Return to School 2020-2021
Online learning begins for all QCUSD PreK–12 students on August 3, 2020.
This plan outlines recommended steps to inform the community and resources to safely move forward with direction from the Executive Orders from Governor Ducey, Arizona Department of Education’s Roadmap to Reopening School, local public health services, legal counsel, and the input from a variety of stakeholders. It is the Queen Creek Unified School District’s collective goal to have a thoughtful reopening plan that strikes a balance between the health concerns posed by COVID-19 and the needs of students and our community. Decisions will be made in collaboration with the governing board, superintendent, and in coordination with local public health organizations.
Commitments:
QCUSD is committed to fulfilling its mission and vision so that all students are provided a high-quality education that prepares them for future success regardless of the instructional model they are served in during the next school year.
The Return to School Plan 2020-2021 is based on the following commitments:
- Provide continuity of learning that is rigorous and engaging for students
- Prepare responsible, safe, and feasible learning environments for students and staff
- Communicate with students, families, and staff
- Offer students and families choice and flexibility
- Support staff with resources, training, and guidance
QCUSD has developed plans for instructional/operational models that prioritize quality learning experiences and safety: Short-term online/in-person learning and long-term online learning through the QCUSD Virtual Academy. Offering these models of instruction and operations allows choice and parent/student flexibility. Curriculum standards for both options are in alignment with the Arizona Department of Education state-adopted standards and the QCUSD curriculum calendars.
QCUSD will continue to provide social-emotional and unique support for students regardless of the academic setting. Plans are being finalized for the allocation of resources in providing student support and training team members to operate in short-term online/in-person models.
Again, online learning begins for all QCUSD PreK–12 students on August 3, 2020. Online learning will continue until Governor Ducey approves students return to the classroom. When students are allowed back in the classroom, we will provide a safe and positive learning environment with the typical structures and routines that children thrive in. If you are a QCUSD student and want to go back into the classroom once buildings are open – no action is necessary – you are set to return to the classroom.
If you want to continue online learning when classrooms are open to students, register for the Queen Creek Virtual Academy!
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Short-Term Online/In-Person Option
Short-term online/in-person operational model is only available when school buildings are closed to students. Per Governor Ducey’s Executive Order, QCUSD families will start the 2020-2021 school year learning online. We also recognize that local or state conditions may require intermittent closures of schools throughout the 2020-2021 school year, which will require students and staff to transition to short-term online learning as the need arises. Students will be supported and instructed by their assigned QCUSD In-Person Learning teacher(s). Teachers will manage learning in core content areas through G-Suite and alternative solutions as needed. Content will be provided through Google Classrooms; lessons will be offered both synchronously (in real-time with their QCUSD teacher) and asynchronously (on a flexible schedule based on the student’s needs and family situation). Students will also have access to their teachers through small group and individual meetings through Google Meet. Students will be able to interact with classmates and staff through interactive solutions. Participation and attendance of students is expected and student progress will be supported with feedback and grades. Social emotional supports and accommodations and services will be provided (e.g., special education, gifted, English Language Learners). Any special education services will be determined by the IEP team.
QCUSD home support resources are available during the time of online learning.
This instructional/operational model is most similar to past operations of schools with additional safety and operational accommodations including enhanced cleaning and sanitation procedures, access to personal protection equipment on an as needed basis, clear expectations and training for hygiene practices, and contact limiting practices. The QCUSD In-Person Return to School Plan can be found here.
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Long-Term Online Option through Queen Creek Virtual Academy
Queen Creek Virtual Academy with Edgenuity
Students in grades PreK–12 enroll in the Queen Creek Virtual Academy (QCVA) and may transition back into the classroom at the end of the semester. This will provide continuity for both the student and the teachers. QCVA is state approved for Arizona Online Instruction (AOI) and offers core and elective courses aligned to state and national standards. QCVA has been a Queen Creek Unified School since 2016 and all credits earned will transfer to any QCUSD school. Instruction is provided entirely online through the Edgenuity on-line learning solution and includes interaction and support from Edgenuity teachers. Click here to learn more about Queen Creek Virtual Academy. In addition, social emotional supports and accommodations and services will be provided (e.g., special education, gifted, English Language Learners). Special education services will be determined by the IEP team.
Students in grades PreK through 12th grade who want to attend the QC Virtual Academy during the 2020-2021 school year can request a transfer through the registrar at their own QCUSD home school.
QCUSD will continue to provide social-emotional and unique support for students regardless of the academic setting. Plans are being finalized for the allocation of resources in providing student support and training team members to operate in short-term online/in-person option models.
