Coronavirus Update: Spring Break Extended Through March 17

Jesuit president Fr. Richard C. Hermes, S.J. and principal Barry Neuburger sent the following email message to all Jesuit families on Friday, March 13:

You and your loved ones have been in our daily prayers throughout this spring break. We have followed with close attention the many developments related to the international coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, especially the advice of health authorities. Beginning Monday, with due regard for the health and safety of our students and families, we will be implementing the following changes at Jesuit.

This Monday and Tuesday (March 16-17) will be an extended Spring Break for Jesuit students, with no school on those two days. On those days, the Jesuit faculty will be preparing to teach virtual classes beginning on Wednesday, March 18, and continuing, at a minimum, through Friday, March 27. Students, therefore, should plan to resume their school obligations via virtual learning on Wednesday, March 18. Instructions will be provided to help them prepare for Wednesday's virtual sessions. The school will, of course, continue to evaluate the situation and update you as things evolve.

While the temporary transition to virtual learning is a significant change for students and teachers, we are well prepared to implement virtual learning for an extended period. For several years, Jesuit has utilized the Canvas learning management system and a 1:1 iPad program, as well as the Arrupe (Jesuit) Virtual Learning Institute (AVLI). These resources, as well as the skills and experience of our faculty, will allow us to continue providing high level instruction and learning, and also navigate flexibly through any issues and problems that may arise.

Beginning this Monday, all after-school events, practices, and athletic activities are canceled through March 27. There are likely additional questions regarding special events, parent functions, and other activities on the horizon. We will communicate further updates addressing these issues, so please continue to monitor your email and Canvas, as well as the school website. Also, please be alert for any specific communication coming directly from teachers, coaches, and moderators.

As we mentioned in an initial coronavirus communication on March 2, our maintenance crew, food provider, and housekeeping staff have implemented strategies to enhance the cleanliness of campus facilities and operations. We have completed a deep-clean of the campus this week, and will continue the new measures for the duration of the outbreak.

As you know, coronavirus news has been coming rapidly every day, with new policies and protocols implemented frequently. I want to assure you that we are following developments in the state and county and will continue to monitor the recommendations of health authorities. Everyone should consult the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website (cdc.gov) for directions on how to protect your family and for information about a host of issues related to coronavirus.

Regarding travel, we will be enforcing policies consistent with CDC guidelines and self-quarantine situations. These are changing each day so please continue to inform yourselves and communicate with the school for the safety of the whole community.

As we continue to pray for one another, let us not fail to lift up to the healing power of God all those people most affected by the virus and its many side effects.

 

Yours in Christ,

Rev. Richard C. Hermes, S.J.
President

 

Barry Neuburger
Principal