Tara Espindola, Second Grade Virtual Learning Teacher at Upland Heights Elementary, created a “100th Day Activities” folder for her Homeroom Virtual Learning Class. Inside the folder, students had a link to a classroom community message board where they posted a picture or message to celebrate the 100th Day of School. Espindola encouraged students to get creative by dressing up, displaying a collection of 100 items, or making a poster.

These engaging group activities have helped Espindola’s second-grade classroom find its stride. Every week, students participate in a “Fun Friday” where the class spends 30 minutes doing an activity together—a directed drawing, show-and-tell, a virtual field trip, etc. “I have learned so much about my students through those Friday meetings and they help us feel more connected to each other,” said Espindola.

This connection and care for her students is also evidenced in the “Heart Check-In” that students complete and turn in. Through a Microsoft Form, Espindola asks her students about themselves and how they are doing. “It has been a great way for me to check in on how my Virtual Learners are doing mentally and emotionally,” said Espindola.

Although Virtual Learning has been challenging, the connection Espindola has with her students is where she finds encouragement. She looks forward to seeing her students in-person for a Valentine's Day Drive-Through celebration on Friday, February 12. They will receive goodies and gather together in the virtual classroom.

“I have been so challenged this year—navigating virtual teaching when it was new for us all has not been easy! I’m really thankful for all the teams I’m a part of—the Upland Heights Virtual Team, the Frenship Second Grade Virtual Team, and my Upland Heights Second Grade Team! I am proud that I get to serve Frenship families in this way. It will be a year for the history books,” said Espindola.