Daily Schedules

One of the most difficult things about transitioning to an online environment is keeping a schedule. It is so easy to get distracted by things going on at home, or just wanting to sit in front of the TV to work. I highly recommend setting a schedule for yourself and encouraging your students to set one too.

For teachers:

I have heard that many districts require students to log in for attendance by a certain time each day, so you can use that a the beginning of your day if you'd like, but here's a rough outline of what your day may look like -

8:30 am - Sit down at your computer prepared to work. That includes having changed out of your PJs and into something that's comfortable but presentable on a video call. Check emails/communication, meet with colleagues, etc.

9 am - 11:30 am - Run lectures, break out sessions, tutoring sessions, assign independent work, etc. (don't forget to take breaks!!)

11:30 am - 12:15 pm - Walk away from your computer, read a book, or take a walk outside.

12:15 pm - 2:30 pm - Plan for the next day, upload docs/presentations/notes etc. for students.

2:30 pm - Log out!

This is not a typical schedule for online teachers, but it is something you can follow for the time being. You cannot be too hard on yourself during these times, remember to spend time with family and enjoy some time outside when it's nice out!

For students: 

Again this is just a suggestion, it can be adjusted based on the attendance requirements and how the teacher's schedule looks for the day.

8:45 am - Log in for attendance. Prepare any writing or note-taking materials you may need.

9 am - 11:30 am - Follow the instructions for the day, attend teacher lectures, participate in activities as assigned, take notes. Don't forget to take breaks - message your teacher when you walk away from your computer.

11:30 am - 12:15 pm - Eat a healthy lunch, go outside and play or stretch your legs by taking a walk.

12:15 pm - 1:30 pm - Complete any necessary work as assigned or to catch up on missing assignments.

1:30 - 2:30 pm - Read (This is a long time so be sure to take breaks when needed!)

2:30 pm - Log out!

Teachers and paras in our school attend a morning "huddle" each day to talk about things going on, issues that need to be addressed, etc. Teachers spend most of their day in one-on-one meetings with students and sometimes in small group tutoring sessions. When they are not with a student there are phone calls, texts, IMs, and emails going out to students to check in. Teachers have the opportunity at the end of the day to do some of the necessary paperwork and planning and Fridays are set aside for staff meetings, PD, department meetings, planning, and grading.

Set up a schedule that works for you and stick to it. Give your day some sort of consistency and if you have your own kids at home this will help keep everyone on track!