October 28, 2024
Dear Somerset County Public Schools Families,
I hope this letter finds you well as we settle into the 2024-2025 school year. As we continue into the fall season, I want to share important information about our Inclement Weather Virtual Day Plan recently approved by the Somerset Board of Education. To-date, SCPS has used two (2) of three (3) designated make-up inclement weather days due to school closures for flooding in the 2024-2025 school year. Once we exhaust our third day, we will transition to virtual school days to ensure uninterrupted learning during severe weather.
As our faculty and administration make necessary preparations to conduct virtual learning in the event of severe weather, it is important for families to know the Inclement Weather Virtual Day Plan, and understand the ways they can support their students at home.
Virtual Instruction on Inclement Weather Days
On days when weather conditions—such as flooding, snow, or ice—make it unsafe to travel to school, we will implement a virtual school day whenever it is feasible to do so. Instead of canceling a school day that must be made-up later, students will participate in synchronous, live instruction for four (4) hours using our virtual platforms, connecting with their teachers and classmates while staying safe.
Key Details:
Notification: Announcements for virtual learning days will be made through our usual channels, including phone calls, text messages, emails, the SCPS mobile app, our website, and local news media broadcast. Please verify and keep your contact information updated in the PowerSchool Parent Portal to be sure you receive our notifications.
Schedule: Students will engage in four (4) hours of live instruction, including core subjects and specials (art, music, PE) from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on virtual school days. IEP services and accommodations will be provided as indicated. All students will begin and end their virtual school day at the same time, but specific schedules will be communicated by your child’s school and teachers before the first virtual school day.
Technology Access: When severe weather is anticipated, faculty will instruct students to bring home their school-issued laptop prior to the storm’s arrival. If you experience technology or home internet connectivity issues, contact your school office for support.
Responsible Technology Use & Internet Safety: Students should use their school-issued technology responsibly, handle and store their learning technology with care, and follow our acceptable use policies. We also encourage families to monitor their student’s technology use and discuss internet safety with their students at home.
Attendance & Participation: Attendance will be taken, and students are expected to participate virtually in the lessons during each virtual class. Students unable to participate due to technology or internet connectivity issues will not be penalized, and will be provided meaningful opportunities to complete any missed work. Please contact your child’s teacher or school office promptly to address these concerns.
Meals: Meal services may be available at designated sites on virtual days. Details will be provided at the time of the announcement.
Preparing for Success
We recommend setting up a quiet space for your student to focus during a virtual school day. Reviewing your student’s virtual learning schedule and these guidelines together can help set clear expectations for a successful experience. Teachers will communicate specific expectations and provide necessary support to ensure a smooth transition to remote learning when inclement weather is anticipated.
We appreciate your flexibility and cooperation as we navigate these challenges together. If you have any questions about the Inclement Weather Virtual Day Plan or other concerns, please contact your child’s teacher or school office for assistance.
Sincerely,
Dr. Tasker-Mitchell
Superintendent, Somerset County Public Schools