Well, as I write these few lines on this final day of term, I am feeling thankful for all the teamwork and hard work that have allowed us to arrive safely at the holidays with a lot to celebrate. Although our fall has been filled with accommodations, modifications, and innovations, the reality is that the children have remained largely untouched during their school days. We have learned and played together thanks to the determination and organization of teachers, students, and parents. Thank you for supporting all the changes that have made our school a safe and student-centred learning environment. While perfection is clearly an impossible task, your patience, reasonableness, and prudence have allowed us to enjoy the first four months of school in community.
A highlight has certainly been the opportunity to share our new facility with students this year. Each day we grow more attached to this incredible space and we are very thankful for its role in helping us ensure the safest possible educational setting. I hope your children have shared their favourite features with you! Of course, you have no doubt heard all about our “Lee in a Tree” adventures this month. From places “up high” to cubbies and corners “down low”, that little elf has explored every square inch of our school from the new fireside lounge to the gymnasium. Thanks to Mr. Lee and Mr. Whitmill for being such good sports in entertaining the students as the month’s excitement reached a crescendo this week!
As we head off in many directions for the holidays, things will be different for all of our families. Reduced travel, thwarted gatherings, notable absences, and uncertainty will be with us as we watch and wait for what comes next. Like you, we are hopeful that classes will resume in the usual way in the New Year; however, if we end up having to endure an interruption to in-person learning, we shall adapt and overcome, secure in the knowledge that the students will continue to learn remotely only for as long as necessary.
In the meantime, why not visit the new addition that your kids have been enjoying this year? It is just the first phase, as we continue to plan for the future. By clicking HERE, you will see some of the highlights of our new inspirational space – one of the true blessings of 2020!
On behalf of the faculty, staff, students, and Board of Governors, I wish you a safe and peaceful holiday.
Take care of yourselves and let’s hope that we see one another again very soon in the New Year!
Ric Anderson, Head of School