What will my child need to be successful in virtual learning?

All students will need the following items for successful virtual learning:

Technology: Each student will need their own device with a keyboard and unlimited internet access. Preferred devices run either Windows 10 or iOS. DCPS devices purchased through the Empowered Learners Initiative are Microsoft Surface Go devices. Students who cannot purchase their own devices or Internet access will be supplied with these by DCPS.

⦁ Supplies: Additional information on school supplies will be available soon! DCPS staff is working to ensure students have the supplies they need that would normally be in their class available at home.

Adult Support: DCPS teachers are committed to presenting clear, joyful and rigorous instruction virtually. However, we know that our youngest learners (normally students in grades Pre-K through 2) will need support with their virtual learning, including logging in and submitting assignments. Older students will likely also need guidance especially at the start of the year.

Technology training for parents and caregivers will be offered as part of a new series of Parent University virtual workshops that will help families focus on learning at home in the fall. Additional training will also take place through online learning lessons for you to take on-demand and at your convenience.

Elementary (K-5)Secondary (6-12)

Related question:

How will virtual learning look different in School Year 2020-2021 than in Spring 2020?

In virtual learning, students will feel loved by their school community, challenged by a joyful and rigorous curriculum, and prepared to take the next steps in their learning. We spent the spring and summer working with over 200 teachers and staff to transfer our curriculum to an online learning management system, which will allow for a more user-friendly, efficient and organized approach to virtual learning.

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Elementary (K-5)Secondary (6-12)

What will a student’s schedule look like in the virtual setting?

Pre-Kindergarten 3 and 4 (PK3 and PK4): Short, small bursts of learning and individual learning activities are most effective for our youngest learners. Therefore, the PK3 and PK4 structure of the day will include lessons in small groups focusing on developing a love of learning, and individualized lessons that families can also join. The PK3 and PK4 schedule will also include asynchronous (watch videos on your own at any time) lessons for art, music and other skills so that families can access lessons when it works for their children. PK3 and PK4 students will have live learning and asynchronous lessons for an average total of about 2-3 hours per day.

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Elementary (K-5)Secondary (6-12)

What if I don’t understand the content that my child is working on or I have questions about lessons?

As a part of the DCPS schedules, teachers will have times they are available for individual questions and support. Each school will issue guidance on teacher communication and availability using newsletters, robocalls, and other platforms. If you have content-specific questions, contact your child’s teacher directly.

Elementary (K-5)Secondary (6-12)Communications