The California Department of Education (CDE) published the guidance linked below, related to the tracking student participation and engagement during periods of required distance learning. As required by statutes passed through SB 98, LEAs required to provide distance learning because of COVID-19 must track daily student participation as well as weekly engagement to equate to instructional minutes. The guidance indicates it was developed in coordination with multiple stakeholders, including labor associations. The CDE’s FAQs and interpretation on instructional minute requirements, in person instruction, and attendance accounting during distance learning is available by clicking here.

The CDE’s guidance describes ways to meet distance learning reporting requirements for determining funding and learning objectives when in-person instruction is not possible during the 2020-2021 school year. LEAs must meet funding and learning accountability requirements in order to ensure receipt and retention of state apportionment and federal CARES funding. Accountability language was included in Education Budget Trailer Bill SB 820, which directs the State Controller to include enforcement provisions in this year’s Audit Guide. SB 820 was signed into law by the Governor earlier this month.

A combined daily and weekly engagement template that LEAs can adapt for their use, or use as a reference when developing their own daily participation and weekly engagement forms and procedures, can be found at the links below:

• Instructional Time and Attendance Accounting Resources
• LEA Alternatives for Tracking Daily Participation and Weekly Engagement for Distance Learning 2020-2021 School Year
• Overview of Instructional Time and Attendance Accounting Requirements for 2020-21
• Combined Daily Participation and Weekly Engagement Template

DWK is offering a workshop series to assist LEAs in offering and providing a free, appropriate public education to all students, focusing on the IDEA’s unique and powerful accountability measures. Please stay tuned for dates and times, and contact a DWK attorney with any questions or concerns.