UPDATE: Indian Prairie School District 204 has just approved a significant renewal of its e-learning plan, allowing remote instruction to replace traditional emergency days. This pivotal decision was made during a school board meeting on October 23, 2023, and extends the plan through 2028.
The renewal comes as a proactive measure to ensure uninterrupted learning during unforeseen closures, such as inclement weather. Deputy Superintendent Louis Lee emphasized that e-learning days, designated as “district-wide days,” will sustain student instruction without adding makeup days to the school calendar.
“This builds strength around our school calendar,” Lee stated, highlighting the importance of continuity in education. The district was an early adopter of e-learning strategies, having initiated the program in the 2018-19 school year, which proved invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On an e-learning day, students are expected to engage in five hours of instruction. The first day will feature asynchronous learning, where assignments are posted on platforms like Google Classroom. Should a second consecutive e-learning day be called, instruction will shift to a synchronous format.
District officials have set a maximum of five e-learning days per academic year. During the meeting, Board President Laurie Donahue reassured parents that while snow days remain intact, this plan offers the district more flexibility in protecting the school calendar without extending the school year into the summer.
To support all students during these remote learning days, the district provides 300 hotspots to ensure access to online resources. Lee noted that in cases of power outages, alternative arrangements would be coordinated for affected students.
As part of the ongoing commitment to effective remote learning, the district will continue to provide professional development for educators on digital instruction.
The plan has been submitted for final approval to the DuPage Regional Office of Education. The swift adoption of this e-learning renewal reflects the district’s commitment to innovation in education and prioritizing student learning continuity.
For more details on e-learning days and resources, parents and students are encouraged to visit the Indian Prairie School District 204 website.