Parent Resources, Services and Announcements

Dear Genesis Family,

I hope this e-mail finds you well. I am well aware that there are still many challenges that you are likely facing, as are we. However, I am still confident that we each have the internal strength and commitment to push through whatever comes our way because our love for our children – the love that conquers all - is just that great. And if we share that commitment, for the benefit of all our scholars – as the village – we will win!

A couple of important updates:

Fall Break– Genesis will be on Fall Break the week of October 12.

Re-opening Plans– We are holding steady and watching the data. The reality is that the re-opening decisions we are seeing are experiments with the health and safety of our families and communities – communities that are much more likely to get sick, hospitalized, and experience death (CDC). Several colleges and K-12 institutions have re-opened, only to close again. Professional football games are being canceled. Even the President could not avoid the virus under the current re-opening strategy. I am not interested in experimenting with the health and well-being of any member of the Genesis family. Flu season is coming soon. We will wait and we will keep you posted.

Parent Survey– While we wait, we are making sure we finalize plans for re-opening when it makes sense to do so. To that end, it is time to survey our families about concerns related to the timing and type of reopening. Please fill out as soon as possible to help us serve you better.
Survey Link: https://forms.gle/dqs1ggvMYhrUttVe7

Virtual attendance notices– We have automated our attendance tracking system. That was done to make sure parents were automatically notified of possible issues. That does not mean the information is always correct. Be sure to reach out to the teacher who reported the absence/tardy if you need correction. Call the front desk if you do not hear from the teacher. All excused absences and/or doctor's notes should be forwarded to Ms. Simmonds, rsimmonds@giacademy.org, for entry into our attendance tracking system.

Power School– All scholars should be uploaded in Power School. Assignments and grades should be uploaded going forward. This is the time to check Power School and ask your scholar(s)’ teacher(s) about any concerns you may have. Please do not wait. All Parent Power School Account Letters with parent login information were emailed to parents on September 15th. If you do not have your Power School login, reach out to Ms. Simmonds, rsimmonds@giacademy.org, or Mrs. Julia Neal at JNeal@giacademy.org.

Sports and Activities - The Deans sent out an Extracurricular Activities and Athletics survey earlier on the 14th and 15th of September. Based on the interest expressed on that survey, tryouts for basketball (this Saturday) and cheerleading (next week) have been scheduled and sent under separate communication. (Schedule will also be posted to the website later today).

Please address questions to your Dean:
• Ms. Taryn Rice – Girls Dean (trice@giacademy.org)
• Mr. Eddie Lovett – Boys Dean (elovett@giacademy.org)

Parent Meetings - Genesis has been hosting parent meetings to provide updates regarding the expectations around managing virtual instruction at home, Google Classroom, PowerSchool, etc. Meeting information was sent out earlier via Email and Dojo. Grade K-2 held their meeting on September 24, grades 6-9 met yesterday evening at 5:00 pm and Grades 3-5 will meet next Monday, October 5th at 5:00 pm. These meetings are about clarifying expectations around “how” we successfully manage virtual learning. They are not curriculum and instruction meetings. See below.

Curriculum Night– Curriculum Nights will be scheduled for the week of October 19. You will receive a separate communication with details.

Lunch Forms– Even though you may not need food services from Genesis, it is vital that you fill out the Free and Reduced Meal eligibility form. We have to report the percent of families who are eligible for funding purposes. Please help us meet this federal funding requirement. You can find the Free and Reduced electronic lunch form here.

Communication– Communication between parents and schools is always an important consideration. We will never be perfect, but we can give you tips to make sure the process is more effective for you. We do expect all faculty and staff to respond to your questions within 48-hours. No, that does not always happen, but it is not intentional. What can you do?
1. E-mail vs. Dojo– E-mail is our formal requirement. But some teachers may see a Dojo message more quickly. However, if it is important, use E-mail, or use E-mail AND Dojo.
2. Resend– It may have been missed the first time
3. Call front desk– I say this a lot, but Ms. Simmonds is a great resource. She can follow-up on your behalf and provide direction on who should get the message if you do not know.
4. Contact Supervisor– We have restructured a bit but everybody at Genesis has a supervisor (just like every other organization). If you are displeased with communication (or anything else), go up the chain. It is not “telling on somebody” or “bothering” somebody. It is expected. We are re-launching our website and this information will be posted soon, but until then, here are the basics:

Person/Group/Issue Administrator/Supervisor Contact
STEM (Science, Math, Tech) and PE Teachers (Grades 3-9) Executive Director: STEM, Neal Christian nchristian@giacademy.org

K-2 Teachers and Paras, Special Ed and ESOL Teams Executive Director: K-2, Renetta Dees rdees@giacademy.org

Humanities Teachers Grades 3-9 (Reading, ELA, Social Studies, Languages, and Art) Executive Director: Humanities, Crystal LaVoulle, Ph.D. Clavoulle@giacademy.org

Scholar Conduct Issues / Clubs and Sports Dean of Students, Eddie Lovett - Boys Academy
Dean of Students, Taryn Rice - Girls Academy ELovett@giacademy.org
TRice@giacademy.org

If you cannot get a resolution, you should contact me (Head of Schools) by calling Ms. Simmonds at the main number. (E-mailing me is fine for the formal record but because I get so many it is not as effective as calling the front desk for urgent matters). Please do not wait until you are completely angry and frustrated. Leadership is always glad to hear from you as part of our overall improvement process.

