Q: Do we have to pay for this?
A: There are no tuition costs for Learn at Home Oregon. We are a public school; your child’s school funding supports them to whichever public school they attend.
Q: Who will be teaching my child?
A: Your child will be taught by state-certified and highly qualified elementary educators at our virtual school. We prioritize the quality of education and ensure that our teaching staff meets rigorous standards. Our educators bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and dedication to the virtual classroom, providing your child with the support and guidance they need to succeed academically and socially. Rest assured that your child’s learning experience will be in capable hands with our team of dedicated professionals.
Q: Who are the teachers?
A: The teachers are all Oregon licensed educators familiar with Oregon curriculum and practices, but also trained in the program’s new model and delivery activities.
Q: Will my child be sitting on the computer all day?
A: At Learn at Home Oregon, we have a consistent schedule that incorporates live class sessions, lunch bunch, exploratory opportunities, and dedicated social time. While online learning is a part of our curriculum, we prioritize balance and well-being by providing regular breaks for students. These breaks allow for activities away from the computer screen, including time with family, outdoor play, and relaxation. Our commitment to a holistic approach ensures that students have opportunities for social interaction, physical activity, and downtime throughout the day, promoting a healthy and fulfilling virtual learning experience.
Q: What if I don't have fast internet?
A: For successful virtual learning, students need a reliable internet connection with enough bandwidth for video conferencing, streaming, and submitting assignments. Families should ensure access to a dependable internet service provider with sufficient speed and data capacity. Backup options like mobile hotspots or public Wi-Fi can be useful in case of disruptions. A consistent and strong internet connection is essential for students to fully engage in online learning and access educational resources.
Q: What if I don't have a computer?
A: Alsea School District lends Chromebooks to families who request them.
Q: What does the family have to provide?
A: To support learning at home, families play a crucial role as Learning Coaches, ensuring their child’s success in virtual education. As Learning Coaches, parents help their child stay punctual for live class sessions, ensure completion of assignments, and collaborate on projects as needed. It’s also important for parents to encourage their child to stay active and incorporate outdoor time into their daily routine. Additionally, teachers will provide a list of common school supplies that are cost-effective and necessary for academic success. Learning Coaches are welcome to remain in proximity during live class sessions, and they may even have the opportunity to volunteer to read books to the class, fostering a stronger sense of community and collaboration within our virtual school environment. Together, Learning Coaches and teachers form a supportive partnership to ensure the best possible learning experience for students.
Q: How is this different from a brick-and-mortar school?
A: Virtual learning offers several key differences from brick-and-mortar education. One significant distinction is the flexibility it provides for family schedules. With virtual learning, students can access lessons and complete assignments at times that best suit their family’s routine, allowing for greater flexibility and convenience. Additionally, virtual learning often allows parents to take a more active role in the educational process. As Learning Coaches, parents can provide support, monitor progress, and actively engage with their child’s learning journey. This increased involvement fosters a deeper connection between home and school, enhancing the overall educational experience. Furthermore, virtual learning offers opportunities for personalized instruction and self-paced learning, catering to the individual needs and learning styles of each student. These differences contribute to a dynamic and adaptable learning environment that empowers students to thrive academically while maintaining a healthy balance with other aspects of their lives.
Q: What about socialization skills?
A: In our online learning environment, socialization is a key aspect of our curriculum. Students grow strong friendships with their classmates and many families plan in person meet ups and celebrations. We also integrate Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into our lessons in both structured and organic ways, focusing on a different character trait each month. Additionally, we foster a positive classroom culture where expectations for interactions are kind, courteous, and respectful. To further promote socialization, we host assemblies each month to celebrate achievements and milestones. Moreover, our staff organizes lunch bunch and social playtime sessions in their virtual classrooms, providing students with opportunities to connect and engage with their peers in a supportive and inclusive environment. Through these initiatives, we ensure that students not only excel academically but also develop essential social and emotional skills for lifelong success.
Q: What if we have questions after school begins?
