Distance learning began about two weeks ago for students of the Ripon Unified School District.
Superintendent Ziggy Robeson mentioned just that Thursday in response to San Joaquin County Superintendent of Schools James Mousalimas recommending the online model for all public schools through the remainder of the school year.
He also called for extending the closure for all public-school facilities in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Those recent decisions stemmed from Mousalimas’ consultation with SJC Public Health Officer Maggie Park and the recommendation earlier this week from State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond of the unlikelihood of sending children back to school campuses before the end of the school year.
“Staff has been working diligently in designing lessons digitally to provide the best learning opportunities for all students across all grade levels,” Robeson said.
By that, she indicated students have been accessing materials either online or picking up their lessons created through packets.
RUSD has been using Google Classroom to utilize a common platform, according to Robeson.
At the elementary level, teachers are providing such instruction in Math, English Language Arts, Social Studies and Social Science.
“This week, we’ve added the additional areas of music and physical education – all elementary teachers are holding virtual office hours, which are posted on the schools’ website,” said Robeson.
Ripon High students are set up to use Zoom, a web-based video conferencing tool which allows them to check in with their teachers to get live instruction.
Robeson said the RUSD has been working towards digital classrooms and online curriculum for several years.
Included is Digital Citizenship curriculum for all students.
“To bring these practices to distance learning, we have provided additional professional development to our staff on internet safety and security, and continue to focus on maintaining open lines of communication with parents,” said Robeson, adding that staff has been utilizing Class Dojo and Remind to go with Google Classroom and Zoom as major platforms for delivery on these distance learning plans.
Teachers, in addition, are providing office hours to further support students on their online learning endeavor.
“I’m proud and most appreciative of our RUSD teamwork and each employee’s individual commitment to our students,” Robeson said. “Collectively, our employees across the district are working with a great deal of dedication, creativity, and fortitude to prepare our students at all levels.”