Respectfully,

Gavin Samms, Ph.D.
Head of Schools
Genesis Innovation Academy
404-990-3844
www.genesisinnovationacademy.org

Dear Genesis Family,

I am humbled in this moment to have the responsibility to lead an organization of talented individuals who are committed to serving families in a time of crisis. Please know that no matter what is happening around us, or how many hiccups we have along the way, Team Genesis is working REALLY hard to make sure Genesis families will be served with care and quality.

Time has flown by faster than I could have imagined since the Town Hall. There is a lot happening and I will try to provide a brief synopsis of some key updates (other updates will hopefully come by the end of this week).

Calendar/Start of School – We are still scheduled to begin on August 17^th. The revised calendar has been posted to the website.

Open House – The Genesis Team is currently planning to have Open Houses scheduled for the first day (or two) of school. Yes, that is unusual, but these are unusual times.  We are not counting school days this year; we are counting and building relationships.  Scholars and teachers will take time to get to know each other before we dive into virtual learning full blast.

Essential Worker “Learning Pod” – Based on survey results, Genesis is preparing to offer an on-site learning pod for Genesis scholars if all the adults in the household are essential workers.  An e-mail has been sent to parents who indicated on our Fall Opening survey that nobody could be at home to supervise virtual learning. The responses to that e-mail will help us get a better understanding of the need for this service.

Registration (Returning Families) – All returning families have to register for the new year by completing their Returning Families Registration.   We are admitting families off of our waitlist.  It is important that we know if you are keeping your seat before school begins. If you do not register by next Wednesday, August 13^th, we will have to open your seat up to a new family.  Returning family registration is a fairly short process but is necessary so that we can ensure we have your scholar's most up to date information.  The personalized Returning Family Registration for your scholar was emailed on July 30, 2020.  Please use the link contained in that email to complete your registration.  (Please note: this is not to be confused with the Intent to Return you completed back in February)

High School Parent Meeting – There is a Zoom meeting on tomorrow, Thursday, August 6 at 5:30 p.m. for parents of high school scholars. Those parents should have received an e-mail with the meeting information. If not, please reach out to info@giacademy.org.

Assessments – Team Genesis is currently planning to assess scholars as early as possible to make sure teachers have as complete an understanding as possible of where your scholars are before instruction ramps up.  Genesis still intends to use MAP testing which will allow us to gauge growth over time.

School Supply Lists -  School Supply Lists will be posted to the Great Start Page of the website by next Monday, end of day.

School Messenger – Parents should sign up for our “School Messenger” service. This will allow us to send real-time updates to your cell phones as a text message. All you have to do is text YES to 67587 to Opt-In. See more information on the Great Start Page.

https://genesisinnovationacademy.org/index.php/academics/student-resources/2019-20-great-start-page

Nutrition Survey – Parents who would like to pick up meals from Genesis will be able to do so if desired. The same rates would apply as during normal, in-person operations.  Genesis will serve:

• Free meals (for families that qualify)
• Reduced priced meals: breakfast for $0.30 and lunch for $0.40
• Regular-priced meals: breakfast for $1.75 and lunch for $3.25

Please fill out the following survey if you are interested in picking up school meals and we will send you more information.

https://forms.gle/nm9xwrU1VTVRxZZ8A

Additional information from the Nutrition Department, including information regarding Free and Reduced Lunch applications, will be sent in a separate e-mail.

Tech Support – Genesis will support scholars and families who need help during virtual learning with technology issues and concerns.  Please make sure to e-mail TechSupport@giacademy.org if you have any questions.  The Technology team will be in touch with those families who have already notified us of their technology needs via our prior surveys.

Uniforms -

• In order to promote some sense of normalcy and routine, we expect scholars to prepare for virtual school just as they would for in-person school. Therefore, scholars are required to be properly groomed and in uniform tops during virtual learning:

• • Grades K-5 should wear their Genesis Polo shirts with Logo;
  • Grades 6-9 should wear their Genesis Oxford with logo and Genesis Tie (gentlemen) or Genesis Cross Tie (ladies)

• A Gently Used Uniform Sale is being scheduled for Saturday, August 14th.  There are limited quantities but what we have we will make available for a nominal fee. Specific details will be sent out in a separate communication.

• New families who have not yet received uniform orders by the first day of school can have their scholars wear a plain white polo for the first few days while you await your uniform order.

• Please be sure to check our uniform page and only purchase uniforms from our authorized uniform vendors listed on our site.  https://genesisinnovationacademy.org/index.php/student-life/uniforms. The uniform page has links to our specific Genesis Online stores.  Prestige apparel is our brick and mortar vendor if you prefer to purchase from a store and not online.

• Families experiencing financial difficulty regarding uniforms should email us at uniforms@giacademy.org.
• If you have additional uniform questions please email uniforms@giacademy.org

Lost and Found - Any items in our Lost and Found will be made available on Saturday, August 14th for Returning Families that wish to retrieve items lost during the last school year.  Additional information is forthcoming

Fall Opening Plan – The Re-Opening plan is posted on the website. Note: Please remember it is a working document and that information will be updated as needed.  We will inform you when updates are made (changes will be based on feedback from teachers, staff, parents, the state, etc.).

Fall Opening Town Hall – The 1^st Town Hall meeting (that was held on July 28th) is posted to the website for those who may have missed it or need to view it again.

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Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Genesis Innovation Academy

404-990-3844

www.genesisinnovationacademy.org

Dear Genesis Family,

As always, I hope all is well. Given the state of the pandemic in Georgia, I want to continue to encourage you to do all you can to keep yourself and your family safe. The sacrifices you make each day are not in vain. You are probably saving lives.

