Remote Learning Update

Hi Everyone,

Last week I wrote about BMC’s learning continuity plan and what next steps would be required from BMC.  This week, we are moving forward.

I want to start by saying how impressed I have been by the Buck Mountain community over the past three weeks. It has been stated that adversity does not build character, it reveals it.  I have seen that to be true as all members of the BMC community have worked hard, shown patience, sought to understand, and were gracious with each other as we transitioned to remote learning.  I would like to express my gratitude on behalf of our staff to our families. 

Transitioning from regular brick and mortar schooling to completely remote learning for our school division is an onerous task.  Our central administration staff should be commended for their thoughtful approach to transitioning families to our new normal in education.  Thank you to the leadership that was shown by Wetaskiwin Regional Public Schools in supporting our students as we hurriedly worked to come up with a plan.  WRPS has provided many resources and clear, consistent communication for parents, staff, and students as we all make the transition to remote schooling. 

While our teachers have been connecting with students and families and getting some remote coursework started, we are ready to move forward.  Now is where the work begins. We know there will be challenges ahead and we want to tackle them together. 

My encouragement to you is to ensure your child engages with their learning starting today (if they haven’t already!)!  We will be tracking students who have not engaged and following up to ensure they have everything they need to learn at home.  Starting today, it is our expectation that all students will actively engage their core courses. As parents/guardians, you can help us with that by checking in with your child.  If your kids are anything like mine, having a few hours of structure in their day wouldn't be a bad thing. If you require flexibility due to circumstances caused by COVID-19, please make your child's teachers aware so we can work together.

We recognize that students are also missing their option courses.  Our options teachers are missing teaching them as well. Patience is required as we continue to roll out the cores this week.  Look for more information on what option courses will be available for your child to stay enrolled in on Tuesday, April 14th.

Thanks again - have a great week - keep that social distancing up!

Jon Meyers