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Elementary Instructional Update


Update: January 8 2021

Dear HCSD Elementary Families, 

We hope your child’s virtual return to school was successful. As we continue to refine our hybrid learning model, the District is evaluating and adapting our instructional programs. Our leadership team researches, reviews, and develops programs to bring best practices that inspire students intellectually, socially, and emotionally as they learn in person and virtually.

We appreciate all you have done to partner in your child’s learning over these many months. You have provided invaluable insight on your child’s learning experiences at home and in school. Since September, we have adjusted our instructional program, adding alternating in-person half-days on Monday and an additional whole class Zoom session on days students Learn from Home. Our research and shared experiences indicate the connection between a student and teacher is vital for student success.

We have adapted our instructional program to expand and increase direct contact between your child and their teacher. Beginning Thursday, January 14th, the elementary schools will add whole class Zoom sessions: 

Kindergarten and First Grade

  • Students will engage in one additional whole class Zoom session, for a total of two whole class Zoom sessions each day they Learn from Home beginning Thursday, January 14th.
  • Whole class Zoom sessions will be English Language Arts, math and related content. After the whole class Zoom sessions, teachers will provide independent learning experiences for those students who are Learning from Home.
  • Attendance at scheduled zoom sessions is essential to their success.
  • Your child’s teacher will communicate classroom schedules and other information.

Grades Two through Five

  • Students will engage in the first additional whole class Zoom session beginning Thursday, January 14th. 

  • Students will engage in the second additional whole class Zoom session beginning, Thursday, January 21st.

  • By January 21st students will engage in a total of three whole class Zoom sessions each day they Learn from Home.

  • Whole class Zoom sessions will be English Language Arts, math and related content. After the whole class Zoom session, teachers will provide independent learning experiences for those students who are Learning from Home. 

  • Attendance at scheduled zoom sessions is essential to their success.

  • Your child’s teacher will communicate classroom schedules and other information.

Full Virtual Students

  • On the day their cohort is Learning from Home, virtual students will join the whole class Zoom session(s). 

We are excited your children will experience increased direct contact with their teachers and classmates. While these changes may cause some initial challenges, our collaboration, communication and patience will ensure student success. We will continue to explore ways to provide students with more in-person instruction in the near future.  

Sincerely,

Mark Woodard
Principal, Parsons Memorial Elementary School

Adam Gutterman
Principal, Purchase School

Dennis Kortright
Principal, Samuel J. Preston Elementary School

Valerie Hymes
Principal, Harrison Avenue School