DES MOINES, Iowa -- Iowa's Education Director says the state's 327 school districts across are adjusting to teaching kids who aren't in their buildings during the COVID-19 outbreak.
"Teachers are doing things like setting predictable schedules for when new assignments are provided and when they're due. Many are offering office hours and other homework help solutions so student and families feel supported at home. They're also reaching out to students by phone" says Director Ann Lebo.
She says one of the challenges to distance learning while Iowa school buildings are closed is making sure students have access to the internet.
"We've seen a lot of schools partner with local internet providers to get wi-fi hot-spots to students who need them. Some have also been able to identify specific areas of their communities that lack internet access and are working with local providers to install antennas" Lebo says.
Lebo says Iowa's school districts are working on plans for the possible re-opening of schools this fall.