CAPE CORAL, Fla – Teachers and students in Lee and Collier Counties will begin distance learning on Monday.
The new learning format is part of a measure to social distance and slow the spread of coronavirus in Florida. Distance learning will last at least until April 15th, which is when Governor Ron DeSantis has ordered all Florida schools to remain closed until.
Each county has a different set up. For the most part students are asked to log into their online portals. They'll be able to access coursework from their teachers and are expected to actively participate each virtual school day.
We got a sneak peek while preparations were underway at Lee County schools last week. Teachers tell us they understand this will certainly be an adjustment, but that the big thing here is providing some sort of routine during what has been a confusing time.
“We don’t want to overwhelm the families, we don’t want to have them stress or worry about ‘oh this one more thing to complete,’ this is just to give the kids some routine. Especially being considerate of those families that have more than one kid sharing one Chromebook,” said Jennifer Nargi, a 3rd-grade teacher at Villas Elementary School.
With today marking day one of distance learning, we’ve put together a round-up of resources the school districts have made available online.
The School District of Lee County has made the following information regarding:
- Computer and internet access
- Distance learning format
- Food and nutritional services
- Parent troubleshooting tips
- Info specific to Class of 2020 parents and seniors
- And more
Available here.
Collier County Public Schools District has made the following information regarding:
- Canvas
- Wi-Fi hotspot instructions
- Low-income internet options
- Mental health support
- Free meal sites
- And more
Available here.
As far as when Florida schools could reopen, the state has said it will re-evaluate things on or before April 15th.
