Flexible Instructional Day (FID) Guidelines for NA Parents/Guardians

During the 2019-2020 School Year, North Allegheny School District will be utilizing Flexible Instruction Days (FIDs), which may be used in place of a school day that would be canceled because of inclement weather or another emergency situation. On a FID, students will complete learning activities and assignments provided by their teachers at home.

What's the benefit of a FID?

Implementing a FID will not require additional make-up days when school is canceled. These make-up days could shorten the spring break or extend the school year. The District can use up to five (5) FIDs per school year. FIDs are considered a school day and count toward the number of instructional days/hours required under Article 15 of the Public School Code and Chapter 11 of the State Board of Education regulations.

If the District calls for a FID, how will I know?

Students and parents/guardians will be informed of a FID through the District's notification systems in the same way that school closings and delays are currently announced. Notifications will be distributed via School Messenger and will be posted on the District's website, www.northallegheny.org.

Will every school day that is canceled because of inclement weather be considered a FID?

A FID will occur after the District uses the four (4) snow days built into this year’s school calendar.

What will be expected of my child during a FID (grades 6-12)?

Middle School and High School students are expected to log on to Blackboard (northallegheny.blackboard.com) to access assignment information. Each individual course will have a FID module available which will contain the FID activities/lesson for the day. This material will be available no later than 9:00 a.m. on the FID. If a child does not have Internet access, the child will need to contact his or her teacher on the next school day. Students will have five (5) school days, once school resumes, to complete their learning activities. Any student who fails to complete their FID assignment within five (5) school days will be marked as absent unexcused from school and will receive a zero on any graded assignment that was not submitted.

What will be expected of my child during a FID (grades K-5)?

Elementary students will work on a FID lesson unique to their grade level. A team of elementary educators is currently working on these lessons which will include a checklist of possible activities for a student to complete. These choices will include core and special area classes. Students will have five (5) school days, once school resumes, to complete their learning activities. Any student who fails to complete their FID assignment within five (5) school days will be marked as absent unexcused from school and will receive a zero on any graded assignment that was not submitted.

How does student attendance work?

Student attendance will be determined by verification and completion of the FID lesson and/or assignment. Students should not report to school on a FID.

How can I contact a teacher or staff member during a FID?

All teachers and professional staff members will be available via email during a FID. This includes special area teachers such as music, art, library, physical education, GOAL, learning support, teachers in specialized programs, reading specialists, and school counselors, nurses, social workers, speech therapists, interventionists, and principals, unless the individual is ill that day.

What if my child needs help with a lesson/assignment on a FID, will teachers be available to answer questions?

Yes, all school-based staff members will be available to answer questions on a FID via email during the hours below. The student technology help desk will also be available.

• High School-7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (assignments will be available on Blackboard after 9:00 a.m.)
• Middle School-8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. (assignments will be available on Blackboard after 9:00 a.m.)
• Elementary School-8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

 

How long will my child have to complete FID lessons and/or assignments?

Students will have five (5) school days, once school resumes, to complete their learning activities.

What happens if my child fails to complete his/her assignment(s)?

Teachers will check FID assignments completion or may count the assignment as a graded assignment. Any student who fails to complete their FID assignment within five (5) school days will be marked as absent and will receive a zero on any graded assignment that was not submitted.

My child has an IEP, will his/her lesson be modified appropriately?

The FID lesson will be designed for students with special needs utilizing their program modifications, specially designed instruction and supplementary aids and services identified in their individualized education plans. Upon return from a FID, teachers of students with special needs will meet with their students to review work submitted, checking for completion and understanding. Any related services (Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech, etc.) scheduled during the FID will be rescheduled according to the frequency requirements of the students’ individualized education plan.

Will after school activities be canceled on a FID?

Yes, after school activities will be canceled during a FID.