Secondary Remote Learning

DSBN Secondary Remote Learning 2023-24


Student/Parent Information

At DSBN, we know that in-person learning is the best way for students to experience success. It is essential for the mental and physical health, academic achievement, and overall well-being of students. That’s why we strongly encourage all our families to enroll their student for in-person learning. However, we are required by the Ministry to offer the option of remote learning in 2023/2024.

Program Overview

With far fewer students accessingfully remote learning, students in full-time remote programming will be registered at Adult and Continuing Education where our remote learning programs are centered.

Students will access instruction through the D2L platform/eLearning. Instruction Includes: 

  • Teachers qualified by the Ontario College of Teachers, instructing each course.

  • Asynchronous learning in which students and teachers are not in the same place at the same time. This includes video recordings of lessons and activities, posted assignments and independent learning

  • Accommodations reflecting student needs outlined in the student's Individual Education Plan (IEP) will be supported.


What is not available?

  • Course options are limited. As such, students will not have the opportunity for many courses that are “hands-on” (technology, culinary, art, music, etc.)

  • French Immersion will not be available

  • Fully remote learners will not be able to access extracurricular activities offered to in-person learners (i.e., athletics and clubs) at their previous home school. Their home school will be the Adult and Continuing Education Centre.


What if I change my mind?
Fully remote students are committed to the full semester. There will not be an opportunity to transfer to in-person during the semester.

How do I register my student?

  • Families requiring remote learning for their student(s) must contact their current home secondary school during the last week of August (August 28 – September 1).

  • Your current home school principal will confirm your selection and provide further details to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed choice.

  • Students in full-time remote learning will be transferred to Adult and Continuing Education where the remote learning program is managed.

  • Remote learning will have a phased start to the school year to give families enough time to decide about remote learning for their student.

  • Programming with temporary staff begins on September 5th, the first day of school. Staff will be available to students daily to ensure attendance is taken, provide asynchronous instruction, and offer support to complete posted assignments.

  • When enrolment is confirmed, courses will be organized, staffed, and instruction will begin on Monday, September 11th. 
 

Whom do I contact with questions?

  • Please contact your current home secondary school to discuss your student’s needs/options.

  • Administrators return from summer break the week of August 28th. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Who will teach students online?

A. All remote learning teachers are qualified DSBN secondary teachers who are specifically assigned to teach online.

Q. Will attendance be taken?

A. Daily attendance by period is not taken. Instead, attendance is generated by logging into each course on a regular basis. Students who do not log into a course for 10 consecutive school days will be referred to a Student Success Teacher and Attendance Counsellor. Students with 15 days of consecutive absences will be removed from the course on the 16th day.

Q. Are the learning hours flexible?

A. Yes. The schedule of the secondary remote learning program is asynchronous. Students may sign into their courses at any time. The platform used for online courses (D2L) tracks when and how long students log into each course. Students are highly encouraged to sign into their courses on a daily basis at a time of their choosing. 

Q. Last year my student was connected to their home school. Will this still happen?

A. No. This year all fully remote learning students will be registered through Adult and Continuing Education and the connection to the Home School will not be maintained. For example, graduating students will receive their diploma and have the option to participate in ceremonies through the Adult and Continuing Education Centre in June.

Q. Is remote learning as good as in-person learning for all students?

A. Although remote learning served a very distinct purpose during the COVID 19 pandemic, experience tells us that it is a challenging way for most students to learn. Based on two years of data and observations, we know that extended periods of time in remote learning can have negative impacts on learning for students who struggle with initiative, attention and/or independent learning. The DSBN strongly recommends in-person learning as the best option for all students.

Q. What happens if my student has questions or is falling behind?

A. Your student will be able to ask questions and interact with the teacher throughout the semester.  All teachers will have scheduled times when students will be able to reach them in real time to ensure that they receive additional support. Checking in to your student’s D2L learning space daily is an important way of ensuring your student does not fall behind. Just like in school, parents can reach out to the teacher to discuss their student’s progress.

Q. Will my student receive a report card?

A. Yes. All students in remote learning will receive the Ontario Ministry of Education report card issued by Adult and Continuing Education at the same time as their peers in schools.