“ Grade 6 is such a critical year as students begin their journey in the Middle Years Programme ( MYP ). Having formed a deep connection with students before the lockdown , it was really important to me that I maintained that connection when we moved into virtual learning ,” said Ms Albury .
With social distancing measures running until the end of the school year , staff discovered innovative ways to carry out end-of-year assessments and other festivities . Measure of Academic Progress ( MAP ®) Growth TM Assessments were conducted remotely with a targeted group of students with a view of gathering important data for the months ahead . The school celebrated its largest-ever graduating class at a one-of-a-kind ceremony with less physical attendees than in previous years , but hundreds joined virtually . Award presentations and Lower School transition ceremonies all took place virtually or had virtual components .
As the world continues to look for solutions for the way forward . LCIS has shown that it is up to the challenge and is building on lessons learned in the 2019-20 school year . The School hosted an endof-year Extension Programme that brought many students back to campus for learning and physical activities under new , stringent safety guidelines and released a Re-Entry Plan that lays out its approach to instructional delivery , given various potential scenarios for the 2020-21 school year . Families will have the option to choose on-campus learning or remain fully virtual . In the event that a government-mandated lockdown were to recommence , all teaching would switch to a virtual learning model with in-person activities taking place as allowed .
COVID-19 has affected the lives of millions of people around the world and surmounting this hurdle will take a global , collaborative effort . Educators are working together to do their part in the response . During the period of virtual learning , LCIS teachers and leaders joined in on cross-border conversations and took part in new modes of professional development . Students continued learning and gained a deeper appreciation for the connections they share with those around them . Thus , amidst all the tragedy of this moment in human history , silver linings are apparent to those who face the challenge with optimism .
“ Having formed a deep connection with students before the lockdown , it was really important to me that I maintained that connection when we moved into virtual learning .” - Annisa Albury , PE Teacher
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