Graham schools to plan for digital learning days due to increased staff absences

Graham High School

Graham High School

The Graham Local School District is planning for Digital Learning days for students as a result of increased staff absences due to quarantines or cases, the district superintendent said.

“We are experiencing increased numbers of staff absences related to quarantines and/or positive cases. Added to this challenge is a shortage of substitutes available and willing to work this year,” said Superintendent Brad Silvus. “As a result of these situations, we are planning for Digital Learning Days.”

A digital day is when students will work from home remotely with online meetings, work assigned through Google Classroom and communication via online programs or emails, Silvus said.

During these days, staff will still report to work to have access to all learning tools needed.

Digital days could be used one or two days at a time or even for an extended period such as two weeks, Silvus said.

“We will work to be able to let parents and families know about these days as soon as possible. These will work like snow days, a one call will go out to inform parents. We hope to be able to do this the night before it would happen but please realize that this may not be possible,” Silvus said.

Silvus said there is the possibility that there will be digital days for an individual building or the entire district, but it will depend on where the absences are happening the most.

“By doing this, we will be able to continue to have school and learning will continue,” Silvus said. “We realize this is not the first choice for our students; however, with the issue of not have substitutes to cover absences for out staff, this is the best option.”

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