Frequently Asked Questions
This page is dynamic and will continue to change with further developments.
I am applying for my F-1 visa - what do I need to know?
Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance; a revised Form I-20 will be emailed to you to present at your visa appointment. Please communicate the progress of your F1 visa application with
Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.
What if I can't get my visa in time to come for the start of the school year?
Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance; a revised Form I-20 with adjusted program start dates will be emailed to you to present at your visa appointment. It’s important to communicate the progress of your F1 visa application with
Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.
If I have a valid F-1 visa, do I need to do anything different?
Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance. The need for revisions depend on whether you are a new or returning student and when you will be traveling into the United States. A revised I-20’s will be sent to you via email. It is important that you communicate your travel plans with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.
We will also email you a letter that states that you are a student at Madeira, that Madeira is offering in-person, on campus education, and that we look forward to seeing you on campus for the start of the school year. Please print this letter (and make sure you have your I-20 and all other supporting documents) to carry with you when you travel.
If I have to study fully online from home, will my visa status be affected?
No. Your F-1 student visa remains valid until its expiration date, regardless of where you study. Your I-20 will be temporarily deactivated until you are able to re-enter the United States again. We will reinstate your I-20 as soon as you confirm your travel plans to come to campus. We will work closely with the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to ensure your status as a non-immigrant student is not affected. It is important that you communicate your travel plans with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.
What Are the Current Guidelines for Quarantine after International Travel?
Because the CDC and VA Department of Public Health recommend that all people quarantine after international travel, students taking any form of public transportation to school will need to arrive on August 22 for a period of monitoring and observation on campus. Students will be assigned a single room for this period; specific parameters for activities and meals during this period will be informed by current guidelines.
It is important to note that we also ask that all students isolate at home for 14 days before traveling to Madeira. In addition, all students will need to present a negative COVID-19 test when they arrive on campus. A negative COVID-19 test should be dated no earlier than August 15.
I have heard that F-1 students are now allowed to travel directly to the United States.
This is true for students from Canada, Ireland, Mexico, the Schengen Area, and the UK.
Travel for the purposes of attending school is deemed "essential travel" and allows students to enter the U.S. from Canada and Mexico. Nevertheless, please confirm current conditions at your border crossing or with the airline before travel.
Based on a July 16 U.S. Department of State update: "Students traveling from the Schengen Area, the UK, and Ireland with valid F-1 and M-1 visas, do not need to seek a national interest exception to travel." Please check the State Department website and with the airline before traveling.
I live in Brazil, China, or Iran and am not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Are there restrictions that apply to me?
The presidential proclamation barring non-U.S. citizens from traveling directly from Brazil, Iran, and China still remains in effect, and our understanding is that U.S. Customs and Border Patrol is enforcing this restriction. Non-U.S. citizens traveling from Brazil, China, or Iran have to spend 14 days outside of their country in another country that allows for direct flights to the United States. This means that students from Brazil, China, or Iran will need to begin their travels in early August. If you have successfully booked a direct flight from Brazil, China, or Iran to the U.S, please call the airline to confirm they are aware of your student's citizenship.
I plan to travel with my child to drop them off. What do I need to know?
We know that some families will want to bring their students directly to campus. We are asking that no more than two family members accompany a student on her arrival. Given the restrictions that will be in place related to movement around campus, families may want to leave children under the age of 12 at home this year. Family members and guardians accompanying their student to campus will be required to wear a mask and adhere to social distancing guidelines. As all parent orientation will be virtual, parents will not be remaining on campus after they move their daughter into her room.
Transportation from the Airport
If you are a new Madeira student travelling alone, please contact the Dean of Students office to see if we can help coordinate transportation to campus.
What happens if the school closes on short notice after we start the school year?
According to the most recent ICE guidance (as of July 15, 2020), foreign citizens studying in the United States and enrolled in a fully online program are eligible to remain in the country for the duration of the program. You will not have to leave the United States if we go fully online. If we have to temporarily close campus, we will work with you to find a place for you to stay in the United States, if you wish to do so— at the home of your local guardian, at the home of another family member or friend, or if necessary, on campus or a local hotel.
Considering the different time zone (e.g. about 12 hours in China), is it obligated for students to attend the class live?
Students in far-away time zones do NOT have to attend all classes; they will have the opportunity to attend a brief session with their teachers daily, based on a mutually agreed upon times.
I am unable to attend a parent webinar. Will it be recorded?
Yes, webinars will be recorded so you can view them at a convenient time. To view past webinars, you must register using the original registration link. The reply will come back as a link to the recorded meeting. To maintain privacy and security, we do not post recordings, but you may access them for 30 days after the meeting through the registration link.
For International Students, will they be able to stay on campus during Thanksgiving break?
