Virtual Instruction Days Approved For HCPS Students During Inclement Weather

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — The Maryland State Department of Education has approved the Harford County Public Schools proposed 2023-2024 school year virtual day instruction plan, which called for the use of three asynchronous virtual instruction days in the event of inclement weather.

"This means the next inclement weather day(s) will utilize asynchronous virtual learning day(s). When an inclement weather day is determined, we will confirm the day will be asynchronous virtual instruction in all communications," the school district stated.

According to the school district, there will be no more than three asynchronous virtual days. Every HCPS student has been issued an iPad, Chromebook or Windows device. Attendance will be taken for all students. Initially, all students will be marked as present then teachers will update attendance information for any student that does not complete the virtual assignments in a 10-day window. Students and families can learn more about virtual learning days on the school's website.

School leaders announced earlier this year that as of Jan. 2, if there is a need to close schools and offices for inclement weather, a "traditional" inclement weather day will take place as they awaited approval of the asynchronous instruction plan by the school board and then the Maryland State Department of Education.

"Several weeks ago, HCPS staff asked our community to complete a survey on preferences for inclement weather days in the 2023-2024 school year. Most of our community was in support of applying to the Maryland State Department of Education to conduct asynchronous instruction on up to three inclement weather days," the school district stated.

On the school district's Facebook page, numerous people commented that the school district should've had this plan in place before winter even arrived instead of waiting until January.

"Is it unreasonable to think this is something that should be squared away before the school year begins, or at least before winter? AA county was already able to use virtual instruction during our week long closure," commented Facebook user Lauren Smith.

Related:

'Traditional' Inclement Weather Day Plan Temporarily In Place For HCPS