Greetings,
The last 7 days have been crazy. Many of us have never experienced anything like it. It is even more crazy when I go to the store. I wanted some bananas this morning and there were none. This sort of change and crisis causes fear real difficulties. We are praying for all of you. We are here to support you.
As we go forward, we want to ensure that the quality of each student’s education is not hindered. We realize how important it is to have a schedule so after Spring Break, which officially starts this Friday 3/20/20, we are going to hold regular class times and have a schedule to give students personalized small group time.
Here is what you should expect.
- Classwork should take about 4 hours of study time a day. There should be breaks that are not included in the 4-hour time. To compare with a regular school day, they would spend 7 hours at school of which the majority is classwork.
- Set out a learning space like the kitchen table or a desk. Clear the space of clutter and distractions, which would include TV, any screen streaming media or games, loud music, phone calls, except to a classmate about an assignment, etc.
- We will establish a set schedule. Teachers will communicate set video conference and tutoring times for your students.
- Set up a homework-friendly area, like a table or a desk. Make sure kids have a well-lit place to complete homework. Keep supplies — paper, pencils, glue, scissors — within reach.
- Make sure kids do their own work. They won't learn if they don't think for themselves and make their own mistakes. Parents can make suggestions and help with directions. But it's a kid's job to do the learning.
- Parents can be a motivator and monitor. Ask about assignments, quizzes, and tests. Give encouragement, check completed homework, and make yourself available for questions and concerns.
- Set a good example. Do your kids ever see you diligently balancing your budget or reading a book? Kids are more likely to follow their parents' examples than their advice.
- Praise their work and efforts. Post an aced test or art project on the refrigerator. Mention academic achievements to relatives.
- If there are continuing problems with homework, ask for more help. Talk about it with your child's teacher. Some kids have trouble seeing the board and may need glasses; others might need an evaluation for a learning problem or attention disorder.
In closing I want to leave you with a few positive thoughts. We serve and honor a powerful God who has all of this confusion and disruption under control. He created this world and His plan is to take us to Heaven. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
John McCombs
Lincoln City Christian School