Surrey School District unveils hybrid learning options for students and families

After unveiling plans for a return to in-class instruction, the Surrey School District has shared additional options to families for hybrid learning.

Transition programs are being offered for students between Kindergarten and Grade 9. Two options have been made available for families with children in elementary school, while three options are available for secondary school studies.

Laurie Larsen, Chair of the Surrey Board of Education, says that while they’re confident in their plans, the Board also understands the apprehension that families may be feeling.

“We are confident in our plans, but we know that many of our families are nervous,” Larsen said in a statement. “Many of our students haven’t been in a school since March, so it’s normal to have some apprehension about returning.”

As an alternative to full-time, in-class instruction, elementary school students in Surrey can opt for a blended transition program. This method includes online learning on most days and in-class learning with a cohort one afternoon per week. Ideally, the amount of in-class exposure will increase as the school year progresses.

With this option, parents are being told to expect “multi-age groupings and possibly multi-school groupings.” Students will remain, however, enrolled in their neighbourhood school.

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Students in secondary school will have two alternatives for in-class learning — a blended transition program and an online program. The transition program allows for school staff to work with families individually and will use options such as a delayed start or reduced attendance. Similar to elementary school students, the goal is to increase in-person learning as the year progresses.

The online alternative, the Surrey Academy of Innovative Learning (SAIL) is the district’s online school and available for students between grades eight and 12.

Transition programs are expected to be fully operational by September 21, with orientation taking place a week earlier.