Holden Christian Academy
279 Reservoir Street, Holden, MA 01520
admissions@holdenchristianacademy.org
508.829.4418

Remote Learning Plan

Holden Christian Academy
Remote Learning Plan 

Should it become necessary to begin Remote Learning, Holden Christian Academy will strive to provide academic work that meets HCA’s high standards: teaching skills, accomplishing learning targets, and integrating learning across the curriculum wherever possible.

HCA staff and families will partner together to ensure that all students have access to the learning that is provided. 

HCA will work with families to identify barriers to attendance and support families in alleviating these challenges.

Structured Learning

  • Structured learning time is ‘time during which students are engaged in regularly scheduled instruction, learning activities, or learning assessments within the curriculum.  Structured learning time may include directed study, independent study, technology-assisted learning, and presentations by persons other than teachers.
  • Synchronous Learning – Synchronous learning is remote learning where everyone from a given group is online at the same time using tools such as Zoom or Google Meet.  Synchronous Learning is designed to allow students to engage in learning in real time, benefit from direct instruction, enable learners to ask questions and receive answers immediately, and collaborate with their co-learners.  Synchronous Learning may include:
    • Devotions and prayer
    • Whole class, direct instruction
    • Small group instruction
    • Interactive, discussion groups
    • Collaborative work
    • Presentations by persons other than teachers
  • Asynchronous Learning – Asynchronous learning is remote learning where students access lessons or independent learning tasks at any time during the day.  Asynchronous learning is designed to give students the opportunity to think and process material at their own pace, work creatively, and practice skills independently.  
  • Individual classroom teachers will provide a student schedule that is consistent and developmentally appropriate by grade level.
  • Schedules will consist of both synchronous and asynchronous structured learning opportunities.
    • On Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday students will begin the day with devotions/morning meeting, continue with the schedule of learning given by their teachers, and end the day with a closing meeting.  
    • On Wednesday, students will begin the day with devotions/morning meeting, then work primarily asynchronously throughout the day.
  • Assessments/Grades
    • Academic work (assignments, projects, etc.) and assessments (tests and quizzes) that are completed remotely will be graded.
    • Report cards will be distributed at regularly scheduled intervals
  • Special Education support staff may:
    • Monitor and support students during Synchronous Learning using Zoom features such as private chat
    • Provide direct support by using features such as breakout rooms during Synchronous Learning
    • Schedule a separate Zoom to provide direct instruction as needed  
    • Work with teachers to modify workloads and/or assignments.

The Role of the Teacher 

  • Maintain connections and good communication with students and parents/guardians, providing feedback on participation, academic performance, and social/emotional observations.
  • Provide structured learning during school days according to HCA’s School Calendar.  
  • Develop an age-appropriate learning schedule that balances synchronous and asynchronous Learning. 
  • Create synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities that engage all learners. 
  • Use technology such as collaboration tools (Google Docs, Drive, Slides, SeeSaw, Peardeck,…) and online platforms for core subjects (Lexia, FunHub, Savvas/Pearson Realize) as well as low-tech options that do not require screen-time
  • Assign and receive work through Google Classroom
  • Communicate with parents if any special tools or materials are needed for a lesson or project, providing enough time for parents to gather or purchase supplies
  • Distribute class-specific Zoom (or Google Meet) expectations for parents and students to review and sign 
  • Track student attendance during synchronous learning
  • Respond to communication with parents and students within 24-48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays)

The Role of Parents/Caregivers

  • Ensure that students have access to a device with internet access.  If a device is not available, please communicate with HCA and one may be loaned to you.
  • Prepare a safe, organized, and quiet space for learning. 
  • Help students maintain a workspace that is free of distractions such as food, toys, pets, and siblings.
  • Provide the tools or materials requested by the teacher.
  • Please ensure that your child: 
    • Attends scheduled classes (a timekeeping device is recommended for students to track breaks)
    • Is dressed and ready for the school day
    • Is seated at their workspace
    • Is logged in and ready to go at the times given on their class schedule
  • Visually check on students periodically during both synchronous and asynchronous lessons to ensure they are focused and have what they need.
  • Report any absences due to illness or other circumstances to the teacher(s) and the school office at rstewart@holdenchristianacademy.org  
  • Monitor Google Classroom:
    • Download and print any worksheets/handouts and assist in submitting completed work 
    • Ensure older students are completing and submitting assignments 
  • Communicate with teachers if there are any concerns

Expectations of Students

  • Be dressed and ready for the school day
  • Arrive to class on time
  • Be seated at a quiet workspace and ready to login to Zoom (or Google Meet)
  • Participate in class discussions
  • Complete assignments and submit them on time