Let this e-mail serve as a formal announcement confirming the date and time of the Genesis Town Hall Meeting. We will discuss fall opening plans and will be available to answer all questions and concerns. We look forward to seeing you virtually, with hopes of seeing you in-person in the near future.

Date: Tuesday, July 28, 2020

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Link: https://zoom.us/j/96128592470

Topic: Fall Opening Plans

See you then! In the meantime, be safe, be healthy, and be blessed!

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Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Genesis Innovation Academy

404-990-3844

Hello Genesis Family,

As things keep changing it is important to provide real-time updates and assurances. Certainly, the increasing number of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths in Georgia has led all of us to reconsider our approach to school (and other aspects of life). Genesis does not want to compromise the health and safety of its scholars or its faculty and staff. As a result of the current situation, Genesis will proceed as follows:

Delayed First Day/Opening – The Board has approved a start date of August 10th. (This is one week later than our original start date of August 3rd). I have the discretion to delay an additional week, if necessary, for planning purposes.

Virtual Opening - Genesis will have an all-virtual start to the school year. Everyone should assume that will be our plan for at least two weeks. If we do not believe we can offer an in-person option that is safe for scholars and teachers/staff, the all-virtual strategy will last longer. However, we are actively preparing for the possibility of in-person instruction at some point in the year (later in the Fall, January, etc.). We want to be ready. Options being worked on include:

In-Person Options – We are aware that some families may need to work and do not have sufficient supervision for scholars at home. Genesis is committed to having an option for those families, even if it is being on campus, engaged in virtual learning. Those families will get priority if we have limited in-person seats/options. The number of in-person seats will be based on public health data and the health and safety of scholars and staff. Given the uncertainty of virus mitigation, we do not want to lock in an exact date for this option.
All-Virtual – Even if public health data and Genesis safety protocols dictate in-person is a viable option, some parents will be uncomfortable sending their scholars to campus (especially if, like me, you have children or family members at home that have been diagnosed with underlying conditions). As a result, we will provide an all-virtual option for scholars for the entire first semester. The same will be true of second semester unless the public health situation changes dramatically.
Hybrid - Remember, the Genesis vision for this moment is to provide maximum flexibility for all of us to do what is best for our families in our unique situations. We do not intend to lock families into one option for an extended period; needs can change quickly. We will continue to work on a plan that 1) is flexible enough to allow a family to switch models if needed, and 2) does not require teachers to do an onerous amount of additional work. We believe we can do that. Our team is working hard to make that a reality.

Town Hall - We are tentatively scheduling a Town Hall meeting for both new and returning families on Tuesday, July 28th. We will present more specific aspects of our plan and address all questions. Note: We will continue to provide updates before the 28th to address pressing issues as they arise.

Additional Updates

Virtual Home Set-Up – We have compiled survey results and are preparing to address identified needs for additional devices and internet connections at home. If you expressed a need for either, please be on the lookout for communication from our Tech Team. If you have not completed the survey, the link is here: https://forms.gle/91QkrYk1mTRqzB8D7

Uniforms – During virtual class instruction, scholars are to wear their Genesis uniform tops and maintain school grooming requirements, per the Dress Code. Students cannot participate in Zoom/virtual conferences in their pajamas or lying in bed or on the couch. And scholars cannot turn the device camera off so that we cannot see them. Our uniform page is: https://genesisinnovationacademy.org/index.php/student-life/uniforms. (Note there is a 50% off sale currently being offered by French Toast)

Summer Reading – Summer Reading lists have been updated to include more titles on the Social Justice list for Middle and High School. Please help your scholars get started on their work while they have some time. Also, remember they have “work” to do, in addition to reading. The link to Summer Reading is here: https://www.genesisinnovationacademy.org/index.php/academics/summer-reading-lists

MAP Scores 2019-2020 – You should have received your MAP scores. If not, please reach out to Ms. Neal at JNeal@giacademy.org. The virtual process is locked in for next year, so results should get to you more quickly going forward.

Report Cards 2019-2020 – Grades are final and report cards are being sent virtually this evening and tomorrow morning. Apologies again for the way too lengthy delay (but we now have a process that works a lot better for 2020-2021). You will see Semester 1, Semester 2, and the Final Year letter grade. The Semester 2 grade includes the quarter 4 grade, if it helped your scholar (which was the factor that made this process more difficult than normal). If you see an “I” for incomplete, it means there was not enough information in the system to give your scholar a grade. There are about 4-5 scholars whose report cards have to be re-done due to a system glitch. Those parents will be contacted. If you need urgent support on this matter, reach out to JNeal@giacademy.org. Thank you for your patience!

Be safe, be healthy, be blessed!!!

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Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Genesis Innovation Academy

404-990-3844

www.genesisinnovationacademy.org

Dear Parents,

It is now redundant to say how challenging these times are. You know that.  Instead, my focus is on how we meet this challenge.  Our Core Value for July is Enthusiasm, which is related to the spiritual value of Joy – having a sense of passion and purpose that cannot be shaken, dampened, or taken away by worldly concerns.

I wake up every day and choose Joy.  This moment of challenge inspires me to work harder to find a way to serve and elevate our children above the limitations these times suggest.  My purpose is clear to me. That gives me Joy (passion, hope, excitement, renewal) – every day.  Our children need to see that in us. We can do this!

