Intentionally setting up a learning management system where everything students need is easy to access can help them all be successful. Sarah Schroeder writes for Edutopia stressing that for teachers embarking on virtual learning, it is critical to start with EMPATHY and to BUILD COMMUNITY.
This approach seems exactly right to me. We should NOT begin by testing our students, wasting teacher time that could be spent connecting personally with the students to build trust. We must generate real human connection and we can do this virtually or in person. But at a time like this, in this pandemic where their lives have been disrupted, it is yet more important to be sure they feel seen, that they are heard, and they feel valued. Testing can come later, and if possible be authentic project or portfolio- based assessment.