We hope that spring break gave you an opportunity for downtime and continued health in these new and challenging times.   You likely know that Governor Whitmer announced on Thursday, April 2 that Michigan schools would remain closed for the rest of this school year.  

We have been preparing for this possibility and we are so proud of the collaboration and problem solving that has occurred during spring break between the AAEA and the AAPS.  Much thoughtful, research-based, and well-reasoned work has gone into the planning that will allow us to move forward in our instruction of the curricula the week of April 13th.  

The most important message we can share is that we are all in this together.

The AAEA and the AAPS have updated the AAPS Continuity Learning Plan to provide our teachers with clear guidelines and expectations from April 13th through the end of the 2019-20 school year.  Your principal will share detailed information, including a comprehensive teacher guide on Wednesday during your regularly scheduled staff meeting.  

Please know that we will NOT be replicating our traditional school day online.  The guidelines will show that a reduced and reasonable forward momentum is expected and many supports will be provided to you throughout the closure as we continue to grow in our knowledge and skills to meet the needs of our students.  

Beginning Tuesday, a series of professional development opportunities will be offered to address the needs you shared with us in last week’s survey.  Thank you to all 633 teachers who took time to share your feedback with us. The development opportunities here represent only the beginning of the sessions coming your way. 

All professional development is voluntary and intended to meet your needs as you make this shift to instruction in an online setting.  You will find both “real time” virtual PD and “on demand” opportunities to access at any time. Sessions range from comprehensive platform training (Google Classroom beginner/ intermediate, etc.) to short sessions to meet your needs such as screen casting and how to use your cell phone as a document camera.  You’ll also find sessions to support online teaching pedagogy. Please take a moment to browse the offerings and if you find something helpful to you, sign up in KALPA.  Keep coming back to see the new options as we add to this list to meet your needs.  

Please continue to share your needs with us and know that we are here to support you throughout the closure.  

The Teaching and Learning Council