- Distance Learning Academy (DLA)
- Welcome to DLA
About DLA
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Given the unique situation created by the Global Pandemic in conjunction with DESE’s guidance that all families have a choice between in person or full-remote learning this year, Newton’s Distance Learning Academy was established in August 2020. This completely virtual entity staffed with Newton Public School employees and comprised of more than 1200 K-5 students from all 15 elementary schools, offers students the opportunity to connect with NPS peers and learn NPS curricula from home.
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Students within the DLA are cohorted similarly to students in their home schools and access their curricula through the same Learning Management Systems, Seesaw(K-3) and Google Classroom (4 and 5). The Distance Learning Academy Staff is thrilled to be working with the DLA students and partners in education with the DLA families.
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The Distance Learning Academy or DLA has 59 general-education classrooms which are supported by 18 special educators, 36 ELL teachers (dla/hybrid), 3 psychologists and social workers and 44 behavioral therapists, kindergarten and special education assistants.
See our Classrooms & Staff pages to meet the educators.
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Additionally the DLA is led by Principal Jennifer Shore, two part time assistant principals, Dr. Maura Morse and Kristen Conrad, and Assistant Director of Student Services, Jodie Whidden. Eva Thompson, a veteran Principal and Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning is advising the leadership team as they lead the large and diverse DLA community.
From the Principal
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The Distance Learning Academy (DLA) is a fully virtual learning model designed to provide students with social-emotional connections to peers and educators while engaging in grade level curriculum. Although teaching and learning completely online is not typical, the staff of DLA are finding ways to connect with each student and family in meaningful ways. They are working tirelessly to establish an online environment that supports the learning and growth of each student.
This program consists of over 1200 students from the fifteen elementary schools. In the DLA model teachers follow the recommended district curriculum, including a rich social emotional program. With this new learning model comes many new strategies, apps and best practices to discover as we work in partnership with families to provide an engaging and academically rich year.
The DLA website is created as a resource for teachers and families. Here you will find information on staffing, family communications and resources for you and your students.
We appreciate your ongoing support of the dedicated teaching staff and this learning model.Warmly,
Jennifer Shore, Principal Distance Learning Academy.
