Activities

My student is a class/club officer. Will he or she have to forfeit this position?	Students may participate in school activities, which include class/club officers.
How will SCPS maintain social distancing during meal periods?	SCPS is developing procedures that provide students with appropriate social distance during meals.
Will SCPS conduct Physical Education classes?	Yes. SCPS is reviewing Physical Education content to meet the requirements for physical movement either in schools or as part of the home learning activities.
Will students have recess?	Yes. SCPS is developing procedures that provide students with appropriate social distance during recess.
Can my student compete in sports if we elect 100% virtual instruction?	Yes. Any SCPS student may participate in sports if he or she is eligible.
My student needs 3 credits for a diploma but must be enrolled in 5 classes to participate in sports. May the student take electives in school and required credits in the virtual setting?	Yes, please contact your school's principal.
Will teachers have the option to hold class outside?	Yes. Typically, teachers have the option of taking students outside weather permitting.
Will the YMCA offer care before and after school for families?	Yes. The YMCA will offer before care beginning at 6:30 a.m. and after care ending at 6:30 p.m. for the days your child has face-to-face instruction.

Facilities

What changes are being made to the air ventilation systems?	SCPS is conducting building ventilation system evaluations at all schools. Ventilation will be adjusted if needed for a targeted amount of outside air. Operations and maintenance staff will regularly evaluate outside air intakes for conditions that could affect the quality of fresh air at intake locations. Filters are changed 3-4 times per year.
What strategies have been adopted to maintain negative pressures in locations which are possible sources of virus transmission such as bathrooms?	Exhaust systems for restrooms and other areas will be evaluated with repairs made if problems are identified.
How is SCPS maintaining air quality in its buildings?	Each school will have three portable air cleaners utilized for clinics and front office areas. Relative humidity will vary depending on actual building systems and the outside air conditions. Other air cleaning techniques are being considered and customized for different locations.
Is plexiglass as a physical barrier being installed in areas with fixed interactions?	Plexiglass barriers are being installed in front offices and other locations.
Is SCPS installing touchless no-contact infrastructure in the schools (e.g., dispensers of hand soap, hand sanitizer, paper towels)?	SCPS has ordered extra supplies of hand soap, hand sanitizer, and paper towels. New touchless hand sanitizer dispensers have been ordered for each school, as well as bottles of hand sanitizer that are easier to locate as needed.
How will students move through the hallways and maintain social distancing?	SCPS is developing procedures that provide students with appropriate social distance during transitions.