Updates below:

FALL (Future Business)

Plan for Fall Opening – There is a lot to talk about.  Too much to put in a written message. Please click the link below for a video message about Genesis’ plans for the Fall. Keep in mind that it is a general outline and will not cover every question.  A more detailed discussion will be presented at our next Town Hall meeting later this month (details will be sent at a later date).

• Video Link: https://jpotter.wistia.com/medias/qmqf4kd6np
  
• Additional Questions: info@giacademy.org

Fall Re-Opening Survey – Please fill out the survey at the link below. The survey asks about preferences and needs for Fall Re-Opening. We are using the data from our earlier survey to help plan. However, we know things change. Please provide the latest, best information you can. WE NEED 100% PARTICIPATION to help us effectively plan.  THANK YOU.

https://forms.gle/LeqTKQ2Be8v9psF16

The Great Start Page – The Great Start Page is a webpage dedicated to providing families all the relevant information they need to start the new year successfully.  Visit the page to access information on uniforms, summer reading, supplies, nutrition, etc.  The page will be updated on a regular basis.

• Great Start Page Link: https://www.genesisinnovationacademy.org/index.php/academics/student-resources/2019-20-great-start-page

Student Uniforms – The uniform page is live on our website.  What is not listed there is that one of our uniform vendors, French Toast, typically has major sales during this time of the year. A major sale was targeted for the week of July 13th. Given the ever-changing world, those dates could change, so please check the website regularly.

Parent Resource Page – Our home page has a link to “Parent Resources.” That page lists items and updates related to the current crisis (Co-VID information, support services, education resources for home use, etc.).  Once we begin school, that page will incorporate all parent information and resources, including the information on the Great Start page.

Supplies – Every year there is great anxiety about this. Let’s try not to feel that this year.  We will get a list out soon but keep in mind that a lot of our work will be done virtually (even for scholars who learn on-site).  It is easier to track, post, and grade virtual work.  That, plus the current circumstances, means we will try to minimize the amount of supplies needed to begin school this year.

CURRENT (Business)

Summer Reading – Summer Reading is posted on our website. Please make sure your scholar has the required reading and assignment instructions so they can begin.

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) – If your family was eligible for free-reduced meals during this past school year, you may also be eligible for an EBT allocation of $256 for each child.  For more information, visit: https://dfcs.georgia.gov/pandemic-electronic-benefit-transfer

PAST (Old Business)

Lost and Found – Some scholar items may have been lost during the year and would not have been available for pick-up when we had “Item Pick-Up” days last month.  We will be scheduling a day and time when families can search the lost and found in late July, prior to the beginning of school. Details will be provided at a later date.

Awards Announcements – Dojo announcements were sent out a couple of weeks ago highlighting scholars for academic excellence this past year.  We will also highlight those scholars on our website and make that a tradition going forward.

Report Cards – This has been far more complicated and frustrating than anticipated. But remember, it is only difficult because the system was never set up to deal with optional grades for quarter 4 (which we promised we would count fairly).  We have received confirmation of a fix to make sure your scholar gets an accurate report card.  The representative from Power School should have a final version prepared before the end of the week.  Report cards should be ready to send out electronically early next week.

MAP Results – Given the virtual world we now live in, we have been working on an efficient way to virtually distribute MAP test results.  We received an update this evening from our Power School contact that MAP scores should be ready to go out electronically by the end of this week.

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Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Genesis Innovation Academy

404-990-3844

www.genesisinnovationacademy.org

Dear Genesis Family,

As promised, an update on items of concern/interest is included below.  We know that uncertainty can cause anxiety and stress, and we are committed to providing more definitive and detailed information and plans as we go forward. However, while we should not, and cannot, “drag our feet”, we also cannot rush out an ill-conceived plan. That will cause more stress than it cures. I therefore, continue to ask for your patience, knowing that we are working really hard to be a great school, with great instruction, that helps “raise” great scholars – no matter what is going on in the world.

UPDATES

School Year Plans – Genesis is actively planning for an on-time start to school on August 3^rd.  We know that things can change but we are working on contingency plans for: all-virtual, mixed virtual and in-person, and all in-person.  This is a dynamic process so look for e-mail updates.

Tech Survey – Please use the link below to let us know your home technology situation.  We want to make sure our plans for the fall take the needs of all of our families into consideration.

• Genesis Survey: Family Home Technology -  https://forms.gle/67zTbhBDNT8sAggW8

Summer Reading – You should have received Summer Reading lists already.  Please be aware that we will be changing the book reading expectations to reflect our commitment to teaching our children the Truth about Social Justice in this country.  If you have already purchased the books, please have your scholar continue to read them.  Reading is a good thing. We will simply be presenting more options and one additional requirement.  The actual assignments (not just the titles) will be sent later as well.

Report Cards – Report Cards will be sent to parents via the Power School portal in PDF form.  The process has been slowed by efforts to ensure grades are as accurate as possible given the challenges of virtual work. If you are not able to log-on to your Power School portal, please contact Mrs. Julia Neal at jneal@giacademy.org.

Power School Grades – As per the above, we are trying to calculate the most accurate grade possible, which is more challenging that usual due to the need to fairly account for fourth-quarter grades.  Therefore, do not assume that what you see is in Power School is final. Please wait for the report card to be finalized.

Summer Schools and Supports – All families have already been contacted if they have a scholar in need of credit recovery or tutoring over the summer due to academic performance.  If you are concerned that your scholar needs summer support, please reach out to your Academy Director.

