Dear Students and Parents,

The Great Falls Public School administration and staff have a strong commitment to preparing all students for college, career and citizenship in the 21^st Century. Digital Learning opportunities are becoming more available to students of all ages at an accelerated rate. This year the State of Montana is launching the Montana Digital Academy. The Academy was created by our legislature in 2009 (HB0459) and has been under development at the University of Montana this past year.

 

Students in the Great Falls Public School system could be eligible to take an online course through the Montana Digital Academy if they meet some prerequisite criteria. First and most important to us is your success. The MTDA website (http://www.montanadigitalacademy.org/) offers some great information that you must read and discuss with your parents. Here are some important questions that we suggest you discuss together:

 

What does it take to be a successful online learner? Is this the time and place for you to attempt an online course? Are you;

 

• highly motivated?
• an independent, active learner?
• a good organizer and do you manage your time well?
• disciplined to study without external reminders?
• able to adapt to new learning environments?

 

After discussing these questions and reviewing the MTDA website and you would like more information about registering for an online course through the MTDA, please join us for an informational session at one of our High Schools this summer.

In order to register for an online course, students must apply through their local High School administration offices

NO LATER THAN AUGUST 27, 2010.

 

You may download an application form from the GFPS website (E-Learning_Form.pdf) and/or attend one of the following information and registration sessions:

 

Date	Time	Place
June 23	5:30-7:00 PM	C. M. Russell High School Cafeteria
July 13	5:30-7:00 PM	Great Falls High School South Campus #106
August 18	5:30-7:00 PM	Paris Gibson Education Center

 

These will be a series of short half-hour presentations followed by question and answer sessions. Sessions will begin at 5:30 PM and repeat at 6:00 PM and 6:30 PM. This schedule is designed to accommodate busy summer schedules for students and parents.

 

If you have any questions, please contact my office at Great Falls Public Schools (406-268-6008).

 

Sincerely,

Tom Moore
Assistant Superintendent