Remote Learning Days
In Roanoke City Public Schools, we believe in snow days and want students to enjoy them. To remain on track with student learning, RCPS may use Remote Learning Days if extended closures are expected due to inclement weather or other emergencies. Remote Learning Days are asynchronous, which means that students will complete offline activities at their own pace.
This page contains additional information about what Remote Learning Days mean, and what resources are available to support families.
Guidelines for Remote Learning Days
Instruction
Students will receive copies of paper packets or offline assignments to take home. Elementary and middle school packets are also available to download below. High school assignments will be available through Canvas for students to download before leaving school, due to the wide range of courses and instructional needs.
Grades K-8: Elementary and middle school students are provided paper packets in advance of expected inclement weather, with multiple days of instructional and/or review activities in core content areas. Packets have a cover page with instructions and teacher contact information. Students are expected to complete one day's worth of assignments (one page per subject) for each Remote Learning Day and turn the packet in to their teacher on the first in-person day back to school.
Grades 9-12: High school students take home their school-issued Chromebooks with downloaded offline work, or will receive paper copies of their assignments. This ensures students can complete work offline. Students are expected to complete their assignments and turn them in on the first in-person day back to school.
Preschool: Students receive books and/or paper packets to take home with activities, and we encourage families to read with their student(s).
Across all grade levels, students with disabilities will receive packets from their special education teacher based on students' needs.
Contacting Teachers & Technology Help Desk
Families may contact their teacher or administrator by email if they need support. The Technology Department and other professional staff will also be available to answer questions about school-issued laptops for high school students on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by calling (540) 853-6070.
Food Services
RCPS will open meal sites at select locations on the third consecutive day of school closures. This may be shortened based on the community's needs and the situation. RCPS will communicate site locations and times through established communication channels in accordance with RCPS Inclement Weather Guidelines.
Mental Health and Support Services
Families may contact school-based mental health providers, such as school counselors, social workers, school psychologists, and student support specialists if they need support. Hazel Health will be available for students who need counseling services. Additional resources are available on our Family Resources Page.
Communication
RCPS will inform parents, guardians, staff, and students as early as possible about potential school schedule changes. When extended closures are anticipated, RCPS will make every effort possible to announce plans for Remote Learning Days in advance. Schedule changes, including closures or Remote Learning Days, will be made day by day based on weather, road conditions, and other factors, in accordance with RCPS Inclement Weather Guidelines.