Classroom learning is being done a little differently these days but the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board is answering the challenge. Jamie Perry, the Director of Education says the board’s initial priority was to get as many students as possible up and running with the necessary access to use digital learning platforms. Almost over-night the switch was made to distance learning. A lending program was also quickly initiated to address the needs of families that did not have devices. The program has lent 600 devices such as Chromebooks and iPads to enable students to continue their learning. The Board is now purchasing WiFi hotspots to provide additional students with internet access from home. Also, the Board’s Mental Health Team has been reaching out regularly to students and families since the school closure began. They have been assisting families in making connections with community partners, continuing to provide support to students on their caseload, and accepting new referrals from schools.
