Our schools were built on the core principles of more learning time, data-driven instruction, engaging academics, and a loving community. These principles have anchored Uncommon Schools and allowed us to provide a strong educational foundation for students even throughout the challenges of the past year. We strongly believe students benefit from in-person learning both academically and socially and will focus on reacclimating students back to full time instruction.
Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming school year:
In Person Instructional Models for K-12
The school day is built to maximize instructional learning time within a safe learning environment. At all grade levels:
- Students will attend school 5 days a week
- Fridays will stay half-day for students
- Our schools are fully open, and we are expecting near 100% in-person attendance
- Health and safety remain a priority, therefore many of our COVID protocols will remain
| Elementary Schools
We are building upon the successes of our pre-COVID elementary school model with enhancements leveraging data, research, and technology. |
Middle Schools
We are rebuilding our middle school model with built-in differentiated, small-group instruction. This will allow us to meet our students where they are in reading and math. |
| High Schools
While our safety and health practices will remain intact, many of our school activities will return to normal!
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As of today, Uncommon Schools is not planning to provide a “remote-only” learning option. However, this option may be granted if a student qualifies for a medical exemption or other circumstance based on evolving state and local guidance.
Health & Safety Protocols
Our schools will continue to prioritize the health and safety of students, staff, and families. Our guidelines are informed by the CDC, state, and local operating guidelines.
Our guidelines are focused on 4 key prevention strategies:
- Correct use of masks: When inside a building, all adults and students must consistently and correctly wear a face mask.
- Physical distancing: All students will maintain a distance of at least 3 feet, while adults will maintain a distance of 6 feet.
- Handwashing and respiratory etiquette: All students will be required to wash hands and sanitize frequently throughout the day.
- Cleaning and maintaining healthy facilities: Hand sanitizers and hygiene stations will be available and frequently re-stocked for all students and staff in common spaces.
Social-Emotional Learning
The past year has highlighted the importance of mental health. Supporting the social and emotional well-being of students is essential work that we are prioritizing in our learning experience. Through diversity training and the roll out of social and emotional learning into our curriculum and instructional practices, we are creating a culture that prioritizes the well-being of all students. Our approach emphasizes skills around self and social awareness, empathy, and perspective-taking abilities.
Close COVID-Related Learning Gaps
Without consistent in-person instruction over the past year, we recognize that there may be COVID-related learning gaps among students. We are leveraging data to refine our instructional model to differentiate our teaching to support students where they currently are academically. This includes prioritizing on grade level reading in K-6 and implementing small group instruction to allow for remediation, mastery, and stretch learning opportunities in literacy and math. Additionally, we will continue to focus on support for students with special needs and English Language Learners. We are fully committed to meeting the diverse learning needs of our students to ensure ALL students have what they need to achieve their full potential. Read more about our plans on the Uncommon Sense blog.