With technology becoming more prevalent in classes, teachers have begun to use more educational programs in the past year.

“[Teachers] are not required to put anything on [Canvas], but they are strongly encouraged to use it,” Janelle Walters, Assistant Principal, said.

While it is not a requirement, teachers are encouraged to for the students in cases of absences.

“Let’s say a teacher had a packet of work that they were giving to a student, that packet of work should also be available on Canvas,” Lisa Julian, Canvas administrator, said. 

This expectation does not mean that teachers are expected to have the assignment available to turn in on Canvas but rather provide the materials for students who are unable to attend class for various reasons, such as quarantine. The expectation does not include recorded lectures or grading on Canvas.

“Some teachers are choosing to work like they did last year and provide all of their assignments on Canvas as well, and that is their option,” Julian said. “They are also choosing to grade things on Canvas, and that is their option.”

Students can benefit from the materials placed on Canvas for many reasons.

“[Canvas] has helped students, like if you miss a day of school, you know where to go to find out what you did,” physics teacher Amy Hageman said.

In her physics classes, Advanced Placement and general, Hageman uses four different sites to teach in her classes, all with differing purposes. Some of the sites allow students to participate in labs that they cannot actively do in class due to COVID-19, like blowing up balloons. The assignments in Hageman’s classes are usually submitted through Canvas.

“I think I’m a little bit better at it this year,” Hageman said. “But [I’m also] using some of the same technology this year but I’m there to help the students in the classroom.”

Last year, she placed her focus on using whiteboard technology and creating videos for students to learn from throughout the hybrid system. This year, however, Hageman is using less technology in the classes than last year, while still actively using Canvas. 

Hageman includes a weekly overview page on Canvas, allowing students to know what they are supposed to do that week and on what day. 

“Overall, I think Canvas helps me plan better as a teacher,” Hageman said.