As so many of us feel overwhelmed by new learning formats and uncertainties about where and how students can learn best and thrive, it’s sometimes tricky to flip the coin and realize the benefits linked to our current challenges.
The state of the world has placed us in a unique position to build stronger connections and better understand individual student and family dynamics. Connecting into student homes through virtual classroom activities allows a fine focused glimpse into how to best meet students where they are. Through this window, we gain unique insight that helps us strengthen relationships, identify key supports for each individual, and find the best ways to connect with each family, giving every student their best opportunity for success.
Check out ACPE's Facebook page for a toolkit to help educators promote equity, build community, partner with families, and organize effective virtual classrooms.
Today’s students are building resiliency and learning digital career skills that many adults are still working to master. Virtual classrooms include a learning curve for educators, students, and families, while simultaneously preparing our youth for future employment opportunities, and allowing them to strengthen their digital skills over many years before applying for their first jobs.
ACPE has FREE resources to engage elementary students to take important steps towards their future.
ACPE brings fun, engaging elements to your virtual or in-person classroom. With free digital or print resources, ample teacher support, and virtual volunteers, ACPE can help transform your standard Zoom or Google Meet classroom session into an exciting exploratory activity with caring adults!
Early Career Explorers – Downloadable activities help our youngest students learn basic letter formation and spelling, understand that diverse careers strengthen our communities, and connect academic foundations to future career opportunities through exploratory activities. Synchronous and Asynchronous options. (Grades PK-4)
I Know I Can – Volunteers read and discuss the story of a group of animal friends trying to figure out what jobs they want to have when they grow up. Optional Zoom Break Out groups allow volunteers to work with smaller groups of students as they draw pictures of their career dreams. Students can share their dreams with the class to develop early public speaking skills. Synchronous and Asynchronous options. (Grades 1-3)
Kids2College – Six lessons include college & career exploration, Google Slide presentation templates, Fillable, PDF, or print curriculum, virtual or video college & career panels, virtual campus tours, parent tips, and assistance from ACPE staff to help make this program a success. All materials are available in print or digital format. Student, Teacher, and Parent Resource tabs make it easy for everyone to find exactly what they need. Synchronous and Asynchronous options. (Grades 5-8)
Contact shelly.morgan@alaska.gov or 907-269-7972 for more information on ACPE’s FREE College & Career Exploration Resources for student success (PK-8).
About the Author
Shelly Morgan
K-12 Specialist