Saint Joseph's students stay engaged and on track, no matter the weather.

The Saint Joseph's inclement weather policy allows Saint Joseph's to continue instruction with as little disruption as possible, and allows Saint Joseph's teachers the flexibility needed to deliver content using the most effective methods. The success of delays and virtual days relies on the cooperation of all Saint Joseph's students, families, and teachers.

1. All students must email their first period teacher by 8:15. This counts as their "check-in" for the day, and is required to be counted as present. PA law requires students to check in (eg. email) for attendance in order for a school day to count. The email does not need to have any specific content, and may be as simple as, "Good morning!" First period teachers will report their attendance list to the main office. With regard to excused absences, late arrivals, and early dismissals, all in-person policies will apply. Parents should email the office as needed, according to the Handbook.
2. On virtual days, instruction will be either synchronous or asynchronous at the discretion of each teacher. By 8 AM, all teachers will make a post on their Google Classroom indicating whether the day's classwork will be synchronous or asynchronous.
3. Asynchronous assignments are assignments that are completed by each student independently. If classwork is being completed asynchronously, teachers will post all materials by 10 AM. Virtual day assignments are due the same day at 7 PM, unless stated otherwise by the teacher.
4. Synchronous instruction is delivered to all students simultaneously via Zoom. If a teacher decides that instruction will be synchronous, they will ensure that a Zoom link is clearly posted on Google Classroom. The following procedures will apply to synchronous instruction:
   • Students must log into Zoom by the beginning of class, according to the normal bell schedule. It is students' responsibility to manage their time and ensure that they arrive promptly for their classes on Zoom. Study periods, clubs, House periods, Mass, chapel, and homeroom will not meet.
   • Students must keep their cameras on at all times in class, must be dressed either in uniform or spirit wear, and should be in a public location within their house (i.e. not a bedroom or bathroom).
   • The expectation is that students will participate in a Zoom class to the same degree as an in-person class. This means that teachers may require students to participate vocally, through the chat, or both. It also means that students should not be on their phones, playing games, or otherwise distracted during a Zoom class. Teachers may assign demerits for violating these expectations.
   • Teachers may require students to remain on Zoom for the duration of the class, according to the bell schedule, or may dismiss the class to work on an assignment independently.
   • Whether instruction is delivered synchronously or asynchronously, teachers will be available throughout the day via email to respond to questions and assist students as needed.

Questions?
General questions regarding the inclement weather procedure and online learning should be directed to the school office at sjca@sjcacademy.org or 814-808-6118.  Questions regarding specific teacher's expectations or class procedures should be directed to the teacher.