Between late march and mid August, Roving Learners went 100% virtual. we constantly monitor the local situation and are prepared to go virtual if needed.
During the COVID-19 pandemic and statewide school closures, Roving Learners locked the home base and parked the vans. We shifted all of our efforts to a virtual school - we used Zoom to work together, we took online excursions and solo outdoor activities, and students continued to build academic and pro-social skills.
We acted as a virtual school. Kids aren't out and about experiencing the creeks, flora, fauna, hikes, business, museums, libraries, court houses, state buildings, etc. around the Austin area; but, they still learned every day - taking virtual tours of places, like, museums, zoos and state parks. They honied typing skills and learned how to navigate google docs and folders, remembered passwords and logins, used Zoom and adhered to social protocols, and learned how to make the best out of a crummy situation.
Roving Learners hit the virtual ground running. We didn't miss a day. Now, it wasn't the smoothest start - but we were rolling along. Now, it is smooth sailing - kids are still learning through experience and improving academic skills along the way.
During the COVID-19 pandemic and statewide school closures, Roving Learners locked the home base and parked the vans. We shifted all of our efforts to a virtual school - we used Zoom to work together, we took online excursions and solo outdoor activities, and students continued to build academic and pro-social skills.
We acted as a virtual school. Kids aren't out and about experiencing the creeks, flora, fauna, hikes, business, museums, libraries, court houses, state buildings, etc. around the Austin area; but, they still learned every day - taking virtual tours of places, like, museums, zoos and state parks. They honied typing skills and learned how to navigate google docs and folders, remembered passwords and logins, used Zoom and adhered to social protocols, and learned how to make the best out of a crummy situation.
Roving Learners hit the virtual ground running. We didn't miss a day. Now, it wasn't the smoothest start - but we were rolling along. Now, it is smooth sailing - kids are still learning through experience and improving academic skills along the way.
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Students log into Zoom by 9:00 and we start with a morning check in. The Littles, 5-7/8 year olds, work with Lulu in the morning on math and literacy skills. The Olders, 8/9-15, work with John and Mark on math and writing (which is focused on social studies and science topics). The morning is broken up with a break from 10-11.
Photo courtesy of Pepper
At 2:00, students log into a typing program and build their keyboarding skills. We reconvene as a group at 2:30 for the end of the day check out.
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Science w/ Silas - Periodic Table of Elements
We take a lunch break from 12-1. During both breaks, students are encouraged to play outside, run around, eat a healthy (low sugar) snack/lunch.
After lunch, between 1-2 students have more choice and can engage in activities such as self directed writing, studying topics of their desire, playing online games with one another, etc. They have more choice in how to present what they've learned; such as making video of Science with Silas. 
Photo courtesy of Pepper
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