[Mail_supt] COVID-19 and the potential need for more distance learning tools

[Thor Sage]

Dear Superintendents, Treasurers, and Technology Contacts,

A short time ago Governor Dewine declared a state of emergency in Ohio related to the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.  At MVECA, we are preparing for potential school closures of substantial duration.  Our ITC site has been working closely with the ODE and the Governor's Office through the Management Council to make sure we are up-to-date on current developments and you are aware of the options currently available for remote learning.

Cisco WebEx, GoToMeeting, and Zoom are all offering free 90 access to their web conferencing tools.  Please let me know if you'd like to take advantage of this and I'll provide additional information.  We can quickly enable WebEx access for your entire staff.  Ongoing district wide licensing of Cisco WebEx and Zoom at discounted rates are also available if you're looking for long term web conferencing capability.

All ProgressBook schools also have an integrated learning management system (LMS), VirtualClassroom, that you can take advantage of now.  Here is a link to some quick guides and resources to help you understand VirtualClassroom and its benefits: https://www.mveca.org/VirtualClassroom.aspx .  Please let us know right away if you need assistance with VirtualClassroom implementation.  We will be providing lists of additional resources soon.

We will also be providing training on how to leverage all of the remarkable INFOhio content, entirely free of charge.  INFOhio content is all electronic, easy to use remotely, and covers almost all Ohio standards, benchmarks and indicators articulated in the state standards and model curriculum.

We realize that not every student has access to a device or to broadband connectivity.  We can approach vendors with you to seek low cost (or sometimes free) access to computers, tablets, Chromebooks, phones, connectivity, adaptive devices, and other technology that enables students to participate more fully in the learning experience in the midst of a widespread public health crisis.

Additionally, we will be working with our colleagues around the state to coordinate a clearinghouse of important links for schools as you consider how best to continue the teaching and learning process in the face of the public health situation.

Please don't hesitate to contact us directly with your questions about any sort of technology tools or implementations that can be brought to bear in this uncertain environment.  We will continue to update as additional information and resources become available.
Thanks,
Thor

Thor Sage
Executive Director
Miami Valley Educational Computer Association
937-767-1468  x3101
[http://www.mveca.org/images/logo.gif]<http://www.mveca.org/>       [i] <https://www.linkedin.com/company-beta/3947840/> [t] <https://twitter.com/mvecarcog> [f] <https://www.facebook.com/MVECA-707401659416692/>
Not-for-profit Technology Services for Education and Local Governments



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