Page 17 - FDLRS Focus Winter 2021

Extended School Year

Extended School Year FY20:

In collaboration with FDLRS, The Department of Exceptional
Student Education implemented remote instruction in summer of
2020 setting an increased standard of practice for distance learning.
The Department, in conjunction with the regional offices, supported
elementary and secondary sites in each region and provided
professional development and on-going support and technical
assistance virtually. A Google Classroom was created and 503 ESY
teachers and site administrators enrolled. This classroom provided a
platform for resources and training to be provided prior to and during
ESY. Topics in the classroom included: Augmentative Alternative
Communication, Access Points, Accommodations, Compliance,
Instructional Resources, COVID-19 Resources for Students and Families, Pre-K, Technology Supports, and
Social Skills and Behavior. FDLRS and the ESE Department offered “flipped'' professional development for
ESY staff. As staff was hired they were enrolled in the Google Classroom and asked to explore the resources
and watch some of the posted, pre-recorded training. A personalized learning day was scheduled for teachers
to join 90 minute sessions based on their personal need for professional growth. FDLRS staff added topics to
the Google Classroom, hosted professional development sessions, hosted office hours, and provided technical
support and assistance throughout ESY.

Trailblazers and ESE

Palm Beach County and Educational Technology department included Exceptional
Student Education teachers (ESE) in the school district’s TrailBlazer program.
Through this program, teachers received class sets of Chromebooks as well as
additional technology training. They learned how to integrate technology with
curriculum and it has proven to help not only our teachers but our students, who are
using technology to enhance learning. These ESE teachers have been leaders on their
school campuses, providing assistance to other teachers and parents as they learned to
navigate uncharted waters.

All classrooms in our district now have Interactive panels (SMART Boards) which has further enhanced
learning for students. Students are more engaged with use of the interactive boards and whether in-person
or virtual, students are actively participating in lessons!

Because of their efforts, teachers in
the School District of Palm Beach
County hold the most Google
certifications than any other
District in the world!

Volume 42 Issue 1 Page 17