Dear Parents:
Below please find a note that was sent to all students today from Head of School Sheila Culbert. Please continue to monitor our COVID-19 Response webpage for the latest updates.
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March 17, 2020
Dear Students,
I know that yesterday's message was a shock to many of you, and I hear that you have been busy on social media over the past 24 hours. I am so very sorry that we had to make this decision—it is no one's ideal situation. I have been touched by the many comments about how much you love the school and each other. I know you are sad not to be here this spring—it is always one of the prettiest times to be on the Island and to be with each other as the weather warms and we are able to enjoy the campus. Know too, that we, the faculty and staff, are sad also not to have you here. The campus is always eerily quiet when you are away on break—and now that quiet is extended for weeks!
So here we are. What do we do now? You will be receiving a large number of emails and other messages from the school: me, the deans, the academic office, your teachers, your coaches, your advisor, each other. All of this communication is going to be important as we not only work to continue your education but also to maintain—and perhaps even strengthen—the bonds that join us as Pelicans. Pay attention to these messages, many of which will be sent via email—and participate actively in responding. You can expect an email tomorrow about the academic program and another email on Thursday from your class deans about student life that will include information for boarders about packing up your dormitory rooms and day students about how to get things from your lockers.
For seniors, in particular: I hear you. We will do everything we can to hold some sort of in-person graduation when we can! I just don't know when.
Our faculty are busy thinking about how to convert their spring term classes into a virtual experience. Some things will stay the same, but more likely than not, most aspects of the experience will change. As we move online, a critical part of our success will be your willingness and ability to interact. You have always been a key player in your education. You are Loomis students because you work hard, you take responsibility for your learning, and you are curious and intellectually agile. These qualities are going to be as important now as ever. You are also already digital natives—you understand and thrive in this virtual culture and I suspect that we will learn a great deal from you. Don't be afraid to make suggestions, to teach us how to be more effective through a virtual medium, and to let us know what works and what does not. In a sense, we are now part of a massive experiment in distance learning—and we want to do it well and do it right. That ambition will take all of us working together.
In closing, I would like to urge you to stay safe and to practice social distancing. As young people you are for the most part less susceptible to the virus, but you can spread it to those people who are more vulnerable. Now, more than ever, is the time for you as Loomis Chaffee students to demonstrate your leadership, to be unselfish, to be good citizens, and to be kind.
I've always been proud of our school mottos: Ne cede malis (Do not give in to adversity) and "Be our best selves and serve the common good." Both are more relevant than ever.
Stay well. Sheila
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