Hi David,

I’m the director of independent study and online learning for Joel Barlow High School.  We have decided, with board approval, to have online learning follow the same guidelines as independent study.  Since all of our kids are supposed to be in attendance, SOMEWHERE, their Power School attendance is taken by study hall or one of the “centers” (Library, academic, writing, or career).  If students request it, guidance will build an extra period into the schedule.  However, since all of our online classes are asynchronous, it is up to the students to decide when they’re taking the class.  We will reserve a computer, if requested.  Each student must find an faculty member to act as advisor.  I monitor student progress and report to the advisor.  If adequate progress in not happening after a month, I meet with the student and tell the advisor that the student has to terminate if a catch-up plan is not proposed by the student.  The grade is entered into Power School by the advisor, since the student in enrolled in one of their “classes” (we call it Period 9, in an 8 period schedule). The grade is based on the online teacher’s appraisal and the advisor’s opinion of progress.

I don’t deal with VHS.  However, this year I’m dealing with these vendors:

Each has a unique monitoring system.   

Let me know if you need more detail.

John Crowley
Director, Learning Resources & Information Technology
Joel Barlow High School
100 Black Rock Turnpike
Redding, CT  06896
203-938-2508 x1540
fax 203-938-9851