Milwaukee Public Schools invites families to explore virtual learning process for new school year

MPS offers virtual learning guidance for district families

Milwaukee Public Schools on Wednesday held the first of two virtual learning sessions for district families who have questions about how the at-home learning process works and the resources available.

MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) has invited all district families to explore virtual learning through Zoom sessions available at mymps.org.

With some MPS schools already starting the school year in virtual learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the district held a Zoom meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 19 to get parents up to speed and answer questions. More than 1,600 people attended.

"We know that there are going to be questions along the way," said Janel Hawkins, MPS regional superintendent. "Because, here again, keep in mind, we do consider you our co-teacher in this virtual world."

In Wednesday's session, MPS officials answered questions about students' schedules, how to get logged-in to the virtual classroom and who to contact with problems -- among others.

The Zoom meeting included priorities for the school year and the district reopening plan. How parents will be notified if their child is -- or is not -- staying on top of their classwork was also discussed.

That said, as long as the virtual school world continues to spin, officials said it will take help from all to keep the school year moving forward on the right path.

"We are going to work with you to make sure that all of our kids get what they need," Hawkins said. "As we said, the business of teaching and learning is still happening, and so we're still expecting all of students, teachers and staff to still work hard, to make sure that every child in Milwaukee Public Schools gets what they need."

If you missed Wednesday's Zoom meeting, another will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 2.

A news release indicates each session will give families an understanding of the resources and technology being used to educate students during Phase One of the MPS Reopening Plan. 

Tools and tips will be shared for using Chromebooks at home during virtual learning. Families will be able to learn about best practices, ask questions, and get ready for the school year. 

Families can register for the Zoom meetings by using THIS LINK. They will receive login information after they register. 

Recordings of these Zoom sessions will be available at mymps.org.