Garnet Valley
School District
eSchool Student Manual
2023-2024
Vision and Goals
Introduction
eSchool@Garnet Valley is an initiative created to provide the resources and flexibility for our students who learn best in either a full or part-time digital environment. The program is managed and operated by the Garnet Valley School District faculty, staff, and administration.
eSchool@Garnet Valley offers a wide range of digital courses and curriculum. Students may complete their courses in the Garnet Valley eSchool Studio, Garnet Valley Middle and High School libraries, at home, or other locations with Internet Access. All courses are facilitated by Garnet Valley School District teachers, all highly qualified and certified in Pennsylvania. Several different options for course work are available, as well as various academic levels. Students may work at their own pace as long as they meet established deadlines. The flexibility of our digital curriculum allows for greater variation in implementation and design.
Why eSchool@GarnetValley?
The Garnet Valley School District understands that families in today's complex society need flexibility and options to meet their child's individual educational needs. We also understand that becoming or remaining part of one of the top school districts in Pennsylvania is also important. To that end, in 2015, Garnet Valley added online learning to its existing educational offerings.
Whether a student has a demanding sport or musical schedule or has unique health challenges, eSchool@GarnetValley provides an effective solution. The flexibility of eSchool@GarnetValley provides students many different academic paths to graduation. Because classes are designed to accommodate all students, eSchool@GarnetValley allows students to customize their plan of study to fit their individual educational needs.
Although online learning often eliminates social distractions like bullying, cliques, and social hierarchies, the potential for isolation ignites concern for many parents. While removing these obstacles can enhance the quality of learning for some students, socialization can prepare students to handle difficult situations in college and future jobs. It is with this understanding that Garnet Valley has built an eSchool Studio where students can come onto campus to complete work, socialize with other students, meet with their school counselor, or get help with coursework.
All eSchool@GarnetValley students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities as well as athletics. More information on Garnet Valley Middle and High School Clubs and Activities can be found on the district web site. Please visit www.garnetvalleyschools.com to learn more about the district’s clubs and activities.
Characteristics of a Successful
eschool@Garnetvalley Student
With the freedom and flexibility of taking courses online comes responsibility. In order to keep up with the coursework, the online process takes real commitment and discipline. Students should be willing to commit 5-10 hours per week, per course to complete their coursework. Students should have the following characteristics (or be willing to work on them) if they want to participate in eSchool@GarnetValley. Students should:
Be a self-motivated and a self-disciplined individual.
Enjoy working independently.
Be willing to ask for help.
Have good time-management skills.
Possess strong organizational and planning skills
Be able to meet deadlines for schoolwork.
Communicate any questions or concerns to the teacher either online or face-to-face.
Feel comfortable expressing themselves in writing using standard English.
Like to get things done today and not tomorrow.
Not miss the daily face-to-face interaction with instructors and classmates.
Not give up easily, even when confronted with obstacles.
Be willing and able to commit to the same number of hours per week per course.
Agree that online courses can be more challenging than face-to-face classes.
Consider themselves an average to above-average reader based on grade level.
Have basic computer skills.
Have access to a device that is connected to the Internet.
Be comfortable in a "virtual environment" - email, sending attachments, online discussions, etc.
Not be afraid to try new things.
Student and Parent Expectations
Communication
One of the key components of a successful online experience is good communication. The students and parents/guardians should stay in contact with the online teachers and discuss any technical problems or coursework questions immediately. Any issues related to course selection and/or registration should be communicated to the GVSD school counselor.
Face-to-Face Meetings All eSchool@GarnetValley students and teachers have the flexibility to meet at any time after school for homework help, test prep, remediation, etc. Most eSchool@GarnetValley teachers can be available to meet with students as little as one day notice or, if students prefer, a set face-to-face meeting schedule can be setup in advance. Face-to-Face meetings include Zoom meetings. It is recommended that all elementary teachers setup weekly meetings at the start of the year and scale back as needed once the student adjusts.
Netiquette Parents and students are expected to follow the rules of network etiquette, or “netiquette.” The word netiquette refers to common-sense guidelines for conversing with others online. Please be sure to answer all emails from your teachers and counselors in a timely manner.
Garnet Valley grade band netiquette expectations are outlined below.
Grades K-2 Netiquette
Students will…….
use kind, respectful language online.
understand that rules and behaviors are the same as if inside the school building
access his/her learning with the support of a parent/teacher in Schoology.
be reminded by parents and teachers to use appropriate emojis in online discussion boards when commenting on peers’ work.
Grades 3-5 Netiquette
Students will…...
use kind, respectful language online.
be appropriately dressed when attending live lessons online.
abide by the rules set out by the teacher for “online” behavior
access his/her learning through Schoology.
complete assignments with best effort and integrity
check his/her work before posting
be reminded by parents and teachers to use appropriate emojis in online discussion boards when commenting on peers’ work.
not record; take screenshots; or share other’s information
THINK before they post. (Is it true, helpful, important, necessary, and kind)
Grades 6-8 Netiquette
Students will…...
acknowledge that behind every screen is a person; be kind with words and actions.
be appropriately dressed when attending live lessons online.
abide by the rules set out by the teacher for “online” behavior
access his/her learning through Schoology.
respect others points of view, thoughts, and opinions
respect others' privacy and not share information (this includes, posts, images, etc.)
complete assignments with best effort, integrity, and honesty
check his/her work before posting (grammar, spelling, completion)
be mindful what he/she posts in online chats, discussion boards, and/or live lessons. Students are not record; take screenshots; or share other’s information
Grades 9-12 Netiquette
Students will…..
acknowledge that behind every screen is a person; be kind with words and actions.
