DCPS Return to School 2020                            

October 2, 2020

UPDATE!! If you have questions about Remote Live Learning lunches, please call the Nutrition office at (620) 371-1030.

Important message for Parents and Guardians –  If you did not receive an email or call from your childs school to choose Face to Face or Remote Live Learning (online), please call the school at your earliest convenience.

As USD 443 prepares for the upcoming school year we are adapting to the safety needs and educational delivery models per recommendations from KSDE and Ford County Health Department.  We have two educational delivery methods- Face to Face (in the classroom) and a remote live learning model (RLL).  Once you select the learning model it is for nine weeks. There will be an option to make a change at the end of each quarter.

The Remote Live Learning (RLL) model will parallel what is taking place in the classroom with modifications.   

• RLL is not a virtual student self-paced learning platform.
• Instruction will be conducted using Google Classroom. 
• RLL will require students to log into Google Classroom during their normal school hours. 
• The face to face day that students follow will also be followed by RLL students and teachers.
• Attendance will be taken just like if they were in class at their school.
• A district staff member will conduct the instructional day remotely using district provided computers.
• An attendance log will be signed by both parent and student and submitted to district administrators.  Format pending approval by Kansas Department of Education (KDSE).
• If you sign up for RLL, your student can still play sports.

The district is following recommendations and requirements from the Ford County Health Department and taking the necessary steps accordingly to make the schools as safe as reasonably possible.  As we have experienced the viral spread and conditions can change quickly and we are prepared to respond in an equally immediate fashion.

The physical wellbeing of all of our staff is important to the district.  We are planning for staff to return to work but understand there may be staff who have medical conditions that put them at a higher risk should they contract COVID. 

Making this decision is a tremendous responsibility, but prolonging the start of school will not mitigate COVID -19. It will take our entire community working together, follow protocols, and take extra measures so that our schools can stay open for the school year. In our homes, we can practice how to wear face coverings, good hygiene, and limit outside travel. 
Following extensive discussion, the BOE voted 6 to 1 to start school on August 25, 2020, for students Teachers will report on August 17. They also reviewed the initial draft of the Return to School Plan.

Here is the updated Return to Learn Plan.