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MISHAWAKA, Ind. – You may remember the feeling that morning when school was canceled because of snow.
In a post-pandemic world, with e-learning readily available in many districts, some of today’s children may have no idea what a traditional snow day feels like.
ABC57’s Jackie Bauer reached out to four local school districts to discuss first-hand what they do when inclement weather makes roads too dangerous for students to attend school.
Schools in School City Mishawaka experienced a two-hour delay Tuesday. We consulted with administrators and other school districts in Michiana to see if school would be canceled for a traditional snow day or if they would switch to e-learning.
“A lot of information…When you decide whether it’s going to snow on a snowy day, you need collective information.To make that decision, a lot of eyes will be on the road, a lot of people will be on the road.” …”
Nile Community Schools Superintendent Dr. Dan Applegate says a lot goes into contacting schools and snow days.
He analyzed the decision-making factors and reached out and made calls to other districts and transportation departments.
He sometimes wakes up early and drives on rural and urban roads before making a final decision.
A big factor he has in mind is new high school drivers on the road.
Schools were not closed Tuesday, but six traditional snow days were included in the schedule.
Protocols vary by state.
“We want to make sure in advance that we’re using the data and what we’re seeing in the classroom to drive our instruction, so if we have a snowy day, we’ll incorporate that into our calendar and plan for it to snow on that day.” ” said Dr. Katie Stockstel of Mishawaka Academy City.
In addition to planned e-learning days, Mishawaka Academy City also incorporates traditional snow days into its schedule.
However, Plymouth schools say they are switching to e-learning as much as possible rather than canceling school as standardized tests are just around the corner.
“Wherever possible, we are using an e-learning model, but whenever possible we are able to provide high-quality instruction whenever possible, even if there is a significant learning curve with the importance of pandemic instruction.” We’ve always used an e-learning model. We need to implement e-learning,” said Jill Vandries, assistant superintendent.
They are working to make this model accessible to all students with a hotspot and each student taking home an iPad.
Other school districts we spoke to said they have the technology and preparations needed should they need to hold e-learning days post-pandemic.
“We understand that flexibility and the reality of what happens at home during e-learning. It’s not easy for families either. That’s why we work with families to ensure that students We are working to see what impact this will have on the completion of the project,” Vandriesche added.
Elkhart Community Schools also has a similar e-learning model that has been said to be effective, although procedures vary by district.
“There is little difference in attendance on in-person days and e-learning days. The key is to use instructional days wisely. While e-learning is not the most effective way to deliver instruction, it is better than none at all. It’s better,” said Barbara Cripe, director of elementary curriculum and instruction at Elkhart Community Schools.
Schools are still preparing for Wednesday’s call and are continuing to stay updated on ABC57’s broadcasts and online.
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