SE MS/HS E-Learning Guide 2021-2022

General Information 

An “E-Learning Day” is a school day where inclement weather prevents students and teachers from coming into the building, but learning continues through online activities.  Students in grades 6-12 will participate in online lessons, but they also may have work to complete outside of the synchronous online meetings just like they could during a regular school day.  

E-Learning Days are intended to counter the loss of curriculum momentum resulting from school cancellations due to Minnesota’s winter weather.  E-Learning Days cannot replace the face-to-face time students have with their teachers, but it can provide better continuity when school is interrupted.  

E-Learning Days may also negate the need for makeup school days in June.  All E-Learning Days count as a day of school for our students, teachers, and paraprofessionals; there will be required assignments. 

A maximum of five (5) E-Learning Days can occur per school year.  If Sibley East Schools exceeds that threshold, then the district may make up the days at the end of the school year.

Daily Schedules

Student Work & Attendance

• E-Learning Days for students in Grades 6-12 will consist of online synchronous meetings and asynchronous work outside of scheduled meeting times.
• Attendance shall be recorded based on students being present at online meetings.  Note: Study halls will not meet online, so there is no need for students to report.
• If a student is unable to attend synchronous activities, a parent/guardian needs to contact the attendance line at 507-964-8201 to report the absence to prevent it from being marked as unexcused.  
• Teachers and support staff are available to answer questions and to help students individually during the office hours listed above. 

Unique Learners

• On an E-Learning Day, the classroom teacher will be the main resource for help on assignments and lessons.
  • If a child usually has other assistance from a support staff member, those staff members may be available to students during or after class in small group breakout  sessions.  

Staff Availability

• Teachers and paraprofessionals will be available by email and/or phone (via voicemail) throughout the course of the day.  Please note, teachers may not be available immediately if they are leading direct instruction through an online meeting.  
• Staff preparation and communication time is from 1:30-3:30 p.m.  
• The staff directory includes all district email addresses and voice mail extensions.  

Teacher Responsibilities

• Provide synchronous learning opportunities through Google Meets for classes
• Post a Google Meet link in Google Classroom
• Take attendance hourly - Note: students do not need to report to study hall, and attendance does not need to be taken during this time period. 
• Check email and/or voicemail throughout the E-Learning Day.
• Communicate and direct the work of your collaborating paraprofessional (if applicable).

Paraprofessional Responsibilities

• Follow your regular schedule by connecting to online classes 
• Connect with students in small groups as needed
• Communicate with collaborating teachers or case managers as appropriate throughout the course of the day.