Friday, Mar 13, 2020
Dear Student Teachers,
By now, you've learned of the University's plans for an extended spring break until March 29, followed by remote and alternative instruction beginning March 30 until April 10. We understand that these are unusual circumstances and that our normal routines may be disrupted for a period of time. Together, we will work through the challenges of our current situation.
This afternoon, Governor Phil Murphy and NJDOE Commissioner Lamont Repollet held a press conference in which they stated that they are “planning for the inevitability that every district will be closed for an extended period of time.”
With this in mind we are offering the following guidance:
- If your district is open, you should attend as usual. If you have not gathered your video and assessments you need to do so now! Even if you are not ready to teach the lessons you had planned for Task 1, begin recording any instruction that involves students who have returned permission slips. If necessary, you can adjust Task 1 to match the instruction you have recorded for Task 2. Don’t forget to collect Task 3 assessments that align with the instruction.
- If your district is using a remote learning platform that you are able to access, please discuss with your cooperating teacher and supervisor how you can best continue supporting your students. Your supervisor may be able to help you navigate gaining access to these platforms with your cooperating teacher.
- As we have communicated previously, we have been in touch with the NJDOE and they understand the need for flexibility regarding hours in the field. Continue to update us with your district’s status.
- The computer lab in 105/107 BFH will be open according to the schedule on the edTPA Google Calendar. Please be sure to check before coming to campus as the schedule may change. You should use any additional free time to work on and complete your edTPA as it is still required for NJDOE certification.
- If you currently have equipment and were unable to collect enough video before schools close, you should come to the lab to offload what you have and return your equipment by Thursday, March 19 by 3:00 p.m. You can then work on all other tasks of edTPA. We will loan equipment after schools reopen so you can collect additional video and assessments if necessary.
edTPA submission support sessions will be conducted in a virtual format with additional individual support being provided in the computer lab if needed. You will receive additional instructions regarding the support sessions.
In the meantime, please know that we are here to help you navigate this difficult time. We will all need to be patient and flexible as the situation is rapidly changing.
Warmly,
Erica Spence-Umstead
Director of Field PlacementRider UniversityCollege of Education and Human Services
Office of Field Placement and State CertificationBierenbaum Fisher Hall 116C[email protected]609-895-5417609-896-5282 (fax)