Dear Fr. Doyle Community,
Technology can be incredibly frustrating sometimes! When we can't get that link to work, that program to load, or that password to be accepted, it can feel hopeless. Indeed, this is one of the drawbacks of online and virtual learning. Unlike the in-person learning that takes place in our classrooms, online learning forces us to depend upon an external device or platform that can often seem determined to work against us.
Yet, I also want to take a moment to share with you some of the feedback I have heard from the past two days about the positives we've seen in our distance learning programs:
Students Taking Initiative
Whether it is reaching out to a teacher with a technology concern or asking for clarification on an assignment, over the past two days I've witnessed students across the grade levels advocating for themselves in a way that is prompt, professional, and effective. This type of self-advocacy is an essential skill, and it is exciting to see it taking shape through our online learning platforms.
I've also heard from many parents the positive way their child is approaching online learning - creating a designated learning space, managing time to complete a wide range of assignments, and even showing off some of their technical expertise. It's great to hear that our students are jumping in - full steam ahead - with online learning.
Teacher Ingenuity with Lasting Impact
Zoom Calls, Google Classroom, Class Dojo, Bloomz, web pages, Gradelink and more... you name it, and our staff is working on mastering the platform to better serve our community. I am incredibly grateful and continually impressed by our teachers' dedication and creativity in developing and implementing online lessons. And to think - this will only improve over time!
Furthermore, when we do return to regular classes - and we will, at some point! - I am eager to see the way in which these platforms will then be integrated into every day learning. Our teachers are already some of the best, and these new tools in their toolboxes can only further enhance classroom learning!
As we continue on over the next two weeks at least, I am sure there will continue to be both negatives and positives associated with virtual & at-home learning. This is only natural as we journey together into uncharted territory. When things get difficult and technology just doesn't seem to want to cooperate, let's not forget the progress being made and these initial positive steps.
I pray that you continue to stay healthy, and I look forward to many of you joining us virtually for the St. Joseph's Day Mass tomorrow at 1pm, streamed live from our Facebook page.
God bless and Go Saints!
Mr. Peloquin
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