FAQ Link

When will the 2020-21 school year begin?

While Governor Newsom suggested the possibility of schools reopening in late July, that seems unlikely for our District. Because our District was already planning on an August 6, 2020 start date, it is unlikely that schools will reopen earlier. Parents/guardians will be updated as additional information regarding the school start date becomes available.    

What social distancing safeguards will be in place for students next school year?

Our team of District administrators, in cooperation with the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, are developing plans to provide safe school environments for our students when they return to school. Detailed information will be released as it becomes available.

How will student academic needs created by lost learning opportunities be addressed in the 2020-2021 school year?

The District will allocate resources including staff, time, and materials based on student need, ensuring that our most vulnerable students are prioritized for instructional support and opportunities to catch up and advance academically.

Will families in the Etiwanda School District have the option of sending their children to school or enrolling students in a virtual school program?
The Etiwanda Alternative Studies Education (EASE) Home School program is currently accepting transfers for interested families who reside within our school boundaries. To find out more information, please visit the EASE school website.

Will school funding be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?

Because of statewide revenue losses caused by business closures and travel restrictions, it is likely that schools will face budget reductions in the coming years.

When will the 2020-21 school year begin?

School will begin on Thursday, August 6, 2020.

When will schools return to a traditional/normal schedule?

Schools will return to a traditional/normal schedule as soon as state and local officials indicate that it is safe to relax social distancing measures.

What will schools look like for the 2020-21 school year?

In an effort to meet the varying needs of Etiwanda families, three options for learning models are available and families may choose the one that is best suited for them. The options are:

• Hybrid Learning Model - A combination of face-to-face instruction and at-home learning with safety and social distancing measures in place on school campuses. Students will attend school in either the morning or afternoon for three hours Tuesday-Friday and will complete work independently at home for the remainder of each school day and on Mondays.
• Virtual Learning Model - Scheduled daily virtual interactive instruction with a classroom teacher and peers combined with at-home learning/assignments.
• Home School - A combination of flexible online independent instruction and regular check-ins with a teacher, including optional virtual or on-site tutoring sessions for students.

Why are schools modifying the learning model for the 2020-21 school-year?

Every school district is responsible for maintaining safe school environments for students, staff, and their families. The guidance provided by state and local officials outlines the need for social distancing and additional safety measures that are critical to providing adequate protection for the school community given the COVID-19 pandemic. Class sizes must be kept as small as possible to ensure social distancing measures can be implemented and to correlate with available facilities and teaching staff. 

How did the district decide upon these three options?

Several options for school reopening were studied as we considered how to safely meet the education and childcare needs of our families. It is the goal of the Etiwanda School District to open our schools for all students to safely attend every day as soon as possible, and schools will return to normal operating conditions as soon as circumstances allow. We asked our stakeholders to participate in a reopening survey to determine which options would provide the highest quality education and meet the needs of most of our families. The survey revealed:

• 55% of families support a hybrid model option with a combination of on-campus and at-home learning.                 
• 47% of families support virtual at-home learning to start the school year with a return to campus when it is safe.
• 29% of families support the option of enrolling their children in our EASE Home School program.

Will Special Education services be provided through each of the learning models?

Yes, district personnel are prepared to be flexible and creative to ensure high-quality instruction, services, and supports are provided to the extent possible to students with IEPs and 504 plans. Our Special Education Department is working diligently to put plans in place to ensure the needs of our students are met in each of the learning models. An IEP meeting needs to be held prior to enrollment in EASE Home School. An IEP meeting needs to be held as close to the beginning of the school year as possible for those who select the virtual learning model. 

Will services such as intervention and English language (EL) support be provided through each of the learning models? 

Yes, each of the learning models includes supplemental intervention and language development support. Specific details will be shared by classroom teachers at the beginning of the school year.

Will students have access to school meals on weekdays? 

Yes, students will have access to school meals. Details about how to access meals will be released as information becomes available.

Will band still be an option for 5^th-8^th grade students?

Yes, the ESD band program will continue through each of the learning models and home school. Specific details about the band program are in development and will be released as information becomes available. 

When school closed in March, participation in distance learning was optional. Is school optional this year?

No, education is compulsory for all school-age children. Attendance is required in each of the learning models. 

Will students receive grades on report cards for the 2020-21 school year?

Yes, each of the learning models and home school will have assignments graded; and students will earn and receive grades on their report cards throughout the 2020-21 school year. 

