As we bid adieu to 2020 and look forward to this new year, we do so with a sense of accomplishment and a sigh of relief. 2020 was a difficult year, but one that inspired new ways of communicating, connecting, and continuing long-standing traditions. We wanted to bring normalcy to the lives of our children and families. Returning to campus for instruction was an important avenue to achieve that, but one that required every aspect of our program to be evaluated based on the high standards of safety and health. COVID-19 community messages in 2020 were based on science and the health and well-being of our students and families with the primary goal of keeping our doors open.
Beginning in July, as faculty began planning to return to campus, simultaneously they planned for online instruction. There has been no intention of deploying this methodology, but we learned from our experiences last spring, preparedness is a must. As plans were created for the fall, an online framework served as the scaffolding, so that if the need arose, Rohan Woods could seamlessly transition to virtual instruction. The faculty spent the early months of the school year teaching processes and procedures to set the foundation for student independence and success. We used those precious beginning weeks to teach our children how to learn online, a luxury of time we did not have in the spring.
As we move into 2021, our children are happy and thriving. Even through the masks, handwashing, and social distancing, they find joy in their learning and new ways of interfacing with their peers. Their days may look different than they did a year ago, but children are resilient and adaptable. Following Thanksgiving, the Middle School students transitioned back into the specialty classrooms for instruction. The Fourth Grade will follow suit beginning Tuesday. Incrementally, based on safety and community health, class by class will return to the specialty wing.
As we begin our new year with renewed energy, safety will continue to be top of mind in all that we do. Keeping our children, faculty and staff healthy will remain the goal for all involved. So, thank you for your patience, understanding and willingness to make sacrifices for the greater good of our community. Your efforts have helped keep Rohan Woods School open and teaching students in the school.
Happy New Year,
Sam