The COV-ED @ HOME Initiative

The COV-ED @ HOME Initiative

The COV-ED @ HOME Initiative is a unique opportunity for adults and young adults with all levels of expertise to provide much needed assistance to young children and families adapting to the numerous challenges of a complicated hybrid learning model in Duxbury schools as we enter the new academic year in September.

Our goal is to “level the playing field” and provide a wide range of services for families of all means, with both paid and volunteer resources. If your family is in need of assistance and would be interested in tapping into our COV-ED @ HOME resources, please send an email to suembradford@gmail.com to express interest and share some specifics about your needs this fall. 

What is a COV-ED @ HOME resource?

Any individual who has skills to share and time during and/or after the school day:

• A college student practicing distant learning;
• A recent college or high school graduate;
• A retired school teacher;
• A parent or responsible adult;
• Current high school student (non-school day hours only)

Types of skills desired may include, but are not limited to:

• Academic support, instruction, and general supervision (curriculum provided by student’s teacher)
• Instruction and engagement in extracurricular activities including fitness, arts, music
• Meal preparation – lunch, snacks, etc.
• Ability to learn and reinforce Covid-19 safety protocols
• Driving children to activities or appointments
• Additional duties that may be assigned by the hiring family

The hybrid learning model features both challenges and opportunities

This new learning model sections all school age children into a 2-day in-person learning each week, with 3-days of remote/at home learning.

Cohort A: Attend school on Monday/Thursday
Cohort B: Attend school on Tuesday/Friday
All students learn remotely on Wednesdays.
Additionally, families have the choice to select Cohort C: Full-time remote learning.

Within this model, parents and families face varying challenges.  Many are seeking creative alternatives to manage not only academics and basic childcare, but also to promote social and emotional wellness while ensuring the health and safety of all during this difficult time.

At Duxbury Student Union, we face a similar challenge. We are working to swiftly restructure our operational model to serve the fluid needs of our constituents, and recognize that we are uniquely positioned to connect individuals and families.

Having reached out to our After School Program community, we are excited by the creative learning strategies parents and families have in mind and are already setting into motion.  Parents are considering a number of learning solutions:

1. One-on-one learning in the home, with or without hired assistance;
2. Learning pods with small peer groups to encourage socialization and collaborative learning;

Whatever the solution, there is a significant number of families seeking a volunteer or paid assistance to manage what lies ahead.

Join Our COV-ED @ HOME Resource Directory

If you love inspiring and engaging children and could be available to work with a local family during school hours starting in September, please complete the application form and we will work to connect you with a family whose needs align with your skills and interests.

We are looking for potential coaches, caregivers, and counselors to share their interests and provide a wide range of skills and services to meet the need.  Get creative! For example, if you are a college student majoring in Education and could use this experience as a volunteer or intern experience, please upload your profile.  If you are a retired school teacher looking to volunteer and reconnect with youth, please apply.  If you are unemployed and seeking a positive way to earn money, please upload your profile.

Support and resources are available…

DSU has access to ongoing resources. As part of our directory, we will share best practices and training opportunities. Our goal is to leverage our strong partnership with Duxbury Schools administrators and teachers to ensure families, COV-ED@HOME providers, and Duxbury youth have the support and resources they need to adapt to this new learning model. Upload your profile now!

Please note: COV-ED @ HOME providers are not licensed through DSU or background checked. It is the responsibility of families to interview, hire, and assume any liability. DSU is not responsible for the success of the provider but encourages them to attend Zoom informational meetings on best practices, updates, etc.