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/images/uploads/pdf/guidance_face_coverings.pdf.  \r\n

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Face masks are strongly recommended by all staff per ADH guidelines.  Face masks are strongly recommended by students ages 10 and older, per ADH guidelines.  Although face masks are not recommended for students 10 and younger, it can be worn if manageable.  Physical distancing will be practiced if practical.  \r\n

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\r\n Bus Transportation  

NLRSD will provide bus transportation for students.  Per ADE guidelines, students ages 10 and older are strongly recommended to wear face coverings when riding the bus.  We are planning no changes to bus schedules or stops.  We will provide additional information at a later date.\r\n

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Child Nutrition\r\n

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NLRSD will follow the guidelines based upon ADE and ADH.  More detailed information will be forthcoming.  \r\n

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\r\n Parents should indicate their choice of instructional delivery for each child in the home by Monday, July 2, 2020.  If no response is received, it will be assumed the student is attending school on-site instruction.