Instruction

Which courses are offered?	All core classes (Math, Science, Social Studies, English) are provided. Not all electives are available in the 100% virtual program. These electives have required hands-on experience with specialized equipment located in the schools. SCPS is exploring instructional models to serve virtual students, but can not guarantee this option.
Will my child be penalized if he doesn't log in at certain times for live sessions? Or can he go on his computer and review pre-recorded lessons?	If a student is not able to attend a synchronous lesson, they will not be penalized. However, there will be an expectation for them to access asynchronously that day and can be tracked by check-ins with building level staff.
Will students be required to take SOL’s this year?	We will be administering federal and state required tests (SOLs, VAAP, and WIDA) this school year. The US Department of Education has indicated they do not plan to waive testing requirements. Based on this guidance from USDE the VDOE has told all divisions to prepare to administer these tests. We are actively planning how to accomplish this in a virtual environment.
How will students who do not understand English learn in a virtual environment ?	Some supports will be built into the courses in Canvas. ESOL teachers will collaborate with the classroom teachers to provide language supports and modifications for English learners.
Will SCPS offer music courses virtually?	SCPS will offer some music classes 100% virtually. Specific classes will be announced later.
Are all middle school math options offered virtually?	Yes.
Is my high school child required to take electives in either the virtual or hybrid selection to fill their schedule?	Not in all cases. Please contact your building principal and consultat with the school counselor to ensure the student will meet graduation requirements.
Are Home School and the 100% Virtual option the same thing?	Pursuant to Va. Code Section 22.1-254.1, parents may elect to provide home instruction in lieu of attending SCPS. More information about the home instruction is found on the SCPS website.
Are middle school students required to take PE if they are participating in year-round club sports?	No, all students are required to take physical education and health at the middle school level.
Are lessons in the 100% virtual and the hybrid options the same? Are they planning with our grade level on Mondays?	Essentials and expectations for student performance are the same in both virtual and hybrid models. Activities and lessons are aligned with essentials, however, they are delivered differently based on instructional method.
Will virtual learning cover more of the standards than the hybrid option.	No. The same standards are covered in both options.
Is the online work accredited for students that may transfer out of state in the future?	Approved courses in Virginia are aligned with the Common Core standards adopted by most states. It is likely that courses completed in Virginia will transfer to other public schools in another state.
If the governor mandates a transition to 100% virtual instruction, will the hybrid students lose access electives or honors courses that are currently not offered in the 100% virtual format?	No, however the hands-on aspect of some courses (such as CTE electives) would no longer be available as they cannot be replicated online
How do the teachers teach the students at school and then take attendance for students online?	Guidelines are under development and will be provided to the teachers for implementation.
How are students graded in each option?	Students are expected to complete assignments that are graded where appropriate in both options. Assessment may vary by grade level. However, all students will receive feedback on their performance.
How are weighted grades affected in the virtual option?	AP, IB, and DE are the only weighted courses and will remain weighted at this time.
What resources does Stafford County provide if we choose to home school?	Please see the SCPS website for Home School instructions and requirements.
What is Stafford County’s policy for Home School Transfers back into SCPS?	Parents may enroll students in SCPS at any time.
If a student home schools this year, will they lose FOCUS designation upon rentry to an SCPS school?	No. Students with a Focus identification from SCPS may reenter SCPS schools and remain in the Focus program.
Will parents be given the opportunity to "see" the school, classrooms, and social distancing measures in place before school starts?	SCPS is developing plans that allow parents to visit buildings before the start of school, and we will also hold a parent and student orientation.
