Updates & Information
Posted 3/27/2020, 2:28 PM
Please click on the links below to access important information related to the school closure, continuous learning, and other programs and supports.
Partners
Please click on the links below to access important information related to the school closure, continuous learning, and other programs and supports.
Please click on the links below to access important information related to the school closure, continuous learning, and other programs and supports.
Will there be a graduation ceremony for the class of 2020? If so, when, and how might the current social distancing requirements affect the ceremony?
We are planning to celebrate the success of the Class of 2020 in some way and will continue to closely monitor guidance received from state government officials. We continue to hope that a ceremony can be held on May 17th or on a later date this summer. In the event that a traditional ceremony cannot take place, we are brainstorming other ways to recognize seniors.
I would still like to order Honors Cords/medals/stole even if graduation cannot occur. How can I get these items?
Yes, you may order these items. Please contact Susan Kaspar (785-339-4104 or kaspasus@usd437.net)
Will seniors be able to receive the letter written to themselves during Health class their freshman year?
Letters will be distributed to students by placing them either in their cumulative file or by mailing them home at the end of the school year.
If a senior had already met graduation requirements in December. but chose to continue taking classes during the spring semester, do they have to complete the online coursework or can they graduate based on the credits accumulated through December of 2019?
WRHS is open to providing flexibility to seniors who met graduation requirements in December of 2019. Please contact your counselor for additional information.
I’m a senior and plan to finish my courses / credits through the online platform WRHS is providing. Will I get my transcript/diploma at the same time as I would have before --will there be a delay?
The calendar for this school year has not changed. That is to say, the last day of school is still May 21st. At the end of the school year, when all of your classes are completed and grades have been submitted, you will have access to the transcript which shows graduation status. Diplomas are typically distributed at the graduation ceremony for most seniors. Detailed information regarding Graduation and related considerations (eg. distribution of diplomas) will be communicated at a later date.
When is the seniors last day? Is it still earlier than the official last day of the school year?
The end of the school year is Thursday, May 21st. The last day for seniors is Monday, May 11th. All grades for seniors must be submitted by the end of the day on Monday, May 11th.
When will AP/IB/CEP classes resume?
Students taking AP, IB and CEP courses should have already received communication from their teachers. Instruction / learning in these courses is currently taking place due to external timelines and requirements.
Many Seniors were scheduled to take multiple AP tests this Spring. Will they be able to take AP exams? This may have an impact on their college career.
The College Board has made plans that will not only allow students to complete AP coursework virtually, but that will also allow them to take the AP Test and, subsequently, earn college credit. Below is information received from KSDE about AP Classes.
Will the College Board still administer AP Exams?
For each AP subject, there will be two different testing dates. The full exam schedule, specific free-response question types that will be on each AP Exam, and additional testing information will be available by April 3.
"The AP program is finalizing streamlined AP exam options that would allow students to test at home, depending on the situation in May. We're working to give every AP student the opportunity to claim the credit they’ve earned. Click here for the latest information from the AP Program."
Are there resources available for virtual learning?
"The College Board is developing tools to mitigate the impact of school closures on students in the Advanced Placement Program. All AP students and teachers will be able to draw on the free online resources that were provided to every AP classroom this fall. Additional resources will be made easily accessible to AP students and teachers through mobile phones and other devices. These include free online AP lessons and review sessions from some of the top AP teachers in the country."
If a student takes the AP test and does poorly, does the score go directly to their college of choice or does it matter?
Students have the option to send their score(s) to one college for free, so if they signed up for this option (in their student account) the score would be sent to that school automatically. Otherwise, the student decides where to send their scores after they are able to see the result of their exam.
What will happen with the CEP (dual credit) class my student is taking through Washburn University (Public Speaking, Intro to Literature, Consumer & Personal Finance, College Algebra)? Dual credit courses offered by Washburn University through WRHS are continuing through an online format. WRHS teachers of CEP (dual credit) courses should be communicating with students and continuing to deliver course content.
If the school building is closed, how can I retrieve needed items from my locker (hall locker, PE locker, etc.)?
We are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day.
How do I retrieve medication from the school nurse?
We are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day.
How do I retrieve my instrument from school?
