Parents Demand Accountability Over Virtual Class Crisis

During a recent Portsmouth Public Schools board meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the dual enrollment program at Manor High School, particularly about the lack of proper instruction in a virtual English course offered through Tidewater Community College (TCC).

Darrell Smith, a parent, expressed frustration over the absence of a dedicated teacher for the course, which has left students to self-teach with minimal support. His daughter, Kareema Smith, a senior, detailed her experience, stating that while she expected daily virtual instruction, she has only had limited interaction with an assistant teacher who is present once a week. The primary instructor has not provided timely feedback or adequate grading, which is critical as students approach the end of the academic year.

Smith emphasized that the situation is unacceptable, highlighting that the school administration was aware of the issue before the semester began but failed to communicate this to parents. He criticized the lack of transparency and accountability from both the school district and TCC, noting that students are being held to high academic standards without the necessary support.

Board members acknowledged the concerns raised, with some suggesting that students should be reimbursed for the course due to the lack of instruction. They also discussed the need for improved communication between Portsmouth Public Schools and TCC to prevent similar issues in the future.

The meeting underscored the broader implications of educational support for high school students enrolled in college-level courses, with board members expressing a commitment to address these challenges moving forward.