Our mission of Learn. Serve. Lead. — is always top of mind. To best support our fifth to eighth graders we have assembled this quick but helpful list of ways we think might best keep scholars on track, until it is safe for us to be together in-person again.
Along with the 3 ups of staying safe:
- Wash Up
- Mask Up
- Back Up (to a safe distance)
We offer 5 Ups and 2 Boosts for staying on track online:
1) Show Up! We want to see our scholars, hear from them, collaborate with and teach them. Make sure your scholar knows when the day begins and when to log in for online learning versus when school work is done offline each day. Routines are very helpful to keeping on task and allowing scholars to understand the flow of their day.
2) Time’s Up! Create and follow a morning routine such as setting an alarm, getting dressed and eating a healthy breakfast. Figure out what works best for your scholar(s) and help them to check in and stay on track each day. Many scholars benefit from visual schedules or calendars so they can see what comes next. Consider a timer if needed.
3) Pair Up Who can help when scholars have a question? When are teachers available? Don’t go it alone. Get the help needed from us. Sometimes having a classmate or friend to check in with can help scholars keep on top of all the assignments and activities.
4) Productivity Boost Figure out where and how to learn best. Find a quiet space and eliminate distractions and clutter as best you can. Keep the toys away. Use headphones to hear your online lessons if you are able, while also minimizing background noise. Definitely turn off your cell phone and avoid checking it until schoolwork is done. Your dedicated learning environment is for you!
5) Break it up! Weave exercise into your day. Everyone needs a brain break, and our fifth to eighth graders are no exception. Some scholars can even focus better if they’re standing while online. Exercise is also important for reducing anxiety and stress — and can even help scholars with focus. The amount of breaks and exercise your child needs is unique to them.
6) Hands Up! Encourage your scholar to participate every chance they can. Ask questions, comment, support peers and enjoy the feedback received as well.
7) Positive Feedback Boost Reassurances and support go a long way for children of all ages. Recognize when your scholar has worked hard and reward them with something special — a treat, more time with their tablet or with you. Whatever works to keep your scholar feeling the support and love we feel for them, as their Vanguard Collegiate family, and helps your family stay engaged.
Middle school is the perfect time to expand scholars’ horizons by planting the seeds of critical thinking and problem-solving. These skills will propel our Vanguard scholars in high school and beyond. Online learning elevates this — creating increased openings for self-awareness, self direction, productivity and autonomy in learning.
Woes and Bravos
If you ever need to share challenges or want more input on how best to support your scholar while learning from home, please do not hesitate to reach out. Start with your classroom teachers. They are dedicated, knowledgeable and available experts ready to jump in with advice on how best to support grit, growth and goals in grades five to eight!
If any of your friends are unhappy with their middle school, let them know about Vanguard Collegiate of Indianapolis. We are enrolling — even after the beginning of the school year. Because of our intentionally small size and dedicated teachers, we can help any scholar catch up and get on board to: Learn. Serve. Lead. We love our scholars!
About Vanguard
Vanguard Collegiate of Indianapolis is unapologetically focused on the academic success of our scholars, our fifth to eighth grade students. Situated in Central Indianapolis, we provide high-quality instruction, rigorous curriculum, and supportive character development. We create pathways to college success and to becoming leaders in thought, word, and action. Be a Vanguard, today!
