Xaverian's Remote Education and Learning Program

While the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a diversion from traditional classroom teaching methodologies in schools across the country, Xaverian was well-equipped to transition to a comprehensive digital learning program. On Wednesday, March 18, the school launched its Remote Education And Learning at Xaverian (REAL/X) program. Designed with boys’ need for structure and routine in mind, a class schedule was assembled for the week, with freedom for faculty to decide if they want to host a live class with Google Meet or have assigned work to complete in their class’s time frame. Time was built into the schedule for office hours with teachers, as well as for clubs to meet.

 

Xaverian also prioritized the preservation of meaningful social connections that students derive from school - whether that’s with their peers, faculty, or the administration. Coinciding with the launch of the digital learning program, a resource board was created as a means to support students’ social, emotional, and mental well-being. During both the morning and afternoon each day, the resource board is updated and there is new content available. Students can hear from Xaverian’s Morning Hawk, an enthusiastic senior named John, who has taken on recording his daily announcements; they can take part in a March Madness bracket to determine their favorite location in the school; they can answer Xaverian’s daily trivia quiz; they can learn a new skill from a faculty or staff member (today’s lesson was - how to make traditional southern grits by our theology teacher, Mr. Gruslin); they can follow along with one of two workouts put together by Xaverian alum and New Jersey Devils Head Strength and Conditioning Coach, Joe Lorincz ’01; and they can read tips on coping with social distancing. On social media, Xaverian has mobilized its whole community by having students, faculty, and staff share selfies at their home workstations and detailing how they are staying active between classes.

While many feel fearful or uncertain about the future, Xaverian has aimed to create a structured and supportive environment