MAP Scores – MAP scores should have been sent to you by your scholar’s teacher. If that did not happen, please reach out to your Academy Director.

Item Pick-Up – Families will be able to come to the campus the week of June 22 to pick up any items left in the building.  Items will be bagged and labeled with scholars’ names.  A schedule will be created based on grade level and sent to parents.  Sibling items will be picked up together. Please look for more details soon.

Summer Camps – Just a couple of options (not recommendations) for summer virtual camps/activities that we wanted to share with you.

• ID-Tech: https://www.idtech.com/
• DIY - https://diy.org/
• Varsity Tutors - https://wwww.varsitytutors.com/virtual-summer-camp-catalog
• Kids-R-Actors-2 - https://www.kidsractors2.org/
• Camp Wonderopolis - https://camp.wonderopolis.org/
• Maker Camp - https://makercamp.com/

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Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Genesis Innovation Academy

404-990-3844

Dear GIA Family,

It has been too long since I have sent an update. My plan was certainly to send a year-end update. And then I had hoped to add just a little word related to the negative impact of the pandemic on so many in the community we serve, and communities like it. And then I knew I had to address what happened with Mr. Ahmaud Arbery since it happened in “our own backyard.”

But before I could get that out, Mr. George Floyd was murdered, and well…let’s just say that had a major effect on what I felt I needed to say to this “village.” And I couldn’t find the words. No matter what I wrote it did not feel right. And so I decided to speak from my heart and let you hear me instead.

A video link is below. I try to convey, at least in part, where I am and what my intentions are in this moment as it relates to THIS family, THIS village, in THIS moment. I will follow-up later this week with a “regular” update. It did not seem appropriate to include it here.

https://sterling1911.wistia.com/medias/6jfkz36gzv

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Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Genesis Innovation Academy

404-990-3844

Dear GIA Family,

I hope everyone was able to use Spring Break to connect with family and friends, to do something for yourself that brought you some joy, and... to just take a breath.

As we all try to make the best of a very difficult situation, it is important to acknowledge that some in our GIA family are praying for loved ones to recover, and others are praying for strength after loved ones have been lost.  We join our prayers with theirs.

We also join with those praying for answers to questions of how they will pay bills, put food on the table and keep a roof over their head.

While we hope that praying for others produces miracles, the one thing that it does for sure is, helps us focus on the needs of others.  So, after you pray, connect.  Reach out to others. Check on them. Ask about their concerns – it might help take your mind off yours.

When you ask, “how are you doing?” and you get “OK” or “fine”, ask it again to get the real answer. And then just listen.  If you can do more than that, please do so. But sometimes listening – connecting – is enough to help us get through.

Genesis Updates

Virtual Parent Meeting – Genesis will host an Informational webinar this week to provide a forum for you to ask any questions you may have about Genesis and your scholars’ education.  Please look for details in the next couple of days.

Next School Year Calendar – The Board is considering two calendar options.  Both have a fall start date of August 3, 2020.  Please lock that date in (though given the current crisis, changes are possible). School will end on either May 21, 2021, or May 28, 2021. We will update you as soon as a decision is final (hopefully this week).

Summer School – Genesis is considering summer school of some type, given our scholars will have lost several days of instruction during this crisis. We cannot allow them to begin a new year behind where they need to be. Details are being worked out and we will inform you as plans develop.

Digital Learning Schedules – Expect schedules to be the same this coming week.  Some adjustments may be made this week (teachers are always making adjustments).  However, since this is the first week back from Spring Break, teachers and leaders will need to use this week to discuss and formalize additional changes.

Device and Internet Access – Genesis will reach out to parents this week to get feedback on home technology needs.  Some parents may have believed they could make “homeschooling” work for a couple of weeks with what they had at home. Those families may need additional support for such a long-term closure. Stay tuned.

Instructional Support – Genesis has applied for a grant that provides funding for on-line tutoring.  Hopefully, we will receive those funds to help us provide more one-to-one and small group services to help our scholars catch up.

Grades – As per the last update, we are grading scholar work. As a reminder, grades give us important information about what our scholars know. Parents should be prepared for virtual grades to dictate our plans for summer school, tutorials, and other forms of additional support. Like most issues, plans are ongoing.

Picking-up Personal Items – We are aware that many of you would like to retrieve some of your scholar’s personal items from the school.  Plans are being made to allow access to the school, in compliance with state and city mandates. Families will be notified once a pick-up schedule is finalized.

Attendance – Teachers have been instructed to take attendance in Power School to track how often scholars are logging on for virtual instruction. This will help us to determine which families may need additional support during the virtual learning phase.

I am aware that many of the updates indicate that we are still working through finalizing plans.  Unfortunately, that is a function of the season we are in.  We will try to update you more frequently as plans change or are finalized.  Look for more updates this week.

As always, stay in touch, be safe, be healthy, be blessed!

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Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Genesis Innovation Academy

404-990-3844

Please click the link below to view/ download Academic Resources Document.
GIA Academic Resources for Parents April 1, 2020

Dear GIA Family,

Please know that our main goal during these unusual times is the health and safety of our families. Everything else is secondary.  We will certainly do everything we can to provide meaningful learning opportunities for your scholar while they are home.  However, we have no intention of adding to you or your family’s stress.  If our digital learning plans are difficult for you to manage right now, just let us know. We will work together to figure something out.

