The St. Clair Catholic District School Board (SCCDSB) is looking for feedback regarding distance learning in an effort to improve the overall experience for students and parents.
The school board has recently launched an online consultation called Thought Exchange. The consultation initiative is three-fold, it first asks participants to share their thoughts about distance learning, rates the thoughts others have shared, and then learn about ideas and ways the SCCDSB can help.
“As we look ahead to the next month (or two) of distance learning, we would like to invite parents/guardians, students and staff to provide us with some advice and insights into their experiences,” said Director of Education Deb Crawford. “We want to know how distance learning is working for our families and how can we better work together to address challenges that have arisen during this unique time.”
The Thought Exchange will close on May 17.
Publicly-funded schools in Ontario are expected to remain closed until at least the end of May due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the closure will be extended if necessary.
In the meantime, students, parents, and staff members who need to relieve some stress can take advantage of serenity sessions, which will be led by the board's Student Support and Wellbeing Team.
“We know that these extraordinary times can make many of us feel anxious,” said Crawford. “These sessions will explore strategies to help us cope – to find peace in the midst of the storm.”
The sessions will be held over Google Meet on a weekly basis. Sessions for adults will be held on Friday mornings at 10 a.m, starting on May 8. Sessions for students from Grade 7 and up will be on Wednesdays at 2 p.m, starting on May 13.
The serenity sessions are not meant to act as therapeutic counselling sessions. People who need those types of services are encouraged to contact Chris Preece at chris.preece@st-clair.net.
