Student Learning During Emergency Closures

The division has updated its emergency plans to better support student learning when weather or other emergencies cause schools to close. Beginning this year, students may participate in either synchronous (live) or asynchronous (independent) learning during an unscheduled closure. The division will inform families if learning will take place, and which type of learning will occur, when announcing an emergency closure.

What Learning Looks Like During Closures

YCSD uses two types of remote learning depending on the situation:

Option 1: Synchronous Learning (Live Online)

Preschool-Grade 2 & Select K-12 Special Education Programs:

Teachers will send home learning packets in advance for use during closures and will be available to support students and families via email and/or Microsoft Teams during normal school hours.

Grades 3-12:

Teachers will schedule live classes and office hours on Microsoft Teams during regular school hours.

Option 2: Asynchronous Learning (Self-Paced)

Students complete assignments on Canvas or using printed packets.

Preschool-Grade 2 & Select Special Education Programs:

Students use printed packets
Teachers are available for support

Grades 3-5:

Approximately 2 hours of work on Canvas per day
Office Hours: 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Middle & High School:

Approximately 45 minutes of work per class block per day
Office Hours match the synchronous schedule

What Families Can Do to Prepare

Keep printed learning packets in a safe place
Make sure students know how to log into Canvas and Microsoft Teams:

Ensure devices are charged and ready to go
Reach out to teachers with questions - they’ll share office hours and contact info

Frequently Asked Questions

Will remote learning take place every time schools close for an emergency?

The superintendent, in collaboration with the division leadership team, will evaluate each situation to determine if remote learning is appropriate.

What influences whether remote learning is synchronous or asynchronous day?

Synchronous instruction is used when conditions allow for live online participation, while asynchronous learning may be implemented when weather conditions, widespread power outages, or internet connectivity issues limit students’ ability to access classes in real time.

How will I know what my student’s schedule on a synchronous learning day?

Teachers will communicate specific class schedules, office hours and instructions for joining virtual lessons directly with families.

Do Remote Learning Days count as school days?

The Code of Virginia allows school divisions to include an emergency remote learning day as part of the 180-day or 990 instructional hours requirements in accordance with guidelines provided by the Virginia Department of Education. As such, Remote Learning Days are treated as a school day.

How does student attendance work on an Asynchronous Remote Learning Day?

In order for a student to be marked present on an Asynchronous Remote Learning Day:

Students in grades PreK-2 will complete identified assignments within learning packets provided by their teacher(s) and turn the assignments in when students return to school.

Students in grades 3-12 will log into Canvas during an Asynchronous Remote Learning Day to access and complete assignments provided by teachers. Middle and high school attendance will be based on individual class assignments, completed through Canvas or as directed by teachers.

What if a student is unable to complete assignments?

Similar to an excused absence for a regular school day, families are responsible for providing written notification to the school attendance secretary and classroom teacher upon returning to school.

What if a student did not receive a learning packet (grades PreK-2)?

Please contact your child's teacher to request the materials electronically.

Are students required to attend virtual classes or meetings during an Asynchronous Remote Learning Day?

No, all learning will take place asynchronously.

How do students communicate with teachers during an asynchronous day?

Students and families can contact teachers by email and/or through Canvas during an Asynchronous Remote Learning Day.

What if we experience technical difficulties?

Students or staff requiring technology assistance can contact the YCSD IT Help Desk at 757-527-4819 or by email at ycsdITsupport@ycsd.york.va.us between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.