Sutton High School Reopening 2020- FAQ list
Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions about Sutton High School’s plans for reopening school this Fall. Please note that as directives from the governor, guidance from the department of education, and requirements from public health are added and changed, our plans may change too.
For the full Sutton High School Remote Learning Plan - please click on this link.
For the full Sutton High School Hybrid Learning Plan - please click on this link.
Remote Learning Questions
Will Remote Learning be the same as last year?
No. Unlike last year when we were responding in real time to an unknown pandemic, we have learned a lot over the past few months on what we need to do to make Remote Learning more robust and meaningful. Students will have a six hour school day (8am-2pm), four days a week. They will have a 1/2 day of school (8-10:45) on Wednesdays. There will be live teaching in all classes each day, homework, group projects, and tests. Grades students earn will count. Remote Learning will resemble "typical" school in almost every way.
How will I get extra help in Remote Learning?
Each teacher will have at least two extra help sessions per week for students to take advantage of. In addition, there is 'intervention time' set aside on Wednesdays for teachers to schedule time with students who may need additional support. Students are encouraged to reach out to their teacher as frequently as needed to get extra support.
Will attendance be taken?
Yes. Just like typical school, students will need to be logged in and ready to go by 8am each day.
Will I have to have my video screen on?
Yes. All students must have their screen on to start class, to have teachers take attendance, and check in with the class. During the class, a teacher may have the students do work that does not require the screen to be on.
What about students with disabilities? How will they be accommodated/supported?
All students with a 504 Plan, an IEP, or an ELL Plan will continue to get all accommodations as required by law. To learn more about the district's plan to support these students - please consult the SPS Special Education Learning Plan.
Who do I contact if I need a device for Remote Learning?
Students who do not have access to a laptop/device should contact our technology Director Dan Durgin [email protected] as soon as possible. We have a number of devices available to loan to students, and we are in the process of acquiring more devices for student use.
Will students be able to receive mental health supports during Remote Learning?
Our counseling staff will continue to work with students during any Remote Learning period. Individual sessions (usually via zoom, phone, or email) will be coordinated between the counselor and the student, to best fit their needs. In addition, our guidance staff will be checking in with students as needed, and will be available to students throughout the day. Parents/caregivers are encouraged to reach out to guidance counselors or administration if they would like their student connected with a counselor. Check-ins with counselors can be singular events, or can be a regular/scheduled depending on student needs.
Will there be extra-curricular activities during Remote Learning?
Yes. However, given the challenging nature of assembling groups of students in the manner that they are accustomed, many clubs will be holding virtual meetings next year - regardless of our learning plan at the time. Individual club advisors will be reaching out to members to let them know what their club/activity will look like in 2020-2021.
Hybrid Model Questions
What is a “hybrid model”?
The hybrid model is a combination of in-person and remote learning. In order to maintain a distance of 6 feet between all student desks, it will be necessary to reduce the number of students in the school by half. Students will be organized into 2 cohorts (A and B) with one cohort attending in-person school at a time. The cohorts will be determined alphabetically. Siblings will be in the same cohort.
What will Sutton’s hybrid model look like?
Cohort A will attend school on Mondays and Tuesdays. Cohort B will attend school on Thursdays and Fridays. While Cohort A is learning in person, Cohort B will be remote learning (working independently on assignments, collaborating with classmates, etc.) and vice versa. On Wednesdays, all students will be learning remotely. Learning takes place 5 days a week for all students.
What days will I be going to school?
If you are in Cohort A, you will attend school in-person on Mondays and Tuesdays. Adjustments may be made for Monday holidays. If you are in Cohort B, you will attend school in-person on Thursdays and Fridays.
Can I be in the same cohort as my friends?
The cohorts will be determined by alphabetical order. Placing siblings in the same cohort is a priority. We will not be able to accommodate any requests.
What will I be doing on the days I am home?
On your remote learning days, you will be working independently on assignments related to your in-person learning. This independent work might include assigned readings, individual or group projects, watching assigned videos or presentations, collaborating with your classmates, or checking in with teachers (as necessary).
What if there is a second wave of COVID and we have to switch to full remote learning?
One of the benefits of the block schedule is that it transitions easily to the remote learning format. All students will be expected to follow the remote learning schedule, attend Zoom classes, and complete assignments. We will provide more information about the remote learning model.
