ACADEMICS

Reacclimating from Distance Learning

We understand the concern that parents may feel for where their children are academically following Distance Learning in the spring. Many students thrived during Distance Learning, while others struggled. With this in mind, we will work closely with each student as they begin the new school year. In addition, all Far Hills teachers are highly trained and experienced in differentiating to meet all learners’ needs. Teachers will spend time at the start of the school year assessing each student to understand academic placements, learning styles, and any gaps in content or skills, so each student’s needs can be addressed.

Academic Support

The Far Hills administration and faculty are working to continue to meet all learners’ needs, including those students who must choose a Distance Learning option and those supported by our Learning Specialists or the M.A.L.L.

This summer, teachers are participating in professional development programs that address new teaching methods and technologies.

Academic Schedule

While the schedules have been modified in all divisions to allow the school to transition more seamlessly to Distance Learning periods if/when needed, instructional time remains the same. In fact, the usable number of minutes increases because transitions at the beginning and end of each class will require less time.

Our schedules include extended class periods throughout the week. This is known as a block schedule. Research shows that block scheduling: • reduces student stress; • creates less of a hectic, fragmented day due to fewer transitions; • allows for deeper engagement with content; • provides students with more significant opportunities to think and engage in active learning; • offers more opportunities for project or problem-based learning; and • improves academic outcomes.

Social Distancing in the Science Lab

Our newly-renovated Science labs are now configured so that the desks are spaced six feet apart. The Science labs will accommodate the appropriate number of students as outlined by social distancing guidelines.

PREPARING FOR ALL SCENARIOS

Far Hills is preparing for possible interruptions to on-campus learning in the event our area experiences a spike in COVID-19 cases, or there is a mandated government closure. In that case, a shift to full Distance Learning will happen immediately. Our schedules, specifically created with each age group’s needs in mind, will enable a seamless transition between in-person and Distance Learning.

Rest assured that excellence in education for your child will continue, whether on-campus, Distance Learning, or a Hybrid Model. Far Hills is able to adapt and excel, no matter the scenario, delivering our goal of an authentic Far Hills education.

Hybrid Learning

Should the need arise, Far Hills is prepared to implement a Hybrid Learning model that features a mix of in-person and Distance Learning instruction. Although the venue is different, Hybrid Learning can include virtual activities such as field trips, assemblies, guest speakers, grade level expos, etc. If the need should arise, we will set up and send home our One to World devices for a Hybrid Learning experience. Set up would include Preschool–Grade 2 access in their Google accounts, which typically does not happen until Grade 4. Grades 3–8 will bring home their Far Hills Chromebooks. Far Hills software is specially selected to work with Google accounts/devices.

Small class sizes enable us to better accommodate all state government and CDC guidelines for distancing. If needed, we can also pivot to an odd/even grade level schedule for LS/US classes on a rotating basis.

Distance Learning

Recent technology upgrades at Far Hills will provide us with the support necessary for a more robust online learning environment.

No matter the circumstances, students can expect awesome virtual field trips and assemblies and families can expect community-building events that are fun, engaging, and virtual.

Check out some of our inspiring Distance Learning stories from the spring.