How do families notify the school of their desired option?

Families will indicate their selection through the data confirmation process in the Aeries Parent Portal that opens on July 13. Those who wish to participate in EASE Home School also need to submit a transfer form through our district website at www.Etiwanda.org. The data confirmation process must be completed by July 20 at 1:00 PM.

What does the hybrid learning model look like? 

The hybrid learning model combines on-campus and at-home learning. Students will attend school half day in the morning or afternoon Tuesday-Friday and then students will be assigned independent work to be completed for the remainder of the school day and on Mondays. The schedule will be based on students' last names with A-L attending in the morning and M-Z attending in the afternoon. (Students in Special Day Class attend four full days.) Students receive grades on assignments and report cards as they would in the traditional school setting. 

Will students in the same family in different grade levels be on the same schedule?

Yes, every effort will be made to keep families together.

If our family needs to change the assigned schedule, can a change be requested?

Yes, please contact the school secretary to request a change by July 20, 2020 at 1:00 PM. Contact information for secretaries can be found on school websites under the About Us/Contact Us tabs. Changes may be made if space allows with priority given to families in the same household.

What are some of the benefits of the hybrid learning model?

This model provides students with on-campus learning to meet their instructional needs and maintains school connections. 

Will the district still provide an electronic device? 

Yes, the district will continue to provide electronic devices to those families registered in the hybrid learning model.

What safety measures will be implemented on school campuses?

Guidelines provided by the Department of Public Health will be followed to the extent practicable. Some of the main points that parents/guardians have inquired about are summarized below:

• Smaller class sizes and classroom seating arrangements allow for the recommended extended space between individuals. 
• Students and staff will have their temperatures checked prior to entering campus. Anyone with an above average temperature (100.4) may not enter campus.
• Students provided with a set of supplies (pencils, crayons, etc) for their personal use.
• Students and staff wear face coverings while on campus.
• Safety and hygiene routines and procedures taught in a student-friendly manner.
• Staggered breaks to decrease gathering sizes and maintain social distance. 
• Campus access limited to those providing essential functions for school operations. (Unfortunately, schools cannot accommodate volunteers.)
• Desks, chairs, countertops, sinks, and door handles cleaned/sanitized during transitions and at the end of each school day.

What will be done to address handwashing at school? 

Handwashing routines will be set by the classroom teacher. Additionally, the recommended type of hand sanitizer is available in all classrooms. 

How can parents/guardians help with safety measures?

Parents/guardians are asked to check for COVID-19 symptoms at home before school each day. Students must remain at home if they are sick.

What measures are being taken to sanitize/disinfect schools? 

All guidelines from public health officials for sanitizing and disinfecting schools, with an emphasis on frequently touched surfaces, will be implemented daily. 

What is the role of the parent/guardian in the hybrid learning model?
Much like in the traditional school setting, the role of the parent/guardian is to encourage and remind their child(ren) of the importance of active participation in their education and offer support on independent work as needed.

Will busing services be available for general education students who live in a busing eligible area?

No, bussing services for general education students have been temporarily suspended. The ability to provide this service will be reevaluated at the end of trimester 1.

Are schools still offering childcare?

Childcare will be available to students enrolled in the hybrid learning model based upon space availability. Students may attend before/after school childcare on the days they are scheduled for school attendance. Every possible space on campus will be used to maximize the number of spaces available while still maintaining safety and social distancing measures. Information regarding childcare registration will be released as it becomes available.  

What grading scale is used in the hybrid learning model?

Students will earn grades on assignments and report cards as they would in a traditional school setting.

How long will the hybrid model be offered?

It is the goal of the Etiwanda School District to open our schools for all students to safely attend school every day as soon as possible. Schools will return to normal operating conditions as soon as circumstances allow, and the hybrid model will be phased out at that time.

Is it possible that schools will close again?

Yes, it is possible that schools may need to close based upon circumstances in the community. School districts will continue to follow guidance related to COVID-19 from state and local officials.

My child is assigned to a special day class as per his/her Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Will his/her hybrid learning model look any different?

Yes, students assigned to SDC will attend four full days each week. Please contact your child’s case carrier for more information.   

Are there any additional commitments families should be aware of before selecting the hybrid learning model? 

Families enrolling in the hybrid learning model are asked to commit to a minimum of a full trimester of program enrollment.

