Dear Castilleja Families,
You may have already heard or read today's news that superintendents in six Bay Area counties have decided to extend their public school closures through May 1, 2020. While this is not a mandate from the county public health departments, I am writing to let you know that Castilleja will abide by the decisions of these school leaders and continue our distance learning program.
I suspect that learning about this additional time apart is not surprising to many of you, and yet I imagine it is also disappointing for you and for your daughters. I hope we can take solace in knowing that this action serves the health and well-being of everyone—our families, our communities, our nation, and the world. Even as we have watched the number of COVID-19 cases grow in Santa Clara and other Bay Area counties, there is evidence that the Bay Area's early adoption of social distancing is helping to slow the spread.
Teachers have worked hard to create a distance learning program that engages our students and inspires them to learn, while also offering them comforting experiences and familiar routines. We will continue to refine our offerings with the trademark enthusiasm and creativity we bring to all of our endeavors. With this longer period apart, we will also expand our ways to connect with each other remotely, to share joys, and to deepen relationships. The Castilleja community is prepared and can adapt to this new shift in expectations.
In the weeks ahead, we will continue to keep you apprised of our plans for the remainder of the school year. In the meantime, I want to let you know that my State of the School Address will remain on our school calendar Thursday, April 16, at 6:30pm, and I will address all of you remotely. Our upcoming school holidays, including Spring Break, April 6–10, and a Professional Development day on April 13 will take place as scheduled.
I have never been more proud of the Castilleja community's resilience and I am grateful for your support. Thank you.
Warmly,