Return-to-Learn Planning for Iowa Schools

Right now, educators and administrators across the state of Iowa are working diligently to build their Return-to-Learn plans which must be submitted by July 1, 2020. Guidance set forth by Iowa Department of Education states that all districts and nonpublic schools must have a plan in place for continuous learning, may have a plan for hybrid learning, and may have a plan for on-site delivery. Because this is uncharted territory for everyone, I decided to host a discussion in which educators could share their thoughts, insights, and ideas.

The webinar was facilitated by my colleague and Iowa native Cassie Rochholz, Director of Product Management at Edmentum. We were excited that so many educators attended and pleased with the helpful information that was shared by the educators who volunteered their time to serve as panelists. Below, you can review the recording of this session.

Panelists

• Jen Sigrist – Executive Director of Media and Innovation – Central Rivers Area Education Agency
• Wes Golden – Director of Learning and Collaboration – Clinton Community School District

Questions

• What should district leaders consider when it comes to structuring effective teams to develop a thorough and thoughtful Return-to-Learn Plan?
• What suggestions do you have regarding fall assessment, addressing unfinished learning, and delivering “just in time” instruction to close gaps during the 20/21 school year?
• Given the uncertainties ahead, what are some ways that district and school administrators can prepare to pivot between required continuous learning, hybrid learning, and on-site delivery?
• What suggestions do you have for encouraging student engagement and student agency?
• How do we take what we’ve experienced over the last 3 months to find creative and innovative ways to support a “better normal” for our educators, students, and their families?

Looking for additional resources to support your planning efforts for the 2020-21 school yeear? Check out Edmentum's e-learning resource page.