Virtual Learning

Berkshire’s virtual learning model blends student-driven education with faculty expertise and online resources. Rooted in the student-centered pedagogies of the School’s on-campus academic program, it harnesses the power of technology to enhance and deepen students’ experiences with key subject areas and topics. Students actively engage with content through multiple technological modes while also collaborating with each other through the School’s virtual learning platform, Veracross. Faculty maintain high expectations for student learning by designing classes and tailoring instruction in virtual learning environments, and they facilitate student connection and nurture student learning through live class sessions and their class websites. As they would on campus, faculty hold regular office hours and are available for one-on-one extra help sessions. Through collaborative learning and attention to individual student’s learning styles, Berkshire’s virtual learning model creates supportive learning communities where students learn, grow, and thrive.

The FAQs below are to help provide students and their families with answers about our virtual learning model for the first semester.

VIRTUAL LEARNING FAQS

VIRTUAL LEARNING FAQS

Will the academic pace for students in virtual learning be the same as in-person classes?

Students who are in virtual learning will work at the same pace as students who are receiving on-campus instruction. If students require additional time for the completion of work, they should contact their teachers directly for support.

How can students participate in classes that are in-person when they are online—is there a Zoom component to in-person classes?

Students who are in virtual learning have two options for viewing their classes:

If their time zone allows, students can participate in live classes through Zoom.
If students are unable to attend a class because of time zone limitations, they can watch a recording of the class. Recordings will be available for 72 hours following the class to ensure that students are not falling behind.

Will students in virtual learning receive grades and effort marks?

Yes, all students, whether in virtual learning or receiving on-campus instruction will receive grades and effort marks. Students will not be allowed to take classes pass/fail.

How will students in virtual spaces have access to collaborative components of classes including discussions and group work?

Students in virtual learning will have the ability to connect with their teachers and classmates through Zoom.

Will the Berkshire School Honor Code apply to students who are learning in a virtual environment?

The Berkshire School Honor Code applies to all of our students, whether they are learning virtually or in-person. Students and their parents/guardians will be asked to sign the School’s Virtual Learning Policy, which asks them to acknowledge that the Berkshire School Honor Code applies to their work in the virtual learning environment As always, any questions that students have should be addressed to their teachers.

How will students in virtual learning get their class materials (books)?

Students have two options for acquiring books:

Books can be shipped from the Berkshire School bookstore; students will be billed for the cost of the books and shipping fees.
Students can request the ISBN numbers for their books, and they can purchase them on their own.

Please note that all classes will provide materials for students in virtual learning during the opening weeks of school, and books will be mailed from the book store after the drop/add period ends.

How will students get extra help while in virtual learning? Will teachers offer evening extra help hours?

Scheduled office hours will take place on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:00–9:35 AM EDT. For extra help outside of these times, students should reach out to their teachers directly to schedule a meeting time.

How will science labs take place for students who are in virtual learning?

Science labs will be adapted to fit both virtual and in-person instruction with the safety of our students guiding all decisions. Individual accommodations will be made based on student access.

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