Below is a copy of the letter that went home to parents. It outlines how we will use eSpark Learning for the 2016-17 school-year.

Dear Hamilton Families,  

Over the past two months, I have had the opportunity to meet several times with teachers, parents, and community members to discuss the use of eSpark Learning here at HCS.  We are excited to offer this independent learning opportunity for our students.  However, we realize that there are concerns about how and when it will be used within classrooms.  Given this feedback from the learning community, the elementary teachers and I have come up with a plan for the use of eSpark Learning with our students.  This plan addresses the concerns of the community and still provides the environment for students to use this independent learning tool.

It is important to note that we have an obligation as a Focus District to offer our students that did not make adequate progress additional instructional supports.  eSpark Learning provides this support through differentiated instruction and engaged learning activities.  

How will we use eSpark Learning?

After School eSpark Learning Class:

Students who have been identified through our Focus District status will be invited to participate in this after school class.  We will identify these students through standardized test scores and teacher recommendations.  Invitations will be sent home to these students by November 22.  

If space permits, other students who could use additional academic supports will be invited to participate.  These invites will go out the week of November 28.  

The eSpark Learning group will meet after school from 2:50 to 3:50 two days a week (exact  days need to be determined).  This club will begin the week of December 5 and run each week through June 9.  Two teachers and one aide will be overseeing the after school class.  

eSpark in the Classroom

• Teachers will use eSpark at their own discretion within each classroom.  There will be no expectations (protocols) for use.  Parents can communicate directly with their child’s teacher about any concerns they may have.

• eSpark Learning will not replace any of our existing core instruction in ELA or Math.  If teachers choose to use eSpark Learning during the school day, they would use it during supplemental learning times (examples: center work, activities block).  

If you have questions, please contact me here at HCS.

Kevin Ellis

Hamilton Elementary Principal