COVID-19: Information for educators and school support staff

School closures related to the coronavirus pandemic have impacted hundreds of thousands of U.S. public and private schools and affected millions of students. We know that many of our members have become distance learning teachers practically overnight, and we know it’s overwhelming.

On Share My Lesson, we are continuing to build a collection of resources on the coronavirus for parents, educators and school staff to help with the new normal.

We are also focusing on the health and safety of our members and community. Please see the resources below, on the sidebar, and on our main COVID-19 resources page.

COVID-19 CLOSURE WORKING PAPERS

These working papers are designed as quick guides for AFT affiliate leaders, staff and members on key issues that impact the teaching and learning aspects of safely reopening schools. Topics available:

School Policies By State

Top 200 District Mask Policies

Source: Burbio

Top 200 District Virtual Academy Offerings

Source: Burbio

For parents, educators and school staff

Resources

Free online resources

From free online communication tools, like Zoom, or free online classes from Scholastic, we have listed our recommendations by age group and topic to make it easy to find something for everyone. As you explore each resource, you will receive instructions on how to directly access the free resources now, or find thousands of free lessons already added to Share My Lesson by our partners.

Distance learning community

This is an online learning community where educators, school support staff and parents can share ideas, lesson plans and resources. In this community, you will find remote learning resources to address the needs of children who may have to stay home from school for prolonged periods of time. You can also engage with fellow educators and parents in the discussion section and share helpful tips, or ask for advice.

8 tips for distance learning

Many educators will be asked to conduct lessons, provide and assess assignments, and communicate with students online—and that many will need support in doing so. This tip sheet for distance learning was adapted from information provided by members of the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals.

Share My Lesson students with disabilities

Supporting students with disabilities

The challenges of the global COVID-19 pandemic are many and have forced school districts across the nation to take necessary steps to not only protect the health and safety of students, but address the academic, and social-emotional needs of its most vulnerable students.

The Big 7: Healthy emotion regulation

Have you been riding a roller coaster of emotions lately? You aren’t alone. Join Dr. Marc Brackett for strategies to help make the ride a little smoother, with this interactive webinar on April 16. Register now.