What will virtual days look like if families opt for the hybrid model?	The virtual portion of the hybrid model allows students to work at their own individual place and pace.
What is the expectation for online and in person instruction from the teacher?	Guidelines are under development and will be provided to the teachers for implementation.
Will SCPS provide live-stream cameras in the classroom for virtual learners?	SCPS does not have the equipment and support to universally offer live streaming in every virtual learning situation. There are also concerns with student privacy and confidentiality.
Will there be a denotation on the students' records that virtual courses were taken?	The denotation is no longer required on the transcript by VDOE. The website has been corrected to reflect this change.
How will SCPS ensure that virtual classes are in sync with the hybrid instruction.	VDOE has reviewed the virtual content to ensure it is aligned with Standards Of Learning. The virtual instructor will have access to state frameworks and guides, however, it is possible that the pacing guide between the virtual and hybrid models may not align perfectly, which is why SCPS has requested that students commit to a semester of virtual learning to ensure better continuity of learning for students.
Is there a demo of the virtual platform?	SCPS will host family, student, and teacher training in August.
Will teachers who are providing virtual instruction receive training, coaching and performance support?	Professional learning and embedded training are provided and will be ongoing.
Is the 100% Virtual Option also available to all students?	Yes
Will students receive new, effective instruction in the virtual/hybrid virtual models?	New instruction is planned for both the hybrid and the virtual options. The hybrid model will shift to 100% virtual and the virtual option will continue. In any scenario, new learning is the focus of both instructional models.
Is the 100% virtual option structured or completed at each student's pace?	At this time, the 100% virtual option allows for two days of synchronous (live) instruction, and three days of teacher-directed asynchrounous learning completed at the students own pace.
Would the virtual option meet NCAA eligibility?	The models and resources that SCPS is proposing are NCAA certified.
Is Virtual Virginia an option?	Yes, students and families may register through their high school counselor at their designated school. Virtual
What are the daily time requirements for virtual learning?	Virtual courses are self-paced and vary based on individual progress through modules. The average amount of time to complete a one credit high school course is 85 online hours in the virtual system. This does not include assignments and outside practice. Some students complete courses in far less time online, while other students require additional time.
If SCPS begins as 100% virtual, will my virtual student be grouped with those that requested the hybrid option?	Your student will be grouped with the students who requested 100% virtual option. If SCPS returns to its buildings later in the year, your student will continue in the 100% virtual mode.
What are the benefits/differences of elementary families selecting 100% Virtual through SCPS versus signing up directly through K12?	If a parent chooses to use K12 directly, the student will not be considered as a SCPS student. The cost associated with accessing K12 directly will be the direct responsibility of the parent. The difference in content is not substantial, however there may be SCPS specific content that is not included in the K12 curriculum.
Are 100% Virtual students assigned a teacher to connect with for instruction, meetings, and interaction?	Yes, including regular meetings and interaction.
Is there going to be any live instruction with an SCPS teacher on a regular basis in the 100% virtual model?	Yes, but live teacher interaction is limited. Students who choose 100% virtual are working largely independently.
Will 100% virtual student receive Specials/Encore instruction	Yes. 100% Virtual students will have access to the At-Home portion of Encore resources.
For 100% virtual, what percentage of time will a student spend interacting with a teacher and what percentage of time will the student work independently through Edgenuity or something similar?	The 100% virtual option is a very personalized program where students will work predominantly independently. Check-ins are required and metrics are taken on student progress. There is limited interaction with a live teacher.
Will the 100% virtual students receive remediation from a teacher prior to exams, SOL testing, etc.?	Yes. The need for remediation will be specific and tailored for each student based on his or her needs.