At this point, we cannot mandate anything or penalize anyone for not figuring out how to make “at home learning” work. There are simply too many things that are uncertain.  We do hope that you do the best you can, and that you encourage your scholars to do the same.  We do not know how long this shut-down will last, but I want to impress upon you how important it is that we continue to push our scholars to learn and grow.

When we do come out of this, and we WILL come out of this -- together – I am sure we want our scholars to be as prepared as possible to continue to excel. We cannot allow them to LOSE ground. We will press forward as best we can, updating you along the way.  Please ask all the questions you need to.  We are definitely in this together. 

Please read the updates below:

• Digital Learning Schedules – Our teachers will be available all week, each week, for our scholars.  Your scholar’s teacher(s) will let you know when (day and time) they will provide live virtual instruction and when they will be available to answer scholar questions about lessons or assignments. We expect to record the live instruction and make it available for scholars who missed it or want to review it. 

• Devices and Internet Access – We are aware that some of you have limited access to technology at home. We are still looking into options to support you. In the meantime, as noted above, please know that we will be flexible regarding due dates and times. Please be sure to let  your homeroom teacher know about any issues, and be very specific.  As always, let your Director know if you need additional support beyond what a teacher is able to communicate or provide.

• Instructional Support – If your scholar has an IEP, the teachers that have served your scholar will also have virtual hours set aside for additional support.  Please allow a couple of days for the support schedule to be finalized.  We will continue to make adjustments as needed to ensure that your scholars get the best possible support under the circumstances.

• Nutrition / Meal Service – It has been confirmed that all of the large districts in Metro Atlanta are serving meals from some of the schools in their region/area.  The meal service will be available to ALL school children who are in need of meals, not just the children who attend district schools.  We have attached updates in English and Spanish that list instructions and locations for each school district.

•  (View/ Download) Aviso importante con respecto a Ubicaciones de distribución de alimentos de emergencia en su comunidad

• (View / Download) Important Notice Regarding Emergency Food Distribution Locations in Your Community

 Morning Start Time: Communication – Please note that we are moving our office hours an hour later to 9:00 a.m.  Teachers are also expected to be available for scholars by 9:00 a.m. (instead of 8 a.m.). Parents should expect to reach the office, and scholars should expect to reach their teachers on-line, until 3 p.m.

Take care, be blessed, and be safe!

------------------

Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Dear Parents,

We are confirming that Genesis Innovation Academy will close the campus starting Monday, March 16, 2020 for an indefinite period of time.  Families should anticipate the campus being closed for a minimum of two weeks, but should be prepared for the possibility of a much longer closure period. 

Instruction – It is important to note that while the campus will be closed, instruction will continue. Genesis’ teachers will be offering virtual instruction and/or learning activities to every scholar in every grade, during the school day. Parents are expected to prepare their scholars to receive instruction/do schoolwork each school day. Today’s Digital Learning Day was planned to allow us to test our, and our families’ capacity to manage digital learning successfully.  We have learned a lot from today and will update families before end of day Monday, March 16th with more detailed plans for next week and beyond. To help us adjust our plans accordingly, please be sure to communicate with your scholar’s homeroom teacher if you had any concerns or difficulties with the Digital Learning Day assignments.  Please keep in mind that this is an unusual situation, and plans will likely change. However, also know that we are committed to making sure that your scholars are learning while they are being kept safe at home.

Special Education Services – If your scholar has an IEP/504, you will receive additional correspondence next week from a member of the Special Education Team. That communication will provide more information about how your scholar will be appropriately supported while engaged in digital learning.

Tutoring – In-person tutoring is suspended until Genesis is cleared to reopen the campus.  However, Genesis is working on plans to provide virtual tutoring to scholars (which is a service we currently provide to some of our scholars while they are on campus). Please keep in mind that virtual tutoring options will be offered first to the scholars most in need.

Parent-Scholar-Teacher Conferences – To reiterate, Genesis teachers will be working while the campus is closed.  Time will be set aside for virtual conferences to discuss your scholar’s academic progress.  The schedule will be sent once it is finalized.

Adult Communication – Digital learning has not changed the expected communication protocol for parents and teachers.

• Formal Genesis E-Mail Updates - Formal updates from Genesis Innovation Academy regarding school closure and changes to the calendar or campus-wide schedule will be sent via e-mail.  Families are responsible for checking their e-mails in order to stay current. Additional correspondence may be sent via Class Dojo as a back-up, but Dojo is not the formal communication platform for Genesis.
• Web Updates - Genesis updates will be posted to the Genesis website for reference.
• Assignments and Grading - Formal teacher communication about assignments is still expected to be placed in PowerSchool.  Formal Parent-Teacher communication about class/course expectations or about individual scholars is expected to occur over e-mail. (Teachers may choose to use Class Dojo or Google Classroom as a back-up to formal communication or for informal communication).
• Teacher Responses - Teachers are still expected to answer parent e-mails within 48 hours.  If parents are not receiving the expected communication in a timely fashion, they should not hesitate to send their Academy Director an e-mail. If the Academy Director does not respond timely or appropriately, parents should contact Dr. Samms, the Head of Schools.
• Phone Calls – Parents may call the school during the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. to receive support and have questions answered in real time.  Parents should not expect teachers to communicate during the school day via phone.

Scholar Communication – Scholars will be expected to log-on to various platforms to receive instructions, to study, ask questions and to do actual work.  Parents may need to help scholars access their work sites. However, please use this as an opportunity to coach your scholars on proactively communicating with their teachers if they have questions.