We will decide about Thanksgiving break in the coming weeks. That decision will be informed by the health landscape in our area at the time.
Academics
What are the parameters about learning on campus or remotely in ’20-’21?
In ’20-’21, students and families have the choice for on-campus or off-campus learning. All courses will be designed as hybrid courses, to meet students’ learning needs in our unusual year. Students who are learning off campus are making the decision on a mod-by-mod basis (with the single exception of an international student who can get a flight mid-mod, all other students are either learning on campus for the entire mod or learning remotely for the entire mod). If one is learning off campus and in a time zone that allows, she is required to participate in the synchronous part of the day (advising, class instruction, class and community meetings, etc.). If she is in a time zone that does not allow, her teachers will arrange with her a different time during the day for her 10-20 minutes of teacher-forward instruction. Whether learning on campus or remotely, all students are expected to meet graduation requirements, including participation in D block, and all grading is standard.
By when does a student need to decide between in-person or virtual, mod by mod?
We have been handling these situations individually and are attempting to be as flexible as possible. We will work med by mod but are currently responding to families as they make their decision process known to us
If my daughter decides she is uncomfortable on campus and wants to switch to online, would she be able to easily do that? Vice versa?
We are hoping students/families will stick with a decision for the mod. Obviously, please connect in real time if she is uncomfortable on campus. We will work together. If she is at home, we will welcome her back at the start of the next mod.
How will virtual students experience the classroom?
Remote learners will be "in" the classroom in real-time, unless time zone does not allow.
Can my daughter have a tutor come to campus to work with her?
When the goal is to minimize density on campus, no tutors are allowed on campus. A student may arrange to work with a tutor virtually, though of course she may not work with a tutor during study hall or any other school obligation. Any student working with a tutor should be sharing that information with her teacher and the learning specialist.
Can my daughter have private music lessons on campus?
The Madeira arts department works closely with a small group of music teachers who give private lessons virtually or in person. Please contact Mrs. Newman in the arts department (snewman@madeira.org) for information about how to access these teachers.
How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?
You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.
How will the Mod schedule work when the classes are shorter and the material still has to be covered in a very short period of time?
Hybrid learning does not differentiate between classroom time and homework time. All learning is concerned learning time. We are designing courses using our standard guidelines for time devoted to course. We are and have been committed to deep learning, so we are interested in skill building and immersion. Our focus is not on "coverage."
If the classes are shorter and there is no distinction between classwork and homework, does that mean most students will see an increase in the time they need to spend on homework?
No. Teachers are specifically designing learning tasks so that there is little to no distinction between classwork and homework. There should not be an increase in homework load, and teachers will coach students on best practices for getting work done.
How will grading work for classes? Will all the tests be open book or will it just be for those that have chosen to do distance learning?
Teachers will explicitly address grading at the beginning of each mod. Assessments may be re-designed to focus on performance tasks and higher-order thinking questions.
Considering the different time zone (e.g. about 12 hours in China), is it obligated for students to attend the class live?
Students in far-away time zones do NOT have to attend all classes; they will have the opportunity to attend a brief session with their teachers daily, based on a mutually agreed upon times.
Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?
Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.
Given time zone differences, what happens if my daughter can’t attend live sessions every block?
Technology allows us all to connect! Your daughters will be full members of their classes, able to access all materials, able to interact in groups with peers, and in conversation with their teachers. We are starting the day with advising time, for we want them to experience this small group or the full class meeting, as both support the transition process. This summer, all the teachers have been developing courses composed of rich and rigorous learning activities. We knew that this year, in particular, the focus needed to be on developing quality learning activities, that require each student to engage with course materials, with the teacher, and with the other students. We knew that it was unlikely that all of our students would be in the same classroom at the same time all year long, so we have focused on the learning and the relationships (again with teacher, with peers, and with course material) rather than on a shared classroom. We think this benefits all students and all learning.
Are studio art classes still being offered?
Yes, absolutely! All studio courses will be offered. Teachers have designed learning activities knowing that some students would be in the classroom and some would not, and that for part of the year all learning would be remote. Yes, even Darkroom Photography is being offered! We look forward to seeing the work Madeira visual and performing art students will produce. Please watch arts@Madeira on Instagram throughout the mod for a gallery walk of student art.
Will families have the opportunity to choose to remain in remote learning versus returning to in-person learning?
Each mod, families will be able to make the decision on whether to complete the mod via distance learning or in-person. All classes have been re-designed over the summer to be presented both in person and remotely, so students can choose either option.
I had my textbooks shipped directly to Madeira. Is it possible to change the shipping address if the textbooks have not shipped yet?
