April 11, 2020
Dear NHS Students and Families,
As you are aware, Governor Brown announced Wednesday the closure of in-person classes for the remainder of the school year. Newport High Staff have been working to prepare for the new Distance Learning for All program, learning new technology to support the transition. Staff members have also reached out to families to reconnect and ask about internet capabilities. If you have not been contacted and do not have internet, please call the main office at 541-265-9281 weekdays from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Starting Monday, classwork will be required, graded and count toward credits for graduation. We ask students to log onto Google Classroom and check email daily. Classes will be a little different depending on the class. Some classes will run on the attached schedule by period with online live instruction, others will be more independent study style with recorded lectures for students on their own time, many will be a mixture of both. Teachers will be communicating directly with students about their class structure through Google Classroom, email and Remind. NHS is developing a system for students who do not have internet, more information will be out soon. The state recommendation for high school is three hours of daily learning time. Additional time for practice, homework, projects and wellness are appropriate.
A portion of each day will be designated for Student Connection time. During this time, there may be small online groups, office hours, supports for students who need more instruction and student appointments. With the loss of in-person classes, this time will allow students to get the one on one support they would typically receive in a classroom. NHS understands that schedules will need to be flexible to support students who are working, sharing internet, and caring for siblings. Communicating directly with teachers to problem-solve situations will be critical. Additionally, each week, students will have check in time with a staff member. This time is valuable for communicating with the school if there are any supports needed during this time of distance learning.
Distribution of meals will continue weekdays on bus routes or for pick up at Newport Middle School from 12-1 pm. If you live outside of the Newport Area and wish to participate in the Meal Program, please check the School District Website for information in those areas. The district is developing a system for picking up and dropping off items. This could include text books, locker content, and other class materials. High School Leadership Students are working on ways to have virtual spirit weeks, talent show and other typical spring activities. Stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks.
Please feel free to reach out to your teachers, counselors, administrators and other school staff if you have questions or concerns. We miss you and wish you well. Additional information regarding seniors will be out soon.
Sincerely,
Reyna Mattson
Principal
reyna.mattson@lincoln.k12.or.us
