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On May 1, Superintendent of Dare County Schools John Farrelly shared a message with parents regarding the last day of remote learning, grading reminders, a potential summer remote learning program and the book mobile program.

“Our last remote learning day for students will be Friday, May 22,” read Farrelly’s message. DCS states they do not intend to lower participation and grading standards in an effort to prevent academic slide.

There will be a survey sent out to parents regarding interest in an optional summer remote learning program. If students opt into the program, technological devices for learning will be made available once again.

The State Board of Education grading requirements are as follows:

– Elementary Schools: Grade K-5 students will not receive a final grade. Teachers will provide year-end written feedback for students/families based on their learning this school year. Report cards will be available for parents in the Powerschool parent portal on Friday, June 5.

– Middle Schools: Grade 6-8 students will receive a final course grade of PC19 (Pass) or WC19 (Withdrawl). Teachers will provide year-end written feedback for students/families based on their learning this school year. Report cards will be available for parents and students in the Powerschool parent portal on Friday, June 5.

– High School Grades 9-11: Students in grades 9-11 and non-graduating seniors will choose how each final course grade will appear on their transcript for their currently enrolled courses, year-long and semester courses. Students will make this determination during the week of May 26-29. High school principals will communicate their school process directly with parents and students. Report cards will be available for parents and students in the Powerschool parent portal on Friday, June 5.

– High School Seniors: Report cards will be available for parents and students in the Powerschool parent portal on Friday, June 5.

Students or parents can return all technological devices to their respective schools the week of May 26 through 29. This includes wifi “hot spots.” Students will also be allowed to pick up any personal items left in school during that week while maintaining social distancing.

As for graduation, Farrelly said although typical graduation ceremonies will not take place, graduates will be honored in a different way. Ideas have been submitted by principals and the senior leadership team for innovative ways to honor graduates.

“Seniors and their parents will receive a survey this Monday, May 4, where you can provide graduation ideas working within CDC guidelines for social distancing. Following our review of stakeholder input, we will announce our DCS graduation plans on Monday, May 11,” stated Farrelly.

DCS teachers will be required to work for the remaining days listed on the school calendar. Farrelly’s message said there is a “significant amount of curriculum work that need to be done” given the lack of face to face instruction. Teachers will use this time to prepare comprehensive K through 12 transition plans for fall.

Farrelly noted that over 600 new books were distributed to K through 8 children on April 28 through the bookmobile program. Participate Learning, Pierce Group Benefits and Dare Coalition Against Substance Abuse provided $15,000 in donations to the program.

“We will continue to provide a brand-new book to every child in K-8 every Tuesday for the next month,” he said.

As far as other things to note, proms will not be considered due to the closing of all North Carolina public schools. High schools will individually develop their own virtual/video scholarship award program; principals will convey information directly to parents regarding this matter.

The meal program will remain in place between now and at least August 1. Farrelly also said the 2020-2021 school calendar will be likely be lengthened: “The general assembly is currently working on bills related to earlier start dates. I would also anticipate the possibility that remediation programs for at-risk students may begin by August 1. I will keep parents updated as news develops.”

READ ABOUT MORE SCHOOL NEWS HERE.

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