How students are enjoying cohesive schooling with friends in real time
As the world returns to more normalcy, many of our families and students are celebrating in-person learning. A few of our families have found that distance learning and going to school virtually is quite helpful.
At Aurum Preparatory Academy (Aurum Prep), we create supportive structures to ensure each student feels seen, heard, and able to explore. By innovating and responding to the needs of our community, we offer safe, free, seamless learning to all 6th through 8th grade students in East Oakland, both in-person and virtually.
Hybrid Classes for Connection
Regardless of where students choose to learn, Aurum Prep continues to deliver a connected and cohesive educational experience to all. The small group of families who have opted for virtual learning have access to the same instruction in real-time as our in-person students. Students who opt into distance learning are able to engage with the same material, hear the same discussions and work on the same assignments that the teacher presents to our in-person students. Learning virtually simply means logging onto classes via Zoom and submitting assignments via Google Classroom and other online platforms. Our virtual students are even able to ask questions to their teacher in real-time and contribute to class discussions.
Distance Learning
In extenuating circumstances, our students are still able to access distance learning. Distance learning, for example, supports families that need to travel or have to extend recovery time after being sick. Every student has the option for distance learning when the need arises. Students who can’t make it to the building can still attend classes via Zoom and Google Classroom. This allows our students to have access to the same quality instruction, as if they still were in-person.
In most cases, this is not a long term solution, but can be a great way to stay current in classes.
Independent Study
When the student guardian and school decide that learning virtually is necessary, we create an Independent Study contract, which clearly outlines the expectation and protocols for extended distance learning. Leadership, the student and guardian meet to review the contract and sign an agreement. Teachers continually monitor progress, giving students and parents access to grades in real time.
Several independent study students at Aurum Prep are thriving – earning straight A’s or A’s and B’s right now. Others tried out this option and learned it was not the right fit. If at any point we find students are not successful in this model, we do check-ins. We talk to our families, make home visits, and ultimately can bring students back into the classroom so that their learning is not interrupted.
Tutorial
One of the ways Aurum Prep students are able to accomplish so much is through the additional support we offer outside of our standard classes. Tutorial is free of charge and is offered by every teacher, in every grade and in every content area. Students are encouraged to seek additional help in courses when needed via a smaller, more intimate setting with teachers after school. Just like our hybrid classes, Tutorial is the same whether students are in the same room or joining via Zoom.
At Aurum Prep we proactively monitor every student’s grade and contact families when a student needs to attend Tutorial.
A Chromebook for Every Student
Adapting, innovating, and teaching our 6th through 8th graders using modern technology is one way we are preparing our students for academic and life success. We check out a Chromebook to every Aurum Prep student, ensuring everyone has the same ability to participate regardless of location.
Working on personal computers increases digital literacy, making our students better 21st century learners. This is one of many ways we are teaching skills that students need to be successful in college and life.
We set permissions to make sure computers are used only for the purposes of classwork, research and learning. Providing a Chromebook for every student teaches personal responsibility and develops respect for our school policies.
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About Aurum Prep
Aurum Preparatory Academy teaches college preparation, character development, and design thinking to students in Oakland, Ca. Through rigorous instruction and positive character education, Aurum Prep educates all students in grades 6 through 8 to succeed in high school, college, and life, and serve as the next generation of moral leaders. Enroll your middle school student today.
The future begins today. At Aurum Prep, our students are taking the steps they need to celebrate today, and make tomorrow brighter. Learn more about enrolling your student at our tuition-free middle school, today:
Call us at 415.763.8974
Email us at info@aurumprep.org
Fill out our Registration Packet