5. Free Online UDL Remote Learning Workshop Series:
The Department is pleased to offer a free workshop series, “Innovate Inside the [Remote Learning] Box with UDL,” focused on universally designing remote instruction. Join George Couros and Katie Novak in an online workshop series that will introduce the key concepts of inclusive practice, innovation, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and give participants the knowledge they need to start using UDL in their lesson and assessment design while supporting remote learning. Attend live webinars the week of May 11, take the following week to unpack the virtual modules, and then join a final webinar on Wednesday, May 20 to share key takeaways and final projects. More information and registration are available online.
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6. Preschool through Grade 8 Principals Virtual Convening
The Department’s Early Learning Team, in collaboration with the Massachusetts School Administrators Association (MSAA), will host an end-of-year virtual convening from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20 for principals of students in preschool through grade 8. The meeting’s focus will be on planning the transition back to school in the fall for adults and children. Nicole Christian-Brathwaite will give a presentation on using a trauma responsive lens to support adults’ and children’s social-emotional well-being. To participate, please register online.
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7. Innovation Pathways Designation and Planning Grant Opportunity:
Innovation Pathways are structures within high schools that are designed to connect student learning to a broadly-defined industry sector that is in demand in the regional and state economy. The Baker-Polito Administration recently awarded Innovation Pathway designations to programs at approximately 20 high schools, and DESE is excited to open a fourth round of applications for the Innovation Pathways Designation, along with a separate planning grant opportunity. The lead applicant for an Innovation Pathway program designation must be a Massachusetts school district or charter school, and it must apply in collaboration with a local MassHire board and an employer partner as a supporting partner. Applicants for a planning grant agree to submit a Part A application to DESE in fall 2020.
More information about the Innovation Pathways Designation Criteria and the application timeline and process for school year 2020-2021 is available online. Deadlines begin in June. Please email Jennifer Gwatkin at jgwatkin@doe.mass.edu with any questions.
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8. Spread the Word about 2-1-1:
The state is reminding people that they can call 2-1-1 for help in a number of areas, particularly now when many people are feeling stressed, anxious or depressed. Please help share the “We all need help sometimes” message with your community. Sample graphics and messages in multiple languages are available online.
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9. Health Screenings in Schools Suspended:
In light of the orders suspending in-person instruction and educational operations in schools, the Department of Public Health (DPH) has suspended the requirement that school committees and/or boards of health conduct health screenings for postural problems, problems with eyesight or hearing, and substance use disorder pursuant to M.G.L. c. 71, §§ 57 and 97. The Department of Public Health is also waiving the health screening for vision and hearing and the measurement of height and weight required by 105 CMR 200.400 and 200.500.
The suspensions shall remain in effect until the governor ends the state of emergency or until DPH rescinds the suspensions, whichever happens first.
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10. COVID-19 Updates from the Governor’s Office:
On Tuesday, April 28, Governor Baker extended the essential services emergency order to May 18, requiring that all businesses and organizations that do not provide “COVID-19 Essential Services” close their physical workplaces and facilities to workers, customers, and the public until then. On Friday, May 1, the Baker-Polito Administration issued an order requiring the use of masks or face coverings in public places where people cannot socially distance from others. The order goes into effect on Wednesday, May 6.
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- More remote learning resources: Scotts Miracle-Gro Company has online gardening classes for young children called “GroMoreGood,” and Audible has launched Audible Stories, a free streaming service offering hundreds of titles to keep students engaged while at home.
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