Trends in Distance Learning in DC Public Charter Schools

 

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, DC Public Charter Schools quickly shifted to develop Distance Learning plans for students to continue learning at home. DC PCSB staff compiled a list of the common and innovative approaches used at every school level across the district. 

Pencil and Paper Instruction (Also Referred to as Learning Packets)

For Early Childhood students, schools distribute learning packets to students that align with their educational program and curriculum. Packets are the primary form of instruction for LEAs serving younger students or those who do not have computer/internet access. Educators support families with their learning packets by hosting frequent teacher check-ins on the phone or via text message. 

Public Charter Schools Implementing Pencil and Paper Instruction include (but are not limited to):

  • AppleTree Early Learning PCS
  • Capital City PCS - Lower School
  • Cedar Tree Academy PCS
  • Center City PCS
  • DC Bilingual 
  • DC Prep PCS
  • E.L Haynes PCS
  • Early Childhood Academy PCS
  • Latin American Montessori Bilingual PCS
  • Rocketship Education DC PCS - K-2
  • St. Coletta Special Education PCS
  • The Family Place PCS
  • Two Rivers PCS - Elementary
  • Washington Yu Ying PCS - K-2

 

Web-Based Instruction

Schools using web-based distance learning plans are able to continue normal instruction schedules by live-streaming directions or sharing pre-recorded lessons on platforms such as Zoom, Google Classroom, Class Dojo, Summit Learning, MobyMax, Canvas, and i-Ready. For students who do not have access to the internet or computers, schools have purchased Wi-Fi hotspots or laptops, and directed families to access free Wi-Fi from providers like Comcast or AT&T, 
 

Public Charter Schools Implementing Web-Based Instruction include (but are not limited to):

  • Cesar Chavez PCS for Public Policy
  • Digital Pioneers Academy PCS
  • District of Columbia International PCS
  • Hope Community PCS
  • Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science PCS
  • Inspired Teaching Demonstration PCS
  • KIPP DC PCS – High School
  • LAYC Career Academy PCS
  • Paul PCS
  • Perry Street Preparatory PCS
  • Statesmen College Preparatory Academy for Boys PCS
  • The Next Step/El Proximo Paso PCS
  • Thurgood Marshall Academy PCS
  • Two Rivers PCS – Middle School
  • Washington Global PCS
  • Washington Latin PCS
  • Washington Leadership Academy PCS
  • Washington Yu Ying PCS 

 

Dual Approach: Web-Based and Learning Packet Instruction


Schools using the dual approach have workbooks or packets as their primary form of instruction, but supplement this with online learning opportunities. These online learning opportunities resemble, as closely as possible, traditional in-class instruction. Educators using this approach have daily or weekly virtual ‘office hours’ for families to stop in and ask for any assistance needed as they are completing the distance learning work. 

Public Charter Schools Implementing the Dual Approach include (but are not limited to):

  • Academy of Hope Adult PCS
  • Achievement Preparatory PCS
  • BASIS DC PCS
  • Breakthrough Montessori PCS
  • Briya PCS
  • Capital City PCS – Middle and High Schools
  • Carlos Rosario International PCS
  • Community College Preparatory Academy PCS
  • Creative Minds International
  • DC Scholars PCS
  • Eagle Academy PCS
  • Friendship PCS
  • Goodwill Excel Center PCS
  • Ingenuity Prep PCS
  • KIPP DC PCS – PK-8
  • Lee Montessori PCS
  • Mary McLeod Bethune Day Academy PCS
  • Maya Angelou PCS
  • Meridian PCS
  • Monument Academy PCS
  • Mundo Verde Bilingual PCS
  • National Collegiate Preparatory PCHS
  • Richard Wright PCS for Journalism and Media Arts
  • Rocketship Education DC PCS – 3-5
  • Roots PCS 
  • SEED PCS
  • Sela PCS
  • Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS
  • The Children’s Guild DC PCS
  • YouthBuild DC PCS