be appropriately dressed when attending live lessons online.
abide by the rules set out by the teacher for “online” behavior
access his/her learning through Schoology.
respect others points of view, thoughts, and opinions
respect others' privacy and not share information (this includes, posts, images, etc.)
complete assignments with best effort, integrity, and honesty
check his/her work before posting (grammar, spelling, completion)
be mindful what he/she posts in online chats, discussion boards, and/or live lessons.
not record; take screenshots; or share other’s information
communicate appropriately with teachers and peers
keep in mind everything that is typed, accessed, or posted on the web is recorded on a server and can not be taken back.
understand that there are times people may disagree; when something seems unclear students should ask for clarity
be careful with humor and sarcasm; both can easily misunderstood online
be mindful of their background if at home learning during a live lessons, chat, or video-conference. Students are not record; take screenshots; or share other’s information
understand the same rules in school apply online
use proper manners when sending emails to teachers and staff. Click here for a sample.
vandalism will result in cancellation of access privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, Internet or other networks; this includes but is not limited to uploading or creating computer viruses.
Deadlines/Due dates
eSchool@GarnetValley courses allow students flexibility over time, pace, path, and place. It is critical that students adhere to deadlines and due dates from individual teachers. Students have flexibility over time and pace but staying within the parameters of marking periods and semesters is critical to success and the completion of the course. Students are encouraged to work with his/her teacher to ensure that the pace they are working at will allow them time to finish the course in the allotted time. There is flexibility of due dates within a reasonable amount of time which will be determined by individual teachers. Time, pace, path and place are defined below.
Control of time refers to when a student chooses to complete work during the day or night. Students also have the ability to complete work during the weekend, holidays, or during school closures. Control over place refers to where the student chooses to do his/her work. Control over path refers to students taking ownership over their own learning. Students will be expected to be active participants in designing their own pathways towards completing assignments and projects to show their learning. Control over pace refers to how much or how little a student may choose to do in a given day while adhering to established deadlines and by keeping to the average of 1 hour per day per course.
Coursework Requirements & Attendance
Daily Coursework
eSchool@GarnetValley classes are online, asynchronous and self-paced with a few exceptions (Science Labs, World Languages, Sculpture, Exploratory Art, and some AP courses). All of the courses are taught by Garnet Valley School District teachers and include college and career prep, academic, honors, and Advanced Placement courses. Students have the option to set up an appointment to meet face-to-face or over Zoom to meet with their teacher after school for assistance.
The eSchool@GarnetValley system tracks student logins, time spent on instruction, and time spent on assessments. Middle and high school students should expect to spend approximately 1 hour per day, per course to complete coursework. Elementary students should rely on teacher communication on how long coursework should take.
All eSchool@GarnetValley students are expected to meet the same requirements as the students in the district schools. All high school students are required to meet the graduation credit requirement of 27.5 credits in order to graduate. Students who complete their coursework through eSchool@GarnetValley will receive a high school diploma from Garnet Valley High School.
Attendance
22 PA. CODE CH. 11 sets forth the requirements for student attendance in public schools. Except as otherwise provided by law, compulsory school age is the period of a child’s life from the time the child enters school (which may be no later than at the age of 8 years), until the age of 17 or graduation from a high school, whichever occurs first. Students in any PA cyber school must adhere to these minimum attendance requirements.
The new attendance law defines truant at “3 or more school days of unexcused absences during the current school year by a child subject to [the] compulsory school attendance [law].” Habitually truant is defined as “6 or more school days of unexcused absences during the current school year by a child subject to [the] compulsory school attendance [law].” If a student is under the age of 17 and absent without an excuse for 3 days within any one academic year, a letter will be sent out detailing the 3 unlawful absences, inviting the parent/guardian into school for a meeting, and explaining the consequences of habitual truancy.
If a student accumulates 6 unexcused absences (or more) within any one academic year, the student will be referred to a school or community-based school attendance program or referred to Delaware County’s Children, Youth, and Families Department. A truancy citation may also be filed with the district magistrate.
The eSchool@GarnetValley program provides students with complete flexibility over time, pace, path, and place in all of their eSchool courses. Due to the flexibility of the program, eSchool@garnetvalley is not beholden to instruction due to inclement weather or other emergency closures.
Parents can view their student’s attendance in real-time through logging into their Alma parent account.
Like all school districts, Garnet Valley uses a lot of systems, acronyms, and technologies that can sometimes seem overwhelming for our parents who do not use these terms and technologies in their daily lives. The information, clickable links, and help guides on the Parent’s Guide to Garnet Valley Technologies are there to help ease the learning curve for our parent community. If you have questions or issues using any one of the apps or sites, please contact patty@garnetvalley.org. Please be sure to indicate which school your child attends.
Recording Attendance - Full-time Students
Full-time students who are taking all of their classes through eSchool@GarnetValley are required to login 1 hour per day, per course and/or remain on pace for all coursework. Failure to do so will result in the student being marked absent for the day.
Recording Attendance - Part-time Students
Attendance will be taken daily at school for all part-time students who are taking some classes in eSchool@GarnetValley.
Absence Procedures - Full-time Students
To report student absences, please use School Messenger (Safe Arrival System). School Messenger (Safe Arrival System) gives parents 3 options to report an absence: by phone, by using an App, or logging into the website (directions for each option are included in website below). The SafeArrival reporting system by School Messenger is available 24 hours/day, 7 days a week. Future absences can also be reported in advance. Parents/Guardians who report their child's absences using the SafeArrival website/app/phone will NOT receive a call from our automated attendance system. Additionally, Parents/Guardians who report their child's absences using the SafeArrival website/app/phone will NOT be required to send in an additional absence note as the reporting system will count as the note.
