Irving ISD families will be able to choose how their child will learn in the upcoming 2020-2021 school year. Families will be able to choose between two different models of learning – in-person learning and remote learning, the district announced Monday, June 29.

Families will make their decision beginning July 6 when online registration opens for the 2020-2021 school year.  Families are encouraged to register by Friday, July 24, to assist the district in planning for the fall. All students will be required to register online.

Option 1. In-Person Learning

Families who choose in-person learning for their student(s) will begin in-person learning at their assigned campus starting Monday, August 17. School staff will implement heightened hygiene and disinfectant protocols and safety measures, so families feel comfortable sending their child to school and students and staff stay safe while learning in the building. More detailed information about health and safety protocols will be forthcoming.

Option 2. Remote Learning (Synchronous and Asynchronous)

Families who choose remote learning for their student(s) will begin remote learning starting Monday, August 17.  Students will not be required to attend in-person learning at their assigned campus.

Parents will have two remote learning options – synchronous and asynchronous.  Parents of students in grades PreK – second grade who choose remote learning will be required to choose the asynchronous option per the Texas Education Agency.  Students in grades 3-12 may choose either option.

Synchronous Remote Learning – Students Learn at the Same Time

Synchronous remote learning enables all students to learn together at the same time via instruction with the teacher via live video chat, Zoom, etc.  Communication happens in real time and allows for more engagement, instant feedback, and clarification.

Asynchronous Remote Learning – Students Learn at Different Times

Asynchronous remote learning allows students to work at their own pace since communication does not happen in real time.  Instruction is provided via email, videos, blog posts and comments.  Asynchronous learning provides more flexibility during the day.

It is important to note that the remote classroom experience will look very different than it did in the spring following the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders. The remote learning experience will be much more robust, reflecting new professional training and higher expectations for both educators and students. Regardless of which remote learning option is chosen, students will continue to receive the high-quality instruction they have been accustomed to receiving in-person from Irving ISD.

Earlier this month, Irving ISD asked families for input on their preferred method of instruction for their child. “The feedback from our families along with guidance from the Texas Education Agency drove our decision to provide multiple options,” says Superintendent of Schools Magda Hernandez. “We understand that one size does not fit all and that there are many important variables to consider, including health concerns, parents who have to work and students who yearn for that in-person instruction. The two options we are offering were molded around the thoughtful responses from our parents.”

Irving ISD will begin registering students online beginning July 6 to give parents time to think about which learning option works best for their child and family.

Additional details about both remote and in-person instruction, including online registration, busing, school supply lists, Meet the Teacher night, and more will be shared in coming days on social media and at www.IrvingISD.net/BackToSchool.