You are able to change the shipping address as long as the books have not been shipped from the facility. To check shipment status and to change shipping address, contact Follett Customer Service at 800-381-5151. You should do this as soon as possible since you can change the shipping address ONLY if the books have not been shipped.
If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a DAY student, can I pick them up?
If you are a DAY student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. You will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center.
If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a BOARDING student, can the textbooks be shipped to me?
If you are a BOARDING student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. If you are a local boarder or have someone local who can come to campus, you will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center. The deliveries are separated by DORM. If you are not able to come to campus to pick up your textbooks, please contact the business office (businessoffice@madeira.org) to arrange for shipment.
How will the School ensure all students have the skills to work remotely?
Our ninth graders have been practicing some of the tech skills during their summer work for Student Life. Teachers will embed instruction related to the class tools in their lessons. Our ed tech specialists also love student questions! We want to build student confidence with the tools needed for remote learning.
What does the hybrid daily schedule (in-person and remote) look like?
What does the all-remote daily schedule look like?
Athletics & D Blocks
If you have additional questions, contact:
- Athletics: athletics@madeira.org
-
Equestrian: imccartney@madeira.org -
Arts: snewman@madeira.org
What COVID-related safety precautions will the School be taking for D Block Athletics?
In addition to the routine cleaning and daily heath screening checks, Athletics will ensure the following measures:
- Small groupings and physical distancing will be utilized during practices
- Additional hand sanitizer/ handwashing stations throughout Athletics facilities
How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?
You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.
Have all activities open to the public accessing the Hurd been discontinued?
They have not. We have separated their work from our community, and they have strict protocols and we will follow them with cleaning
If a student opts to attend a mod virtually, what does that mean for her ability to participate in sports?
When a student attends a mod virtually, all of her blocks (classes and activities) will be virtual. On the reopening website, the sports/activities that can be attended remotely are listed.
How will athletic D-blocks like fitness, pilates, yoga, zumba be adjusted?
Those classes will also follow physical distancing guidelines and will enter a disinfected space and have the space disinfected afterward.
With the move to virtual school, does that now allow girls to participate in club sports?
Yes, with the shift to virtual learning during Mod 1, students will be permitted to participate in club and travel teams during this time frame. If a student should decide to continue participation in club or travel teams beyond Mod 1, we will ask students to continue with virtual learning as part of the necessary mitigation steps to allow for in-person learning to occur, while keeping the community healthy and safe.
Can I participate in outside activities (club sport, job, specialty lessons, etc.) if I will be learning in-person?
The decision on whether to participate in a club sport, job, or specialty lesson during a pandemic is a potentially complex one but not without options. As a School, Madeira is following the Phased Guidance for Virginia Schools from the Virginia Department of Education. We have prepared this guide to help inform your decision on in-person vs. remote learning. Please contact us if you have further questions.
How do I order my athletic apparel?
You may order until Oct 4 at this link. Required apparel by sport is listed here.
Health & Wellness
What are the parameters about learning on campus or remotely in ’20-’21?
In ’20-’21, students and families have the choice for on-campus or off-campus learning. All courses will be designed as hybrid courses, to meet students’ learning needs in our unusual year. Students who are learning off campus are making the decision on a mod-by-mod basis (with the single exception of an international student who can get a flight mid-mod, all other students are either learning on campus for the entire mod or learning remotely for the entire mod). If one is learning off campus and in a time zone that allows, she is required to participate in the synchronous part of the day (advising, class instruction, class and community meetings, etc.). If she is in a time zone that does not allow, her teachers will arrange with her a different time during the day for her 10-20 minutes of teacher-forward instruction. Whether learning on campus or remotely, all students are expected to meet graduation requirements, including participation in D block, and all grading is standard.
By when does a student need to decide between in-person or virtual, mod by mod?
We have been handling these situations individually and are attempting to be as flexible as possible. We will work med by mod but are currently responding to families as they make their decision process known to us
If my daughter decides she is uncomfortable on campus and wants to switch to online, would she be able to easily do that? Vice versa?
We are hoping students/families will stick with a decision for the mod. Obviously, please connect in real time if she is uncomfortable on campus. We will work together. If she is at home, we will welcome her back at the start of the next mod.
How will virtual students experience the classroom?
Remote learners will be "in" the classroom in real-time, unless time zone does not allow.
Can my daughter have a tutor come to campus to work with her?
When the goal is to minimize density on campus, no tutors are allowed on campus. A student may arrange to work with a tutor virtually, though of course she may not work with a tutor during study hall or any other school obligation. Any student working with a tutor should be sharing that information with her teacher and the learning specialist.
Can my daughter have private music lessons on campus?
The Madeira arts department works closely with a small group of music teachers who give private lessons virtually or in person. Please contact Mrs. Newman in the arts department (snewman@madeira.org) for information about how to access these teachers.
