We are so excited to kick off this crazy school year and had a great time today passing out the last of our Chromebooks and getting our Primary students their materials.  This is a new experience for everyone and we understand there will be bumps in the road but together, we will make the best of a crummy situation.  We look forward to seeing everyone Monday morning.  Falcon Pride!!!

PCS

Today, information and supplies went home t our K-4 students.  This included your login information to access your Google Classrooms.  We encourage you to log in from your Chromebook or Chrome browser to make sure everything works this weekend.  IF you have any issues our tech team will be ready to help (email us at tlctech@tracylc.net)

DCS

All the class codes for Google Classroom and schedule information was emailed out to the address you had in AERIES.  If you did not receive it, please check your SPAM folder for any Distance Learning emails.  If you still cannot find the information email and we can help you out (tlctech@tracylc.net)

We encourage you all to log in and add your classes before Monday to make sure you do not have any issues.  See you all bright and early Monday.

MHS

All students received a schedule in the mail and have a @tracylc.net email.  In most cases this is your first two letters of your first name and last name @tracylc.net.  Your password is usually your student ID number unless you changed it.  If you have issues email tlctech@tracylc.net.

To sing into Google Classroom you need to check the Classroom code table found in the previous Charter Chatter.  It takes about 10 mins to enroll in your online classes so please do not wait.

One tradition MHS has always had is Falcon Flight School.  It is our orientation program for incoming Freshman. Even though we are not on campus, our dedicated staff have put together a ‘virtual falcon flight school’:

Whole Video

Distance Learning Expectations

Accessing your email

Distance Learning Expectations

Distance Learning Expectations

Accessing AERIES

Distance Learning is brand new for many of us.  We understand there will be problems and issues that come up, this is okay and we do not want anyone to panic.   We can help work through any issues and everyone will be veteran online learners before you know it.

A common question we have received is “can a student use a regular laptop or desktop to attend class online?” – YES.

The only extra step we recommend is that your computer has Google Chrome (https://www.google.com/chrome).  Then, the student should log into the Chrome Browser with their tracylc.net account.  This will automatically load all the addons and features we use at school – including zoom and content blockers. For help on logging into Chrome see THIS 

PCS

PCS has put together a helpful video to get on Google Classroom.  This is on a standard laptop but the same applies for a Chromebook.  An iPad just requires the Google Classroom app before you attempt to log in with your **@tracylc.net account (going home tomorrow (Friday) for PCS during our PCS Supply Pickup).

DCS

Emails went home to parents with all the information your student needs to get on Google Classroom, join their classes by entering the codes, and knowing what times you need to log in.  If you have any questions or need help getting ready for your classes please contact your teacher or tlctech@tracylc.net.  Most importantly, DON’T PANIC.

MHS 

Hopefully, you checked the last charter chatter and found the chart with all the Google Classroom codes  (MHS 2020-21 Schedule – Google Class Codes).  Cross-reference your schedule you received in the mail to help you get into your classes.  We urge you to get logged in now so you are not rushed Sunday evening (or Monday morning….).  See you all Monday morning.  Go Falcons!

Monday, August 3rd is the big day!  Our staff are very excited to see all our students again so we wanted to make sure we give you all the information you need to get to class (virtually).

PCS

1. All students will go to classroom.google.com to access their virtual classrooms.  Please be on time.
2. All students have a username and login.  This will be passed out this Friday, July 31st  accoring to the PCS supply pickup below.  This will allow them the get into Google Classroom.   In most cases, this is their first two initials and last name @tracylc.net (ie John Smith – josmith@tracylc.net).   If we have duplicates it is the full first name and full last name @tracylc.net.  Many students already know their password but if not, it is usually their student ID number.

3. If you have any issues just email your PCS classroom (ie P1@tracylc.net)

4. Once they are logged in they will see classroom listed.  PCS has added all students to their classes so they can just click on their room and they are ready to go.

5. All students must sign on from 8-12:30pm.

DCS

1. All students will go to classroom.google.com to access their virtual classrooms.  Please be on time.
2. All students have a username and login.  Incoming 5th graders can find this on their schedule they received in the mail.  In most cases, this is their first two initials and last name @tracylc.net (ie John Smith – josmith@tracylc.net).   If we have duplicates it is the full first name and full last name @tracylc.net.  Many students already know their password but if not, it is usually their student ID number (check your schedule that was mailed home).
3. Students will need to add their classes by clicking on the ‘+’ symbol in the upper right.  It will then ask for a class codes.  All parents will be emailed their students’ class codes tomorrow (Wednesday).
4. If you have any issues just email tlctech@tracylc.net
5. All students must sign on from 8-12:30pm.