FULL Remote Learning Model Questions
(For students that choose the full year remote learning model)
If I choose full remote learning, will I take their classes for an entire year?
We will be using a combination of the on-line vendor that the Department of Education provides for us, our own staff, and other on-line resources; however, they have not shared that information with us yet. Some platforms are 1/2 year courses, others are full year. As soon as we know what this virtual platform looks like, we will share that information.
If I choose the full remote learning model, what will my schedule be?
Your Remote Learning schedule will be determined by the combination of courses you choose. It will mostly be asynchronous learning.
If I choose the remote learning option before the start of school, who will teach me?
If students elect the remote learning option, they will be enrolled in a remote learning platform recommended by the State. These classes will not be taught by Sutton teachers. Any student can request remote learning for the year.
Can I switch between the hybrid and remote models?
Students always have a right to attend public school. However - aligning credits from the Full Remote Platform to the Sutton High School courses may be challenging, and students may not be able to transition all Full Remote Work to the in person model. Additionally, students will have to make up work that is essential to the course in order to earn final credit. These decisions will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Other Academic Questions
What is a 4x4 schedule?
In the 4x4 block schedule, students will take 4 classes during semester 1 (tentatively September - January) and 4 different classes during semester 2 (tentatively mid January - June). Each class in the block schedule lasts approximately 75 minutes. This schedule seems to be the healthiest option given schedule constraints and health and safety guidelines. In the block schedule, students will only have to focus on 4 academic subjects per semester. Additionally, this schedule minimizes transitions between classes and is easily adapted for remote learning if necessary. We realize that this is not an ideal schedule, but it is most conducive to minimize contact and promote healthy and safe transitions for all members of the learning community.
What will my in person classes look like?
In terms of appearance, the classrooms will look different to comply with health and safety guidelines (individual student desks spaced 6 feet apart, assigned seats, hand sanitizing stations). You will be expected to sanitize your desk upon arrival. There will be protocols for class dismissal that you will be expected to follow. However, teachers will be providing direct instruction and engaging activities to support the curriculum during class time. Activities will be conducted with appropriate social distancing.
What will my schedule be?
The school day will be 7:20 - 2:00. Arrival and dismissal times have been extended to accommodate staggered entrance and exit to school. Your schedule will consist of four 75 minute (approximately) classes per day. In between each class, you will have 8-10 minutes for transitions and mask breaks. Lunch will be during C block.
Will there be band, chorus, and physical education classes?
Yes, however band, chorus, and physical education classes will be very different due to the health and safety guidelines administered by DESE.
Will there be grades this year?
Yes, you will be receiving regular grades this year. Work (attendance, participation, etc.) will be assessed and graded at the teacher’s discretion. Grades will be attached to report cards and transcripts.
What will AP Classes look like?
AP classes will be offered both semesters.
School Day Questions
Do I have to wear a mask all day?
Yes, per the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) reopening guidance, the State requires that all staff and students (above grade 1) wear a mask at all times. We believe that masks help minimize the risk of exposure and keep our community as safe as possible. Families/caregivers will need to provide masks for students, but we will have extra masks available if needed. Students who fail to comply with wearing masks will be sent home immediately.
What is a ‘Mask Break’?
Mask breaks will be scheduled throughout the day to provide a little relief from wearing a mask all day. Your mask breaks will occur during transitions between classes. You will be encouraged to walk outside (following social distancing protocols) in between classes to get some fresh air. In the event that you need a mask break during class, all during class mask breaks will occur in the cafeteria.
Will I have assigned seats all day?
Yes, there will be assigned seats on the bus/in classrooms/at lunch to minimize contact and prevent the spread of the virus. Assigned seats will help with contact tracing if necessary.
Should I bring my own laptop/device to school each day?
We are encouraging students to bring their laptops/devices to school each day for academic use.
What will lunch look like? Can we choose where we sit?
During C block, there will be 3 lunches. Lunch will be held in the gym. You will have assigned seats. You can bring lunch or buy lunch from the cafeteria. The cafeteria will offer boxed lunch options so you can grab your meals and proceed to the gym in order to eat.
Will there be advisory?
Unfortunately, there is no advisory. The time has been allotted to meet DESE guidelines for health and safety. The proposed schedule allows more time for arrival and dismissal, extended passing time between classes so students can take mask breaks, and lunch transitions/cleaning.
Will there be sports?
At this time, we do not know. We are waiting for guidance from the State.