How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?
You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.
How will the Mod schedule work when the classes are shorter and the material still has to be covered in a very short period of time?
Hybrid learning does not differentiate between classroom time and homework time. All learning is concerned learning time. We are designing courses using our standard guidelines for time devoted to course. We are and have been committed to deep learning, so we are interested in skill building and immersion. Our focus is not on "coverage."
If the classes are shorter and there is no distinction between classwork and homework, does that mean most students will see an increase in the time they need to spend on homework?
No. Teachers are specifically designing learning tasks so that there is little to no distinction between classwork and homework. There should not be an increase in homework load, and teachers will coach students on best practices for getting work done.
How will grading work for classes? Will all the tests be open book or will it just be for those that have chosen to do distance learning?
Teachers will explicitly address grading at the beginning of each mod. Assessments may be re-designed to focus on performance tasks and higher-order thinking questions.
Considering the different time zone (e.g. about 12 hours in China), is it obligated for students to attend the class live?
Students in far-away time zones do NOT have to attend all classes; they will have the opportunity to attend a brief session with their teachers daily, based on a mutually agreed upon times.
Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?
Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.
Given time zone differences, what happens if my daughter can’t attend live sessions every block?
Technology allows us all to connect! Your daughters will be full members of their classes, able to access all materials, able to interact in groups with peers, and in conversation with their teachers. We are starting the day with advising time, for we want them to experience this small group or the full class meeting, as both support the transition process. This summer, all the teachers have been developing courses composed of rich and rigorous learning activities. We knew that this year, in particular, the focus needed to be on developing quality learning activities, that require each student to engage with course materials, with the teacher, and with the other students. We knew that it was unlikely that all of our students would be in the same classroom at the same time all year long, so we have focused on the learning and the relationships (again with teacher, with peers, and with course material) rather than on a shared classroom. We think this benefits all students and all learning.
Are studio art classes still being offered?
Yes, absolutely! All studio courses will be offered. Teachers have designed learning activities knowing that some students would be in the classroom and some would not, and that for part of the year all learning would be remote. Yes, even Darkroom Photography is being offered! We look forward to seeing the work Madeira visual and performing art students will produce. Please watch arts@Madeira on Instagram throughout the mod for a gallery walk of student art.
Will families have the opportunity to choose to remain in remote learning versus returning to in-person learning?
Each mod, families will be able to make the decision on whether to complete the mod via distance learning or in-person. All classes have been re-designed over the summer to be presented both in person and remotely, so students can choose either option.
I had my textbooks shipped directly to Madeira. Is it possible to change the shipping address if the textbooks have not shipped yet?
You are able to change the shipping address as long as the books have not been shipped from the facility. To check shipment status and to change shipping address, contact Follett Customer Service at 800-381-5151. You should do this as soon as possible since you can change the shipping address ONLY if the books have not been shipped.
If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a DAY student, can I pick them up?
If you are a DAY student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. You will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center.
If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a BOARDING student, can the textbooks be shipped to me?
If you are a BOARDING student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. If you are a local boarder or have someone local who can come to campus, you will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center. The deliveries are separated by DORM. If you are not able to come to campus to pick up your textbooks, please contact the business office (businessoffice@madeira.org) to arrange for shipment.
How will the School ensure all students have the skills to work remotely?
Our ninth graders have been practicing some of the tech skills during their summer work for Student Life. Teachers will embed instruction related to the class tools in their lessons. Our ed tech specialists also love student questions! We want to build student confidence with the tools needed for remote learning.
What does the hybrid daily schedule (in-person and remote) look like?
What does the all-remote daily schedule look like?
Co-Curriculum
How has Co-Curriculum been impacted by COVID-19?
Summer is a time for the Co-Curriculum Program to line up new partners, re-affirm our relationships with existing partners, evaluate the program’s logistics, review the program’s academic integration, and begin securing internships for those students assigned to an early mod of Co-Curriculum. Added to our work for this summer is ensuring that students’ participation in the program supports the health guidelines outlined by state and local health officials as well as Madeira’s efforts to minimize the risk to our school’s community.
The uncertainty brought by COVID-19 has interfered with the necessary long-range planning of the Co-Curriculum Program. While current and future partners have expressed interest in working with Madeira students, at this point they are not able to commit to what that partnership will look like. We are therefore preparing for multiple scenarios so as to ensure girls have access to a rich internship experience whether in-person or virtual.
Will there be in-person internships this year?
It is our sincere hope that all students will be able to participate in in-person internships this year, but this hope is highly dependent upon the situation with COVID-19. Therefore, we are developing grade-level specific alternatives to in-person internships that offer students the same opportunities for intrapersonal growth, the development of workplace skills, opportunities for teamwork and professional networking, and continued integration with our academic programs that they would experience with in-person internships.
