Sunday, March 12
10:30 AM-1:00 PM
CDT

W1: The Journey from Emergency Remote Learning to a Robust Full-Time Virtual Option in One of America's Largest School Districts: Lessons Learned

Workshop (F2F) ID: 62207
  1. aaa
    Doug Elmendorf
    Towson University
  2. aaa
    Mathew Doty
    Baltimore County Public Schools

Abstract: This presentation will explore how one of the largest K-12 school systems in the country navigated the journey from systemwide emergency remote learning to a comprehensive full-time virtual learning option for students in grades 1-12. A large Mid-Atlantic school district transitioned, with most other school districts, to remote learning in March of 2020. Students remained virtual through January 2021, at which time students could choose between a fully virtual or hybrid schedule. When all schools re-opened for face-to-face learning in Fall 2021, the system implemented a full-time K-12 Virtual Learning Program, serving over 3,000 students for the 2021-2022 school year. The program, now in its second year of operation, has demonstrated significant growth academically and has evolved to meet the unique needs of students who require or would benefit from a learning environment different from the brick-and-mortar school to which they are assigned. This presentation will explore the strategies and structures implemented to navigate this journey successfully.

Objectives

1. Participants will understand the organizational and instructional leadership strategies used to launch and maintain an effective K-12 full time virtual option. 2. Participants will explore lessons learned when transitioning from emergency remote learning to a full-time comprehensive virtual option. 3. Participants will evaluate the similarities and differences between face-to-face and virtual learning practices.

Topical Outline

I. History and Context A. Emergency Remote Learning During Pandemic B. Remote and Hybrid Learning C. First Year of Virtual Learning program D. Current Structure and Approach for Virtual Program. II. Successes and Challenges A. Data Sharing B. Leadership Strategies C. Anecdotal/Qualitative Information III. Best Practices A. Compare and Contrast F2F vs. Virtual teaching and learning strategies

Prerequisites

n/a

Experience Level

Beginner

Qualifications

Doug Elmendorf earned his Doctorate in Instructional Technology, with a concentration in Educational Leadership, from Towson University in 2012. He is currently the Executive Director of Academic Programs and Options for Baltimore County Public Schools. Dr. Elmendorf oversees the school system’s Virtual Learning Program and various other educational programs. He works as an adjunct faculty member at Johns Hopkins University, Towson University, and Goucher College.---------------- Mat Doty earned a BS in Chemistry from Stevenson University and M.S. Ed from Johns Hopkins University. Currently, he is the Coordinator and instructional leader of the High School Virtual Learning Program, teacher of mathematics to high school students in a credit recovery program and is an adjunct professor of organic chemistry and biochemistry at a local community college. Matt Doty is a yearly participant of the Great Books of Western Civilization seminar -Teacher Institute at St. Johns College Annapolis.

Topic

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