What does a virtual learning model look like? 

Students will learn at home in a structured virtual format. Teachers will utilize a variety of instructional strategies including scheduled interactive whole class and small group virtual class sessions in addition to independent work. Multiple virtual classroom sessions will take place throughout each school day and attendance at all sessions is compulsory.

What are some of the benefits of the virtual learning model?

This model provides structured at-home study for families not able to send their children to school while providing students daily access to their assigned teacher and class in a virtual format. In the virtual model, students maintain their current school affiliation. Due to the nature of this virtual program, there will be no interruption to learning if schools need to close again.

Are there additional considerations for students who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)?

Yes, if a student is receiving Special Education services such as Speech, RSP or SDC an IEP team meeting will need to be held as close to the beginning of the school year as possible. 

Are there any additional documents that families interested in the virtual learning model need to complete prior to beginning the school year?

Yes, families need to complete the Virtual Classroom Agreement. To access this electronic form please visit your school’s website and select the Programs & Activities tab.

Are the scheduled virtual classroom sessions required?

Yes, attendance for virtual classroom sessions is required.

Will the district still provide an electronic device? 

Yes, the district will continue to provide electronic devices to those families registered in the virtual learning model.

What is the role of the parent/guardian in the virtual learning model?
Much like in the traditional school setting, the role of the parent/guardian is to encourage and remind their child(ren) of the importance of active participation in their education and offer support on independent work as needed.

How will teachers ensure students are engaged in the virtual classroom?

Computer cameras should be turned on to ensure student engagement. Additionally, teachers will use a variety of instructional strategies to engage students in virtual classroom sessions.

Will my student remain registered or enrolled at their current school site in the virtual learning model? 

Yes, students enrolled in the virtual learning model maintain their current school affiliation and remain registered at their school site for the 2020-21 school year.

Are there any additional commitments families should be aware of before selecting the virtual learning model? 

Families enrolling in the virtual learning model are asked to commit to a minimum of a full trimester of program enrollment.  

What grading scale is used in the virtual learning model?

Students will earn grades on assignments and report cards as they would in a traditional school setting.

How long will the virtual learning model be offered?

The virtual learning model will be offered through the end of the 2020-21 school year. 

What does home school look like? 

The home school option provides broader flexibility of instruction guided by an Etiwanda School District teacher with two curriculum paths for families to choose from. Students learn at home and progress is monitored by the teacher who checks in with families.

What are some of the benefits of home school ?

This model provides flexible at-home study for families not able to send their children to school and allows for flexible assignment completion since virtual class times are not scheduled. Due to the nature of online school, there will be no interruption to learning in home school if schools need to close again.

Are there additional considerations for students who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)?

Yes, if a student is receiving Special Education services such as Speech, RSP, or SDC an IEP team meeting will need to be held in coordination with the EASE Specialized Academic Instructor prior to enrollment in home school. 

What are the two curriculum paths families can choose from?

Families can select to enroll in EASE Home School which utilizes the K12.com program or they may choose an independent study path. 

How do the two paths offered in home school compare?

Please see the comparison chart below:

Are there any additional supports provided for students in home school? 

Optional virtual or on-site tutoring lab sessions are available for students.

How would the EASE Home School path be described?

In the K12.com program, the parent acts as a Learning Coach who facilitates progress through the online lessons. Suggested weekly lesson plans are provided and update automatically as the child progresses. The lesson plans can be varied to accommodate the child's pace or abilities. A wide array of practical advice, tips, and substantial support are always available through K12.com. Students and families regularly meet with an Etiwanda EASE teacher to discuss progress and review standards mastery.

Are there any additional documents that families interested in the EASE Home School need to complete prior to beginning the school year?

Yes, families need to complete the EASE Home School Participation Agreement. To access this electronic form please visit the EASE Home School website and select the EASE Enrollment icon at the bottom of the page.

Do families interested in EASE Home School need to complete an intradistrict transfer?
Yes, an intradistrict transfer is necessary to request a school transfer from the student’s current school to EASE. Transfers are approved based upon space availability. This form is available on the EASE Home School website.

Will students enrolled in EASE Home School remain affiliated with their school of residence? 

No, students will be enrolled in EASE Home School; however, families may transition their child(ren) back to their resident school after the completion of any given trimester should they elect to do so.