Absence Procedures - Part-time Students
To report student absences, please use School Messenger (Safe Arrival System). School Messenger (Safe Arrival System) gives parents 3 options to report an absence: by phone, by using an App, or logging into the website (directions for each option are included in the website below). The SafeArrival reporting system by School Messenger is available 24 hours/day, 7 days a week. Future absences can also be reported in advance. Parents/Guardians who report their child's absences using the SafeArrival website/app/phone will NOT receive a call from our automated attendance system.
Additionally, Parents/Guardians who report their child's absences using the SafeArrival website/app/phone will NOT be required to send in an additional absence note as the reporting system will count as the note*.
SafeArrival uses our student information system (ALMA) to verify all accounts so it is important that parents/guardians use the same email address on file in ALMA when creating their SafeArrival account. For more Information, please click here.
eSchool Studio
Located in Concord Elementary School Room #253
Available Monday - Thursday 8:30 am - 3:00pm when school is in session
Phone: 610-579-6116
Although online learning often eliminates social distractions like bullying, cliques, and social hierarchies, the potential for isolation ignites concern for many parents. While removing these obstacles can enhance the quality of learning for some students, socialization can prepare students to handle difficult situations in college and future jobs. It is with this understanding that Garnet Valley has built an eSchool Studio where students can come onto campus to complete work, socialize with other students, meet with their school counselor, or get help with coursework.
If a student plans to attend the eSchool studio on a daily or weekly schedule please contact Julie Devine, Supervisor of Digital and Online Learning, to setup the proper sign in and arrival procedures at Concord Elementary School. p. 610-579-7370 or e. devinej@garnetvalley.org.
Garnet Valley Discipline Manual
Academic Dishonesty
Academic Dishonesty (Plagiarism, cheating, etc.) - Academic dishonesty is evidenced by cheating or plagiarism and involves any attempt by a student to show possession of knowledge and skills he/she does not possess. Cheating occurs when students use someone else’s words, work, test answers, and/or ideas and claim them as their own.
The consequences of cheating will vary depending upon the nature of the offense. Possible consequences include failure of the assignment, no credit for the course, Saturday detention and/or after school detention.
Bullying/Cyberbullying
Intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical act or series of acts directed at another student or students which occurs in a school setting, that is severe, persistent or pervasive; and has the effect of doing any of the following: (1) substantially interfering with a student’s education; (2) creating a threatening environment; or (3) substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.
Examples of acts or series of acts that may constitute bullying if it meets the preceding definition include, but are not limited to, physical intimidation or assault; extortion; oral or written threats; teasing; putdowns, name calling; threatening looks, gestures or actions; cruel rumors; false accusations; and social isolation. Note, mutual “teasing “should not be confused with bullying behavior.
Enrollment Process
Eligibility
All Garnet Valley School District students in grades K-12 are eligible to enroll in the eSchool@GarnetValley program. Traditionally, students that enroll in one or more eSchool@GarnetValley courses fall into one or more of the following categories:
Students returning from charter or cyber charter school
Students that want to enroll in an online cyber program
Students that require a modified schedule due to medical and/or special education needs
Drop-out Prevention
Please note: Middle and high school Students should expect to spend a minimum of 1 hour per day, per course on coursework. Full credit courses last approximately 36 weeks; .5 credit courses last approximately 18 weeks.
Elementary Students
Students in elementary school should expect to spend a minimum of 30 minutes per day in all core subject areas. Students should follow the special areas schedule and complete the requirements for special areas for a given week. Kindergarten are expected to spend approximately 1.5 per day on school work.
It is recommended that all students in grades K-5 enroll in all core subjects: Reading, Writing, Math, Science and Social Studies. It is at the discretion of the parent/guardian whether to add special area classes. Physical education and health is a recommended option for special areas as is Music and/or Art.
Middle School Students
In middle school, electives often run for one semester. Students are expected to complete the given elective in the semester in which it was assigned.
High School Students
Students MUST complete all 0.5 credit courses within the given semester. A student can enroll in a 0.5 credit course until October 1, 2023 but MUST complete the course no later than the last day of the 1st semester.. If a student enrolls in a 0.5 credit course in the second semester until March 1, 2024 students MUST complete the course no later than the last student day of the second semester.
EnrolLment Process for all Students
Please note, ALL eSchool students need to complete the orientation process EACH year.
All new prospective and returning students and their parents/guardians should familiarize themselves with our eSchool@GarnetValley program by visiting www.eschoolgarnetvalley.com.
All new prospective students and their parents/guardians should schedule a meeting with their child’s School Counselor to discuss whether eSchool@GarnetValley is a good option and fit at this time. Below are the names, email addresses, and phone numbers of eSchool@GarnetValley’s School Counselors. New prospective students who have their needs met through specially designed instruction may discuss eSchool@GarnetValley at an IEP meeting. The team will determine the supports needed to provide access to the student’s program of study prior to beginning any online coursework. The student’s IEP will be provided to all eSchool@GarnetValley teachers who will ensure compliance with all required supports, modifications, and accommodations. All Special Education students who participate in eSchool@GarnetValley will be assigned both a regular education teacher and a special education case manager who will provide additional support and progress monitoring.
Returning eSchool@GarnetValley students should schedule a meeting with their school counselor to discuss required coursework and all other school-related requirements.
Elementary Students
Please contact Julie Devine, Supervisor of Digital and Online Learning.