Multi-Divisional

Will a teacher be assigned or a "multi-divisional online partner?"	SCPS strives to assign its own teachers for the virtual option. In some situations, SCPS may have to utilize a VA qualified teacher from another provider.
What is a multi-divisional online partner?	A separate entity (private company or other education institution) who provides virtual teaching and learning opportunities and services. VDOE has a list of approved providers on its website.
Which Multi-Divisional Online Partner would SCPS use, and would this Partner offer Honors Courses?	Online multi-divisional partners are under review at this time. There may be multiple online division partner providers for the 2020-2021 school year.

Procedures

Can a hybrid student attend virtually on a scheduled in-person day if he or she has a minor illness, IE a cold?	Students should not attend school if the illness falls on a day when the student would attend in person. The student would be considered absent regardless of the day. As with any other absence, families may request student work from the teacher. If the student is feeling well enough, he or she could participate in the at-home online activities.
Are face covering mandatory for students and/or staff?	All students and staff shall wear face coverings at all times on school board property as developmentally appropriate unless exempted due to a medical condition. The Centers for Disease Control provides exemptions for young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or anyone who is unconscious or incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance. When appropriate, face shields will be utilized by staff and/or students to meet student and staff needs. Employees who work in individual offices and areas may remove the face mask when they are alone.
What enforcement will take place for individuals who do not follow the new requirements when schools open?	SCPS will explain expectations to the staff, students, and community prior to the start of school and ongoing. Compliance issues will be addressed individually.
If the school system is forced to go 100% virtual in the middle of a semester, how would that work and what would that look like?	The 100% virtual program will remain 100% virtual and the hybrid model would move to 100% virtual, keeping the same schedule
If there is an outbreak in a school, can a student transfer to 100% virtual instruction?	At any point you would like your student to go 100% virtual, please contact your school administrator.
Are temperature checks mandatory before entering school?	A final decision has not been made at this time.
Who will enforce and monitor quarantines?	Students who are instructed by Healthcare Provider and/or the VDH will need to provide documentation of clearing quarantine.
If an immediate family member of a teacher or student tests positive, who must be tested and quarantined?	The VDH will recommend the people who are in direct contact, less than 6 feet for more than 15 minutes will need to quarantine for 14 days after last exposure to the positive person. This means that once the person is cleared by the doctor to return to full activity the people in the home who were in direct contact will begin their 14 day quarantine. Only the person in the family will need to quarantine. due to being in direct contact with the infected person. As long as the student stays symptom free prior to beginning quarantine the rest of the class does not need to be tested or quarantine
How much contact is required with a person who tests positive before one is forced to quarantine (student or teacher)?	15 minutes or more.
How did SCPS implement its social distancing policy?	The Recover, Redesign, Restart guidance from VDOE states to maintain six feet of physical distance to the greatest extent possible; however, if six feet of distance is not feasible, schools should implement a combination of face coverings and a minimum of three feet distance between everyone present on the buses. The guidance for spacing in classrooms is conflicting and there are still studies in progress for mode of transmission of the virus. In areas where the community transmission of COVID-19 is more substantial, distancing of at least six feet will need to be strongly considered per the VDOE guidance.
Why are childcare locations open to 50 students but classrooms are not?	Guidance under the VDH for Childcare Settings requires groups to maintain 6 feet of social distancing. These providers are licensed for up to 50 students at the same time while maintaining 6 feet social distancing.

