SCUCISD approves virtual learning plan

Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD on Oct. 5 held a special called meeting to approve a virtual learning plan for K-6 students.

The board of trustees approved to enter an agreement with Pearson Online Academy to provide an online learning option. By going with a third-party schooling option, SCUCISD would not have to use its teachers and resources to provide instruction for students who chose the online program.

Out of the applications sent out following the Sept. 21 meeting, 104 replied, and around 20 of those are special education students. Those students would be adequately provided for under the third-party system.

For kindergarten through second grade students, there will be a live virtual lesson every day for literacy and language arts. Math, science and social studies will have live lessons weekly, and electives will have live lessons every one to two weeks or every two to four weeks.

Grades 3-6 have a similar structure but without the daily literacy lesson.

While students may not have a live lesson every day, they will have access to tutors who can answer any questions or give additional instruction on demand. Teachers in the program also have office hours for students.

According to Chief Academic Officer Kelly Kovacs, SCUCISD will check every nine weeks to ensure that students in the virtual learning program are on track in their academic progress. Students who are not showing the appropriate progress or not getting the support needed will be asked to return to in-person learning.

“Even though we are planning to contract this through a third party, it doesn’t mean that the district is going to forget about these students,” Kovacs said. “They are still SCUC students, and we very much care that they are making progress and learning appropriately.”