Garnet Valley Middle School
Students with the last name A-Em - Mrs. Marisa Mahon (610) 579-5110
Students with the last name ending in Ep-Ler - Ms. Wendy Xanthopolous (610) 579-5107
Students with the last name ending in Les-Rom - Mr. Matthew Bradshaw (610) 579-5109
Students with the last name ending in Ros-Z - Mrs. Christy Francart (610) 579-5108
Garnet Valley High School
Students with the last name ending in A-C - Ms. Felicia Graumann (610) 579-7741
Students with the last name ending in D-HOA - Mr. Tim Dunleavy (610) 579-7748
Students with the last name ending HOB-McK - Mr. Aaron Miller (610) 579-7411
Students with the last name ending in McL-ScG - Ms. Marissa Kimmel (610) 579-7424
Students with the last name ending in ScH-Z - Ms. Nicole Cahill (610) 579-7718
College and Career Counselor - Mr. Michael Salladino (610) 579-7772
4. After the initial meeting with your child’s School Counselor and/or IEP Team to determine if eSchool@GarnetValley is the best fit, your child’s School Counselor will discuss the enrollment with their building administrator. If approved, the School Counselor will complete an eSchool Enrollment Form and set up an orientation. Please note, ALL eSchool students need to complete the orientation process EACH year.
a. All students, including students with an IEP, that enroll in one or more eSchool@GarnetValley courses do so on a 4-week diagnostic placement. A 4-week diagnostic placement is used to determine the appropriateness of eSchool@GarnetValley as a learning format. If after 4 weeks, if the student adjusts well, the placement could become permanent. If eSchool@GarnetValley appears to be inappropriate for the student, a more suitable setting can be identified.
b. A 14-day follow-up meeting will be scheduled to review the student progress and to address any additional needs or challenges. The 14-day follow-up meeting can be conducted via a phone call or web conference (Zoom) if necessary. The counselor will reach out to discuss progress.
c. A 28-day program evaluation meeting will be scheduled to determine if eSchool@GarnetValley is the best option and fit for the student. Coursework, attendance data, and overall student progress will be evaluated to determine if the student should continue in the eSchool@GarnetValley program or if a more suitable learning format can be identified. Physical presence of the student and parent/guardian may be required for this 28-day/4 week program evaluation meeting.
d. Following the 28-day program evaluation, the Supervisor of Digital and Online Learning will monitor student progress by frequent checks with the teachers, case managers, and school counselors.
e.Dropping Course: Students who drop/withdraw from a course after the first five weeks of the start date will receive a “Withdraw” for the course and it will be indicated with a “WP” or “WF” on the official transcripts.
Types of Course Enrollments
Original Credit - (Rolling Enrollment starting at the beginning of the school year)
No New Enrollments after March 27, 2024; All courses must be completed by the end of the school year. In the event of an extended school closure ANY eSchool courses MUST be completed in its entirety to receive credit for the course.
The Garnet Valley School District offers an Original Credit Program through eSchool@GarnetValley that includes coursework for original credit (a course not previously taken). Original credit courses are reported on the official transcript and the grades are calculated into the student’s grade point average (GPA). Courses are aligned to the Garnet Valley School District curriculum and PA Core Standards (or national standards if PA standards for the course do not exist). Full-time eSchool@GarnetValley students (students only taking online courses) will receive a chromebook and printer (if needed) to complete their work. A reliable connection to the internet is needed at home if students are to complete assignments at their residence. All eSchool@GarnetValley students have the option to complete their coursework in Garnet Valley’s eSchool Studio, at home, or other areas with internet connections.
High school students that wish to work in the building at the high school MUST get approval from their school counselor and/or supervisor of digital and online learning. Students that do receive permission MUST check in with the main office each time he/she enters and exits the building.
The eSchool@GarnetValley Course Catalog includes college and career prep, academic, honors, and Advanced Placement courses. For athletes, the courses taken through eSchool@GarnetValley are NCAA-approved.
Please note: Students should expect to spend a minimum of 1 hour per day, per course on coursework. Full credit courses last approximately 36 weeks; .5 credit courses last approximately 18 weeks. Elementary students should refer to teacher discretion on how long daily course work should take.
Students MUST complete all 0.5 credit courses within the given semester. A student can enroll in a 0.5 credit course until October 1, 2023 but MUST complete the course no later than the end of the first semester.. If a student enrolls in a 0.5 credit course in the second semester, students MUST complete the course no later than the last student day of the school year. This does not apply to elementary students. All elementary courses are the length of one school year.
Dropping Course: Students who drop/withdraw from a course after the first five weeks of the start date will receive a “Withdraw” for the course and it will be indicated with a “WP” or “WF” on the official transcript.
State Mandated Testing
MAP/CDT Testing
This district utilizes both the MAP and CDT testing for specific grades. Both assessments are given two to three times through the course of the school year. It is expected that eSchool students take part in the testing sessions. Below are the testing windows for both assessments. eSchool teachers will be in touch with more detailed information. Students should plan to be face-to-face for the assessment. Special considerations will be made for virtual testing sessions.
MAP Testing Grades 1-8 - September 9- October 7, 2023
MAP Testing Grades 1-8 - January 2 - 27, 2024
MAP Testing Grades 1-8 - May 15 - June 9, 2024
CDT Testing Grades 9-11 - October 16-27, 2023
CDT Testing Grades 9-11 - March 18 -29, 2024
Pennsylvania System of School Assessment
Students taking classes through eSchool@GarnetValley are still required to take state-mandated tests, such as the PSSAs. Arrangements to take these exams will be made in conjunction with the school counselor and principal. Students who are taking state exams may have their eSchool@GarnetValley coursework schedules adjusted, but they will not be exempt from completing any of the required coursework.