Schedule

Where can families find a sample schedule, programs, and time expectations.	A sample schedule and time commitments are available on the SCPS website
Are students permitted to switch from the hybrid model to the virtual model?	Yes. However there is no guarantee that the student will have the same teacher and/or the same pacing, curriculum resources, and/or support.
Can a hybrid student switch to virtual instruction, or could a virtual student switch to hybrid instruction?	Students enrolled in hybrid instruction may contact the principal to switch into the 100% virtual program. Students enrolled in the 100% virtual program must complete the first semester virtually.
Where can I find an outline of the 100% virtual schedule and the expectactions of this learning model?	The virtual schedule is presently under development. Families should expect students to participate in daily lessons, assignments, and activities Monday-Friday.
When will my child return to school?	As of July 28, 2020, students will return to school virtual only on August 31. Please see the SCPS website for a full 2020-2021 school calendar.

Special Education

Which English Learners are able to attend Face-to-Face (F2F) instruction?	All English learners with WIDA levels 1-2.9 will be eligible to attend F2F instruction. Some English learners with WIDA levels 3.0 and higher (to include former English learners) will be eligible to attend F2F instruction if they meet one or more of the established criteria. These criteria are TBD
What type of electives are available to students with an IEP on the virtual model?	All electives that are available to general education students will be available to special education students.
How will Paraprofessionals support our children?	Paraprofessionals will continue to be an extension of the special education staff, so they will be able to work with students who come in for in-person instruction, as well as support the general and special education staff in a virtual environment. They can provide check-ins within the school day, as well as instruction with oversight from the general and special education staff. Lastly, they will also be joining virtual classes to support students as well.
Will counselors be meeting with students online as my child is a senior for college prep?	Yes. Counselors will be able to schedule and conduct meetings with students about college/career choices, academics, and social-emotional topics. They will use resources such as Naviance to help with the research, exploration, and selection process. They will also be able to share scholarship information with students. Colleges will be sharing thieir platforms and strategies for virtual visits and recruiting with our counselors.
If a student selects virtual school and begins to struggle due to leaning disability, will they have the opportunity to change to in person?	Yes, they will have the option. However, the IEP team should have considered all options and supports before considering coming in for in-person instruction. Additionally, you as the parent can request an IEP meeting to discuss concerns and other possible options for your child.
Is there sufficient staffing for a child with a disability to have the same dedicated one? My son has Autism and ADHD. If possible, he needs to have a familiar face as his teachers will be to assist him to stay on task	Yes, there is a sufficient amount of paras for us to meet the needs of our students across the county. However, we don't dedicate one person to any one student in order to help support the student adapt to change. For students who benefit from structure and routine, we factor this in when preparing a student to work with a staff member they have never seen before. We have strategies, such as social stories, front-loading, and other supports to help students transition to different staff members if necessary.
How are you going to manage grading in this online environment when the entire online experience is heavily stacked against kids with ADHD and other disabilities	Communication and oversight is extremely important in this new learning environment for students. If a teacher and/or case manager notice a student is not performing where they should, the team should consider other supports, and possibly setting up an IEP meeting to discuss other more extensive options.
If a student did qualify for in person classes, would that look similar to hybrid classes with 2 days a week IN class and 3 days a week AT HOME?	Yes, that will be a starting point for students who will be coming into school for in-person instruction. However, if the IEP team determined that a student requires more than 2 days of in person instruction to access their education, then the team should consider more than 2 days.
I can’t see my child even sitting down to watch a whole class online. How is that going to look like for him?	You and the IEP team need to discuss all options to support your child in a virtual/remote learning environment. There are parent training modules, as well as in person that we can provide you with supports to utilize in the home setting to help your child focus in a a virtual/remote setting. We can also provide asynchronous materials and supports to help ensure your child keeps up with the curriculum and instruction. Lastly, if supports and trainings didn't work, the IEP team should consider conveneing as an IEP team to discuss other options, to include coming in for in person instruction.
How does SCPS plan to mitigate the obvious delta in equal educational opportunities for our special needs children?	Virtual/remote learning is going to look completely different for all students as compared to our initial school closure in March. Students with disabilities will have ample opportunities to access their special education staff through synchronous and asyncrhonous learning opportunities, as well as we will be providing modules and face to face supports and trainings for parents to work with their child at home during this reopening plan. Furthermore, if the IEP team determines that the student can't access their education with these supports in place, these students have the option of coming into school for in person instruction.
Will my student with an IEP be able to stay on the 100% virtual option for the entire school year as long as he/she is making sufficient progress	At this point, the 100% virtual option is available for all students for the remainder of this year, to include students with disabilities.
What are the plans for children with an IEP in place? Will they be “pulled” from class as they are in the school?	Students with IEPs will continue to have access to their general and special education services while in the virtual/remote environment as outlined in their IEP. If a student requires self-contained support with a special education teacher, then yes they will be provided with those supports.