Will I still have SPP (Student Productivity Period/guided study)?
Yes, SPPs will be available for students. The block schedule also creates an opportunity for 9th and 10th grade students to take an SPP in one of the semesters (if interested).
Will students have access to Tutorials?
Yes, students with IEP, 504, and ELL accommodations will have access to tutorials during both semesters.
Will there still be VHS classes?
Yes, VHS classes will still be available for students if they choose to enroll. We are working on where the VHS classes will be held.
If we need to be out of the building by 2:05, how do I get extra help?
Extra help will take place virtually.
Will students need to provide their own art supplies?
We encourage students who can purchase their own supplies to do so.
Will there be extracurricular activities?
Many clubs and activities will also take place virtually.
Will there still be a Senior Internship Program?
We are hopeful that we will be able to allow students to have internships/capstone projects.
Will I be able to use my locker?
At this time, we are discouraging locker use in order to keep the hallways clear. However, if you would like to request a locker, that can be accommodated. Lockers assignments will adhere to social distancing guidelines.
Will I be able to use the computer lab? The library?
At this time, those spaces will be restricted for specific use to minimize contagion risks
Will Seniors be allowed to leave/return during SPP?
No. However if any student has A or D block SPP, they can arrive at the start of B Block or leave at the conclusion of C block.
Other Questions
Will the school shut down if a student/teacher gets COVID?
No, school will not be shut down if a teacher or a student contracts COVID. Students who are sick will be sent home and immediately referred to their doctor. Students who test positive will stay home for at least 10 days AND (be asymptomatic for a minimum of 3 days before they can return to school). Students who are in contact with a person who tests positive will be notified and will need to be tested OR stay out of school for 14 days. If a series of positive tests occurs in a short period of time, DPH will consult with the school/DESE for further guidance.
Are students allowed to leave for appointments/other reasons? Is there a health and safety protocol for coming in late/returning to school due to an appointment?
Students are allowed to leave school for excused appointments (doctor, dentist, etc.). We encourage parents to schedule these appointments on the students Remote learning days to minimize loss of in person instructional time, and to minimize contagion risk for other students.
*** All health and safety guidelines are subject to changes in DPH/DESE guidance.***
Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions about Sutton High School’s plans for reopening school this Fall. Please note that as directives from the governor, guidance from the department of education, and requirements from public health are added and changed, our plans may change too.
For the full Sutton High School Remote Learning Plan - please click on this link.
For the full Sutton High School Hybrid Learning Plan - please click on this link.
Remote Learning Questions
Will Remote Learning be the same as last year?
No. Unlike last year when we were responding in real time to an unknown pandemic, we have learned a lot over the past few months on what we need to do to make Remote Learning more robust and meaningful. Students will have a six hour school day (8am-2pm), four days a week. They will have a 1/2 day of school (8-10:45) on Wednesdays. There will be live teaching in all classes each day, homework, group projects, and tests. Grades students earn will count. Remote Learning will resemble "typical" school in almost every way.
How will I get extra help in Remote Learning?
Each teacher will have at least two extra help sessions per week for students to take advantage of. In addition, there is 'intervention time' set aside on Wednesdays for teachers to schedule time with students who may need additional support. Students are encouraged to reach out to their teacher as frequently as needed to get extra support.
Will attendance be taken?
Yes. Just like typical school, students will need to be logged in and ready to go by 8am each day.
Will I have to have my video screen on?
Yes. All students must have their screen on to start class, to have teachers take attendance, and check in with the class. During the class, a teacher may have the students do work that does not require the screen to be on.
What about students with disabilities? How will they be accommodated/supported?
All students with a 504 Plan, an IEP, or an ELL Plan will continue to get all accommodations as required by law. To learn more about the district's plan to support these students - please consult the SPS Special Education Learning Plan.
Who do I contact if I need a device for Remote Learning?
Students who do not have access to a laptop/device should contact our technology Director Dan Durgin [email protected] as soon as possible. We have a number of devices available to loan to students, and we are in the process of acquiring more devices for student use.
Will students be able to receive mental health supports during Remote Learning?
Our counseling staff will continue to work with students during any Remote Learning period. Individual sessions (usually via zoom, phone, or email) will be coordinated between the counselor and the student, to best fit their needs. In addition, our guidance staff will be checking in with students as needed, and will be available to students throughout the day. Parents/caregivers are encouraged to reach out to guidance counselors or administration if they would like their student connected with a counselor. Check-ins with counselors can be singular events, or can be a regular/scheduled depending on student needs.
