obstacles that the pandemic introduced, the goal of meeting all students’ learning needs remained a key focus of instruction. To better meet students’ and families’ needs, options were provided to students to engage in blended in-person learning or fulltime online learning. As a result, each student regardless of their chosen learning model, follows an individualized learning plan in which pace plans are developed and administered to suit their learning progress requirements. Additionally, in partnership with ASU Prep Digital, we are able to provide students with a greater variety of learning choices and pathways that are often not found in rural schools. To do so, we have leveraged a range of technologies, from issuing 1:1 laptops and the use of interactive digital curriculum to the implementation of Z Space’s augmented and virtual reality tools and software to create relevant instruction. Z space in action: https://fb.watch/1px_wJOBma/ As a school and district, we have set strict guidelines and protocols to maintain the health and safety for all who step foot on campus, but the success of remaining open to in-person learning is due in great part to students’ adherence to these protocols, reflecting their continued desire to keep in-person learning operational. Even though students’ school experience has been a little different than what was originally planned, it has become very evident that students have a desire to attend school in-person and seek to make connections with their peers, staff, and broader community. It is due to their perseverance and resiliency that they have begun to make gains academically, socially, and emotionally as they work to close any learning gaps that were created from school shutdowns in March. Being aware of (continued on page 24) Page 21 “Stronger Together!”
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