BWSD: Canvas Provides Learning Tools For Students

Press release from the Baldwin-Whitehall School District:

Sept. 26, 2020

Teachers from Harrison Education Center have been quick to educate themselves and implement the new Canvas learning platform into their classroom rhythms. Educators integrated the training provided by the District with their own research, collaboration, and creativity to craft strategies to deploy this new tool in the classroom. Jennifer Petrilla, first grade teacher at HEC, explains that Canvas is a dynamic tool, "You can't be afraid to try something new. Even now, I am changing things in Canvas to make them better because I am learning more about my students and their skill set."

Petrilla is using Canvas strategically and helping her students navigate its features. "I am modeling a lot the first few weeks of school. I feel that repetition and structure are very important for the little ones. I have color-coded our different subjects so that struggling readers can still navigate Canvas with ease. For those that know what a button is, I have a button for everything!" She says.

Students had experience with learning platforms in the past and have quickly adapted to this new tool, taking the transition in stride. Petrilla shares, "Both the students and families in my class have been absolutely wonderful. The kids are like a sponge and absorb everything their teacher tells them. So far, my kids think that they moved onto first grade, so that must mean they have a new learning platform." Petrilla notes that there is a new learning curve with a new platform. She shares, "My advice to families is to not stress. It will be okay. If you have a problem, contact the appropriate people. Like Mr. Rogers said, 'Look for the Helpers.' We are here to help. The teachers might not have an answer right away, but I guarantee that they will try to find out the answer for you. That's what we do!"

This press release was produced by the Baldwin-Whitehall School District. The views expressed here are the author’s own.