How will the coronavirus affect test dates and programming at Clayborne?

As the world adjusts to a new normal in the wake of COVID-19, the education space moves into new territory with remote learning. What does this mean for grade school students, and how is Clayborne prepared to support them? Fortunately, we have existing infrastructure in place to pivot to an online-only model, but read on to see how Clayborne plans to help you in the coming months.

 

Guiding Questions:

1. How does COVID-19 affect schools?
2. How does COVID-19 affect Clayborne?
3. What is happening to standardized tests like the ACT and SAT?
4. Will college admissions have to change?
5. What does this mean for students and families?

 

1. How does COVID-19 affect schools?

The CDC is recommending at least another 4-5 weeks of social distancing, and individual organizations might extend that to limit liability. This means schools have closed facilities and canceled extra-curricular activities for the foreseeable future.

 

2. How does COVID-19 affect Clayborne?

Clayborne is fortunate to have existing infrastructure in place to seamlessly pivot to remote learning. Our hours of operation have not changed, and we are prepared to meet rising demand for educational and organizational support.

 

3. What is happening to standardized tests like the ACT and SAT?

The College Board and the ACT have cancelled tests for the next two months, and further delays are possible. These tests aren’t going away, but the timeline ahead is uncertain. We recommend you regularly monitor College Board and ACT.org for updates and check your email for notifications regarding test dates.

 

4. What about college admissions?

Colleges and universities are devoting significant resources to address COVID-19 disruptions, ranging from developing remote learning curricula to adjusting application timelines. Details are sparse, and nothing is certain, but expect to hear more from these institutions in the coming weeks.

 

5. What does this mean for students and families?

If you have been preparing for standardized tests this Spring and are worried about the future, rest assured: Clayborne has contingency plans in place to guide you through this evolving situation.

If you are an existing client, you can expect the following programmatic adjustments:

• Shifting to online services

1. 1. 1. In prioritizing the safety of our clients, Clayborne has indefinitely shifted services online. We will be utilizing platforms like Zoom, Google Hangouts, and Skype.
      2. We hope to resume normal operations by the end of the semester, but we are fully prepared for a longer time frame.
      3. Clayborne has a record of success working with students online, so be assured that we have the right tools and pedagogy to serve you remotely.

• Program extension

1. 1. Our primary objective is safety, but our secondary objective is program continuity. Though COVID-19 has disrupted most institutions, it need not prevent you from optimal prep.
   2. We continue to emphasize best practices, including:
      • Maintaining weekly study routines.
      • Meeting consistently with tutors.
      • Simulating test environments.
   3. Extending programs will likely entail modifying students’ current schedules to align with a longer time frame. Options include:
      1. Reducing session frequency to once per week.
      2. Scheduling additional sessions.
      3. Implementing a self-study plan, more details forthcoming.
      4. Clayborne is ready to re-evaluate goals and timelines with each family, so expect to hear from us soon.

 

If you are considering working with us:

Remote learning and social distancing will not compromise the integrity of our programs. We are prepared to guide you through the test prep process towards your goals and fully expect successful outcomes. More than ever, students need guidance and direction from a a trusted coach, and Clayborne is uniquely prepared to assist you.

 

Stay Calm and Press On

Standardized tests are not going away, and though we can expect prolonged disruptions to the educational space, we recommend persisting in your candidacy-building endeavors. In fact, COVID-19 disruptions may provide you a unique opportunity to shore up your grades, develop your skills, and learn something new. In the face of uncertainty, take charge of your preparation and secure your path to peace of mind and a better future. We at Clayborne are here to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us with questions.

Kind regards,

Scott Webster

If you have questions or concerns about the PSAT, SAT, or ACT, or the college admissions process, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at www.clayborne.com or 434-260-3180.