During this unique time in our school year, and lives in general, we are about to explore new ways of connecting with each other and sharing our learning. Now more than ever, we will need to rely on ourselves, our families and each other to stay safe, to help each other and to continue moving forward in our new normal. Communication will happen digitally where possible, but we will also look at the age old form of pen and paper where applicable. 

Under Cool Links I will be adding websites worth trying as we go through this.. please check them out.

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Reconnecting with One Another

During the week of March 30th to April 3rd, Sunrise Staff will be working to make contact with all the sudents and caregivers currently enrolled in our program. We will be reaching out via email and telephone to determine what methods will work best for everyone's needs. We are very aware that for many this will seem like a slow process, please know we are doing our best to reach everyone as soon as possible.
We will be using technology, specifically Microsoft Teams, to connect with students electronically where possible. This software and service is available free of charge to all students in the VSB. Information on how to connect will be provided over the next week. For those that require devices to connect, a limited number will be available for distribution (more information to follow). 

Setting Up a
​ Schedule

While we are setting things up with re-connection, we would like to provide some concrete things students and families can begin immediately on  their own.
The first is to create a daily schedule. This would include a waking time, nutrition times,  physical activity times, and a number of learning times. 
Ideally waking time would be as close to possible to a normal school time. A good starting point might be between 8 and 9 a.m. It is important to try and grab something breakfast when you are able. We will be discussing food access options in our contacts this week.
Physical activity can range from inside exercise to outside walks, being aware of social distancing and such. Try some push ups and sit up if you are stuck for ideas, say five of each and working up to higher numbers as you progress. Lots of workout options on youtube.
For learning pick some things you can do on your own immediately:
1.reading for 20 minutes a day, record the time and pages you read
2. Sign up at khanacademy and try a course of your choice
3. Feeling adventurous; try learning a few words of a new language each day. Duolingo is a great site to try out in this regard.

Checking In and Making Connections

Once we have set up a digital learning space, we will begin having daily connection times for the class as a whole and with individuals where possible. The details of this are still being formed, but it is looking promising at this point. 

This may well be a time when students take on increased leadership and teaching roles for the staff and their peers. We have more than a few technology experts in our midst.