Last year, schools from all over Delaware and the surrounding area attempted to come to a solution on how their students could make up the time they were missing in school due to the tremendous amount of snow. Some decided to hold classes on weekends, extend the hours in the school day, or add days on to the end of the school year. However, this year, Padua has come up with a solution that doesn’t involve the addition of any missed time. Padua has adopted a new idea for how students can stay caught up on the assignments they will miss in the event of a snow day. This idea, also known as a “cyber snow day,” will allow students to complete their assignments from the comfort of their own homes.

Because every student and faculty member at Padua has his or her own laptop issued by the school, teachers will be able to email their students the work that they would have been working on, if school had been in session. If school is cancelled, teachers will email students by 9:00 a.m., instructing them on their assignments for the day. Students will then electronically turn in their completed assignments. Padua is encouraging students and teachers to be online during the hours of 1-3 p.m., in order for students to be able to ask their teachers questions they may have about assignments.

    The News Journal recently wrote an article on this topic, and had an interview with Padua Principal, Mrs. Mann. In the article Mrs. Mann says, “I think this is a way for us to keep kids on track academically while also allowing us to make the safest decision for our students.” In the article, many principals and representatives from other schools and districts say that they wish they were able to do this, but unfortunately are not unable to provide internet access to every student. The idea also seems to be popular among Padua girls too. Alena Boyer (‘18) says, “I think its a great idea. We won’t be getting behind in school and we won’t be adding days to the end of the school year. Then we can enjoy the snow day and still be caught up. It seems like a win-win to me.” Many other girls agree with Alena and are also very excited to see how this new idea will work. Overall, many Padua girls agree that they think it is a great way to stay caught up on work, while still getting to enjoy the snow.