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Flexible Instruction Days

What is the benefit of a Flexible Instruction Day (FID)?

A Flexible Instruction Day (FID) allows the school district to minimize the disruption to the learning process in cases when circumstances (e.g., a disease epidemic, a hazardous weather condition, a law enforcement emergency, the inoperability of school buses or other equipment necessary to the public school entity’s operation, damage to a school building, or a temporary circumstance rendering any portion of a school building unfit or unsafe for use) prevent the delivery of instruction in its customary manner or location. By implementing a FID, teachers can design assignments and activities that allow for a continuation in the learning progression. Additionally, FIDs count toward the number of instructional days/hours required under Article 15 of the Public School Code and Chapter 11 of the State Board of Education regulations. This means the school district does not have to extend the school year at the end of the school year to make up for snow days.

How will I know if the school district calls for a FID?

The district will continue to use its traditional methods for announcing a modification to a school day, including the district website and notification from the Superintendent through Infinite Campus. Additionally, the television stations KDKA, WTAE & WPXI will be notified and the message will explain the district is implementing a FID. 

Will every snow day become a FID going forward?

To use one of the five available FIDs, the district must first use any snow day already built into the school calendar. There are two additional snow days built into the school calendar. These two days would be used before a FID day is implemented. 

How does my child access the assignments for the day?

For students in grades 3-12, assignments and synchronous class expectations will be posted in Google Classroom. For grades K-2 students, all assignments from all areas will be communicated electronically by the student’s homeroom teacher and/or SeeSaw. 

For grades K-5 students, homeroom teachers will send information for any RTII services, and special area teachers will use the homeroom teacher's TEAM link for their special that day. The School Counselor and School Nurse will also be available throughout the day.

How much work will my child be expected to complete on a FID?

The expectations for students’ assignments will vary based on the grade of the child and the course/s he or she is taking. Virtual assignments are being designed to ensure continuity of instruction but will not be a replication of the traditional school day.  Instructional tasks will be designed based on the appropriate developmental learning needs of our students, and synchronous opportunities will also be provided.  Any synchronous opportunities will be communicated via classroom teachers and/or the building principal. 

What if my child attends A.W. Beattie?  How will the FID affect this?

If a FID is instituted, the FID will only be applicable for the student’s courses at Hampton High School.  

What if my child has an IEP, will their assignment be modified to meet their needs?

FID lessons will be designed for students with IEPs utilizing their program modifications, specially designed instruction, and supplementary aids and services identified in their individualized education plans. Upon return from a FID day, the special education teacher will meet with students to review work submitted, checking for completion, and understanding.  On FID days, special education personnel will be available to answer questions through email or Teams meetings. Any OT or PT scheduled during the FID will be rescheduled according to the frequency indicated in the student’s IEP. 

How long does my child have to complete and submit the assignments posted on a FID?

Classroom teachers will communicate assignment deadlines to students. 

What if my child has a question about how to complete the assignment?

Faculty members will be available to answer questions on a FID via email during the following hours:

  • High School - 8:20 - 3:10

  • Middle School - 7:50- 2:40

  • Elementary School - 8:45 - 3:45

What if I feel it is safe for my child to go to school, may I send them to work with their teachers?

No, a FID will be implemented when circumstances necessitate the closure of the school. Although teachers are available, they are not available to work with students in the school building.

What if my child has a technology issue that prevents them from completing the work?

The Technology Services department has both a help desk email and technology support phone number.  This is to be used by parents and students for FID related technical questions. The technology help desk will be available from 7:30am-3:30pm.  If students experience an issue, they should speak to their teachers upon their return.  The technology help desk can be reached by emailing helpdesk@ht-sd.org  or calling 412-492-6340.  A technician will respond to your email or call as quickly as possible.  

How will my child’s attendance be counted for a FID?

Student attendance will be determined by verification of attendance during synchronous instruction and/or completion of the lesson or assignment.

What if my child does not complete the required work on the day of the FID?

Students who do not complete the assigned work on the day of the FID and/or do not attend the synchronous classes when required will be marked with an unexcused absence for the day of the FID. Additionally, students would receive a zero for any graded assignment not completed or submitted to the classroom teacher(s) during a FID.

What if I cannot help my student login to Microsoft Teams?

Please review the following resources to assist.  If you have additional difficulties, please contact the technology help desk by emailing helpdesk@ht-sd.org.

How can I support my student accessing Microsoft Teams?

The follow suggestions might be helpful to your student during virtual meetings:

  1. Prepare Your Technology:
    • Test your microphone, camera, and internet connection before the meeting.
    • Restart your computer before joining a meeting.
    • Ensure you have the necessary software (e.g., Microsoft Teams, System Updates) installed and updated. Some updates can take a while, so do this the night before while connected to your power adapter.
    • Close any extra browser tabs or unneeded apps to free up system resources.
  2. Choose a Quiet Location:
    • Find a quiet space with minimal background noise.
    • Ensure others in your work area know you are in a video meeting to avoid interruptions and people/pets coming on camera.
    • Use headphones to improve audio quality.
  3. Join Early:
    • Log in a few minutes before the meeting starts to troubleshoot any issues.
  4. Camera Etiquette:
    • Position your camera at eye level.
    • Dress appropriately as if you were attending in person.
    • Maintain good lighting so others can see you clearly.
    • It is important to have your camera on to ensure active participation. Note: If bandwidth is an issue, turning off the camera can help, but should be decided with the meeting host/teacher.
  5. Mute Yourself When Not Speaking:
    • Avoid background noise by muting your microphone.
    • Unmute when you want to contribute.
  6. Engage Actively:
    • Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your thoughts.
    • Use reactions (like thumbs up or applause) to show agreement or appreciation.
  7. Use Chat Wisely (When available):
    • Use the chat feature for relevant comments or questions.
    • Avoid side conversations during the meeting.
  8. Stay Focused:
    • Minimize distractions (close other tabs, silence notifications).
    • Take notes to stay engaged.

Additionally, you can access the following video tutorial for further assistance: VIDEO LINK.