Public elementary students in Hamilton asked to choose between remote, in-person for 2021-22

Hamilton | Ontario | Latest News |

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Published May 12, 2021 at 11:53 am

Starting Thursday (May 13) the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) is asking families of elementary school students to decide whether they want their learners to sign on for remote learning or return to the classroom for the 2021-22 school year.

“HWDSB is offering remote learning for elementary students (Kindergarten to Grade 8) in 2021-22 as an option for families concerned about the COVID-19 pandemic as directed by the Ministry of Education,” a letter to families said.

“We appreciate that making this decision may be difficult for families given the current health situation in Ontario.”

Parents, guardians and caregivers are being asked to choose between the two models and indicate their preference through the Parent Portal.

The selection form is open from Thursday, May 13 at 9 a.m. until Tuesday, June 1 at 11:59 p.

If families fail to make a selection, by default, the student will automatically be enrolled in in-person learning.

“We are asking families to commit to remote learning for the entire 2021-22 school year, but there will be an opportunity to transition to in-person learning early in early October,” the letter said.

“Depending on Ministry of Education directions, there might be another opportunity later in the school year.”

In the 2021-22 remote learning model, students will be connected to actual schools and taught remotely by that school’s staff. This model is called “dual-track” and allows students to learn at home while still connected to a school community. Start and end times will be based on the school’s bell times.

Much like the current remote model, students will have live teaching time and independent work time and will get the same report cards as in-person learners.

“The Parent Portal is the first and preferred method to register your choice,” the letter said.

Those who cannot access the portal are asked to contact the school and staff will help families indicate their preference.

Families will receive registration information for the 2021-22 school year by June 30.

For more information and to access the parent portal, visit the board’s website.

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