In 2019, SB604 was passed, the law allows for Missouri school districts to use Alternative Methods of Instruction (AMI) Plan on days when school is unexpectedly closed due to weather, illness or other emergency situation. Districts with an approved plan will not be required to make up time lost to exceptional or emergency circumstances (up to 36 hours). After 36 hours, state statute requires half the number of additional lost hours to be made up (not more than 24 additional hours made up.)
The district will inform parents and students when an AMI day has been scheduled (text, email, notification, social media).
Online resources will be provided by teachers through multiple ways including Google Classroom or other approved online web resources. teachers will communicate these online options via email or other communication.
Instructions and information will be provided by teachers, and students are expected to complete and submit learning activities. If parents have questions about the learning activities, they will contact their child's teacher through email.
For students in grades K-2, AMI packets will be distributed to students prior to using an AMI day. Students will be responsible for completing their packet and returning it to their teacher, once school has resumed. Packets may include manipulatives, educational games, handouts, library books, etc.
If at all possible, students will receive an instructional packet before leaving school, prior to a potential AMI day if the student does not have internet access.
Students will NOT attend school on an AMI day. All students will have instructional activities to be completed at home on AMI days.
AMI days count as instructional days and do not have to be made up at the end of the school year if students and staff complete assigned work.
Students who do NOT complete and submit AMI assignments, will be marked absent for the related AMI day. Student attendance is determined by assignment completion on AMI days.
Teachers will be accessible for questions, clarification and feedback via email on AMI during school hours. Teachers will keep their online classroom current with resources, assignments and contact information if using this method of instruction. Elementary teachers will be available to contact through School Status Connect during AMI days.
Student Expectations on AMI days:
Provide learning activities focused on reinforcement of critical learning standards.
Provide enrichment activities
Introduce new concepts remotely during short-term school closure.
If your child has an IEP or 504 plan, their team will ensure appropriate modifications and accommodations are made to their AMI learning activities. If you have questions about AMI, please contact their teacher for more information.