Flexible Instruction Days | Baden Academy Charter School

Flexible Instruction Day (FID) Information

What is a Flexible Instructional Day (FID)?

Under 24 P.S. §15-1506, a Flexible Instructional Day is an approved mechanism that allows Baden Academy to provide instruction to students when in-person school is prevented by hazardous weather, building issues, or other emergencies. Work completed on a FID counts as a regular school day, no make-up day is required.

When will FIDs be used?

Baden Academy may use a FID when inclement weather or other emergency conditions would otherwise force a school closure. Families and staff will be informed well in advance of the procedures, expectations, and available resources for FIDs so that everyone is prepared when these days are needed.

How will you know if a day is declared a FID?

When the decision is made to use a Flexible Instructional Day, Baden Academy will notify families and staff through multiple communication methods:

Automated phone calls and text messages via our mass notification system
Email notifications to parents/guardians and staff
Updates on the Baden Academy website and social media accounts
Announcements on local television and radio stations

If Internet or power outages occur, we will rely on phone calls, text messages, and previously distributed hard-copy materials to ensure all families are informed and prepared.

Distribution of FID Packets

Each student will receive a grade-level Flexible Instruction Day packet containing assignments for use during FIDs.

Packets will be distributed during Parent-Teacher Conferences each fall.
For families who are unable to attend conferences, FID packets will be sent home with students, accompanied by a cover letter explaining the purpose of the FID packets and how they are to be used.
Families should store these packets in a safe, accessible place at home in case a FID is announced later in the year.

The cover letter will remind families that these packets represent official school days and should be completed and returned after a FID to ensure attendance credit.

When and how will assignments be available?

On a FID day, assignments will also be posted online by 9:00 AM through Class Dojo (for grades K–3) and Schoology (for grades 4–6).
Students without Internet access should complete the pre-distributed paper packets.
Teachers may also post assignment links or instructions on the FID page of the Baden Academy website for additional access if needed.

What kind of work will students do?

Students will complete meaningful assignments in the core academic areas (reading, writing, math, science, and social studies). Assignments are designed for independent work and should take approximately the same amount of time as a regular school day.

Teacher Availability and Support

Teachers will be available from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM via Class Dojo or email to assist students and families.
During this time, students can ask questions, request clarification, or get help with assignments.
All support staff, including special education teachers, counselors, and paraprofessionals, will also be accessible during these hours.

Special Education, Accommodations, and Related Services

Students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) will receive assignments aligned with their goals and accommodations.
Related services (speech, occupational therapy, etc.) will be rescheduled as necessary.
Upon returning to school, teachers and service providers will review FID assignments with students and address any learning gaps.

Submitting Work and Attendance

Students must submit completed FID assignments on the next in-person school day to receive attendance credit.
Completion and submission of FID assignments serve as evidence of participation.
Students who do not submit work will be recorded as absent (excused or unexcused) in accordance with school policy.
For families who experience Internet or power outages, students will have an extended grace period to submit their work once school resumes.

If You Lose Your Packet or Need Assistance

If a family misplaces the FID packet, they can request a replacement through the classroom teacher or the main office. The same assignments will also be accessible digitally on Class Dojo or Schoology when a FID is announced.

Our Commitment

Baden Academy Charter School is committed to maintaining quality instruction and student engagement—even when school cannot be held in person. FID days allow learning to continue safely, without extending the school year, while keeping the well-being of our students and families at the center of our decisions.