Top 10 EPIC FAQ’s
1. How is this different than what is typically offered (Universal)?
Both programs use best practices. Personalized learning has a more flexible setting (soft due dates,
changeable daily routine, students focus on personal learning goals and have more voice and choice). The
curriculum is integrated, taught by content-blended teachers. Students have the opportunity for flexible
pacing/instruction, depending on whether they are behind or ahead. Students are empowered to co-design
their learning. They are given the option to choose how to learn and/or how to demonstrate their learning.
2. What makes this the right fit for my child?
This is about a learning style. Attributes that benefit students are advocating for their learning, intellectually
curious, exhibit perseverance, comfortable with technology, collaborative, and a flexible thinker.
3. Why are you making this change?
Not all learners need the same ‘thing’. The world is calling for people who can collaborate, unlearn and relearn
new concepts, and create/innovate/problem solve. The way we grew up in school does not fit all students
today. This type of learning will marry several subjects together to produce cohesiveness in instruction.
4. How will their progress or lack of progress be communicated to parents?
In addition to universal ways teachers and parents communicate (email, conferences, phone calls, teachers’
websites), parents will have access to their learners EPIC portfolio.
5. What does their day look like?
As with the universal schedule, learners will have recess, lunch, and specials throughout their day with their
peers at their universal grade level. The EPIC schedule will still have designated times for subjects throughout
the day but will be flexible.
6. If my learner qualifies for Tiger Reserve, will they still have their needs met through the EPIC
program?
If your learner’s testing results indicate accelerated needs, Tiger Reserve may be the best fit. However, if your
learner qualifies for Tiger Trek they will still have the opportunity to attend.
7. When they finish grade level content before the year is complete, where do they go next?
The goal isn’t to move as fast as you can through skills and content but to develop a deeper understanding of
the concepts and skills, at a pace that fits each learner’s needs.
8. If my child receives special education services, will they still have their needs met?
Yes, students receiving special ed services will still have their needs met through modifications and
accommodations aligned with their learning goals.
9. What does instruction look like? Will they have a teacher in front of them to assist in their learning?
Direct instruction of learning targets/standards will take place through a variety of best practices including;
whole groups, smaller groups through the use of seminars, coaching workshop, and conferencing.
10. Are there due dates for assignments? Does homework look different? Due dates are flexible but
there are expectations that learners will continue to progress through standards. Homework will have similar
time expectations as the universal classrooms, but it may look different in relation to their learning activities.
Parent Meeting
Introductions
Mrs. Pederson, Principal
Mr. Lape, Assistant Principal
Dr. Rasmussen, Elementary Curriculum Director
background
Grant Bush/TIE support funding the pilot for 3 years
Chaska Visit
Maine Visit
National Personalized Learning Summit in July
Professional Development Work Days
Book studies- Make Learning Personal, Inevitable, Off the Clock
Personalized Learning Classes
Staffing, funding and class size protocols same in Universal & EPIC programs
Standards, concepts, skills & resources are the same/resources same in Universal & EPIC programs
Personalization in Your world
Personalizing happens all around us:
LOOK AT YOUR SHOES…
CHANGES IN EDUCATION
CHANGES IN LIFE
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DIF
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Any Pace
i
IZA
Any Pathway
AL
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TIA
IVI
Any Place
Any Device
IND
LEARNING
2016
Any Time
PERSONALIZATION
st
21 Century Skills
WHAT IS
P ERSONALIZED LEARNING?
o Competency-based
o Flexible learning environment
o Ongoing assessment and feedback
Allows voice and choice in…
o How I learn
o How I “show what I know”
o Passion projects
Personalizing your learner’s Day
Learning Style Inventory completed by learners
*example
Pre and Post tests
Ability to choose how to showcase your learning
Technology Integration
Choice and Voice on topics of interest
Typical day
Schedules
Classroom Environment
Communication
EPIC Website
What’s next:
● March 1st Deadline
● Google sign up tonight and/or turn in
registration form
● Selection/Notification
22-26 students per age group
Teacher recommendation/ratios ages and boys and girls
March 15th
● Questions?