Will there be extra-curricular activities during Remote Learning?
Yes. However, given the challenging nature of assembling groups of students in the manner that they are accustomed, many clubs will be holding virtual meetings next year - regardless of our learning plan at the time. Individual club advisors will be reaching out to members to let them know what their club/activity will look like in 2020-2021.
Hybrid Model Questions
What is a “hybrid model”?
The hybrid model is a combination of in-person and remote learning. In order to maintain a distance of 6 feet between all student desks, it will be necessary to reduce the number of students in the school by half. Students will be organized into 2 cohorts (A and B) with one cohort attending in-person school at a time. The cohorts will be determined alphabetically. Siblings will be in the same cohort.
What will Sutton’s hybrid model look like?
Cohort A will attend school on Mondays and Tuesdays. Cohort B will attend school on Thursdays and Fridays. While Cohort A is learning in person, Cohort B will be remote learning (working independently on assignments, collaborating with classmates, etc.) and vice versa. On Wednesdays, all students will be learning remotely. Learning takes place 5 days a week for all students.
What days will I be going to school?
If you are in Cohort A, you will attend school in-person on Mondays and Tuesdays. Adjustments may be made for Monday holidays. If you are in Cohort B, you will attend school in-person on Thursdays and Fridays.
Can I be in the same cohort as my friends?
The cohorts will be determined by alphabetical order. Placing siblings in the same cohort is a priority. We will not be able to accommodate any requests.
What will I be doing on the days I am home?
On your remote learning days, you will be working independently on assignments related to your in-person learning. This independent work might include assigned readings, individual or group projects, watching assigned videos or presentations, collaborating with your classmates, or checking in with teachers (as necessary).
What if there is a second wave of COVID and we have to switch to full remote learning?
One of the benefits of the block schedule is that it transitions easily to the remote learning format. All students will be expected to follow the remote learning schedule, attend Zoom classes, and complete assignments. We will provide more information about the remote learning model.
FULL Remote Learning Model Questions
(For students that choose the full year remote learning model)
If I choose full remote learning, will I take their classes for an entire year?
We will be using a combination of the on-line vendor that the Department of Education provides for us, our own staff, and other on-line resources; however, they have not shared that information with us yet. Some platforms are 1/2 year courses, others are full year. As soon as we know what this virtual platform looks like, we will share that information.
If I choose the full remote learning model, what will my schedule be?
Your Remote Learning schedule will be determined by the combination of courses you choose. It will mostly be asynchronous learning.
If I choose the remote learning option before the start of school, who will teach me?
If students elect the remote learning option, they will be enrolled in a remote learning platform recommended by the State. These classes will not be taught by Sutton teachers. Any student can request remote learning for the year.
Can I switch between the hybrid and remote models?
Students always have a right to attend public school. However - aligning credits from the Full Remote Platform to the Sutton High School courses may be challenging, and students may not be able to transition all Full Remote Work to the in person model. Additionally, students will have to make up work that is essential to the course in order to earn final credit. These decisions will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Other Academic Questions
What is a 4x4 schedule?
In the 4x4 block schedule, students will take 4 classes during semester 1 (tentatively September - January) and 4 different classes during semester 2 (tentatively mid January - June). Each class in the block schedule lasts approximately 75 minutes. This schedule seems to be the healthiest option given schedule constraints and health and safety guidelines. In the block schedule, students will only have to focus on 4 academic subjects per semester. Additionally, this schedule minimizes transitions between classes and is easily adapted for remote learning if necessary. We realize that this is not an ideal schedule, but it is most conducive to minimize contact and promote healthy and safe transitions for all members of the learning community.
What will my in person classes look like?
In terms of appearance, the classrooms will look different to comply with health and safety guidelines (individual student desks spaced 6 feet apart, assigned seats, hand sanitizing stations). You will be expected to sanitize your desk upon arrival. There will be protocols for class dismissal that you will be expected to follow. However, teachers will be providing direct instruction and engaging activities to support the curriculum during class time. Activities will be conducted with appropriate social distancing.
What will my schedule be?
