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Bryan ISD to offer 3 learning models in back-to-school plan

Posted at 12:42 PM, Jul 21, 2020
and last updated 2020-07-21 13:45:37-04

BRYAN, TX — Bryan ISD has released their ongoing "return-to-learn" plan for 2020-2021.

The district is offering three learning models including:

  • At-Home Learning (online)
  • On-Campus Learning (face-to-face in the classroom)
  • Hybrid model (online and face-to-face for grades 7-12)

The expectations for coursework and the grading system will be the same for both in-person and at-home learning, according to Bryan ISD.

Students will continue in their chosen instructional option unless a parent or guardian contacts the campus and requests a change. Changes can only occur at the end of the six weeks grading period

"I can assure you that Bryan ISD is committed to creating safe environments for our students and staff. Our Board of Trustees and all employees are in this profession because we believe in serving and making a positive difference. Regardless of the uncharted waters ahead, we will roll up our sleeves, remain calm, adjust as needed, all while serving as strong role models for our children," Dr. Christie Whitbeck, Bryan ISD Superintendent said.

At-home instruction will be facilitated through online digital platforms such as Schoology and Edgenuity.

Live, teacher-led instruction will be offered throughout the day to expand students’ opportunities to engage with content and to interact with their teacher. Daily attendance is taken and students will be expected to engage with their teachers and complete lessons daily as if they were in the classroom on campus. Families should expect that students engage in at least a total of four to six hours of coursework each school day, but this can be broken into smaller segments of time.

In grades 7 - 12, there are some courses where students may choose to participate in person in accordance with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Students will complete lessons online for most classes but will attend some face-to-face classes to participate in specialized activities and lessons. Daily attendance is taken. High school and middle school courses such as athletics, some fine arts, and some core courses will provide optional opportunities for students to attend class face-to-face for specific lessons, activities, or special events.

Students at-home must participate in daily instructional engagement for attendance and to ensure academic progress. Student engagement and academic progress can be measured by:
● Teacher/student interactions for that day
● Progress on lessons within Schoology planned for that day
● Submission of completed assignments planned for that day

To limit exposure, campus visits will be restricted. (including during meal time). The use of field trips to enhance the educational experience will be postponed

The district requires the use of face masks/coverings in all Bryan ISD facilities.

● All employees must use face masks/coverings, covering nose and mouth, when entering a Bryan ISD facility.
● All students in grades 3 and higher will be required to use a face mask/covering in Bryan ISD facilities. Students in grades PK-2 will be taught and encouraged to use a face mask/covering.
● Any individual coming to campus during the instructional day will be required to wear a face mask/covering for building access. ● Any person with a medical condition or disability that prevents wearing a face mask/covering will not be required to wear a face mask per the governor’s executive order.

Desks and tables will be arranged to maximize space between students. Where feasible, partitions such as sneeze guards/barriers will be provided, among other protocols.

The Bryan Independent School District has created a standard response in the event there is a case or cases of confirmed COVID-19 among students or staff.

"While the protocols that follow will provide District leadership guidance on how to respond, the school district will always err on the side of caution and may take additional steps in any one stage."

To view the ongoing back-to-school plan, click here.