When faced with unexpected school closures, Gwinnett County (Ga.) Public Schools has a backup plan in place: digital learning days.

Since 2017, the district has been using digital tools to continue instruction and communication when inclement weather days, natural disasters and other emergencies force them to close their buildings.

Yet adopting e-learning — also called remote learning, distance learning or cyber days — wasn’t an easy feat. From network and connectivity issues to teacher training, the district had a lot to work through to deliver instruction online and provide alternative assignments for students who lacked devices or internet access at home.

Today, many school districts are facing similar hurdles as they prepare for distance learning in response to the CDC’s recommendation to plan for extended closures due to COVID-19.

“This is a health emergency, but we know there are other emergencies that can happen, whether they are fires or tornadoes,” says Keith Krueger, CEO of the Consortium for School Networking. “So how do we make sure that learning can continue?”