The music department has already distributed instruments to students. If you have questions, please contact Mr. Chaffee (Band) / Ms. Parker (Orchestra).
How do I get items from a teacher’s classroom that I need?
We are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day.
How do I return my uniform (AFJROTC, Sports, etc.) to school?
WE are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day.
I don’t have a computer at home? Will the school provide a device for academic purposes?
Yes, the district will provide devices. WRHS staff members will be calling students in their advisory classes to determine who needs devices and/or internet access. The district will be delivering devices during the week of March 30th.
I don’t have internet access at home? How will I complete coursework online?
The IT department for USD 437 is currently working on a solution to assist those without internet access at home.
I need to talk with my counselor or a social worker. Are they available?
Absolutely! All WRHS counselors and/or social workers are available. Please feel free to contact them by email and/or arrange phone calls, Google meets, etc. Counseling staff contact information and details can be found HERE.
Will I get to go on to the next grade since school has been canceled this year?
School has not been canceled for the year. All of the school buildings in Kansas have been closed during the spring semester which means instruction will be delivered "virtually" or "on-line." We plan to start online learning in all of your spring semester classes during the week of March 30th. So, YES! You will have an opportunity to pass your classes and earn credits toward graduation! Teachers will be communicating through email and Google Classroom.
If I am behind in a class, or missed a test administered prior to spring break, how do I go about making up that work?
We plan to begin delivering instruction “virtually” or “on-line” during the week of March 30th. You may begin communicating with teachers at that time to discuss the expectations and processes for completing any missing assignments or tests.
If I am really struggling in a class, what should I do?
Please reach out directly to your teacher. They can talk with you via phone or video conference through Google Hangout or Google Meet. Please let the teacher know that you are struggling and allow them to help you solve the problem. Also, please know that we will do whatever it takes to help you through any and all difficulties which result from shifting to an online learning platform.
How will I check out required materials/resources necessary to complete the work assigned through my Google Classroom?
We are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day.
When will teachers begin sending / posting assignments for students?
Virtual learning opportunities for all classes will begin during the week of March 30th. Students… please check your Gmail and Google Classrooms. Teachers are working to standardize the experience for our students and their families. We won't be expecting a student to spend 7 hours on a computer every day. Therefore, learning opportunities will be scaled down to include essential knowledge and skills directly tied to critical learning objectives.
My student receives accommodations at school. How will they get accommodations at home?
As teachers design their on-line learning activities, they will consider the needs of individual students. If assistance is required beyond the embedded accommodations, teachers may be reached by email and/or by phone for additional support.
My son/daughter wanted to try out / audition for the 9th grade Strength & Conditioning course for the 2020-21 school year. When will this occur?
There are a number of courses which require a tryout / audition as part of the enrollment process. At this point in time, it has been prohibited to have large numbers of students in the school building. We are considering a way forward and will keep students and parents informed of future plans.
Are we still having Prom?
Unfortunately, Prom has been canceled for this school year.
How do I turn in my equipment from winter sports (uniform, bag, etc.)?
We are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day. If you come to the school to retrieve essential items you may also turn in winter sports uniforms and equipment at that time.
If foreign exchange students return home prior to the end of the school year, what should we do? Please check your Google Classroom for additional information recently posted by Mrs. Frederickson. A letter, which may be shared with school officials requiring documentation, will be emailed to students and clearly outlines the circumstances.
I would like to pay fees remaining on a student account, but usually do so in person. If I’m not able to pay online, how do I go about getting a check to the office?
Please send payments directly to WRHS, 5900 SW 61st Street, Topeka, KS 66619, to the attention of Sheryl Long and specify what the payment is for.
Will fees for 2nd semester courses be prorated?
This question is currently under consideration. An answer will be provided in the near future.
My student has lunch money on his/her account. Will that be refunded?
For students with a remaining lunch account balance: These funds will automatically roll over into the next school year. However, for Seniors or for parents wishing the money be refunded by school issued check, please contact Sheryl Long, bookkeeper, by phone 339-4102 or email longshe@usd437.net.
Will there be a graduation ceremony for the class of 2020? If so, when, and how might the current social distancing requirements affect the ceremony?