PSSA Testing Windows - Grades 3-8
PSSA English - April 22-27, 2024
PSSA Math and Science - April 29-May 3, 2024
PSSA Make-Up - May 1-12, 2024
*More specific information regarding testing dates and times will be provided closer to the start of the testing window.
Keystone Exams
Keystone Exams are State mandated end-of-course tests. Students are required to take the appropriate Keystone Exam at the conclusion of each Keystone course (Algebra I, Biology, and English Literature. English Literature is tied to English 10).
Keystone Testing Windows
January 6-17, 2024
May 12-23, 2024
*More specific information regarding testing dates and times will be provided closer to the start of the testing window.
Annual Credit Requirements and Recommendations
Elementary Schools
Grades K-5 - All core subject areas (Reading, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies)
* Special Areas classes are optional
* It is recommended that students enroll in Health and PE but not required
Students are promoted to the next grade if they pass all academic subjects. Students who fail one or more academic subjects or the equivalent must repeat the grade. A student may receive credit for subjects failed by satisfactorily completing an approved summer school program. This would allow the student to move to the next grade. The expense of summer school belongs to parents / guardians. Students with IEPs are promoted in accordance with mastery of their respective IEP Goals.
For questions regarding IEPs and related services please contact the child’s case manager.
Middle School courses are offered at all levels.
*Only offered to eighth graders.
Students are required to have 27.5 credits for graduation.
Secondary Grading
Credits
A student may not earn more than 8 credits in any school year. If the student chooses to earn additional credits beyond the school year, those credits will not be included in the cumulative grade point average and must be paid for by the student.
Awarding Credit
Credit is awarded upon satisfactory completion of all course requirements. Courses completed at the middle school will not be used in GPA calculations.
INCOMPLETE
A grade of "I" will automatically turn to an "F" if not made up within two weeks of the end of the marking period, (unless there are extenuating circumstances). A senior will not graduate with a grade of "I".
Secondary Report Cards
All teachers will enter student grades in the report card in Alma no matter when the student began the course. For example, a student could have enrolled in an eSchool@GarnetValley course 2 weeks prior to report cards being due. The teacher should still enter the grade for that student for that semester or marking period. The grade in the report card should reflect the student’s grade at that time. Please be aware that entering grades in Alma for an eSchool student is different than entering grades for a brick and mortar student. When grades are entered for an eSchool student they are considered “progress reports” and not the end of a quarter grade. To that end, all final grades will need to be manually changed into Alma prior to submission.
Elementary Report Cards
Overview
The progress report was updated during the 2018-2019 school year to reflect current trends in education. It remains anchored in a standards based reporting principle where students’ progress towards standards is indicated along with reporting on the Qualities of a Learner. The updated progress report enhances the Qualities of a Learner to reflect 21st century skills and updates academic indicators to be more accessible to students and parents/guardians. Characteristics of an ideal progress report were identified through research on assessment and best practice, examining samples from other districts, and by defining those qualities essential in our own district.
The recent updates were created to achieve different goals. The updated progress report provides more information to parent/guardians, has a consistent grade scale across K-5 via a new rubric, reflects elements of current instructional practices like reading workshop, and will include the level of books the student is reading.
The standards-based progress report indicates each individual student’s progress toward mastery of academic standards as outlined by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The GVEPR reports the student’s progress towards academic standards as well as reflecting progress of grade level expectations. It also indicates a student’s investment of effort in the learning process.
The district has developed progress reports for all elementary grades, K to 5. Student progress on each Quality of a Learner and academic indicator is reported using a 4-point rubric. This rubric is a departure from previously used state reporting language and intended to be more student-centered. The rubric was designed so that grades do not indicate the end of the learning progress. The student score on the rubric informs the student and parent/guardian of where the student currently is on a learning continuum.
Student Learning Rubric
The student learning rubric will be used in developmentally-appropriate methods in each grade. For example, primary grades may not use Level 4 as students are developing their foundations of learning at this level.
Qualities of a Learner:
The Garnet Valley Elementary progress report is also a report of those behaviors that enhance the student’s ability to learn. Our goal is to help students own their learning – to take responsibility for reaching their learning goals and improving their performance. Effort in each academic area and Qualities of a Learner will be reported using the Student Learning Rubric. The Qualities of a Learner are:
Accepts responsibility for choices and actions
Contributes to the learning environment with a positive attitude and respect for others
Embraces and works through challenges
Listens actively
Meets classroom and school expectations
Organizes self, materials, & belongings
Participates actively
Seeks help when needed
Shows pride in producing best work
Takes risks to grow as a learner
Demonstrates digital citizenship through appropriate technology use
Works cooperatively with others
Please note that some qualities of a learner may be difficult to observe in an asynchronous learning environment and therefore not be reported.
Student progress in working towards the goals outlined in the updated Qualities of a Learner will also be used in developmentally-appropriate methods depending on the grade level. Reporting on each Quality of a Learner will be completed when that Quality is appropriate for the student.
For more detailed information on our Elementary Grading, please see the Elementary Handbook pages 21-22.
ROles and Responsibilities
School Counselor
School counselors are responsible for conducting an orientation in collaboration with the Supervisor of Digital and Online Learning all eSchool@GarnetValley students. All students are required to attend an orientation with their parent or guardian. The orientation will last approximately 1 hour and will be conducted in either the eSchool Studio (CES room# 253), counseling office, or administration building, or via Zoom. During the orientation, students will learn how to effectively work in an online learning environment, review school policies and procedures, and learn how to complete daily assignments to gauge their comprehension of class instruction and lessons. By the end of orientation, students will have the knowledge and skills needed to successfully transition to online or blended academic courses. New students will not begin academic courses until they have successfully completed orientation.
