St. Johns County public school students start online learning on Monday

ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. — Starting Monday, all public-school students in St. Johns County will start virtual learning lessons.

After much planning, the district is ready to roll out its online learning platform called Schoology.

Transforming the district’s educational platform to online was a massive undertaking and something teachers and principals have never done before. The district said there will be challenges but they’re ready to respond.

Dr. Brennan Asplen spoke to parents and guardians in an eight-minute video posted to the St. Johns County Schools’ website. As the deputy superintendent of academic and student services he oversees the roll out of the online system.

“During next week. we ask parents and students to get familiar with the online platforms,” said Asplen. He said parents and students will have time to practice with the system. Next week is their chance to ask questions.

“What does the schedule look like during the day for students? When are times that they can contact the teacher if they have questions? How will I return my assignment?” said Asplen.

Parents and students are urged to download Schoology to their mobile devices as well.

Secondary school students have used the system before, but the video conferencing portion will be new for everyone.

“It’s not difficult to learn. We have trained our teachers on that this week,” said Asplen.

The district sent out a survey this week for families who need laptops and internet hotspots. Those who qualified will be able to pick up their equipment starting Saturday through Monday.

If you’re still in need of a laptop and hotspot for your child, the next round of surveys will start Monday. You’re asked to call your teacher to fill out that survey.

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