The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in an unprecedented response that has impacted nearly every aspect of society from healthcare, commerce, education, and beyond. While each state has some degree of autonomy when it comes to issuing shelter in place/social distancing orders, most state governments have taken steps that have resulted in the full or partial closure, or a pivot to … Read More
School Closure Tips from a Charter School Operations Expert
As COVID-19 creates a new reality for schools across this nation, operational challenges consistently threaten millions of students and their families. As we adjust to school closures, teachers and schools are getting creative to make sure no student is left behind. Over the next few months, we will be highlighting best practices from schools across the country, and interviewing educational … Read More
How Teachers Around the World Transitioned to Distance Learning
We are not alone. As schools in the U.S rushed to shut down in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, schools all around the world, including those in Europe and Asia, have closed their doors as well. With an earlier outbreak, schools in Asia have transitioned to a distance learning model as early as January, 2020. In this … Read More
Road to Stanford University: a Student’s Journey through the SARS Epidemic
Social distancing from friends, classmates, and teachers is a major adjustment for students as they shelter inside from the dangers of COVID-19. Despite the benefits of social distancing, many educators worry that without equity across resources, family support, and home conditions, some students may fall behind academically as they suffer from emotional loss, trauma, and anxiety. As we searched for … Read More
Talking to Students about Diversity and Inclusion during COVID-19
COVID-19 has prompted many conversations around topics such as school closures, social distancing, and mental health. However, one important topic that may be getting less attention is the subject of diversity and inclusion. Historically viruses have been named or associated with a specific country, for example the Spanish Flu and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), which can lead to … Read More
4 Best Ideas for Enjoying Spring Break at Home
Sure, COVID-19 has interrupted our plans for a refreshing spring break, but that doesn’t mean we can’t find ways to enjoy spring break at home. Teachers, parents, and students all deserve some time to relax. Despite the challenges to figure out distance learning, homework assignments, and childcare schedules during school closures, we all deserve a little fun this weekend. Here … Read More
How Teachers and Students Remain Positive in Midst of School Closures
Teachers and students across the U.S. are showing what it means to be resilient during this difficult time of COVID-19 related school closures. While the immediate reaction during such abrupt transitions is often fear and confusion, schools all across the country rose above it all to find creative ways to cope with the circumstances. Here are some of our favorite … Read More
How to Talk to Students and Kids About COVID-19
With COVID-19 all over the news and social media, students and children are sure to have their own thoughts and questions. In order to ensure the information they are believing is accurate, it is best to proactively talk to students and children about COVID-19 and how it affects them. We have put together some helpful tips and resources that will … Read More
Healthy Minds: Caring for Your Mental Health During School Closures
Mental health is an important factor of everyday life. Yet, in the midst of teachers and students trying to find a new normal with COVID-19 and school closures, it is more crucial than ever to find ways to maintain a healthy mindset. With daily routines being interrupted, we have compiled a list of tips and tools to help ease the … Read More
Companies Offering Free Subscriptions and Content for Teachers & Parents Impacted by COVID-19
In light of recent school closures due to the spread of COVID-19 or the coronavirus, a number of companies are doing their part to support teachers, districts, and others who may be impacted by this health crisis. Here is a list of companies that offer free subscriptions or now provide special discounts for parents, districts and teachers: Curriculum Resources For … Read More