The school day will be 7:20 - 2:00. Arrival and dismissal times have been extended to accommodate staggered entrance and exit to school. Your schedule will consist of four 75 minute (approximately) classes per day. In between each class, you will have 8-10 minutes for transitions and mask breaks. Lunch will be during C block.
Will there be band, chorus, and physical education classes?
Yes, however band, chorus, and physical education classes will be very different due to the health and safety guidelines administered by DESE.
Will there be grades this year?
Yes, you will be receiving regular grades this year. Work (attendance, participation, etc.) will be assessed and graded at the teacher’s discretion. Grades will be attached to report cards and transcripts.
What will AP Classes look like?
AP classes will be offered both semesters.
School Day Questions
Do I have to wear a mask all day?
Yes, per the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) reopening guidance, the State requires that all staff and students (above grade 1) wear a mask at all times. We believe that masks help minimize the risk of exposure and keep our community as safe as possible. Families/caregivers will need to provide masks for students, but we will have extra masks available if needed. Students who fail to comply with wearing masks will be sent home immediately.
What is a ‘Mask Break’?
Mask breaks will be scheduled throughout the day to provide a little relief from wearing a mask all day. Your mask breaks will occur during transitions between classes. You will be encouraged to walk outside (following social distancing protocols) in between classes to get some fresh air. In the event that you need a mask break during class, all during class mask breaks will occur in the cafeteria.
Will I have assigned seats all day?
Yes, there will be assigned seats on the bus/in classrooms/at lunch to minimize contact and prevent the spread of the virus. Assigned seats will help with contact tracing if necessary.
Should I bring my own laptop/device to school each day?
We are encouraging students to bring their laptops/devices to school each day for academic use.
What will lunch look like? Can we choose where we sit?
During C block, there will be 3 lunches. Lunch will be held in the gym. You will have assigned seats. You can bring lunch or buy lunch from the cafeteria. The cafeteria will offer boxed lunch options so you can grab your meals and proceed to the gym in order to eat.
Will there be advisory?
Unfortunately, there is no advisory. The time has been allotted to meet DESE guidelines for health and safety. The proposed schedule allows more time for arrival and dismissal, extended passing time between classes so students can take mask breaks, and lunch transitions/cleaning.
Will there be sports?
At this time, we do not know. We are waiting for guidance from the State.
Will I still have SPP (Student Productivity Period/guided study)?
Yes, SPPs will be available for students. The block schedule also creates an opportunity for 9th and 10th grade students to take an SPP in one of the semesters (if interested).
Will students have access to Tutorials?
Yes, students with IEP, 504, and ELL accommodations will have access to tutorials during both semesters.
Will there still be VHS classes?
Yes, VHS classes will still be available for students if they choose to enroll. We are working on where the VHS classes will be held.
If we need to be out of the building by 2:05, how do I get extra help?
Extra help will take place virtually.
Will students need to provide their own art supplies?
We encourage students who can purchase their own supplies to do so.
Will there be extracurricular activities?
Many clubs and activities will also take place virtually.
Will there still be a Senior Internship Program?
We are hopeful that we will be able to allow students to have internships/capstone projects.
Will I be able to use my locker?
At this time, we are discouraging locker use in order to keep the hallways clear. However, if you would like to request a locker, that can be accommodated. Lockers assignments will adhere to social distancing guidelines.
Will I be able to use the computer lab? The library?
At this time, those spaces will be restricted for specific use to minimize contagion risks
Will Seniors be allowed to leave/return during SPP?
No. However if any student has A or D block SPP, they can arrive at the start of B Block or leave at the conclusion of C block.
Other Questions
Will the school shut down if a student/teacher gets COVID?
No, school will not be shut down if a teacher or a student contracts COVID. Students who are sick will be sent home and immediately referred to their doctor. Students who test positive will stay home for at least 10 days AND (be asymptomatic for a minimum of 3 days before they can return to school). Students who are in contact with a person who tests positive will be notified and will need to be tested OR stay out of school for 14 days. If a series of positive tests occurs in a short period of time, DPH will consult with the school/DESE for further guidance.
Are students allowed to leave for appointments/other reasons? Is there a health and safety protocol for coming in late/returning to school due to an appointment?
Students are allowed to leave school for excused appointments (doctor, dentist, etc.). We encourage parents to schedule these appointments on the students Remote learning days to minimize loss of in person instructional time, and to minimize contagion risk for other students.
*** All health and safety guidelines are subject to changes in DPH/DESE guidance.***