What are the Co-Curriculum mods for '20-'21?
So as to give us the most advantageous lead up to placing students during COVID-19, the Co-Curriculum mods will start in January. Juniors and Seniors are assigned to a Co-Curriculum mod in either Mods 4, 5, 6, or 7. Sophomores are assigned to a Co-Curriculum mod in either Mods 5 or 6.
What are the guidelines that will govern the School's decision about an in-person placement vs. a virtual placement?
When making decisions about in-person internships, The Madeira School will adhere to Virginia’s reopening guidelines for schools and employers. While Virginia is in Phases I (view Phase I details), II (view Phase II details), or III (view Phase III details), or is under stay-at-home orders, Madeira students will not have in-person internships. Two mods in advance of a student’s Co-Curriculum mod, Madeira will make a determination about in-person internships for that mod based upon regional conditions and the current reopening phase.
Can internships be set-up ahead of time so that they can do virtual Capitol Hill internships should the school and DC region shut down again?
All juniors enrolled in Junior Year Co-Curriculum will have an internship, either in person or virtual. The Co-Curriculum Office will be working well ahead of your Co-Curriculum mod to set up the internship.
Student Life & Calendar
What are the parameters about learning on campus or remotely in ’20-’21?
In ’20-’21, students and families have the choice for on-campus or off-campus learning. All courses will be designed as hybrid courses, to meet students’ learning needs in our unusual year. Students who are learning off campus are making the decision on a mod-by-mod basis (with the single exception of an international student who can get a flight mid-mod, all other students are either learning on campus for the entire mod or learning remotely for the entire mod). If one is learning off campus and in a time zone that allows, she is required to participate in the synchronous part of the day (advising, class instruction, class and community meetings, etc.). If she is in a time zone that does not allow, her teachers will arrange with her a different time during the day for her 10-20 minutes of teacher-forward instruction. Whether learning on campus or remotely, all students are expected to meet graduation requirements, including participation in D block, and all grading is standard.
By when does a student need to decide between in-person or virtual, mod by mod?
We have been handling these situations individually and are attempting to be as flexible as possible. We will work med by mod but are currently responding to families as they make their decision process known to us
If my daughter decides she is uncomfortable on campus and wants to switch to online, would she be able to easily do that? Vice versa?
We are hoping students/families will stick with a decision for the mod. Obviously, please connect in real time if she is uncomfortable on campus. We will work together. If she is at home, we will welcome her back at the start of the next mod.
How will virtual students experience the classroom?
Remote learners will be "in" the classroom in real-time, unless time zone does not allow.
Can my daughter have a tutor come to campus to work with her?
When the goal is to minimize density on campus, no tutors are allowed on campus. A student may arrange to work with a tutor virtually, though of course she may not work with a tutor during study hall or any other school obligation. Any student working with a tutor should be sharing that information with her teacher and the learning specialist.
Can my daughter have private music lessons on campus?
The Madeira arts department works closely with a small group of music teachers who give private lessons virtually or in person. Please contact Mrs. Newman in the arts department (snewman@madeira.org) for information about how to access these teachers.
How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?
You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.
How will the Mod schedule work when the classes are shorter and the material still has to be covered in a very short period of time?
Hybrid learning does not differentiate between classroom time and homework time. All learning is concerned learning time. We are designing courses using our standard guidelines for time devoted to course. We are and have been committed to deep learning, so we are interested in skill building and immersion. Our focus is not on "coverage."
If the classes are shorter and there is no distinction between classwork and homework, does that mean most students will see an increase in the time they need to spend on homework?
No. Teachers are specifically designing learning tasks so that there is little to no distinction between classwork and homework. There should not be an increase in homework load, and teachers will coach students on best practices for getting work done.
How will grading work for classes? Will all the tests be open book or will it just be for those that have chosen to do distance learning?
Teachers will explicitly address grading at the beginning of each mod. Assessments may be re-designed to focus on performance tasks and higher-order thinking questions.
Considering the different time zone (e.g. about 12 hours in China), is it obligated for students to attend the class live?
Students in far-away time zones do NOT have to attend all classes; they will have the opportunity to attend a brief session with their teachers daily, based on a mutually agreed upon times.
Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?
Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.
Given time zone differences, what happens if my daughter can’t attend live sessions every block?
