Letter from the Head of School August 19, 2020 Dear Perkiomen Community,
It is almost time for "back to school" – which is always my favorite time of year. Even with a few additional challenges, this year is no different. I reflect back to my childhood when the smell of fresh cut grass and a cool breeze every now and then signaled the start of a new school year. In Pennsburg we're still waiting for the cool breeze, but there's one thing I know for sure, Perkiomen School is ready and excited to get started! Many of you were introduced to our new music and theater teachers in an Arts Meet and Greet earlier this week. Their enthusiasm and creative ideas inspired the entire group and have me energized in anticipation of our fall production and music classes. We are also welcoming new humanities teachers and a Director of the Medical Institute, who are equally as enthusiastic to get into the classroom and meet you either in person or online. As we enter into the school year there's something especially important for all of us to consider in order to attend Perkiomen. For us to achieve a successful year and to meet our goal of providing an in-person educational experience for our students as safely as possible, to reduce the risk to those in our residential program and in our community, and to protect our health and safety, we must all commit to the expectations and protocols set forth by Perkiomen. It is a reflection of our investment to one another. These are extraordinary times where we all must stay vigilant by wearing our masks, watching our social distancing, and washing our hands frequently. Every day we must self-monitor for symptoms and we need to stay home if we aren't feeling well. It is important that we all take these steps and demonstrate responsibility for ourselves and others. It is also critical that any student—living on or off campus—report symptoms and consult with the Health Center. Compliance with Perkiomen's expectations will require significant adjustments in how we conduct ourselves on and off of the school's campus and will require a commitment by all Perkiomen families, students, faculty, and staff to adhere strictly to our public health and school guidelines. This applies to all members of your family as well as any other caregivers or household members involved in the care of our children whose role involves any Perkiomen interactions (e.g., pick-up or drop-off). If you have not yet, please sign and submit our Health and Safety Commitment Form before returning to campus. Please continue to review the Perkiomen Resolved website for updated guidance regarding travel restrictions, mitigation measures, and guidelines. While this year will look different and we may not all be physically together, we are committed to our valued Perkiomen experiences and traditions, remaining "loyal, tried, and true" and connected to one another. Working together, we are confident that we can be successful in this effort. In just a few short days, I look forward to welcoming you back, whether in person or online. Sincerely, Mark A. Devey Head of School Confidentiality Notice: This communication and any accompanying documents are confidential and privileged. They are intended for the sole use of the addressee. If you receive this transmission in error, you are advised that any disclosure, copying, distribution, or the taking of any action in reliance upon the communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please contact me using the above contact information. Perkiomen School 200 Seminary Street • Pennsburg, PA 18073 • 215-679-9511 • perkiomen.org |