Will IEP reassessment and meetings still take place prior to school starting?	Yes. An IEP meeting/amendment needs to take place prior to the first day of school, and your child's building level designee should be in touch with you on setting up that meeting, if they haven't already. Addtionally, assessments will also take place in a timely fashion.
Will the IEP meetings be virtual or in person?	All meetings will be virtual, unless there are extenuating circumstances.
I wanted to know how my child’s IEP will help me while he is at home. Will he still receive OT and speech	If a parent requires any support to work with your child at home, we can provide face to face training, or modules for specific areas of need. For example, if you need support with keeing your child focused, we can provide you with a parent training module to keep your child on track and focused on any given task. Yes, all related services will be available, to include speech and OT services.
What is the plan for children like ours that REQUIRE one on one IN PERSON instruction, to include speech therapy, which he was receiving all the years prior?	In-person instruction is available to students with disabilities who are on the aligned standards of learning, and for extenuating circumstances. The IEP team needs to discuss the 100% virtual options, training for parents, and other supports, and if those options are not appropriate for a student, then the team should consider in-person instruction. All related services will also be available for students, to include speech therapy.
Can my child get more than 2 days a week of face to face instruction?	In-person instruction is available to students with disabilities who are on the aligned standards of learning, and for extenuating circumstances. The IEP team needs to discuss the 100% virtual options, training for parents, and other supports, and if those options are not appropriate for a student, then the team should consider in-person instruction for additional days. The IEP team should also discuss how to support a student while they are learning in an asynchrounous learning environment as well.
With a student with reading comprehension issues what assistance will be provided online in absence of in person?	Reading comprehension supports will be available for a student while learning in a virtual/remote setting. The IEP team should discuss how the accommodations, goals, and services will be provided to a student in a remote setting, to include virtual supports from a special education provider. For students that don't have an IEP, they will also have access to their teacher and other Tier 3 supports.
What would the virtual school day look like for students who have an IEP?	It depends on the level of services a student with an IEP requires, however here are two examples: 1) Student with an IEP for reading difficulties would participate in all other classes virtually, and for their reading class they might get some direct time with a special education provider, as well as support while in the larger general education classroom. Collaborative classes will also be available for students who require them, and a special education provider will join them in the the virtual classroom. All general education classes, to include collaborative, will be held virtually, regardless if the student comes for in person instruction or stays remote/virtual. Goal progress will be tracked by the special education staff, and they will work with the parents to track during asyncrhornous time as well. Another example for a student with an other health impairment with ADHD might need support to stay on task in each of their virtual general education classes, with check-ins at the end of the day to make sure they have stayed organized throughout the day.
What type of services and resources does Stafford have for families who speak other languages	The Welcome Center coordinates the interpreters to assist in meetings held by schools, coordinates the translation of all county wide documents, oversees the Family Resource Access Line assisting in answering questions as they relate to school reopening, guiding families through registration or connecting them to access technology resources in several languages.
One of the most valuable aspects of our autistic daughter’s educational experience is the socialization factor in the school environment. How is the school system going to address this aspect of the LS teaching environment?	Students who will be working 100% in a virtual/remote setting, most of their interaction with staff and other students will occur virtually. If your child's IEP team determines it is appropriate for your child to come in for in person instruction, they will have some interaction with other students, but they will also continue to have virtual interaction with students who are working in a virtual/remote setting.
What are the options for IEP students in both the virtual and hybrid models?	Parents will need to schedule an IEP meeting to discuss the unique needs of their child to access their education. At the IEP meeting, you and the team can discuss both options and what they may look like for you child. Once a decision has been formalized for next year, your child's building level designee will be in touch with you to discuss next steps on setting up that meeting.
How will students with an IEP or 504 plan be taught?	Regardless if your child has an IEP or a 504 plan, the plan will need to be adjusted to reflect the accommodations and/or services in the hybrid and/or remote/virtual option. The building level designee for your child will be in touch with you to set up a meeting for you and the team to discuss these options.
My child has a condition that makes him or her vulnerable as identified by the CDC website. If the schools are forced to reopen at full capacity what are our options for student/teacher safety? Can we then decide to have our students virtually attend school?	First and foremost, your child’s health should be a number one priority. Please share any health information you have from your child’s doctor with your child’s base school. They will then be in touch with you on next steps, to include possibly setting up a student education committee meeting to discuss how to support your child.
What are the plans special needs students who cannot be accomodated through virtual instruction and who would benefit more from in person learning?	Regardless of the option you choose, we will have to set up an IEP meeting to discuss how to support your child in the respective setting you choose. At the IEP meeting, you and the team will discuss what the in-person and/or remote learning will look like for your son.
My student has an IEP, and if I choose to do virtual, would there be a part of the day for the speech or reading specialist to work with them?	Your child’s base school will be in touch with you to set up an IEP meeting to discuss how to support your child in the respective setting due to our school reopening in response to our current public health crisis. Related services will be discussed at the IEP meeting, to include the platform in which they will be provided.

