Distance Learning FAQs:
We are hearing from many parents who are confused and overwhelmed by "Distance Learning for All." We want to reassure parents that it's perfectly fine to do what works for your family.
What if the assignments are too much for my child, or my ability to be a "teaching partner"?
Student and family mental health and emotional well-being comes first! Participate at the level you and your child can handle. It's not just OK, but it's critically important to reach out to your child's teacher or case manager about what's realistic for your family.
Parents can implement some, all or even none of the programs and it won't affect your child's grade or education. There is no right answer, just what's right for your family.
The school districts recognize, even if they aren't great about communicating it to parents, that all families are in different places and all children are responding differently to the immense changes and transitions of the current situation.
What happens if we don't participate in Distance Learning? Or participate at a reduced level?
There are no repercussions to not doing distance learning, or participating at a reduced level. All students who were on track to advance to the next grade as of the date schools closed will advance to the next grade regardless of how they perform to the end of this school year. They will receive either a pass or an incomplete for work during this period. Schools will not be tracking or reporting attendance during this time.
What if my student receives an incomplete?
There will be no effect on GPA for either a pass or incomplete.For students with an IEP, school districts will need to document the instruction methods, accommodations and supplements provided to students and opportunities for the parent/guardian to meaningfully participate in meetings to review the student's progress.
What if my child didn't have a passing grade before schools closed?
They have until the end of the 2020-2021 school year (which starts in September) to complete assignments and earn a passing grade.
I'm worried about my child losing skills.
Skills regression is often a huge concern. Please reach out to your child's teacher or case manager to talk about your concerns and how to focus on the highest priority skills that you are most concerned about your child retaining. We don't have any information on Extended School Year yet.
Are schools still required to provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE)? Yes, but special education services will look different with no in-person supports and therapies (speech, OT) by computer. None of us have been in this situation before. While we all need to be patient, if you think your child is not receiving a FAPE, contact your IEP team to talk about how things are going and what else is possible.
What about Compensatory Education if the school is not providing FAPE?
From Disability Rights Oregon (DRO): Realistically, there may be some services that are not possible or effective through distance learning in which case your child may be entitled to receive "compensatory education services" to make up for what your child missed. DRO recommends keeping a log of services that your child misses during this time so that you can request compensatory education when the stay-at-home order is lifted. FACT Oregon has suggestions about what to log on their Quick Reference Guide.
Where can I go for more information?
