Dear Lower School Parents,

It is hard to believe that this unique 2020-21 school year is drawing to a close. After today, we have 16 and a half school days remaining, which puts us in countdown mode! All the exciting end-of-year activities and preparations for next year are energizing for the students, and can also have the unintended consequence of causing feelings of angst. It is important to remember that many students, while excited for summer activities, are leaving safe and predictable classroom structures for the uncertainty of summer and next school year. It is our job, as educators, to strike the perfect balance of excitement for the future while supporting the feelings of unease that many are carrying now.

We understand the necessity to maintain structures and routines by keeping schedules and classes consistent, all the way until the last day of school. We plan to finish strong with Shark Tank projects, Poetry Slams, Hebrew Fashion Shows, Amazeworks, Junior Great Books, Meetings with our Alderman, Shavuot celebrations, Day of Service Projects, publishing parties, and much more, to keep us engaged for the next few weeks. And during the first week of June, we will be participating in our annual Move-Up Day, which allows students to preview what their upcoming grade will look and feel like.

Our school has offered students a true safe haven during a very unsettling global pandemic, so it’s no wonder that our students (and teachers!) are telling and showing us that they are nervous for the year to come to a close. We promise that we are dedicating our best energy to helping ready students for their upcoming transitions every day. We sincerely thank you for your partnership in this effort. Give those kids some extra hugs this month, and make sure they know all the important people who are in their corner to offer support!

Warmly, 

Karen Leavitt
Head of Lower School