Extra-Curricular Activities – At this time all Genesis athletic teams have suspended operations.  In addition, all field trips and events have been postponed.  We will continue to update you if and when events are canceled and under what circumstances refunds will be processed and how.

Nutrition/Meal Service – We are aware that some of our families rely on meal service at school to feed their children healthy meals.  We are working diligently with the state to determine what options are available and will update you early next week as we know more.

We understand the challenge this event has presented for our Genesis family, our community, our state, and our nation; our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been most directly impacted by COVID-19.  We always strive to make Genesis both a great school and a great family.  Many of us who are on the Genesis Team have children who attend school here every day.  We are in this with you and will do all we can to take care of all of OUR children.

Please feel free to reach out to any member of the Genesis Team if you have questions.

Blessings to you all,

Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Dear GIA Family,

I had hoped to send an update sooner, but this crisis has required me to do a whole lot more as a leader, manager, husband, father, and minister than normal. The adjustment process has been frustrating, but I’m good now. I have to be. I’m needed. The problem was comparing my “now” to my “normal.”  But life is not normal. So, it is okay if you feel out of sorts or if you are having a hard time getting your bearings.  Though it might frustrate you, it is okay if every plan you made for the family to try to keep things normal does not turn out perfectly.  This is not normal. As they say, “don’t sweat the small stuff.” But it is sometimes difficult to know what is “small” and what is “big” and truly matters. I suggest we focus on the important things that we might have lost sight of before the crisis; things that now forcefully demanded our attention: the health, well-being, and appreciation of the people we love.

So, don’t let this be a time when being around family all day becomes annoying and frustrating (I know it’s hard – it’s ALL day, EVERY day).  Pause and treasure every single minute of this time with family.  There are too many who wish they could have those “ALL day, EVERY” day moments back, and far too many who will have that same wish in the coming days and months.  This is not normal. But if normal is us taking our loved ones for granted, then maybe we should create a new normal.  Hug the people in your house and tell them you love them – EVERY day. They need it and you need it. (Wash your hands first and wear a mask if you have to – ‘cause this is not normal).

Genesis updates are included below (and in the attachment):

Schools Closures – The Governor has closed school for the remainder of the school year.  We plan to continue virtual learning for the remainder of the school year term that was planned.  We will keep you updated on specific details, including the calendar for 2020-2021.

Teachers - Many of you who were not formally trained as teachers are now experiencing, on a small-scale, what is like to teach children for several hours each day. It is not easy. Here are some memes that you might relate to: https://us.hola.com/lifestyle/20200326flx91stxpc/coronavirus-parents-homeschool-funny-memes.  I don’t know what Teacher’s Appreciation looks like this year, but as a start, please send thank you notes when you can.

Spring Break – Genesis will have Spring Break as scheduled next week.  There will be no digital instruction provided. This will give us (and probably many of you) an opportunity to rethink and regroup our instructional plans and personally regroup from the shock of the crisis. Please do not expect teachers to respond during this break. Scholars should “chill.” But for those who would prefer to have their scholars engaged over the break, suggestions are provided below.

Digital Learning Schedules – As per our last update, parents and scholars should be aware of their scholars digital learning schedule. If not, please reach out to your homeroom teacher, or your Director if you do not get a response. Scholars should have about 1-hour of virtual instruction per subject per week. We know there is some anxiety around what to do with your “precious angels” for a full day, EVERY day.  Please keep in mind that GIA cannot recreate “normal school” under the circumstances, but we will continue to do our very best to make sure scholars continue to learn and that you have resources to supplement what teachers do.

Device and Internet Access – As per the last update, homeroom teachers did let us know who needed support, and we have tried to make sure all scholars are able to connect and complete their work. But recognize there are still some issues. Continue to keep your homeroom teacher informed about anything we might be able to help with.  Some resources that may help include:

• X-Finity – If you are not connected to Wi-Fi, X-Finity is providing access to out-of-home hotspots.  Please search for one near you, if needed (https://wifi.xfinity.com/)
• Comcast – If you are not connected, and would prefer an in-home connection, Comcast is offering two free months, and a low rate thereafter.  Please go to the site for details (https://www.internetessentials.com/covid19).

Instructional Support – If your scholar has an Individualized Education Plans (IEP), a support teacher/professional should have updated you on how your scholar’s plan will be implemented in a virtual environment. If you have not heard from anyone, please reach out to Dr. Jacquita Henderson (jhenderson@giacademy.org). Dr. Henderson will oversee Instructional Support on an interim basis. She has run all of these programs before, at a high-level, and in a state-charter school, so we are glad to have her expertise. Note: Dr. Solomon was offered a new opportunity and is no longer with Genesis. We wish her well and thank her for her service to children and families.

Grades – We have just received guidance from the state on how to determine formal report card grades.  We are reviewing that information and will get back to you as soon as possible.  We do know that we will not penalize scholars for poor results during this crisis. However, we do expect scholars to do their best and we will grade them on the quality of the work they submit.  Why? Because it is in all of our best interest to know what our scholars understand and are able to do.

Nutrition – Hopefully, families who needed access to meals were able to use information in our last update on district-based sites providing free breakfast and/or lunch.  Some of those sites may be closing during Spring Break. Check the website in the district you live in for more information about possible alternatives. Also, check out the Atlanta Food Bank (https://acfb.org/covid-19-response) and YMCA (https://www.ymcaatlanta.org/blog/current-ymca-hunger-relief-programs/) for additional options, if needed. There is another program that delivers groceries for families in need: https://atlsurvival.org/food/

Home-School Suggestions

If you need ideas about how to manage this “homeschool” situation, we will try to provide suggestions and resources to hopefully make it easier for you.

