OCPS to start virtual learning for all students starting Aug. 10

In a press release sent out Monday, July 27, Orange County Public Schools announced that all students would begin virtual learning starting Monday, Aug. 10.

On Monday morning OCPS was approved to go forward with what it is calling its Distance Learning Days, which will run the course of nine days — from Aug. 10-20 — and allow students registered for both face-to-face and LaunchEd@Home to use the virtual platform at home. Meanwhile, face-to-face schooling will begin Friday, Aug. 21.

These will be instructional days that include many of the typical exercises done at the beginning of a school year and will give those in the school system time to get acclimated to the platform, OCPS stated.

“The nine days will provide opportunities for all staff and students to become comfortable with the LaunchEd platform, as it will be our default should we need to pivot from face-to-face during the pandemic,” OCPS stated in the press release.
“Teachers can also establish communications with parents and students as we work out any problems and answer questions. We believe it is a win/win for families, students and staff.”

For families that are in need of devices and wifi hotspots, OCPS stated that additional information will be sent to teachers regarding preplanning training and activities.
 

BREAKDOWN:

1. The original approved school calendar is in place, with students starting virtually on Monday, Aug. 10. Teacher preplanning will begin Friday, July 31, as previously scheduled.

2. This adjustment does not require the shifting of planning days or adding instructional minutes to the day as some districts have creatively agreed upon.

3. Friday, Aug. 21, will still be the first day that students in the face-to-face model report to their campus, having already completed the nine days virtually. This date was included in OCPS' Optional Innovative Reopening Plan.

4. Orange County Virtual School students will start school on Monday, Aug. 10, but are otherwise not impacted.

5. There will be no delay or adjustments to employee compensation, since the payroll calendars will be unaltered.