A: At Learn at Home Oregon, we prioritize open communication and welcome questions from parents at any time throughout the year. We believe that consistent communication fosters a strong connection and partnership between home and school, ultimately leading to the best outcomes for our students. Whether you have questions about your child’s progress, curriculum, or any aspect of their learning experience, our “virtual” doors are always open, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Your involvement and engagement are invaluable to us, and we’re committed to working together to ensure the success and well-being of your child. You can email, call, or set up an appointment and we are here to help.
Q: What if my child has learning needs?
A: Our program is designed to accommodate the diverse needs of all students, including those with learning or special needs. Each child will have access to supportive and trained staff, similar to those found in a traditional school setting. We have a dedicated team of professionals who are experienced in supporting various learning styles and needs. Whether a student requires accommodations, modifications, or additional resources, we are committed to providing the necessary support to ensure their success. Our goal is to create an inclusive and nurturing learning environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.
Q: Are the classes aligned to standards?
A: Yes, our curriculum is fully standards-based, ensuring that students meet the required educational benchmarks. However, we go beyond mere adherence to standards by incorporating consistent opportunities for creative projects. These projects not only reinforce standards but also provide a hands-on approach to learning, allowing students to explore topics in depth and develop critical thinking skills. Additionally, our curriculum emphasizes the development of necessary 21st-century skills such as collaboration, communication, creativity, and problem-solving. By integrating these skills into our lessons, we prepare students for success in an ever-changing world.
Q: What about privacy rights and safety?
A: Privacy is a top priority in our online learning environment. We remain fully committed to upholding the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to safeguard the confidentiality of student records and information. Our learning platform is protected by a secure portal, ensuring that only authorized individuals have access to the live class environment. We take proactive measures to maintain the privacy and security of our students’ online interactions, providing a safe and trusted environment for learning.
Q: What is in your program for Talented and Gifted (TAG) students?
A: In our online learning environment, all students, including those who are “Talented and Gifted,” are supported at their personal challenge level. Our curriculum is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing students to explore topics in depth and pursue areas of interest at their own pace. Whether it’s through differentiated instruction, enrichment activities, or personalized learning paths, we ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive academically and creatively. Our online platform fosters a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where all students are encouraged to explore, innovate, and excel.
Q: What does the program offer for students who are 2E—Twice Exceptional—technically on the spectrum but very high performing in certain areas beyond the general classroom offerings?
A: At Learn at Home Oregon, we are dedicated to serving students with diverse needs, including those who are twice-exceptional (2E) and on the autism spectrum. We prioritize inclusivity and provide access to district-level support to ensure that every student receives the assistance they require to succeed. Our approach is centered on embracing each student’s unique strengths and challenges, while also providing tailored support and challenging them to reach their full potential. Through a combination of personalized instruction, accommodations, and a supportive learning environment, we empower all students to thrive academically and socially.
Q: How can you ensure that every child’s needs are met?
A: At Learn at Home Oregon, we ensure that students’ academic and social needs are met through a comprehensive approach. Our curriculum is standards-based, providing a solid foundation for academic growth. Teachers continuously monitor student progress through formative assessments, allowing them to identify areas for improvement and provide targeted support through one-on-one or small group instruction. Additionally, we conduct three formal academic diagnostic tests throughout the year to measure growth against national norms, ensuring that students are progressing and receiving the support they need. Beyond academics, we prioritize social-emotional learning and provide opportunities for students to interact and build relationships with peers in a supportive online environment. Our goal is to holistically support each student’s development and success.
Q: How is the program personalized?
A: At Learn at Home Oregon, we prioritize nurturing each student’s individuality through personalized and individualized instruction. Recognizing that every child is unique, we utilize standards based academic diagnostics completed by students to gain insights into their learning needs. With this information, our dedicated teachers work closely with students and their Learning Coaches to tailor instruction to their specific requirements. We also incorporate and support student interests, recognizing that engagement is key to academic success. By integrating topics and activities that resonate with their interests, we create a learning environment that is both meaningful and engaging. We believe in fostering a professional and supportive environment where every child feels recognized, valued, and empowered to pursue their passions. Through this approach, we strive to provide a high-quality learning experience that not only supports academic growth but also nurtures each student’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.