• Please watch the video below for further clarifications

MHS

1. All students will go to classroom.google.com to access their virtual classrooms.  Please be on time.
2. All students have a username and login.  Incoming 9th graders can find this on their schedule they received in the mail.  In most cases, this is their first two initials and last name @tracylc.net (ie John Smith – josmith@tracylc.net).   If we have duplicated it is the full first name and full last name @tracylc.net.  Many students already know their password but if not, it is usually their student ID number (this can be found on your student schedule that was mailed home).
3. Students will need to add their classes by clicking on the ‘+’ symbol in the upper right.  It will then ask for class codes.

For class codes please check the following document:

MHS 2020-21 Schedule – Google Class Codes

4.     You must attend class (virtually) in Google Classroom at the times listed on the document above. You will notice there are no elective classes during distance learning except Spanish and ASL.  Please make a note of the internship and career ed times on the schedule.

For more about accessing   your Google Classroom with your @tracyl.net account please watch the following video:

This is the last week of summer break before school starts online for ALL students.  Stay tuned to the Charter Chatter this week for all the login info as well as other school news.  Now, a message from our Executive Director, Virginia Stewart:

This Wednesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons we will be handing out all reserved Chromebooks and PCS Supplies.  Remember, any device will allow your student to participate in our distance learning classes for ALL schools you do not need a Chromebook.  But remember, all students must report to classes at their given times (see previous Charter Chatter posts).  If you need a Chromebook, we have a limited supply so please use the form to reserve one for your student (https://forms.gle/MkkVZqJU5LE7L2Vq7)

Amazon also has a deal on the same devices we use if you want to purchase your own to use even when we return to school (link)

Chromebook Pickup:

MHS is Wednesday July 29th from 12-4p

DCS Thursday July 30th from 12-4p

PCS Friday July 30th from 12-4p (see below for supplies)

We feel distance learning cannot replace being in the classroom without students but we want to make the most of the time.  Having a routine is important for students and even from home, we want school to be part of their weekday just like a “normal” year.  Below is a short summary of how our TLC Distance Learning plan will go beginning August 3rd. Homework will be minimal as to not overwhelm parents and students.

You will be able to join any class online from any device with the Google Classroom app or website.  Many parents have inquired about purchasing Chromebooks for their students; we recommend at least 4gb of ram.  We purchase ours from Amazon.  IF you need to borrow one, we have a limited number; click here to put in a request.

More details will come in the coming days with regards to specific times for your student(s) but this gives you an idea so you can plan your own daily routines.

MHS

Students will attend mandatory virtual classes for Math, Science, Social Studies, and all Language Arts including Spanish and ASL based on our original 7:30 – 4:30 schedule for the 2020-2021 school year. All elective classes will be postponed until we are able to return to campus.

The only exceptions will be the Internship class which will take place on Wednesdays during 4th period (11:30am) and Career Ed which will take place on Thursdays during 4th period (11:30 am).

We expect students who have electives in their schedule to use that time for completing homework while we are distance learning. All assignments and class information will be posted using Google Classroom. All virtual classes will be using either Zoom or Meet at their regularly scheduled time and attendance will be taken for each period.

DCS

Students will attend mandatory virtual classes for core subjects (Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts) between the hours of 8am-12:30pm. Classes will be led by the teacher and will be interactive. Assignments, news and announcements, and class information will be posted via Google Classroom.

PCS

Students will attend mandatory, interactive Math, Reading, and Writing classes daily, Monday through Friday.  Classes start at 8:00 a.m. and end at 12:30 p.m. Each teacher will post schedules, some work for home, and announcements on Google Classroom.

TK

Pre-School

Champions Before/After School Care

Hello TLC Families!   TLC will begin the new school year solely online through Distance Learning on August 3rd.  We will monitor the state and county guidelines and hope to return to campus as soon as San Joaquin has met the requirements to do so.

Many of you have had questions about accessing online classes and assignments. Please see the detailed information below regarding Chromebooks and other devices your students can use. We will be sending out FAQs and more information about Google Classroom in the coming days.

Our goal is to make the most of the time we have online and provide quality education without burdening parents.  We have used these tools for years in various grades and believe this is the best way to help students learn outside of our classrooms.

Chromebook/Google Classroom Frequently Asked Questions:

TK-5th grade students will be assigned a username and password to access lessons and virtual meetings on Google Classroom. Sixth through 12th graders already have a login. Logging in can be done with any device (phone, iPad, PC, Mac, or Chromebook).  Parents/Guardians will also be able to receive notifications from Google Classroom via email, although they will not be able to turn in work or participate in discussions etc.

