Upper School At Home Learning Guide

Upper School At-Home Learning Guide

Schedule, Resources, and Guidance for At-Home Learning Experiences

Please take some time to review this guide to setting yourself up for success during our days of virtual learning. Students  need predictability in these uncertain times, and it is up to parents and your IC Imagine family to provide this. We know that some of you are not accustomed to dedicating time and space for working on academics at home, so we’ve included some helpful strategies and resources that have been provided by our teachers, administrators, and mental health experts to help you create a healthy learning environment.

Set up a functional workspace.

It’s important to create a space where you can do your work. For those of you that  don’t already have a designated space, consider the following: 

  1. Designate a space in your home just for working.
  2. Good light and a decent amount of space to spread yourself and your materials out are both very important.
  3. Everyone thrives at different times, so find the time that you’ll do your best work and try to commit to that… every day. 
  4. Getting dressed for the day can help motivate you, try it if you have found you are unmotivated to do work.
  5. Know your limitations and put your distractions to the side while you focus on work, if possible.
  6. Communicate your needs to your family, if it’s quiet you need you should let them know so they can help make that happen.

Establish routine

Experts are all emphasizing the importance of setting up a routine for your family. These routines should include learning activities, physical activities, and recreational activities. Many of our students seem to be more productive during the morning/early afternoon hours. If this works well for you, continue to work on your assignments during this time.  If it is not the best time of day for you, and you have the ability to do so, consider moving your work time to a time of day when you feel you can be more productive.  

Get outside and move

It is imperative for students to get outside for movement activities each day. Vitamin D and physical activity will boost the immune system, help reduce stress, and increase focus. If you are currently enrolled in PE, your teacher will be posting assignments for you to get you moving.  For those who are not in PE, that department is working on providing resources for you to access while you are home.  

Limit screen time. And monitor activity.

This is tough to do in a virtual learning environment. We are asking for a maximum of 3.5 hours of engagement each day. Often students will check in with the classroom then work on something that does not require a screen. It can be easy to use technology to battle boredom by watching movies and surfing the internet, but it will be helpful for students to try to find other activities that will occupy their time. Please pay attention to how much time you spend in front of a screen, it is healthy to limit and monitor additional screen time.

Don’t stress

Keep calm, when you can.  However, when you cannot stay calm  you should visit our Upper School Counseling Google Classroom. There you can find strategies that may help you manage the emotions you may be experiencing right now.  

Daily Schedule

Create a schedule that includes your daily routine. We understand each family’s circumstances are different, so set up a daily or weekly schedule that works for your family and prioritize activities that allow you to remain engaged with your academics. Most classes will only require 30 minutes of time each day.  Honors and AP courses may require more time to complete daily work. Please communicate with teachers if you are unable to complete the expected workload, via email.

Additional Resources 

Be mindful of screen time if you are engaging in these additional resources or activities.

Additional Mental Health Resources

Additional Content Resources 

Additional Activities