Virtual Classes Extended Through April 8

On Friday, March 20, at the conclusion of Jesuit High School's first week of virtual school (please click here to read about Jesuit's school closing due to the coronavirus outbreak and the implementation of virtual classes), school president Fr. Richard C. Hermes, S.J. sent the following email to all current Jesuit families:

The challenges that we all face are difficult and without precedent. Every family in our community, like families throughout the country, is struggling with numerous daily decisions. I want to assure you of Jesuit's unfailing support, above all by providing your sons a structured, daily education that will keep them engaged in their studies and give them a sense of calm and confidence during the weeks ahead. We are exploring additional ways to help you in their ongoing formation during their time away from campus. 

Please be advised that Jesuit will continue in virtual learning mode at least through April 8, the Wednesday of Holy Week. The remainder of Holy Week, as well as April 13 and 14, the two days after Easter Sunday, will be school holidays. We will, therefore, maintain April 13 and 14 as the Gaudiosa Raffle Holiday and Tiger Holiday, respectively. All school-related activities scheduled through April 14 are either cancelled or postponed. We will keep you informed over the next few weeks about any changes to this schedule and about the status of classes beyond that date. Obviously, we are monitoring the news related to coronavirus and the recommendations of health authorities, governmental agencies, and local school districts, including the Diocese of St. Petersburg. We will provide regular updates regarding any changes.

During this time, most of our school personnel is working off campus. A few teachers and several staff members will be present on an intermittent basis. Essential personnel in administration are present on campus in both the President's Office (Hyer Hall) and the Principal's Office (Gonzmart Hall) during regular school hours. All Jesuit personnel and offices can be contacted via email. If you need to speak to somebody or are having trouble reaching a Jesuit staff member, please call the main school number for assistance, 813-877-5344. For in-person meetings on campus, please arrange in advance. All visitors to campus will be directed by campus security to Hyer Hall where you will be assisted with your scheduled meeting.

Now more than ever we should turn to God, who watches over us in his infinitely wise and loving Providence. Our student chapel will remain open to our community for prayer throughout the school day. The Blessed Virgin Mary, a powerful intercessor at all times, is especially so in times of confusion, illness, and distress. As the mother of the Lord Jesus, she is the seat of Wisdom and she brings all our prayers to her Son, who is Wisdom Incarnate. Let us ask for a share of the Lord's wisdom each day and let us without fail lift up one another in prayer, especially those in our community who are most in need.

Yours in Christ our Savior,

 

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