Attendance
Taking Attendance
School counselors are responsible for taking daily attendance for all full-time eSchool@GarnetValley student on their caseload.
Recording Attendance - Full-time Students
Full-time students who are taking all of their classes through eSchool@GarnetValley are required to login to Schoology 1 hour per day, per course and/or remain on pace for all coursework. Failure to do so will result in the student being marked absent for the day. Counselors shall record all attendance in Alma. Counselors shall utilize the same resources to assist eSchool@GarnetValley students as they would for students in the traditional face-to-face environment. Counselors are expected to update their attendance logs weekly.
Recording Attendance - Part-time Students
Counselors do not need to take attendance for part-time students as attendance will be taken daily in school for all part-time students who are taking some classes in their district school.
Absence Procedures - Full-time Students
When a full-time student does not login during a school day and/or does not remain on pace for all coursework, a parent must send a note for the absence to their School Counselor. Excused notes must be submitted within 3 days of the student’s return to the program.
Communicating with students and Parents
All eSchool counselors shall maintain a consistent line of communication with their students and parents through either email, phone calls, and Zoom calls. Counselors will offer weekly/biweekly Zoom/Google Meet sessions to check in with students and families. The student and counselor will determine how frequently those check-ins should be. All parents shall receive periodic updates on their child’s progress, however, counselors should not rely on those periodic updates to act as a replacement for direct communication. It is recommended that counselors maintain a consistent in-person meeting schedule with families to review coursework, college planning, etc.
Communicating with the Teacher and Supervisor of Digital and Online Learning
All eSchool counselors shall be in regular contact with their student’s eSchool teachers. All school counselors will serve as a liaison between our eSchool teachers and families. All teachers shall communicate to the counselor any student issue, including instances when students and/or parents fail to respond to emails. Counselors shall report any issues related to academic dishonesty, lack of progress, or any issue that could not be resolved by the teacher and/or counselor to the building administration and the Supervisor of Digital and Online Learning.
Teacher of Record
Effective teachers demonstrate a belief that all children can learn and set appropriately high standards. Being an eSchool@GarnetValley teacher will provide our teachers plenty of opportunities to work with students from diverse backgrounds who all have diverse needs and interests. Teachers should be prepared to recognize and address the issues that each student presents. Supporting inclusive education and honoring diversity requires purposeful differentiation, including adaptations for children who learn in different ways, at different rates, with different supports, and/or who demonstrate their knowledge and skills in different ways. Teachers are encouraged to meet face to face or online (via Zoom or Meets) to check-in with students at least once a week.
Curriculum Planning and Alignment
All courses are to be created in Schoology following best practices of the EDI framework on course design. Courses are to be designed by classroom teachers and align to the traditional face-to-face Garnet Valley course. It is the responsibility of each eSchool teacher to ensure the online version and face-to-face curriculum align as best as possible. Courses that have gone through the OER stage of curriculum development should contain the resources collected and vetted through the OER process.
All eSchool teachers have the flexibility to create additional resources and materials to supplement any course. Additionally, eSchool teachers shall modify any unit or assignment that would not otherwise be taught in a traditional face-to-face Garnet Valley course.
Special Education Students
Once the teacher(s) of record and case manager are notified of a new student, an initial meeting between the teacher of record and the special education case manager shall take place to review each student’s IEP, review the course structure and expectations, and to provide accommodations and modifications as needed. It is the collaborative responsibility of the teacher of record and the special education teacher to provide the accommodations and modification to the course after meeting with the case manager. A snapshot of the IEP shall then be given to the regular education teacher.
Organzing Course Work Flow
Courses built in Schoology shall maintain a consistent structure and flow for students, however, all eSchool teachers should reinforce how best for students to hand in completed assignments based on each individual course. Due dates shall be setup and used for students to help organize their work. All full credit courses should end by the end of the school year and half credit courses should end 18 weeks after they begin. Certain students may finish earlier than expected and other students may need a some extra time. For more information about course setup, please visit the Exemplary eSchool Course in Schoology.
Communicating with Students and Parents
Email will be one of the main sources of communication between eSchool teachers and students/parents. Please check email (minimally) twice a day (before and after school is recommended). If in doubt, over communicate. All eSchool teachers shall maintain a consistent line of communication with parents through either email or phone calls or both.
Communicating with School Counselor and Supervisor of Digital and Online Learning
All eSchool teachers shall be in regular contact with their student’s school counselor. Our school counselors work closely with eSchool students and parents and serve as a liaison between our eSchool teachers and families. All teachers shall report any student issue to the counselors, including instances when students and/or parents fail to respond to emails.
Special Education Case Managers
Special education case managers, formally known in eSchool as "mentors." play an important role with ensuring all aspects of a student’s IEP is met and that each course is set up with the appropriate level of accommodations and modifications.
Once the teacher(s) of record and case manager are notified of a new student, an initial meeting between the teacher of record and the special education case manager shall take place to review each student’s IEP, review the course structure and expectations, and to provide accommodations and modifications as needed. It is the responsibility of the teacher of record to provide the accommodations and modification to the course after meeting with the case manager. A snapshot of the IEP shall then be given to the regular education teacher.
Throughout each course, the special education case manager shall serve as a liaison between the student/family, teacher, counselor, and IEP team.
Throughout the course, the special education case manager shall track student progress and monitor student work to ensure all deadlines are met.
Special education mentors shall check in weekly with the teacher of record, student, and counselor to ensure the student is making sufficient progress. In the event a student is falling behind, the special education case manager shall immediately notify Mr. Dan Arrison (GVHS) or Mrs. Hassel-Kloss (GVMS).
