Walla Walla students set for distance learning starting Monday

WALLA WALLA, Wash.-- Starting Monday, students who attend Walla Walla Public Schools will head back to the classroom-- virtually.

The school district unveiled its new Distance Learning Program that allows students from preschool through grade 12 to stay on track with their school work during the minimum six-week statewide school closure. Gov. Jay Inslee ordered the closures to begin this week in an attempt to slow down the spread of COVID-19.

District officials say the program is designed to ensure mastery of grade-level content, maintain an ability to earn credits, provide a mechanism for seniors to stay on track for graduation and connect students and families with their teachers.

“Our school board, administrators, teachers and support staff all believe it is our paramount obligation to provide these services during the pandemic health crisis,” said Superintendent Dr. Wade Smith. “District leaders and staff have worked diligently to provide a quality learning experience for students during this transition to ensure continuation of their learning occurs.”

Starting Monday, preschool and elementary-aged students will receive a packet of a week's worth of learning materials and worksheets, customized and by their homeroom teacher and specialists. These paper and pencil packets will be picked up each Monday at the child’s school from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., or delivered to the student's home if needed.

Middle and high school students will receive their daily instruction from their teachers through the Google Classroom platform.

"We surveyed our student population to find out who had devices and internet connectivity at home," said WWPS spokesperson Mark Higgins. "For those that have that, they're ready to interact with our Google Classroom set up that we're rolling out. For those who don't have that, we have a checkout program that we'll begin on Monday."

That program allows students who do not have access to a computer will check out a Google Chromebook, and a Verizon hot spot if they don’t have internet access.

Walla Walla Public Schools is also offering free meals and student-aged childcare to specific families during the COVID-19 closure. These services started Tuesday, March 17.

You can find more information about the district’s Distance Learning Program on its website:  www.wwps.org/distancelearning.