Technology allows us all to connect! Your daughters will be full members of their classes, able to access all materials, able to interact in groups with peers, and in conversation with their teachers. We are starting the day with advising time, for we want them to experience this small group or the full class meeting, as both support the transition process. This summer, all the teachers have been developing courses composed of rich and rigorous learning activities. We knew that this year, in particular, the focus needed to be on developing quality learning activities, that require each student to engage with course materials, with the teacher, and with the other students. We knew that it was unlikely that all of our students would be in the same classroom at the same time all year long, so we have focused on the learning and the relationships (again with teacher, with peers, and with course material) rather than on a shared classroom. We think this benefits all students and all learning.
Are studio art classes still being offered?
Yes, absolutely! All studio courses will be offered. Teachers have designed learning activities knowing that some students would be in the classroom and some would not, and that for part of the year all learning would be remote. Yes, even Darkroom Photography is being offered! We look forward to seeing the work Madeira visual and performing art students will produce. Please watch arts@Madeira on Instagram throughout the mod for a gallery walk of student art.
Will families have the opportunity to choose to remain in remote learning versus returning to in-person learning?
Each mod, families will be able to make the decision on whether to complete the mod via distance learning or in-person. All classes have been re-designed over the summer to be presented both in person and remotely, so students can choose either option.
I had my textbooks shipped directly to Madeira. Is it possible to change the shipping address if the textbooks have not shipped yet?
You are able to change the shipping address as long as the books have not been shipped from the facility. To check shipment status and to change shipping address, contact Follett Customer Service at 800-381-5151. You should do this as soon as possible since you can change the shipping address ONLY if the books have not been shipped.
If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a DAY student, can I pick them up?
If you are a DAY student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. You will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center.
If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a BOARDING student, can the textbooks be shipped to me?
If you are a BOARDING student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. If you are a local boarder or have someone local who can come to campus, you will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center. The deliveries are separated by DORM. If you are not able to come to campus to pick up your textbooks, please contact the business office (businessoffice@madeira.org) to arrange for shipment.
How will the School ensure all students have the skills to work remotely?
Our ninth graders have been practicing some of the tech skills during their summer work for Student Life. Teachers will embed instruction related to the class tools in their lessons. Our ed tech specialists also love student questions! We want to build student confidence with the tools needed for remote learning.
What does the hybrid daily schedule (in-person and remote) look like?
What does the all-remote daily schedule look like?
College Counseling
College Counseling
Will the global health crisis have an impact on college admissions and higher education?
Yes! Your college counselors stay in tune with changes through participation in professional organizations, such as NACAC and ACCIS, staying on top of higher education news through various blogs and publications (such as Inside Higher Ed), and communicating with our college admission office colleagues.
Will college counseling programming and support be offered remotely?
Yes, all programing will be accessible to students who are engaged in distance learning this fall. We will start the year focused on seniors as they enter the active phase of college applications. Sophomores and juniors should stay tuned for announcements about college counseling programming for their specific grade levels.
When will seniors be expected to begin college counseling workshops, now that arrival dates have changed?
Seniors should stay tuned for information about August college counseling opportunities and obligations. We will begin our work together on August 25 in a virtual format, and pick up our workshops on campus and through remote learning during the first week of class. We will always post important communications on the Class of 2021 College Counseling page in MyBackpack.
Standardized Tests
What if I miss the PSAT?
While the PSAT has value, sophomores and juniors should not change their plans in order to complete this assessment. Sophomores will have a second opportunity next year, and most juniors took the test last year. The PSAT is also the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test for juniors; however, only students in the top 1% of the top 1% qualify for this opportunity. This is unlikely for 99.9% of students, and therefore not worth making plans around. There are other ways to qualify if a junior is testing in the top 1% by other measures. If you have any questions about National Merit, ask your college counselor.
When should I take my first ACT or SAT?
We recommend that juniors take their first ACT or SAT in the winter or spring of their junior year. A typical pattern is to test in February/March, then test again in May/June. Most students reach a satisfying score after two testing attempts.
A lot of SAT test centers cancelled their hosts of the test. Is there any possibility for Madeira to host SAT test?
We are exploring opportunities. Please stay tuned for more information!
General
What are the parameters about learning on campus or remotely in ’20-’21?
In ’20-’21, students and families have the choice for on-campus or off-campus learning. All courses will be designed as hybrid courses, to meet students’ learning needs in our unusual year. Students who are learning off campus are making the decision on a mod-by-mod basis (with the single exception of an international student who can get a flight mid-mod, all other students are either learning on campus for the entire mod or learning remotely for the entire mod). If one is learning off campus and in a time zone that allows, she is required to participate in the synchronous part of the day (advising, class instruction, class and community meetings, etc.). If she is in a time zone that does not allow, her teachers will arrange with her a different time during the day for her 10-20 minutes of teacher-forward instruction. Whether learning on campus or remotely, all students are expected to meet graduation requirements, including participation in D block, and all grading is standard.
By when does a student need to decide between in-person or virtual, mod by mod?