When necessary, the special education mentor shall reconvene the IEP team to make any appropriate adjustments.
Schoology Student Guide
Logging into Schoology
Schoology Parent Guide
Login
Home Page
Add Children Associations
Account Notifications
Account Settings
Account Privacy
Link Parent Accounts
Parent Email Digests
Profile
Honors and HOnor Societies
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
Selection into the National Honor Society is recognition of a student's outstanding academic and personal accomplishment. While exceptional scholarship is a major criterion for membership, NHS candidates must also exhibit character, leadership and service. Minimum requirements include: a 3.5 unweighted GPA, enrollment in at least one honors/AP level course, negligible discipline issues, at least two examples of leadership roles in school or community groups and at least 20 hours of community service accrued over the candidate’s time in high school.
Application packets for all eligible rising juniors and seniors will be issued over the summer and collected at the beginning of the following school year. After review by the NHS Faculty Advisory Board, selected candidates will be invited to participate in an induction ceremony in early October.
To maintain membership, NHS members must complete a pre-approved 20 hour Individual Service Project, maintain a 3.5 unweighted GPA, and continue to serve as role models and student leaders. Failure to uphold the 4 Pillars of NHS (scholarship, leadership, character and service) may result in suspension or dismissal from the National Honors Society.
NATIONAL ART HONOR SOCIETY
Selection into the National Art Honor Society, GV Chapter 1698, is recognition of a student’s outstanding artistic accomplishment and good character. A student must be in grades 10-12, with an 83% or higher in each marking period, mid-term, final exam, and final average in a fine arts class. A total of 1 credit in a semester is also part of the eligibility equation. A student must substantiate that, he/she has not flagrantly disobeyed school or civil rules or been suspended from school within the past year. Students are inducted in October and March. If inducted, it is expected that the student participate in service activities throughout the year, maintain at least an 83% in their art courses, attend monthly meetings and continue to elect 1 credit of fine arts yearly. Any infraction of school policy, civil laws or failure to follow by-laws may result in suspension or dismissal from the Art Honor Society.
NATIONAL BUSINESS HONOR SOCIETY
Selection into the National Business Honor Society is based on outstanding scholarship, character, leadership, and service. To qualify for active membership, a student must be in grades 11-12. The student must have successfully completed or be currently enrolled in his/her third business credit. Any combination of half or full credit courses totaling three full credits will meet the requirement. The student must maintain a grade of 85% or higher in all Business Technology courses. The student must have a minimum standard GPA, on a 4.0 scale, as follows: business courses – 3.5; overall average 3.0. If inducted, students are expected to participate in service activities throughout the year, maintain at least an 85% average in their Business Technology courses and attend scheduled meetings. Any infraction of school policy, civil laws or failure to follow by-laws may result in suspension or dismissal from the National Business Honor Society.
WORLD LANGUAGE HONOR SOCIETIES
To become a member of French Honor Society, German Honor Society, or Spanish Honor Society students must maintain at least a 93% average in three consecutive semesters of French, German or Spanish at the high school level. The coursework must take place during the academic year at the high school. Independent study, online courses, summer courses, etc. do not count towards the three semesters for eligibility. To retain their membership in the honor societies students must study at least one semester per year with an average of 93% or better. To receive honor cords for graduation students must study French V or AP French, German V or Spanish V or AP Spanish with a 93% average or better their senior year.
NATIONAL MUSIC HONOR SOCIETY
Students need a B+ average and take band and chorus for 3 years and exhibit leadership plus talent. Audition is required. Students must participate in a 2 year service project.
JOURNALISM HONOR SOCIETY
Students must earn a 3.0 GPA, have taken a Journalism and/or writing elective and be an active participant in Newspaper, Literary Magazine, and/or Yearbook.
COllege APplication Process
COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
Students and families should refer to the School Counseling website found HERE and follow the guidelines set forth on the site for the college application process. It is recommended that students schedule a meeting with their school counselor to begin this process.
Eligibility Process
This policy applies to students participating in any activity, which requires use of out-of-school time. Included are members of all athletic teams and music activities. The policy is in place to:
1. Ensure that the focus of school is academic.
2. Prevent academic failure.
3. Encourage students to achieve potential, both scholastically and through involvement with activities.
4. Ensure parents that time spent on activities will not be to the detriment of academic performance.
5. Have Garnet Valley represented by students who are responsible for meeting their obligations.
Eligibility is determined on a weekly basis.
Any student failing more than one (1) full credit with a grade of “F” 59% or less will be declared
ineligible. In addition, any student failing one (1) full credit with a grade of “X” (0% to 50%) will be
declared ineligible. The period of ineligibility is for a minimum of one (1) week and will be lifted only upon
evidence that the student is no longer failing one (1) or more credits as described above.
Acceptable Use School BoarD policy 815
Purpose
The Board supports the use of the Internet and the online community in the district's instructional, communication, and operational programs in order to facilitate learning, teaching and daily operations through interpersonal communications and access to information, research and collaboration. Any use of the network facilities that is inconsistent with Garnet Valley School District’s nonprofit status is prohibited.
Authority
The electronic information available to students and staff does not imply endorsement by the district of the content, nor does the district guarantee the accuracy of information received. The district shall not be responsible for any information that may be lost, damaged or unavailable when using the network or for any information that is retrieved via the Internet. The district shall not be responsible for any unauthorized charges or fees resulting from access to the Internet. The district reserves the right to log network use and to monitor file server space utilization by district users, while respecting the privacy rights of both district users and outside users. The Board establishes that network use is a privilege, not a right; inappropriate, unauthorized and illegal use will result in cancellation of those privileges and appropriate disciplinary action. The Board shall establish a list of materials, in addition to those stated in law, that are inappropriate for access by minors.