Are there any additional commitments families should be aware of before enrolling their children in EASE Home School? 

Families enrolling in the EASE Home School are asked to commit to a minimum of a full trimester of program enrollment. 

What grading scale is used in EASE Home School?

Students in transitional kindergarten through 5th grade will earn Pass/Fail grades.  Students in 6th-8th grade will earn letter grades (A,B,C,D,F) in the core subject areas of Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science.

How long will EASE Home School be offered?

EASE Home School has been an option for families who reside within Etiwanda School District boundaries and desire an at-home, flexible learning model since 2005 and will continue to be offered indefinitely.

How would the independent study path be described?

Students complete independent study assignments that are provided on a month-by-month basis. These units of study are created by an Etiwanda School District teacher using the same district adopted materials used in the traditional classroom setting. The parent acts as a Learning Coach who assists students with assignment completion.

Are there any additional documents that families interested in independent study need to complete prior to beginning?

Yes, families need to complete an Attendance Contract. This is an agreement that the student will complete all provided assignments in order to receive credit for days the student is not physical present at school. This contract will be provided to families on a month-by-month basis.

Do families interested in Home School Independent Study need to complete an intradistrict transfer?

No, a transfer to Home School Independent Study is not necessary.

Will students participating in independent study remain affiliated with their school of residence? 

Yes, students will remain enrolled in the school of residence. 

What grading scale is used for independent study?

Students in all grade levels will earn Pass/Fail grades.  

How long will independent study be offered?

Independent study is an option for families who reside within Etiwanda School District boundaries who need to be absent from school for 5 days or longer and will continue to be offered indefinitely.

What is the latest information available about the number of COVID-19 cases in San Bernardino County?
A dashboard has been developed to show the latest information available.  Click HERE to access the dashboard.

What community resources are available to San Bernardino County residents during the COVID-19 crisis?

A list of resources that provides information about COVID-19 related advice, unemployment services, and emergency food assistance has been compiled by the University of California. Click HERE to access the list.

What conversation should parents have with their children at home, especially if they are feeling anxious or worried?

Understandably, we are all worried and concerned.  We are committed to keeping you informed and working together through this challenging situation. Families may find the following link, from the National Association of School Psychologists helpful to address Talking to Children about COVID-19.

What is social distancing?

Social distancing is deliberately increasing the physical space between people to avoid spreading illness. A few examples of social distancing are working from home instead of at the office (if possible), visiting loved ones by electronic devices instead of in-person and canceling/postponing meetings or events. Maragakis, Lisa L. “Coronavirus, Social Distancing and Self Quarantine.” Hopkins Medicine, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/coronavirus-social-distancing-and-self-quarantine.

Why is social distancing important?

Social distancing is important because it helps slow down the spread of disease allowing the health care system to more readily care for patients over time. Maragakis, Lisa L. “Coronavirus, Social Distancing and Self Quarantine.” Hopkins Medicine, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/coronavirus-social-distancing-and-self-quarantine. 

What can I do to minimize my student or family members’ risk of exposure to COVID-19?
Per the advice of the California Department of Health, students should stay home and minimize social contact as much as possible to keep family members safe. It is important that social distancing measures take place while schools are closed to reduce the spread of the virus.

What strategies will assist my student with mental health and well-being during the school closure?
The impact of school closure and social distancing often goes beyond academics.  The following tips may help students cope during this stressful time period:

• Maintain routines as much as possible.  Develop and follow a regular schedule throughout the day.
• Practice healthy habits and self-care that most benefit you. Prioritize getting a healthy amount of sleep, eating well, and moving or exercising regularly.
• Stay connected-but take breaks from social media.  Make the effort to stay connected to friends and family members through email, texting, and video calls.  However, limit the amount of time you spend on screens throughout the day. 
• Seek news only from reliable sources, and only in short stints. As with all things, we can find ourselves over-consuming news and updates. Try not to become absorbed in the coverage for long periods of time, and find opportunities to appropriately disconnect.
• Take breaks to ease your mind and distract yourself when you start to worry. Play a game. Watch a movie. Try a meditation app. 

If what you are feeling seems bigger than what these techniques can support, seek help from a professional. 

Are mental health services available for my child?
Etiwanda School District Counselors and Psychologists can assist families in accessing wellness information. Click HERE for more information.

Mental health services are also available through the Student Assistance Program.  Click HERE to view information about the Student Assistance Program.