We have been handling these situations individually and are attempting to be as flexible as possible. We will work med by mod but are currently responding to families as they make their decision process known to us
If my daughter decides she is uncomfortable on campus and wants to switch to online, would she be able to easily do that? Vice versa?
We are hoping students/families will stick with a decision for the mod. Obviously, please connect in real time if she is uncomfortable on campus. We will work together. If she is at home, we will welcome her back at the start of the next mod.
How will virtual students experience the classroom?
Remote learners will be "in" the classroom in real-time, unless time zone does not allow.
Can my daughter have a tutor come to campus to work with her?
When the goal is to minimize density on campus, no tutors are allowed on campus. A student may arrange to work with a tutor virtually, though of course she may not work with a tutor during study hall or any other school obligation. Any student working with a tutor should be sharing that information with her teacher and the learning specialist.
Can my daughter have private music lessons on campus?
The Madeira arts department works closely with a small group of music teachers who give private lessons virtually or in person. Please contact Mrs. Newman in the arts department (snewman@madeira.org) for information about how to access these teachers.
How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?
You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.
How will the Mod schedule work when the classes are shorter and the material still has to be covered in a very short period of time?
Hybrid learning does not differentiate between classroom time and homework time. All learning is concerned learning time. We are designing courses using our standard guidelines for time devoted to course. We are and have been committed to deep learning, so we are interested in skill building and immersion. Our focus is not on "coverage."
If the classes are shorter and there is no distinction between classwork and homework, does that mean most students will see an increase in the time they need to spend on homework?
No. Teachers are specifically designing learning tasks so that there is little to no distinction between classwork and homework. There should not be an increase in homework load, and teachers will coach students on best practices for getting work done.
How will grading work for classes? Will all the tests be open book or will it just be for those that have chosen to do distance learning?
Teachers will explicitly address grading at the beginning of each mod. Assessments may be re-designed to focus on performance tasks and higher-order thinking questions.
Considering the different time zone (e.g. about 12 hours in China), is it obligated for students to attend the class live?
Students in far-away time zones do NOT have to attend all classes; they will have the opportunity to attend a brief session with their teachers daily, based on a mutually agreed upon times.
Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?
Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.
Given time zone differences, what happens if my daughter can’t attend live sessions every block?
Technology allows us all to connect! Your daughters will be full members of their classes, able to access all materials, able to interact in groups with peers, and in conversation with their teachers. We are starting the day with advising time, for we want them to experience this small group or the full class meeting, as both support the transition process. This summer, all the teachers have been developing courses composed of rich and rigorous learning activities. We knew that this year, in particular, the focus needed to be on developing quality learning activities, that require each student to engage with course materials, with the teacher, and with the other students. We knew that it was unlikely that all of our students would be in the same classroom at the same time all year long, so we have focused on the learning and the relationships (again with teacher, with peers, and with course material) rather than on a shared classroom. We think this benefits all students and all learning.
Are studio art classes still being offered?
Yes, absolutely! All studio courses will be offered. Teachers have designed learning activities knowing that some students would be in the classroom and some would not, and that for part of the year all learning would be remote. Yes, even Darkroom Photography is being offered! We look forward to seeing the work Madeira visual and performing art students will produce. Please watch arts@Madeira on Instagram throughout the mod for a gallery walk of student art.
Will families have the opportunity to choose to remain in remote learning versus returning to in-person learning?
Each mod, families will be able to make the decision on whether to complete the mod via distance learning or in-person. All classes have been re-designed over the summer to be presented both in person and remotely, so students can choose either option.
I had my textbooks shipped directly to Madeira. Is it possible to change the shipping address if the textbooks have not shipped yet?
You are able to change the shipping address as long as the books have not been shipped from the facility. To check shipment status and to change shipping address, contact Follett Customer Service at 800-381-5151. You should do this as soon as possible since you can change the shipping address ONLY if the books have not been shipped.
If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a DAY student, can I pick them up?
If you are a DAY student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. You will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center.
If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a BOARDING student, can the textbooks be shipped to me?
If you are a BOARDING student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. If you are a local boarder or have someone local who can come to campus, you will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center. The deliveries are separated by DORM. If you are not able to come to campus to pick up your textbooks, please contact the business office (businessoffice@madeira.org) to arrange for shipment.
How will the School ensure all students have the skills to work remotely?
Our ninth graders have been practicing some of the tech skills during their summer work for Student Life. Teachers will embed instruction related to the class tools in their lessons. Our ed tech specialists also love student questions! We want to build student confidence with the tools needed for remote learning.
What does the hybrid daily schedule (in-person and remote) look like?
What does the all-remote daily schedule look like?
For International Students
I am applying for my F-1 visa - what do I need to know?
Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance; a revised Form I-20 will be emailed to you to present at your visa appointment. Please communicate the progress of your F1 visa application with
Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.
What if I can't get my visa in time to come for the start of the school year?
Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance; a revised Form I-20 with adjusted program start dates will be emailed to you to present at your visa appointment. It’s important to communicate the progress of your F1 visa application with
Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.
If I have a valid F-1 visa, do I need to do anything different?
Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance. The need for revisions depend on whether you are a new or returning student and when you will be traveling into the United States. A revised I-20’s will be sent to you via email. It is important that you communicate your travel plans with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.
We will also email you a letter that states that you are a student at Madeira, that Madeira is offering in-person, on campus education, and that we look forward to seeing you on campus for the start of the school year. Please print this letter (and make sure you have your I-20 and all other supporting documents) to carry with you when you travel.
If I have to study fully online from home, will my visa status be affected?
No. Your F-1 student visa remains valid until its expiration date, regardless of where you study. Your I-20 will be temporarily deactivated until you are able to re-enter the United States again. We will reinstate your I-20 as soon as you confirm your travel plans to come to campus. We will work closely with the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to ensure your status as a non-immigrant student is not affected. It is important that you communicate your travel plans with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.
What Are the Current Guidelines for Quarantine after International Travel?
Because the CDC and VA Department of Public Health recommend that all people quarantine after international travel, students taking any form of public transportation to school will need to arrive on August 22 for a period of monitoring and observation on campus. Students will be assigned a single room for this period; specific parameters for activities and meals during this period will be informed by current guidelines.
It is important to note that we also ask that all students isolate at home for 14 days before traveling to Madeira. In addition, all students will need to present a negative COVID-19 test when they arrive on campus. A negative COVID-19 test should be dated no earlier than August 15.
I have heard that F-1 students are now allowed to travel directly to the United States.
This is true for students from Canada, Ireland, Mexico, the Schengen Area, and the UK.
Travel for the purposes of attending school is deemed "essential travel" and allows students to enter the U.S. from Canada and Mexico. Nevertheless, please confirm current conditions at your border crossing or with the airline before travel.
Based on a July 16 U.S. Department of State update: "Students traveling from the Schengen Area, the UK, and Ireland with valid F-1 and M-1 visas, do not need to seek a national interest exception to travel." Please check the State Department website and with the airline before traveling.
I live in Brazil, China, or Iran and am not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Are there restrictions that apply to me?
The presidential proclamation barring non-U.S. citizens from traveling directly from Brazil, Iran, and China still remains in effect, and our understanding is that U.S. Customs and Border Patrol is enforcing this restriction. Non-U.S. citizens traveling from Brazil, China, or Iran have to spend 14 days outside of their country in another country that allows for direct flights to the United States. This means that students from Brazil, China, or Iran will need to begin their travels in early August. If you have successfully booked a direct flight from Brazil, China, or Iran to the U.S, please call the airline to confirm they are aware of your student's citizenship.
I plan to travel with my child to drop them off. What do I need to know?
We know that some families will want to bring their students directly to campus. We are asking that no more than two family members accompany a student on her arrival. Given the restrictions that will be in place related to movement around campus, families may want to leave children under the age of 12 at home this year. Family members and guardians accompanying their student to campus will be required to wear a mask and adhere to social distancing guidelines. As all parent orientation will be virtual, parents will not be remaining on campus after they move their daughter into her room.
Transportation from the Airport
If you are a new Madeira student travelling alone, please contact the Dean of Students office to see if we can help coordinate transportation to campus.
What happens if the school closes on short notice after we start the school year?
According to the most recent ICE guidance (as of July 15, 2020), foreign citizens studying in the United States and enrolled in a fully online program are eligible to remain in the country for the duration of the program. You will not have to leave the United States if we go fully online. If we have to temporarily close campus, we will work with you to find a place for you to stay in the United States, if you wish to do so— at the home of your local guardian, at the home of another family member or friend, or if necessary, on campus or a local hotel.
Considering the different time zone (e.g. about 12 hours in China), is it obligated for students to attend the class live?
Students in far-away time zones do NOT have to attend all classes; they will have the opportunity to attend a brief session with their teachers daily, based on a mutually agreed upon times.
I am unable to attend a parent webinar. Will it be recorded?
Yes, webinars will be recorded so you can view them at a convenient time. To view past webinars, you must register using the original registration link. The reply will come back as a link to the recorded meeting. To maintain privacy and security, we do not post recordings, but you may access them for 30 days after the meeting through the registration link.
For International Students, will they be able to stay on campus during Thanksgiving break?
We will decide about Thanksgiving break in the coming weeks. That decision will be informed by the health landscape in our area at the time.