Delegation of Responsibility
The district shall make every effort to ensure that this resource is used responsibly by students and staff. Administrators, teachers and staff have a professional responsibility to work together to help students develop the intellectual skills necessary to discriminate among information sources, to identify information appropriate to their age and developmental levels, and to evaluate and use the information to meet their educational goals. Students and staff have the responsibility to respect and protect the rights of every other user in the district and on the Internet. The Superintendent or designee shall have the authority to determine what is inappropriate use.
The Superintendent or designee shall be responsible for implementing technology and procedures to determine whether the district's computers are being used for purposes prohibited by law or for accessing sexually explicit materials. The procedure shall include but not be limited to:
Utilizing a technology protection measure that blocks or filters Internet access for minors and adults to certain visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, harmful to minors with respect to use by minors, or determined inappropriate for use by minors by the Board.
Maintaining and securing a usage log.
Monitoring online activities of minors.
The Superintendent is authorized to develop a procedures manual which shall identify users’ rights and responsibilities. The district shall make periodic updates to its procedures manual which shall be consistent with acceptable uses of the Internet.
Guidelines
Network accounts shall be used only by the authorized owner of the account for its approved purpose. All communications and information accessible via the network should be assumed to be private property and shall not be disclosed. Network users shall respect the privacy of other users on the system.
Prohibitions
Students and staff are expected to act in a responsible, ethical and legal manner in accordance with district policy, accepted rules of network etiquette, and federal and state law. Specifically, the following uses are prohibited:
Facilitating illegal activity.
Commercial or for-profit purposes.
Nonwork or non school related work.
Product advertisement or political lobbying.
Hate mail, discriminatory remarks, and offensive or inflammatory communication.
Unauthorized or illegal installation, distribution, reproduction, or use of copyrighted materials.
Access to materials, images or photographs that are obscene, pornographic, ewd or otherwise illegal.[3]
Access by students and minors to material that is harmful to minors or is determined inappropriate for minors in accordance with Board policy.
Inappropriate language or profanity.
Transmission of material likely to be offensive or objectionable to recipients.
Intentional obtaining or modifying of files, passwords, and data belonging to other users.
Impersonation of another user, anonymity, and pseudonyms.
Fraudulent copying, communications, or modification of materials in violation of copyright laws.
Loading or using of unauthorized games, programs, files, or other electronic media.
Disruption of the work of other users.
Destruction, modification, abuse or unauthorized access to network hardware, software and files.
Bullying/Cyberbullying.
Security
System security is protected through the use of passwords. Failure to adequately protect or update passwords could result in unauthorized access to personal or district files. To protect the integrity of the system, the following guidelines shall be followed:
Employees and students shall not reveal their passwords to another individual.
Users are not to use a computer that has been logged in under another student's or employee's name.
Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to the network.
Consequences for Inappropriate Use
The network user shall be responsible for damages to the equipment, systems, and software resulting from deliberate or willful acts.
Illegal use of the network; intentional deletion or damage to files of data belonging to others; copyright violations; and theft of services will be reported to the appropriate legal authorities for possible prosecution.
General rules for behavior and communications apply when using the Internet, in addition to the stipulations of this policy. Loss of access and other disciplinary actions shall be consequences for inappropriate use.
Vandalism will result in cancellation of access privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, Internet or other networks; this includes but is not limited to uploading or creating computer viruses.
Social Media Guidelines
The Garnet Valley School District recognizes the importance of using social media as a communication and learning tool. The purpose of these guidelines is to assist District employees, coaches, parents, and students in navigating the appropriate use of social media tools in their professional and personal lives. Social media includes any form of online publication where end users post or engage in conversation and include blogs, wikis, podcasts, virtual worlds and social networks.
Due to the wealth of new social media tools available to students, student products and documents have the potential to reach audiences far beyond the classroom. This translates into a greater level of responsibility and accountability for everyone. Below are guidelines students in the Garnet Valley School District should adhere to when using social media or technology tools. Any violations of these Guidelines may result in disciplinary measures as described in Board policy on Student Discipline, a copy of which students receive at the beginning of the school year.
Be aware of what you post online. Social media venues including wikis, blogs, photo and video sharing sites are very public. What you contribute leaves a digital footprint for all to see. Do not post anything you wouldn't want friends, enemies, parents, teachers, or a future employer to see.
Follow the school's code of conduct when writing online. It is acceptable to disagree with someone else's opinions, however, do it in a respectful way. Make sure that criticism is constructive and not hurtful. What is inappropriate in the classroom is inappropriate online.
Be safe online. Never give out personal information, including, but not limited to, last names, phone numbers, addresses, exact birth dates, and pictures. Do not share your password with anyone besides your teachers and parents.
Linking to other websites to support your thoughts and ideas is recommended. However, be sure to read the entire article prior to linking to ensure that all information is appropriate for a school setting.
Do your own work! Do not use other people's intellectual property without their permission. It is a violation of copyright law to copy and paste other's thoughts. When paraphrasing another's idea(s) be sure to cite your source with the URL. It is good practice to hyperlink to your sources.
Be aware that pictures may also be protected under copyright laws. Verify that you have permission to use the image or that it is under Creative Commons attribution.
If you run across inappropriate material that makes you feel uncomfortable, or is not respectful, tell your teacher right away.
Students who do not abide by these terms and conditions may lose their opportunity to take part in the project and/or access to future use of online tools.