Home Strategies

• Schedule/Routine - Create a regular daily routine for scholars (it helps them)
  • Note: As per the intro, if the schedule is adding stress, change it or ditch it
• “Me Time” - Schedule some “Me” Time for Mom/Dad (you need it)
• Family Time – Go for a walk together, play a game, watch a movie
• Friend Time – Create a virtual lunch meeting for your scholar and friends

Academic Resources – Attached are some FREE reading resources that you might find helpful if you want to give your scholars something academic to do or if you just want to let them read for fun (note: sometimes free versions have less options).

Life & Health Resources

• United Way – General help for families who have unmet needs: https://www.unitedwayatlanta.org/need-help/
• Crisis Text Line – This is a counseling resource for a crisis. Just in case you need it: https://www.crisistextline.org/

As always, stay in touch and let us know if you need anything.  If we can’t help you, we will find someone who can.

Be safe, be healthy, be blessed!

------------------

Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Genesis Innovation Academy

Dear GIA Family,

Please know that our main goal during these unusual times is the health and safety of our families. Everything else is secondary.  We will certainly do everything we can to provide meaningful learning opportunities for your scholar while they are home.  However, we have no intention of adding to you or your family’s stress.  If our digital learning plans are difficult for you to manage right now, just let us know. We will work together to figure something out.

At this point, we cannot mandate anything or penalize anyone for not figuring out how to make “at home learning” work. There are simply too many things that are uncertain.  We do hope that you do the best you can, and that you encourage your scholars to do the same.  We do not know how long this shut-down will last, but I want to impress upon you how important it is that we continue to push our scholars to learn and grow.

When we do come out of this, and we WILL come out of this -- together – I am sure we want our scholars to be as prepared as possible to continue to excel. We cannot allow them to LOSE ground. We will press forward as best we can, updating you along the way.  Please ask all the questions you need to.  We are definitely in this together.

Please read the updates below:

• Digital Learning Schedules – Our teachers will be available all week, each week, for our scholars.  Your scholar’s teacher(s) will let you know when (day and time) they will provide live virtual instruction and when they will be available to answer scholar questions about lessons or assignments. We expect to record the live instruction and make it available for scholars who missed it or want to review it.

• Devices and Internet Access – We are aware that some of you have limited access to technology at home. We are still looking into options to support you. In the meantime, as noted above, please know that we will be flexible regarding due dates and times. Please be sure to let  your homeroom teacher know about any issues, and be very specific.  As always, let your Director know if you need additional support beyond what a teacher is able to communicate or provide.

• Instructional Support – If your scholar has an IEP, the teachers that have served your scholar will also have virtual hours set aside for additional support.  Please allow a couple of days for the support schedule to be finalized.  We will continue to make adjustments as needed to ensure that your scholars get the best possible support under the circumstances.

• Nutrition / Meal Service – It has been confirmed that all of the large districts in Metro Atlanta are serving meals from some of the schools in their region/area.  The meal service will be available to ALL school children who are in need of meals, not just the children who attend district schools.  We have attached updates in English and Spanish that list instructions and locations for each school district.

• Morning Start Time: Communication – Please note that we are moving our office hours an hour later to 9:00 a.m.  Teachers are also expected to be available for scholars by 9:00 a.m. (instead of 8 a.m.). Parents should expect to reach the office, and scholars should expect to reach their teachers on-line, until 3 p.m.

Take care, be blessed, and be safe!

------------------

Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools

Genesis Innovation Academy

404-990-3844

Dear GIA Family,

Below are important updates regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19):

Georgia Department of Health - Attached is an informational PowerPoint from the Georgia Department of Public Health.  The public understanding of the coronavirus is evolving but the attached represents the latest information.

Talking to Children - Also, below is a link from the National Association of School Psychologists that includes recommendations on how to talk to children about the virus: https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/talking-to-children-about-covid-19-(coronavirus)-a-parent-resource

Genesis Digital Learning Day

The report today that Fulton County Schools is closing schools tomorrow due to a confirmed coronavirus case reminds us to exercise extreme caution and to prepare accordingly.  Genesis is not a Fulton County School (and not an APS school) and we are not at the point where school will be cancelled.  However, we must prepare for the possibility that school closure may become necessary.  First, our Facilities Team will do additional sanitizing of the campus this evening (Monday).  Secondly, Genesis is scheduling a Digital-Learning day this Friday to test our capacity to provide meaningful digital learning experiences for our scholars in the event that school closure is deemed necessary.

What: Digital Learning Day

When: Friday, March 13, 2020

Where: At Home

Who: All Genesis Scholars

Time: TBD - Teachers will provide assignments that require scholars to work for at least a half-day. Scholars will have to log-on to different platforms to verify “attendance.” Note: Keep in mind that Monday is a Teacher Workday/Professional Learning Day.

We will also use the Digital-Learning day / long weekend, for additional sanitizing and longer-term planning for possible school closure.

Given the uncertainty around how quickly the virus may spread, we ask that families be prepared for an unexpected change to these plans.  If available information dictates that we require scholars to stay home sooner and/or for a longer period of time, or that we postpone events and trips that have been planned, we will be sure to inform parents as quickly as possible. This is a season in which we all have to be as prepared as we can be for the unexpected.

Yours in service,

------------------

Gavin Samms, Ph.D.

Head of Schools