*This is the letter I hand out to parents at conferences.
Dear Parents and Guardians of students taking online classes,
Your interest and involvement in your child’s education is so important for their success! Because online learning is somewhat different than a traditional high school class, this letter will provide you with some basic information that you should know about online classes at Three Rivers High School.
Online education is an exciting and diverse learning opportunity. While it demands self-discipline and motivation, online learning has the benefit of allowing a student to work at his/her own pace. There are many choices of core classes, electives, as well as, a variety of language and AP courses. Students are expected to devote 5-7 hours each week per class, or in the case of an AP course, 8-12 hours. This means they should plan to do some “homework”, in the form of reading, researching, writing, etc. Access to the Internet either at home or the library will be helpful.
Although our online classes are considered “flex” courses, in which students can work at their own pace, they are expected to follow a recommended pacing guide. These pacing guides are designed to help students work through their assignments in an orderly and timely manner. Also, mentors use the pace guides to determine the student’s grade in their course. Grades are calculated by dividing the student’s points earned by the total points of scheduled assignments. A weekly progress grade is entered into PowerSchool.
A student behind in their pace has the opportunity to raise their grade by turning in assignments when completed. An exception to this may be an AP course, which is more rigorous and requires a student to follow strict due dates. A student can also work ahead of their pace, which is highly recommended. Students should try to be at least 1-2 weeks ahead of their pace in case of any unexpected situation, such as snow days, illness, technology issues, etc. While students appreciate the opportunity to work at their own pace, it is important for them to stay on track in order to be successful in the class.
Communication with online instructors through the student’s online class email or messages is expected. Communication is key to their success, and may even be required for a grade. While students can ask their mentor for help, which we are happy to provide, the online instructor is also available for questions and concerns about their class. Developing a good working relationship with their online instructor is similar to developing a good working relationship with the classroom teacher. Feedback, suggestions and constructive analysis help the student better understand the subject matter.
For more information please log on to my website at mrsrathburnsclass.weebly.com. You will find information about Michigan Virtual School and online course information, including tips for student success. The website also explains our online classroom rules and expectations. By clicking on the resource tab you will find a variety of helpful links from the MIVHS homepage to writing labs and help with writing citations.
If you ever have questions or concerns, please contact me at 279-1120 or email me at [email protected]. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss your student and their progress in their online class.
Sincerely,
Susan Rathburn
Your interest and involvement in your child’s education is so important for their success! Because online learning is somewhat different than a traditional high school class, this letter will provide you with some basic information that you should know about online classes at Three Rivers High School.
Online education is an exciting and diverse learning opportunity. While it demands self-discipline and motivation, online learning has the benefit of allowing a student to work at his/her own pace. There are many choices of core classes, electives, as well as, a variety of language and AP courses. Students are expected to devote 5-7 hours each week per class, or in the case of an AP course, 8-12 hours. This means they should plan to do some “homework”, in the form of reading, researching, writing, etc. Access to the Internet either at home or the library will be helpful.
Although our online classes are considered “flex” courses, in which students can work at their own pace, they are expected to follow a recommended pacing guide. These pacing guides are designed to help students work through their assignments in an orderly and timely manner. Also, mentors use the pace guides to determine the student’s grade in their course. Grades are calculated by dividing the student’s points earned by the total points of scheduled assignments. A weekly progress grade is entered into PowerSchool.
A student behind in their pace has the opportunity to raise their grade by turning in assignments when completed. An exception to this may be an AP course, which is more rigorous and requires a student to follow strict due dates. A student can also work ahead of their pace, which is highly recommended. Students should try to be at least 1-2 weeks ahead of their pace in case of any unexpected situation, such as snow days, illness, technology issues, etc. While students appreciate the opportunity to work at their own pace, it is important for them to stay on track in order to be successful in the class.
Communication with online instructors through the student’s online class email or messages is expected. Communication is key to their success, and may even be required for a grade. While students can ask their mentor for help, which we are happy to provide, the online instructor is also available for questions and concerns about their class. Developing a good working relationship with their online instructor is similar to developing a good working relationship with the classroom teacher. Feedback, suggestions and constructive analysis help the student better understand the subject matter.
For more information please log on to my website at mrsrathburnsclass.weebly.com. You will find information about Michigan Virtual School and online course information, including tips for student success. The website also explains our online classroom rules and expectations. By clicking on the resource tab you will find a variety of helpful links from the MIVHS homepage to writing labs and help with writing citations.
If you ever have questions or concerns, please contact me at 279-1120 or email me at [email protected]. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss your student and their progress in their online class.
Sincerely,
Susan Rathburn