NSA Stays Connected

Online learning is not a new concept for students at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy, but the length of time they will have to use it is new. While NSA has a virtual learning plan that it has used in cases of inclement weather, when it closed school due to the coronavirus pandemic, the school held off on virtual learning for a week.

Rather than rush right in, faculty took time to research additional online tools to deliver lessons, to practice using them and to create lessons for several weeks. Head of School Debbie Russell said students are following a shortened schedule in order to be mindful of screen time and their overall well-being. During their other time, students can connect with teachers during daily virtual office hours, complete assignments or pursue hobbies.

Lower school teachers are spending time individualizing learning for every student. All students have opportunities to learn at the same time to help maintain class connections, but will also have learning time on their own, too.

“It has been amazing to watch our community transition to virtual learning,” Russell said. “Our students are resilient, and of course, are accustomed to technology, so most have made the transition very easily.”

Russell said faculty have adapted to the new technology, as they use a number of platforms in their teaching now. They include Google’s G Suite for Education, which includes video conferencing through Google Hangouts and Google Meet, as well as Google Classroom. Teachers are also using platforms such as Zoom, Seesaw and EdPuzzle.

“Our faculty has really risen to the occasion,” Russell said, “and is continuing to deliver a quality educational experience for our students virtually.”

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