Unprecedented Times, Unprecedented Authorizing: Distance Learning in Grades K-8: Arts, Dance, and Robotics Electives Continue Virtually

As DC PCSB continues to monitor the pandemic, educators are working to figure out the most effective ways to teach and engage students in grades K through 8. Our review shows that distance learning for students in these grades looks different from school to school. Some schools are distributing learning packets and providing supplemental instruction items online.

Educators at Center City PCS (CCPCS) issued students learning packets and a library of learning materials to complete based on the weekly calendars. Each packet includes a weekly calendar, core curriculum work, and enrichment activities in:

• Art
• Dance
• Music
• P.E.
• Theater

Students are also asked to keep a diary or journal to record their thoughts or drawings.  

In theater class, students at CCPCS in grades 5 through 8 create a fictional cartoon character, learn play production techniques, and apply the skills to create a play. Students are expected to complete all work assigned at their own pace. 

While at Digital Pioneers Academy (DPA) PCS students must arrive on time to Remote School (R-School) wearing their uniforms. Scholars wear their DPA polo or shirt with appropriate legwear and are required to attend each class on time. 

Scholars receive information about classes and assignments on Google classroom and attend classes on Zoom, a video conference platform already installed on DPA issued Chromebook. When class begins, scholars are expected to log on to Zoom to be marked present. After three minutes, students may not be able to join the class. Find more information on DPA’s R-School here. DC International PCS is also using Google classroom and Zoom for distance learning. Learn more here. 

E.L. Haynes PCS has broken down learning materials for each of their campuses weekly since the COVID-19 shutdown. Students must complete and turn in each week’s activities to the teacher by the following Monday. Learn more about their Home Learning Plan and Resources for their K through 8 students here. 

The students in grades 5 through 8 at E.L. Haynes PCS are given activities for ELA, Math, and Science. Students are also continuing their elective classes in Art, Drama, Robotics, and more. 

Moreover, Washington Latin PCS middle school students have two to three classes daily. Educators at Washington Latin PCS are supporting students in these courses by offering live cast tutorials on Zoom between 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on every day class is in session. Classwork and exit tickets for all classes are due nightly and the work is graded based on completion. Learn more about Washington Latin PCS resources here. 

Learn more about each school’s kindergarten through 8th-grade distance learning programs and view resources, including the learning packets, by clicking on the following links: 

• Achievement Prep PCS Distance Learning
• AppleTree PCS Distance Learning 
• Bridges PCS Distance Learning
• Capital City PCS - Lower School Distance Learning
• Cedar Tree PCS Distance Learning
• Center City PCS Distance Learning (all Campuses)
• DC Bilingual PCS Distance Learning
• DC Prep PCS Distance Learning (all Campuses)
• DC Scholars PCS Distance Learning
• Digital Pioneers Academy PCS Distance Learning
• DC International PCS Distance Learning
• E.L. Haynes PCS Distance Learning
• E.W. Stokes Distance Learning
• Friendship PCS Distance Learning (all Campuses)
• Howard University Public Charter Middle School of Mathematics and Science Distance Learning
• KIPP DC (all Campuses) Distance Learning
• Meridian PCS Distance Learning
• Mundo Verde PCS (all Campuses) Distance Learning
• Perry Street PCS (Kindergarten) Distance Learning
• Rocketship PCS (all Campuses) Distance Learning
• The SEED School of Washington DC Distance Learning
• Two Rivers PCS (all Campuses) Distance Learning
• Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS Distance Learning
• Washington Latin PCS Distance Learning