District Provides Revised Instructional Expectations for Grade 5-12 Students

As the North Syracuse Central School District moves through the 2020-2021 school year, significant time has been spent reflecting upon and evaluating instructional delivery in order to provide the best possible educational experience for students. When the District abruptly shifted to virtual/online learning in the spring of 2020, much was learned from the experience. This past summer, the District worked to develop instructional models in accordance with New York State educational mandates and and safety standards. When school buildings opening in the fall, the District was challenged with providing instruction in both hybrid and remote environments. 

On December 4, the District announced revised instructional expectations for students in grades 5-12 to address challenges students are facing. In his letter to families, Superintendent Bowles outlined the modifications being implemented to include the following: 

• Increasing synchronous (student/teacher) interaction time for all 5-12 students. 
• Utilizing class schedules/times with all students, hybrid and remote, expected to attend their classes following their regular schedule. 
• Teachers providing remote learners with access to virtual platforms that engage all students in daily, meaningful interaction.  

The District will use the month of December to transition to the changes and plans to have teachers fully implementing the new expectations by January of 2021. Superintendent Bowles said, "It is our hope that this instructional shift addresses some of the challenges our students are facing on a day to day basis.  As with all things this year, we ask for your patience and understanding as we make these transitions.  If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your building principal.  I wish everyone a joyous holiday season.  Stay safe and be well."

Click here to read the Superintendent's complete letter to families.