We are planning to celebrate the success of the Class of 2020 in some way and will continue to closely monitor guidance received from state government officials. We continue to hope that a ceremony can be held on May 17th or on a later date this summer. In the event that a…
Will there be a graduation ceremony for the class of 2020? If so, when, and how might the current social distancing requirements affect the ceremony?
We are planning to celebrate the success of the Class of 2020 in some way and will continue to closely monitor guidance received from state government officials. We continue to hope that a ceremony can be held on May 17th or on a later date this summer. In the event that a traditional ceremony cannot take place, we are brainstorming other ways to recognize seniors.
I would still like to order Honors Cords/medals/stole even if graduation cannot occur. How can I get these items?
Yes, you may order these items. Please contact Susan Kaspar (785-339-4104 or kaspasus@usd437.net)
Will seniors be able to receive the letter written to themselves during Health class their freshman year?
Letters will be distributed to students by placing them either in their cumulative file or by mailing them home at the end of the school year.
If a senior had already met graduation requirements in December. but chose to continue taking classes during the spring semester, do they have to complete the online coursework or can they graduate based on the credits accumulated through December of 2019?
WRHS is open to providing flexibility to seniors who met graduation requirements in December of 2019. Please contact your counselor for additional information.
I’m a senior and plan to finish my courses / credits through the online platform WRHS is providing. Will I get my transcript/diploma at the same time as I would have before --will there be a delay?
The calendar for this school year has not changed. That is to say, the last day of school is still May 21st. At the end of the school year, when all of your classes are completed and grades have been submitted, you will have access to the transcript which shows graduation status. Diplomas are typically distributed at the graduation ceremony for most seniors. Detailed information regarding Graduation and related considerations (eg. distribution of diplomas) will be communicated at a later date.
When is the seniors last day? Is it still earlier than the official last day of the school year?
The end of the school year is Thursday, May 21st. The last day for seniors is Monday, May 11th. All grades for seniors must be submitted by the end of the day on Monday, May 11th.
When will AP/IB/CEP classes resume?
Students taking AP, IB and CEP courses should have already received communication from their teachers. Instruction / learning in these courses is currently taking place due to external timelines and requirements.
Many Seniors were scheduled to take multiple AP tests this Spring. Will they be able to take AP exams? This may have an impact on their college career.
The College Board has made plans that will not only allow students to complete AP coursework virtually, but that will also allow them to take the AP Test and, subsequently, earn college credit. Below is information received from KSDE about AP Classes.
Will the College Board still administer AP Exams?
For each AP subject, there will be two different testing dates. The full exam schedule, specific free-response question types that will be on each AP Exam, and additional testing information will be available by April 3.
"The AP program is finalizing streamlined AP exam options that would allow students to test at home, depending on the situation in May. We're working to give every AP student the opportunity to claim the credit they’ve earned. Click here for the latest information from the AP Program."
Are there resources available for virtual learning?
"The College Board is developing tools to mitigate the impact of school closures on students in the Advanced Placement Program. All AP students and teachers will be able to draw on the free online resources that were provided to every AP classroom this fall. Additional resources will be made easily accessible to AP students and teachers through mobile phones and other devices. These include free online AP lessons and review sessions from some of the top AP teachers in the country."
If a student takes the AP test and does poorly, does the score go directly to their college of choice or does it matter?
Students have the option to send their score(s) to one college for free, so if they signed up for this option (in their student account) the score would be sent to that school automatically. Otherwise, the student decides where to send their scores after they are able to see the result of their exam.
What will happen with the CEP (dual credit) class my student is taking through Washburn University (Public Speaking, Intro to Literature, Consumer & Personal Finance, College Algebra)? Dual credit courses offered by Washburn University through WRHS are continuing through an online format. WRHS teachers of CEP (dual credit) courses should be communicating with students and continuing to deliver course content.
If the school building is closed, how can I retrieve needed items from my locker (hall locker, PE locker, etc.)?
We are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day.
How do I retrieve medication from the school nurse?
We are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day.
How do I retrieve my instrument from school?
The music department has already distributed instruments to students. If you have questions, please contact Mr. Chaffee (Band) / Ms. Parker (Orchestra).
How do I get items from a teacher’s classroom that I need?
We are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day.
