On April 9, 2020, Gov. Wolf announced school closures for the 2019-2020 academic year in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Even though St. Charles Borromeo School's doors are closed, the hallways are quiet and the students' desks are empty due to the corona virus our teachers continue to provide a solid Catholic education through our Flexible Instructional Days. St. Charles Borromeo School's spirit is strong and we are in this together! "
-Sister Koreen, Principal
Here is a sample of the varied methods of teaching our educators are using during this time...
Mrs. Youngers, Pre-K 3/4 is hosting daily Zoom meetings where her class does their daily calendar, pledge, prayer and story time. Students also communicate through Class Dojo where they submit work in photo and video form. On April 7, Mrs. Youngers held her first instructional drawing class, where students were able to recreate a picture of the Easter bunny and patterned eggs, while following her verbal instructions.
Mrs. Devlin, Kindergarten, uses the Remind app daily to connect with her students. She records a short video of herself doing something optional that the students can do. An example of this was a letter scavenger hunt! Or showing her students a quiet place in the house to pray. Students return the challenge via photo or video. She is also using Flipgrid, which allows students to view each other and the teacher at the same time.
Ms. Kuhn, Grade 1, is taking advantage of Zoom for class lessons where she can share her screen and use a math program known by students, so they can work along just as if they were in class. Ms. Kuhn also has individual weekly meetings with each student where she listens to them read. She also reaches out via Skype, FaceTime or phone call when needed.
Ms. Killion, Grade 2, is utilizing Zoom, Google Classroom, Quilt, Remind and Flipgrid to connect with her students. She has also Facetimed parents when they've needed help with technology.
Mrs. DeLeon, Grade 3, is using Zoom, e-mail communication, and the Remind app to talk, teach and send work to students.
Mrs. Seif, 4th Grade, uses Zoom to connect. She has spoken with almost every parent on the phone. She also spoke to each student via phone for oral quizzes or math help. Additionally, Mrs. Seif has written all of students a letter, and has received responses from each one.
Mrs. Graber, Grade 5, uses Google Classroom to post daily assignments/links which allows students to submit assignments directly back to her. She is also hosting weekly Zoom meetings to bring her class together so they may all see each other. This gives them a time to catch up with their friends and voice to Mrs. Graber any questions or concerns.
Mr. Paul Umberger, our music teacher, is using multiple online outlets to connect his students with music. One website he is utilizing is Sound Trap. It allows students to explore and create different compositions based off combining sound files that are available to them. Mr. Umberger has also used screen sharing software to record a video on how to demonstrate the functions of the website.
Mrs. Devlin, Kindergarten, uses the Remind app daily to connect with her students. She records a short video of herself doing something optional that the students can do. An example of this was a letter scavenger hunt! Or showing her students a quiet place in the house to pray. Students return the challenge via photo or video. She is also using Flipgrid, which allows students to view each other and the teacher at the same time.
Ms. Kuhn, Grade 1, is taking advantage of Zoom for class lessons where she can share her screen and use a math program known by students, so they can work along just as if they were in class. Ms. Kuhn also has individual weekly meetings with each student where she listens to them read. She also reaches out via Skype, FaceTime or phone call when needed.
Ms. Killion, Grade 2, is utilizing Zoom, Google Classroom, Quilt, Remind and Flipgrid to connect with her students. She has also Facetimed parents when they've needed help with technology.
Mrs. DeLeon, Grade 3, is using Zoom, e-mail communication, and the Remind app to talk, teach and send work to students.
Mrs. Seif, 4th Grade, uses Zoom to connect. She has spoken with almost every parent on the phone. She also spoke to each student via phone for oral quizzes or math help. Additionally, Mrs. Seif has written all of students a letter, and has received responses from each one.
Mrs. Graber, Grade 5, uses Google Classroom to post daily assignments/links which allows students to submit assignments directly back to her. She is also hosting weekly Zoom meetings to bring her class together so they may all see each other. This gives them a time to catch up with their friends and voice to Mrs. Graber any questions or concerns.
Mr. Paul Umberger, our music teacher, is using multiple online outlets to connect his students with music. One website he is utilizing is Sound Trap. It allows students to explore and create different compositions based off combining sound files that are available to them. Mr. Umberger has also used screen sharing software to record a video on how to demonstrate the functions of the website.
"My husband works as a lead cook at a retirement/assisted living facility, so he's considered an essential worker that must report to work. I work as an associate marketing manager from home and the thought of trying to work while entertaining and looking after my son was a bit daunting. I was really relieved when Mrs. Youngers sent over daily assignments and fun activities for the kids. These have helped my son continue to learn while occupying him as I work. I am so thankful for technology especially during this time. It's been great having daily video conferencing so that Jack can see his teacher and his classmates. Thank you St. Charles Borromeo School and the teachers for all you continue to do for the kids, as it's not only helpful to them, but also to their parents."
-Katelyn B, Parent of a Pre-K student
"As a parent to hear school was closing due to the pandemic that is occurring was harsh. The first thing that came to my head is, how will they continue to learn? I’m definitely not a teacher. Within less than 2 days out of school SCB teachers were fully prepared with work. They get on a daily basis work also tests. Meeting up with the classmates and teachers on zoom weekly has been great. The constant communication that they have provided is remarkable. Even at off school hours they respond to our emails. Super grateful to have my kids being part of SCB. Thanks to the staff for all that you guys are doing. "
-Carmen L, Parent of 3rd and 6th Grade students
"As a parent at SCB I'm impressed with how quickly the teachers switched to remote learning education for my kids. I can see how much they love the videos the teachers send and the specified times keep the older ones on their toes. And they love to see their classmates on Zoom and Flipgrid. The assignments are easily handed in on Google Classroom as they are finished. The little one absolutely loves to make his assignments into videos for his teacher. My kids are adjusting wonderfully so far and I can tell already the rest of the year will only get better. They seem to be using every resource to keep the kids engaged not only learning the curriculum but also in learning to use every technological opportunity. Thank you, St. Charles Borromeo!"
-Deena C. Parent of a Kindergarten and 7th Grade student