The Newton School Department has just sent out this letter …

Dear NPS Families,

Thank you for your patience as we have worked with our NPS administrators and faculty to determine the best way to provide learning opportunities to our students during this extended school closure

As many of you have quickly learned over the past few days, it is not possible to truly replicate the traditional PreK-12 school day at home. School is a place where learning is engaging, creative, and differentiated. It is a place where students receive academic, as well as social and emotional supports. And so, while we cannot re-create the school day at home, we can provide you with resources that will provide continuity of learning for our students during this uncertain time

NPS Learning from Home

Below you will find links to resource pages our teachers and staff have compiled for families. The resources are divided by level (PreK-5, Middle, High) and many are further divided into “Review and Practice,” “Games and Activities,” and “Extend Your Thinking.” You can access the resources through the district COVID-19 resource website

Over the next three weeks, teachers will be reaching out through weekly communication to their classes with specific recommendations for learning activities that students and families complete each week. These activities are grade appropriate and can be completed by students independently or with support from their family.  Special education staff, English language learning teachers, and counselors and other staff are also available to communicate with students and families.

Access to Internet and Technology

We are committed to helping families that may need access to devices at home in order to engage in online learning opportunities. If you do not have a web-capable device at home other than a cell phone (such as an iPad, Chromebook, PC, or Mac) please complete this request form (https://forms.gle/K3SgotNY38V1ncNe9) Our technology support team will be in touch with you to discuss next steps.

FAQs and Next Steps

We are aware of the stress that the closure of school has created for families and the need to provide structure and learning opportunities for students while school is closed. These resources, as well as additional supports found on our website, will help you navigate this difficult time. In addition, we have developed a Frequently Asked Questions document to answer questions you might have.

Please understand that what we have outlined is only in effect until April 3rd. Should schools be closed for a longer period, we will adjust our plan as necessary. Thank you again for your understanding as we transition to this new learning environment during the next few weeks.

Sincerely,

David Fleishman

Superintendent of Schools