How do I return my uniform (AFJROTC, Sports, etc.) to school?
WE are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day.
I don’t have a computer at home? Will the school provide a device for academic purposes?
Yes, the district will provide devices. WRHS staff members will be calling students in their advisory classes to determine who needs devices and/or internet access. The district will be delivering devices during the week of March 30th.
I don’t have internet access at home? How will I complete coursework online?
The IT department for USD 437 is currently working on a solution to assist those without internet access at home.
I need to talk with my counselor or a social worker. Are they available?
Absolutely! All WRHS counselors and/or social workers are available. Please feel free to contact them by email and/or arrange phone calls, Google meets, etc. Counseling staff contact information and details can be found HERE.
Will I get to go on to the next grade since school has been canceled this year?
School has not been canceled for the year. All of the school buildings in Kansas have been closed during the spring semester which means instruction will be delivered "virtually" or "on-line." We plan to start online learning in all of your spring semester classes during the week of March 30th. So, YES! You will have an opportunity to pass your classes and earn credits toward graduation! Teachers will be communicating through email and Google Classroom.
If I am behind in a class, or missed a test administered prior to spring break, how do I go about making up that work?
We plan to begin delivering instruction “virtually” or “on-line” during the week of March 30th. You may begin communicating with teachers at that time to discuss the expectations and processes for completing any missing assignments or tests.
If I am really struggling in a class, what should I do?
Please reach out directly to your teacher. They can talk with you via phone or video conference through Google Hangout or Google Meet. Please let the teacher know that you are struggling and allow them to help you solve the problem. Also, please know that we will do whatever it takes to help you through any and all difficulties which result from shifting to an online learning platform.
How will I check out required materials/resources necessary to complete the work assigned through my Google Classroom?
We are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day.
When will teachers begin sending / posting assignments for students?
Virtual learning opportunities for all classes will begin during the week of March 30th. Students… please check your Gmail and Google Classrooms. Teachers are working to standardize the experience for our students and their families. We won't be expecting a student to spend 7 hours on a computer every day. Therefore, learning opportunities will be scaled down to include essential knowledge and skills directly tied to critical learning objectives.
My student receives accommodations at school. How will they get accommodations at home?
As teachers design their on-line learning activities, they will consider the needs of individual students. If assistance is required beyond the embedded accommodations, teachers may be reached by email and/or by phone for additional support.
My son/daughter wanted to try out / audition for the 9th grade Strength & Conditioning course for the 2020-21 school year. When will this occur?
There are a number of courses which require a tryout / audition as part of the enrollment process. At this point in time, it has been prohibited to have large numbers of students in the school building. We are considering a way forward and will keep students and parents informed of future plans.
Are we still having Prom?
Unfortunately, Prom has been canceled for this school year.
How do I turn in my equipment from winter sports (uniform, bag, etc.)?
We are currently developing a plan which will provide students a scheduled opportunity to enter the building and retrieve essential items. All students will receive a Google form through their school Gmail account. The form will allow students to sign up for a date/time when they may come to WRHS. Some staff will be on hand to help facilitate this process. Retrieval opportunities will begin on Tuesday, March 31st and run through Tuesday, April 7th from 7am to 7pm each day. If you come to the school to retrieve essential items you may also turn in winter sports uniforms and equipment at that time.
If foreign exchange students return home prior to the end of the school year, what should we do? Please check your Google Classroom for additional information recently posted by Mrs. Frederickson. A letter, which may be shared with school officials requiring documentation, will be emailed to students and clearly outlines the circumstances.
I would like to pay fees remaining on a student account, but usually do so in person. If I’m not able to pay online, how do I go about getting a check to the office?
Please send payments directly to WRHS, 5900 SW 61st Street, Topeka, KS 66619, to the attention of Sheryl Long and specify what the payment is for.
Will fees for 2nd semester courses be prorated?
This question is currently under consideration. An answer will be provided in the near future.
My student has lunch money on his/her account. Will that be refunded?
For students with a remaining lunch account balance: These funds will automatically roll over into the next school year. However, for Seniors or for parents wishing the money be refunded by school issued check, please contact Sheryl Long, bookkeeper, by phone 339-4102 or email longshe@usd437.net.