What is Google Classroom?

Google Classroom is a tool within our tracylc.net network that allows teachers to post announcements, assignments, quizzes, and engage in video classes and discussions.  It also enables students to easily complete work and turn it in electronically. Parents and Guardians can also be added to get emails regarding announcements and class news. It is a ‘one-stop-shop’  that even our youngest students will be able to handle.

What is the easiest way for my student to access Google Classroom? 

Students can use their home desktop computers, laptop computers, phones, ipads, Macs, or Chromebooks to do their assignments and participate in their classes.

 What is a Chromebook? 

A Chromebook is like a laptop but is less expensive, lighter, and faster. It starts‐up in less than ten seconds, connects to Internet‐based resources quickly, and provides six to eight hours of battery life. It is a simple tool that allows students to access their lessons and participate in virtual class meetings.

How can my student get a Chromebook?

TLC has a limited number of Chromebooks that will be available to check-out to students for distance learning from home. If you choose to request a school Chromebook, requests can be make using this form: https://forms.gle/vAvh2oqSKnqWX1KUA

Do the students get to keep the Chromebooks? No, school Chromebooks will be returned to TLC at our request.

Can parents purchase their own Chromebooks?  Yes, any Chromebook will allow your student to log into their school account.  All the school settings will still be in effect – all safety and web tools are linked to the student’s account and not the actual Chromebook.  

When purchasing your own we recommend looking at one with at least 4GB of ram, this will allow it to be useful for many years to come. (example – Lenovo Chromebook on Amazon ) They range in price from $99 – $400 and beyond.  

TLC will assist with tech support and issues if you do purchase your own.

One advantage of purchasing your own Chromebook is when we return to our classroom setting, your student would not have to potentially share the TLC class Chromebook with other students

Will students be allowed on social media sites (such as Instagram, Facebook, etc.) while at home? When students log into their Google Classroom account, we block a lot of content and this happens automatically.  Primary students have VERY limited access compared to older students. We still strongly recommend parents monitor student usage and also have access to their accounts (know your child’s username and password). 

Who is responsible for damaged TLC Chromebooks? If TLC determines that the device has been stolen, lost or damaged through neglect or misuse, it will be the parent/guardians’ responsibility to pay the full cost of the repair or pay $200 for replacement of the Chromebook.

Who do I contact if I have questions relating to technical issues, such as password not working, battery problems, can’t log in, etc.  TLC has a full-time tech team that can help with any issues. Please email chromebook@tracylc.net and let us know your issues.  We are here to help.

Do you have to have wifi to log into Google Classroom on any device? Yes – internet/wifi is necessary in order to participate in distance learning.  For those without a good internet connection, we have expanded our school network to cover all parking lots at TLC.  You can complete your work by hand or offline.  Then park at TLC, get on our wifi (TLCWifi  – password is Beverly51) and turn in work or perform research, etc.

Are the Chromebooks safe for children? A Chromebook is an instructional tool. At school students will be using them as they would other school computers, but they will have access at their desk. Using Google in Education will provide teachers and students with additional instructional tools. At home, it will be up to the parents to monitor their child as they would with any web-enabled device. We will provide more information on this if requested.  Internet safety and correct usage are important to us and learning to use technology responsibly is just as important as learning any other subject.

https://www.sjcoe.org/newsdetails.aspx?id=4946

As per the recommendation set forth by the San Joaquin County Office of Education and the Public Health Department, All Tracy Learning Center schools – Primary, Discovery and Millennium will begin the school year through online Distance Learning. This was Plan One of our reopening – Online only, no in-person classes.

We will be providing much more information over the coming weeks to help you and your students prepare. As the guidelines suggest, this will be through the month of August.

Monday Morning Message

Good Morning

Thank you for a great school year.  It was great because we were all flexible and did our part to make a trying time as good as it could be.  We learned so much from virtual learning and teaching.  Some of those things will change our teaching in the future, but the one thing we know is nothing replaces actual contact with our students and their interaction with one another.

Monday night the Tracy Learning Center Board adopted our three-part plan for reopening.  We are committed to opening with the appropriate plan given the circumstances at the time.  You will note that we are hoping and planning to implement Plan Two in August.  In order to be ready for that plan, we are assigning each student to a learning group.  We are attempting to keeping family together.  If we have not achieved that, please notify the office.  If there is a hardship for the days your family has been assigned, please provide documentation and/or an explanation and we will try to accommodate the change.  We need to keep a balance between the two groups, but we think we can work it out.

