Beginning of School Checklist

My kids have refused to do anything this week.

I considered joining them, but decided against it since I am after all, an adult, and I have made promises that I intend to keep. One of the promises is to produce a “Beginning of School Checklist” for our new parents who are joining ALVA this year (WELCOME!)

I feel hypocritical writing this post. My kids’ K12 boxes are sitting in front of the couch, unopened for the most part. Their desks are buried under books, scratch papers, watercolor pencils, and candy wrappers. I did check their course registrations to make sure they are enrolled.

I am certain I was more prepared four years ago when my kids first started with ALVA. I knew it because I got them brand new desks with built in bookshelves, stocked with school supplies. I even bought an automatic pencil-sharpener. So for you new parents out there looking for a school supply list, may you be as relaxed as I am right now in two years, without the guilt.

My point is that you will be fine. You may not feel fine at the moment, or when school starts. You may still be struggling one month into the school, or later. But you will be fine, and your kids will be ok. The fact you are stressing over the beginning of school is good indication you will overcome whatever obstacles may come your way because you care.

You must care deeply because you have chosen an unconventional road for your children and yourself. Maybe it’s because you had no other choice. I’ve also been there. So I am going to offer you what I have, and hope it eases your concerns.

• Set up your OLS Login and explore the Learning Management interface.
• Check your student’s materials to ensure they have received all of their books and supplies.
• If your student is in the upper level (6th and up), the following tips apply:
  • It may be a good idea to get him or her a dedicated laptop, or desktop computer. I would not recommend an iPad or Chromebook, as they may not be compatible with the learning management system and Blackboard Collaborate.
  • Have your student sign up for a Google email address, and use Google Drive to set up dedicated folders for each of their courses. They will store their assignments throughout the year there. You can also do that on a local drive, but it’s good to have backup.
  • Buy a planner. They will use it to plan for their assignments, which I will explain in a later post. Go ahead and get them a planner. A whiteboard or family calendar can serve the same purpose, but I prefer each of my kids to have their own so they can learn to be responsible.
  • Make sure their computers are equipped with webcam and microphone.
• If your student is in the Elementary school, the following tips apply:
  • Have a dedicated space for “doing school” each day. This will help you and your children stay organized and mentally “ready” to engage with learning.
  • Get them earphones with mic. Young children are easily distracted and it’s difficult for them to focus in Class Connect sometimes. Isolating other noises can help.
  • Organize their books by subject. LA, History and Science have many readings, you will want to be able to find them easily.
  • Get a pencil sharpener!

I will be posting regularly as school starts. Leave a comment or ask any questions you may have. Welcome to the ALVA family!