Local schools, internet providers working together
Governor Steve Bullock directed all of Montana’s public K-12 schools to close for two weeks starting March 16, and that closure was extened again through April 10 on Tuesday.
In addition to ensuring meals are still available on a “grab-and-go” basis, or even delivered for anyone who needs them, all Lake County schools are gearing up to ensure every student can keep up with their studies and their credits during the closure. Teachers throughout the county are quickly converting lesson plans to adapt to the new situation, and personally contacting students to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible.
Much of the instruction, interaction and even submitting assignments will require use of the internet. At some schools, students can pick up textbooks, workbooks and assignments, or even have them delivered to their home if necessary, but even then, some of the assignments may require watching videos online.
However, not all students have access to internet or a computer in their homes. Rather than let anyone slip through the cracks, schools are working with local internet providers, making every effort to get service to every student’s household, or if necessary, find a suitable alternative workspace with access.
Access Montana, Blackfoot Telecommunications, and Spectrum have all offered discounts, manpower, and other assistance in this effort. Access Montana serves most of Lake County and is offering $25 off monthly internet service charges for families of students and those working from home due to the virus outbreak. But service requires “line-of-sight” to a tower, and there are areas that lack that coverage. Blackfoot is working with them to fill in the gaps.
St. Ignatius schools will be helping fund the remainder of the charges for their students if needed, according to St. Ignatius principal Shawn Hendrickson.
Several students’ families do not have computers or other devices adequate to the task, Henrickson said. The school was able to purchase 120 Chromebook laptop computers last week on a special, bringing the number available to around 800. Hendrickson said they will start with the seniors to ensure they have access, then work their way down through the lower grades. Because the high school and middle school already do a lot of work online, it is expected to be more of a transition for elementary students to get set up and comfortable with the system.
Arlee schools are surveying their students to find out what their technology needs are, and teachers are in the process of developing and building online education classrooms.
Ronan/Pablo staff are calling each student to assess their needs and will check out devices to those who need them. “We’re really in a great place,” says Superintendent Mark Johnston. “This emergency is really bringing out the best in people. I am thankful for everyone I work with.”
Charlo schools are making learning packets available for pickup at the school. “Online learning during off site instruction will be optional, not required at Charlo,” says their Facebook page.
Polson schools have posted online grade-level lessons and made paper packets available for those lacking internet access. Superintendent Rex Weltz thanked teachers and staff for their flexibility, positivity, and kindness during what has been a “challenging time,” he said. “We have literally transformed our education system in one week.”
St. Ignatius Superintendent Jason Sargent summed up the schools’ can-do attitude and community spirit: “There is not a better community that I would choose to spend this time with in the world. I am always amazed how when it’s time to rally and come together, this community gets it done! Thank you all for everything you do!! We will be just fine, I promise.”