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JPS Offers Virtual Learning Option for Grades Pre-K-6
August 24, 2021
The Board of Trustees of Jackson Public Schools and Jackson Public Schools have agreed to offer a virtual learning option to scholars in grades pre-K-6.
We are offering this virtual option in response to the rise in COVID-19 rates locally and the revised guidance from the Mississippi Department of Education. Our plan addresses the growing concerns of our families and other stakeholders, particularly for scholars who cannot be vaccinated.
The virtual learning option, if selected, will remain in effect through the end of the first semester. Scholars who take this option will be ineligible to participate in field trips, District-Based After-School programs, or extracurricular activities.
Virtual learning will not be offered at this time as a primary instructional option for students in grades 7-12. Students needing to temporarily quarantine due to a documented COVID-19 exposure may be instructed virtually during their quarantine period.
How to Register for the Virtual Option
Families interested in moving their scholars in grades Pre-K-6 to the virtual learning option must submit their intentions through the Virtual Learning Survey by 5 p.m. Friday, August 27. You will need your scholar's MSIS number to complete this instrument. If you have more than one scholar moving to virtual, you must complete a separate form for each of them. No action needs to be taken for scholars who will continue attending school in person.
Although this selection is intended to be in effect for the remainder of the first semester, your scholar may be returned to in-person learning for failure to comply with attendance requirements. Additionally, families of virtual scholars will be responsible for maintaining access to the internet throughout the virtual learning period which concludes on December 21.
Technology Support
The District will provide devices and technical support for student devices throughout the virtual learning period. Scholars must turn in broken devices and resolve any outstanding balances to receive a working device for virtual learning. Devices will be issued by each scholar's school and will be available to pick up Thursday, September 2. The first line of support for devices and learning applications is the school. The District will not provide hot spots or Internet service.
Families' Responsibilities
In order for virtual learning to be a viable option for scholars in grades pre-K-6, families must agree to the following:
- Sign a commitment that acknowledges receipt and acceptance of Board policy IAAA - Distance/Online Learning.
- Provide reliable internet connectivity in their home or indicate the need for support with connectivity to their child’s school.
- Ensure the student’s regular attendance throughout the full instructional day.
- Ensure the student’s compliance with the policies and procedures outlined within the Student Code of Conduct.
- Ensure the student’s attendance on campus to meet course requirements, state assessments, and district interim assessments.
- Any other responsibilities approved by the Board or the Superintendent.
Child Nutrition
JPS Child Nutrition will offer pick-up service to virtual scholars beginning Wednesday, September 1. They will provide five breakfasts and five lunches for virtual scholars. Families will be able to pick up these meals each Wednesday between 4-6 p.m. at Kirksey Middle School, located at 5677 Highland Drive in north Jackson, and Bates Elementary, located at 3180 McDowell Road Ext. in south Jackson. Meals are for school days only and will consist of non-perishable items.
Vaccinations for Middle & High School Scholars
While we recognize MDE has allowed for a hybrid model, we’ve found the hybrid model to be less effective instructionally, and is challenging for families to support on a consistent basis. Therefore, we encourage all JPS staff and scholars who are eligible for the vaccination against COVID to obtain the vaccine. We will continue to host on-campus events to make it convenient for our scholars and staff to receive the vaccine.
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