We are notifying Champions of our plan and we will ask them to consider child care for before and after school, on the days the children are at school.

We are excited at the possibility of reopening with actual in-person class time.  As you can see from our plan, safety is a big factor in the plan. We know we can count on all of you to follow our guidelines and to help reinforce the expectations at home.  Your attitude towards the plan will affect how your child reacts to the plan as well.  Take the time to explain the plan and the details to your child. (Younger ones need this the most).  We will keep you posted, but we want to be ready for the most probable plan.

Please be sure to wear your masks and maintain social distancing to help make Plan Two a reality.  Everyone doing what is needed to help us recover makes a difference.

The following are plans 1, 2, and 3 approved by the board for opening.  At this time, we are planning on opening with the hybrid plan 2.  Obviously, this is a fluid situation and we will be working closely with the county and state to ensure we are following all guidelines to keep our families and staff safe.

Tracy Learning Center Reopening Plan

for August 3, 2020

Plan ONE

Bans have been increased, social distancing and masks are the law, COVID 19 is increasing in numbers and state mandates indicate schools must remain closed.

• Tracy Learning Center will offer virtual learning daily for all students. Students will meet with staff virtually for instruction and be assigned work to do independently in addition to virtual Zoom teacher instruction. The instruction all be standards-based curriculum.

• Tracy Learning Center has a proven track record of using this model for three full months and while we believe it was successful, we are aware of the limitations.

• Attendance will be taken daily and contact will be made with all students who are not regularly attending classes to inquire as to why and how it can improve.  The calendar for 205 days will be implemented.

• Technology will be available through check out for all students in need of assistance or support.

• Grades will be issued, as usual, work and attendance are  mandatory,

Plan Two (MOST LIKELY THE PLAN WE WILL USE AUGUST 3)

COVID 19 seems to be slowing, schools are allowed to open with caution.  Social distance and masks remain required.

Academic Plan 

• All students will be placed in an A or B group ( by the last name to keep families on the same schedule K-12) 

• Each group will attend school in person for two full days. Group A will attend on Monday and Tuesday, Group B will attend Thursday and Friday)

The A and B groups allow for a tremendous decrease in the class size allowing for a great deal of individual attention and focus.  The curriculum will be relevant, rigorous, and interactive. 

• On Wednesdays, all students will be expected to attend virtual classes for two one hour sessions in grades TK-4) and one hour per class session in grades 5-12.  Attendance will be taken and is mandatory.

• On the two days not in attendance, each group will be assigned specific independent work related to the instruction they have received that will be due the same day.   Attendance will be taken.  Teachers will be available for questions during independent time if needed.  The work, though new, will be an application of what has been taught in class that week and must be completed for a grade.

                                                       Plan Two required safety guidelines 

Parents will not be permitted inside the gated areas but must wear masks for drop off and pick up 

Temperatures will be taken daily at the gate area before entering the school grounds

Sanitizers and soap and water will be available in each room

In the event of a child who becomes ill, a closed-off but visible area will be the waiting area until a parent arrives for the child.

Bagged Lunches may be purchased for room delivery by our food service, lunches from home must be in disposable containers including water for drinking.  Fountains at school will be closed. No backpacks at school. Individual pouches of pencils etc. will be given  to each student for individual use and kept at school for grades TK-8)

Bathrooms for each school will be monitored allowing one child inside at a time.

Social distancing will be enforced in the rooms and  areas will be marked with tape

Students and teachers will wear masks 

Outside hall doors will remain open for ventilation 

                    Individual considerations by school when implementing Plan Two 

Primary students will be assigned a chair, marked with their name for exclusive use.

No carpet sitting or carpets  will be used  in the primary classrooms

DCS students will remain in their first-period class for all classes except PE and lunch.  Teachers will travel to their rooms.

MHS schedules do not permit staying in one room for all classes, so hallways will be set up for one-way direction.  

In the event that a child or the child’s family contracts COVID 19, the child will be quarantined for 14 days.  Independent work will be assigned.

The hybrid plan ( Plan Two) will be reviewed once a month.  When conditions improve in the county, the plan will change to more closely resemble Plan Three.

Plan THREE 

All restrictions for masks, social distancing, or other reopening issues are lifted and COVID 19 is showing a strong decline in identified cases and deaths.

• All students will return to a traditional school setting as usual.  There will be classroom attendance 5 days a week following standards-based curriculum

• The school schedule given to students will be followed.

• All curriculum will be standards-based and learning will be aligned for rigor, relevance, and interaction.

• Students’ needs will be addressed through special programs and individual consideration.

• The 205-day calendar will be implemented