DLA Newsletter 9

As we settle into the rhythm of the school year, I want to share an important observation about how learning best happens in an online environment.

Recently, we have noticed an increasing trend: students working hard to complete every single item on their daily plan, but rushing through the material simply to check a box. While we love seeing items marked complete, we want to remind everyone of a fundamental truth: learning is not a race, and you do not receive a higher score for how quickly you finish a lesson, quiz, or test.

Quality Over Speed

Sprinting through assignments, taking a long break, and then frantically sprinting again is not our goal. True academic growth happens with consistent, purposeful effort. Slow and steady wins the day.

We know our students are most successful when they begin each day with clarity and intention:

1. Assess the Current State: Look at what assignments are due today, tomorrow, and later in the week.

2. Make a Daily Plan: Set clear, realistic goals for the study session.

3. Execute with Purpose: Work through each task deeply rather than focusing solely on the completion checkmark.

What Does Deep Learning Look Like?

When students engage with content meaningfully, we anticipate they will spend 45 to 50 minutes, and sometimes longer on challenging topics, focusing in on a single subject.

During this time, successful online learners:

• Pause to reflect: Check in with yourself to ensure you truly comprehend the material before moving to the next page.

• Ask questions: Reach out to your teachers the moment a concept feels unclear. We are here to help!

• Take thoughtful notes: Engage actively with readings and video lessons rather than skimming.

Our Shared Commitment

Our goal at the end of each day is for students to have submitted all assignments due that day. In return, our commitment to you is that our teaching staff will grade, correct, and return actionable feedback in a timely manner so you always know where you stand.

Need Help Finding the Right Rhythm?

Developing effective daily routines and pacing strategies at home takes practice. If you or your student would like personalized strategies to improve time management or study habits, please reach out to Joe Stauffer, our College and Career Academic Counselor. Mr. Stauffer has a treasure trove of practical techniques tailored for online learners!

Thank you for your continued partnership as we cultivate habits that lead to lifelong success. Let’s make every minute count, with purpose and pace!

Principal Treichel

Whether you missed picture day or just need to retake, don't miss our last opportunity. Below is the information you need:

Date: October 26

Time: 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM

Location: Education Center, 38705 Grand Ave., North Branch MN 55056

Parking: Park in the north lot and enter door 1 and let the front receptionist know that you are a student with the North Branch Area Distance Learning Academy and you are here to get your picture taken.

As students wrap up a unit, you will notice that the final post-test is locked. To ensure every student is supported, all post-tests must be proctored by Mr. Pirrie. You can unlock and take your test in one of two ways:

• Option 1 (In-Person): Visit Mr. Pirrie’s classroom at North Branch Area High School on Mondays or Tuesdays.

• Option 2 (Online): Schedule a live Google Meet session with Mr. Pirrie by following the booking steps below.

Plan Ahead for Success; Because setting up testing time requires coordination, please do not wait until the last minute!

1. Monitor Daily Progress: Keep an eye on your coursework so you know when a test is coming up.

2. Book Early: Schedule your Google Meet or plan your in-person visit 1 to 2 days in advance.

3. Complete & Unlock: Log into your scheduled Google Meet (or drop by in person) to take the test.

As soon as you finish the test with Mr. Pirrie, he will unlock your assignments for the next unit so you can keep moving forward. Thank you for your proactive effort!

To help families stay connected to their student's learning journey, progress reports will be sent out starting this evening. These reports are a wonderful tool to foster curiosity about your student's academic growth and check in on their habits.

As you review the report together, keep an eye on two key indicators of progress:

• On-Target Grade: This percentage reflects the assignments and assessments your student has completed and had graded by their teacher. It also measures pacing. If a student falls behind or misses a due date, our gradebook temporarily places a zero as a placeholder to reflect current standing until the work is submitted.

• Time on Task: This metric tracks active engagement time while your student is directly working within the learning content. It automatically excludes idle time (such as when a student steps away from their device).

The 2026-27 Student/Parent Handbook is available for download below. The handbook contains important information and clarity of processes and procedures that families need to know; Parents/guardians and students will be better set up for success by being familiar with its contents. For access to the handbook throughout the school year, information can be found on the Parent/Student Resources webpage. If you would like a paper copy of the Student/Parent Handbook please contact Pakou Lee at 651-674-1011 or plee@isd138.org.

As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we want to partner with students, families, and staff to ensure that cell phone and personal electronic device use supports a safe, respectful, and focused learning environment across all North Branch Area Public School campuses.

1. Responsible Use and Care
Students are welcome to bring personal electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, earbuds, etc.) to school. We encourage students to care for their devices and keep them secure, as the district cannot be responsible for loss, damage, or theft.

2. Supporting Learning During the School Day

• To help everyone stay engaged and distraction-free, devices should be turned off or set to airplane mode during instructional time.

• At North Branch Area High School, devices are placed in the secure classroom caddie upon entering the Media Center and or distance learning classroom, ensuring the focus remains on collaboration and academic success.

• Earbuds, headphones, and smartwatches follow the same expectations as cell phones to maintain consistency and fairness.

3. Respecting Privacy and Safety

• We value everyone’s right to privacy. Recording, photographing, or live-streaming others is only allowed with their express permission.

• These guidelines ensure our school remains a safe and welcoming place for all.

4. Supporting Individual Needs

• Students with documented medical needs that require device access may use them as outlined in their plan, while still honoring the overall expectations.

• Academic exceptions are made when devices enhance learning and are used under staff guidance.

By working together and using our devices thoughtfully, we create an environment where everyone can focus, feel respected, and succeed.

While on campus, it is important that you are aware of our district safety standard response protocols. Below is each protocol and then what is expected of the students and staff.

North Branch Area Public Schools App! Stay up-to-date with access to district and Distance Learning Academy events, documents, news from administrators, student stories, and even emergency notifications. You can download the app for free on Google Play or Apple App Store.

Download for Android https://bit.ly/3phcIA7

Download for iPhone https://apple.co/3p6NNPA