WEST COVINA, CA – West Covina Unified educators are preparing for a strong start to the 2020-21 year on Aug. 17 through a series of teacher trainings meant to enhance instructional strategies and ensure rigorous educational opportunities during state-mandated distance learning.

Provided throughout the summer and in the week prior to the start of the school year, the trainings provide in-depth exploration of digital tools like Google Classroom and discuss instructional shifts that benefit students during distance learning, such as additional hands-on activities and student-led discussions.

“West Covina Unified promoted the use of technology as an instructional tool long before COVID-19, which helped ease the transition to distance learning for teachers and students,” said Jennifer Crabtree, coordinator of Educational Technology and Distance Learning. “We look forward to how our teachers will continue to build their virtual classrooms and provide rigorous, engaging instruction to our students.”

Teachers also have the opportunity to share ideas for boosting student engagement creating robust learning experiences for students.

West Covina Unified will continue to offer technology support to parents and students in distance learning, providing comprehensive resources through its dedicated distance learning website. Those resources include tutorials on using digital learning tools and access to the District’s tech support line.

In addition, every West Covina Unified student – from transitional kindergarten to 12th grade – will be equipped with a device in 2020-21, ensuring equity in access to high-quality virtual instruction.

Signature programs such as Mandarin Dual Language Immersion and Mt. SAC Early College Academy will also be supported during distance learning, offering students the opportunity to develop bilingualism/biliteracy and pursue an Associate of Arts degree while earning their diploma, respectively.

“West Covina Unified is committed to providing students with the most rigorous, rewarding education available, whether it be in-person or online,” West Covina Unified Superintendent Dr. Charles D. Hinman said. “We are grateful to our educators, administrators and staff for their tireless commitment to our students and thank them for their support in preparing for a successful start to the 2020-21 year.”