• Return to Learn

  • register for WPS Connections Guiding Principles:


    Guiding Principles


    The global pandemic caused by COVID-19 has made planning for the 2020-21 school year very difficult for schools and families alike. Preparing for a new school year under normal circumstances is a tough job and involves a lot of hard work and planning. This year, as we continue to navigate uncertain conditions, that task becomes much more difficult. WPS conducted a survey of parents, employees, and students to gather feedback on the reopening of schools. Using that information and working with principals, teachers, instructional leaders, parents, and community members, we have made a collaborated effort to define what education will look like in Winchester Public Schools as we move into the 2020-21 school year. 
     
    WPS plans for returning to school for the 2020-21 school year include two options: a hybrid model including in-person and distance learning, and 100% distance learning. These options are listed below.

Option 1: WPS In-Person Option

  • Return to Learn Phase I - September 8, 2020

    • Students will be assigned to Group 1 or Group 2 based on their last name. Families with different last names will be assigned to the same group.
    • Group 1 (A - K) would attend a full day on Monday and Thursday and Group 2 (L - Z) would attend a full day on Tuesday and Friday.
    • The day will function like a normal school day with class change(s) and planning periods.
    • Wednesday will be used for synchronous Google Meets with students and asynchronous work in Canvas
    • Comparing 2 approaches to remote learning - Synchronous vs. Asynchronous
      • Synchronous: Students engage in course activities at a specific date/time, requiring that everyone be online for a scheduled event.
      • Asynchronous: Students engage in course activities at any time, contributing at their own pace.
    • Wednesday will also be a time for enhanced cleaning of the building.

    Return to Learn Phase II - October 5, 2020

    • Students with disabilities return four days per week based on individual need
    • Students with English language learning needs return four days per week based on individual need

    Return to Learn Phase III - November 16, 2020

    • All Pre Kindergarten through first grade students return four days per week
    • Any student with a significant reading deficit or failing multiple classes may return four days per week

     Return to Learn Phase IV - April 12, 2021

    • Students on both the A day and B day hybrid schedule will return to in-person learning four days a week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday).
    • Connections (100% Distance) students will remain in their virtual learning environment.
    • Wednesdays will remain a virtual learning day for all students.
    • Social distancing will be reduced to 3 feet, however all other COVID-19 related mitigation strategies remain in effect.
    • Bus capacity is limited. Please consider transporting your student to and from school.

     Return to Learn Phase V - August 19, 2021

    • Full capacity at school with five days per week instruction for students.
    • Full capacity on school buses.
    • Mask guidance will be forthcoming and in alignment with the Virginia Department of Health guidelines.

Option 2: WPS Virtual Option - Connections

  • WPS  Connections logo   is a 100% Distance Learning Model and will include the following:

    • Dedicated instruction from WPS teachers
    • Synchronous learning through Google Meet (live, virtual instruction and check-ins)
    • Student accountability through grading and feedback
    • Limited course offerings at middle and high school based on student schedules

    Registration for WPS Connections is still open. Parents/guardians should call their child's school to register.

     

Letters to Families