How can families decide if MPS Online School is the right choice for their student?

To decide if MPS Online School is a good fit for their student, families should review the following Profile of an Online Learner.

Students learn in a variety of ways. MPS students have had an opportunity to learn and develop skills in technology devices, software and virtual learning skills through district-wide distance learning. MPS Online School is a great opportunity for certain students to continue their  K-12 academic progress through a learning model that best suits their learning styles. 

Before making a decision on the best learning model for them, students and parents should review the descriptions of an online learner below and think about whether an online learning model would be best for them:

Grades K-3

• I am choosing an online learning model because my learning style better matches a virtual learning environment.
• I know my online class may have different challenges than in-person classes because of the virtual environment.
• I am self-motivated and can give solid attention to complete tasks and projects.
• I am able to follow directions well and will ask questions when I need clarification.
• I like to get things done today and not wait until tomorrow.
• I do not give up easily, even when confronted with obstacles.
• I will not miss daily in-person interaction with my instructor and classmates and have other opportunities for socialization.
• I am comfortable spending at least 6 hours per day dedicated to my online class that includes daily synchronous (real time) participation with my teacher and time to complete assignments that may include watching videos and engaging in learning platforms such as Lexia, Dreambox, iStation etc.
• I have or am willing to learn reading strategies that can help me get through difficult texts and/or am willing to reach out to my teacher to support my reading comprehension.
• I have basic computer skills and can use word processing software, download software, install software, use a web browser, etc.
• I have access to a computer that is connected to the Internet and have a backup plan if something happens to my computer.
• I am comfortable in a "virtual environment" and using Seesaw and/or Google Classroom platforms.

Grades 4-12

• I am choosing an online learning model because my learning style better matches a virtual learning environment.
• I know my online classes may have different challenges than in-person classes because of the virtual environment.
• I am self-motivated and can give solid attention to complete tasks and projects.
• I am able to work independently with little direction. 
• I have good time-management skills that allow me to schedule specific times throughout the week to work on my online course(s).
• I can adequately prepare and study for assessments.
• I can effectively communicate any questions or concerns to my instructor.
• I am comfortable expressing myself in writing. 
• I like to get things done today and not tomorrow.
• I will not miss daily in-person interaction with my teacher and classmates and have other opportunities for socialization.
• I do not give up easily, even when confronted with obstacles.
• I am comfortable spending at least 6 hours per day dedicated to my online coursework that includes daily synchronous (real time) participation with course instructor(s), time to review course lectures/videos, time to complete course assignments, time to participate in chats and threaded discussions, etc. 
• I agree that online courses can be more challenging than in-person classes.
• I have or am willing to learn reading strategies that can help me get through difficult texts and/or am willing to reach out to staff to support my reading comprehension.
• I have basic computer skills and can use word processing software, download software, install software, use a web browser, etc.
• I have access to a computer that is connected to the Internet and have a backup plan if something happens to my computer.
• I am comfortable in a "virtual environment," email, sending attachments, threaded discussions, chat rooms, etc.

Adapted from https://www.fairmontstate.edu/academics/distancelearning/successful-student