Special Programs

Middle School Focus art will provide one hour of synchronous learning for each school twice a month. Students will also receive 30 minutes of asynchronous learning a week.

Will students continue in the STAT program if they elect the 100% virtual option?	Yes, the student may participate in STAT however CTE electives are not offered virtually at this time. These electives have required hands-on experience with specialized equipment located in the schools. SCPS is exploring options to serve virtual students, but can not guarantee that this is possible at this time. A student will not lose their spot in the STAT program for the following year if they choose 100% virtual instruction.
How will the STAT program work in the hybrid and virtual model.	The STAT program will run fully in the hybrid model. STAT CTE electives are not offered virtually at this time. These electives have required hands-on experience with specialized equipment located in the schools. SCPS is exploring options to serve virtual students, but can not guarantee that this will be possible at this time.
Will FOCUS instruction take place in both the virtual and hybrid models?	Students who have been identified as a FOCUS student will receive corresponding services regardless of the model chosen. The mode of delivery of those services may differ depending on the model selected.
What specific standards is the Superintendent setting for classroom teachers (not the FOCUS teachers) with respect to differentiating for the FOCUS children in their classes	Differentiation is a focus of the teacher professional learning during these first three weeks to ensure support for ALL students.
Will gifted resource teachers collaborate with classroom teachers in planning instruction for gifted students	We had our Focus teachers worked all summer with content specialists to differeniate instruction in core content.They will also work collaboratively with grade level/content teachers to ensure all students receive extension and. enrichment opportunities.
We just moved to SCPS. Will my child continue in the gifted program?	Identified students transferring into the division will automatically go through an expedited identification process. The Focus program will make every attempt to cluster these students with other identified students and include them in the synchronous and asynchronous Focus lessons.
Will there be extra FOCUS opportunities offered such as Middle School FOCUS Art?	Middle School Focus art will provide one hour of synchronous learning for each school twice a month. Students will also receive 30 minutes of asynchronous learning a week.
How will middle school focus students gain access to focus curriculum as they are in various classes	The Focus students will be provided support in their courses to extend and enrich their learning. They will also be provided with asynchronous opportunities through a Canvas platform. The secondary Focus teachers will offer office hours to meet with students face to face to support student learning.
Students in 2nd grade take the COGAT test as part of identification for gifted services. How will this be handled with students learning virtually?	We are scheduling the second-grade screener for the second semester. We are currently working on a plan to support the continuation of the screener this year.
Will FOCUS students in middle school still have the opportunity to take high school level courses, such as math, and if so, how will that be accomplished? Will they be taking virtual classes with other high school students?	Algebra I and geometry will still be offered at the middle school through a Canvas platform. The middle school teachers will continue to provide this instruction synchronously and asynchronously.
Will continuing in the FOCUS program require additional time in my learners day or will the class be embedded within their coursework?	At the elementary level, gifted students will be provided additional time just for Focus curriculum. Middle and high school will receive support through opportunities of extension and enrichment lessons embedded in the classroom teachers' Canvas classroom. The identified students will also be provided with asynchronous opportunities and support. Secondary gifted resource teachers will provide specific office hours to meet with students face to face.
Please explain the FOCUS opportunities and program that will be offered for rising 8th graders as relate to Governor’s School, National Junior Honor Society, etc.	Focus teachers are currently developing opportunities that students may still participate in while we are in a virtual world. We will still support the CGS, IB, and STAT application processes. Please reach out to your school to inquire about the National Junior Honor Society.
Will my FOCUS students be working with the same teachers as they were before?	We are making every attempt to ensure that the FOCUS students will be working with the same gifted resource teacher at the student's building.
How will gifted services be provided and how will it transition when some students are potentially back in school later this semester? Will he receive the same services as his peers who are in the building? Will services be provided by the same instructor the entire semester?	The plan is that the students will have the same Focus teacher for the entire year, but if there are staff changes, this may be out of our control.
Will students who are in Elementary Focus will be kept together in the same group, regardless of where their last name falls, alphabetically.	Elementary Students will not be clustered into the same group. Every attempt will be made to cluster group students appropriately.
Will SCPS offer Commonwealth Governor's School CGS), International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, FOCUS, and Honors courses?	According to the Regional CGS director, CGS will be offered in both the 100% virtual and hybrid format for the 2020-2021 school year. SCPS is working very hard to make as many courses listed in our HS program of studies as possible available as 100% virtual. Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, and Honors will be available. Specific courses will be dependent on your student's schedule.
Will STAT students have the option to drive to another school instead of taking the travel bus? If so, would they still need to check in at their base school first?	SCPS is still considering options for students to drive between schools. Please contact your building principal regarding this type of arrangement.
What is the bus/travel plan for students in the STAT program?	The specific travel schedule is being developed in collaboration with transportation. Presently, we are anticipating students will travel three times a day, in the morning, mid-day and before the end of the school day.

Staff

Technology

Can my student use their personal computer or Chromebook instead of a school issued Chromebook?	Yes, but SCPS recommends that the student uses the Chromebook issued by the school for the best experience. SCPS Technology tests software on Chromebooks and can't guarantee that home computers will work. SCPS recommends that the student checks out the school provisioned Chromebook to ensure that processes work as expected.
Why should I use an SCPS Chromebook instead of my personal Chromebook?	School Chromebooks provide a consistent experience with instructions, such as icons in the same place, etc. They are also content filtered for student safety. Teachers will know what to expect from student devices. When students come into school, the personal device will not connect automatically to the school network like the school issued Chromebook.
Will my student receive a Chromebook?	All SCPS student will receive a Chromebook to support instruction.

Transportation

Are families permitted to change their transportation preferences?	Yes, they can change transportation options in case of emergency. However, long-term transportation changes must be coordinated with your building principal and the transporation department.
What is the protocol if a bus driver or rider tests positive?	If a driver tests positive we will contact the VDH for guidance. The bus would be pulled from service to be disinfected fully before returning to service
Why can't we increase the amount of students on a bus if we require face coverings?	The recommendations are unchanged for physical distancing on school buses when possible. Face coverings are required while riding the school bus.
How do I designate my pickup address if it is different than my home?	Families should contact their building principal to provide a pickup/dropoff location if it is different than the home, for example a child care facility or in shared custody situations.

Stafford County Public Schools

2020-2021 School Year

Activities

Facilities

Instruction

Multi-Divisional

Procedures

Schedule

Special Education

Special Programs

Staff

Technology

Transportation