Dear Parents,
I write this at a time when all of us are reeling from an unparalleled series of disruptions and setbacks as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. Our lives have been altered in some immeasurable ways, and yet here at St. Joe's we are working diligently to stay the course and weather this storm.
At a time when many have been confined to quarters, our faculty are working hard to maintain continuity of instruction at a very high level. Teachers are working harder than ever as they no longer simply plan lessons and assess performance, difficulty as that is. They are now mastering new technologies in order to creatively engage your sons. They are learning as your sons are learning, and still providing excellent instruction.
Surveys of students reveal that they have been highly engaged, and often working harder than they were in the normal classroom environment. Teachers report that students are actively participating and doing incredible work. Parents are sharing with us that the structured approach to the day that we have been offering has been a stabilizing influence on their sons, and they are grateful for all the extra we are providing. We are even attempting to provide some of our clubs in an online situation. Nothing is perfect, but we are all working as hard as possible to make the best of something none of us could possibly have planned for.
Pope Francis urged us in his Urbi et Orbi address on Friday to know that, "The Lord asks us and, in the midst of our tempest, invites us to reawaken and put into practice that solidarity and hope capable of giving strength, support, and meaning to these hours when everything seems to be floundering." More than anything, know that we care for your sons and we care for you. Do let us know of anything we may do for you.
We are also aware that most of you are experiencing the same kind of economic disruptions that we are. We know that some people in our community have lost their jobs or been laid off, family members are ill, and most have been affected by the turmoil of the markets. We are a community of strength and in these difficult times we are here to serve you and your family. If, because of Covid-19, you are experiencing financial hardships which make paying tuition a challenge, St. Joe's can work with you to get through this. Though our financial aid resources are limited, we are willing to establish payment plans that will get you through this time. Some families may not be as greatly affected as others and if you are in a position to make a gift that would assist another current family member, here at St. Joe's, we would be most grateful.
Please contact Mary Kay Buckley at [email protected] if you need to make special arrangements. Please click HERE if you would be willing to make a donation in support of another student, or you can send me an email directly at [email protected] and I will get back to you.
Together I am sure we will all get through this difficult time. Our mission is educating the Vir Fidelis, and we have every intention of seeing that through to the last day of school. Know of our prayers for you these days, and I ask you to remember to pray for us as well.
Sincerely,
Mr. Kevin McNulty '78
President