July 10, 2020
Dear CDS Families,
As I reflect on the beginning of my (lucky) thirteenth year at CDS, there is much on my mind. I often think about the story of CDS and how the little school that could became the prominent school that can. In the school's almost 40-year history, there have been tremendous trials and obstacles that, at times, seemed impossible to overcome. In every single challenge our school has faced, we have come out on the other side, with a strengthened foundation to support the whole community should another tribulation threaten our school. This pandemic is undoubtedly a threat to our school, the school we all love and support. With that said, I am confident we will come out on the other side, stronger, yet again. . One of the reasons we will emerge from this pandemic stronger than ever is because we work as a team. I always address those that work with me every day as teammates. I trust the teachers, bus drivers, security, etc., and they, in turn, trust me. We all have jobs to do, and we hire excellent people and get out of their way. I also count the parent community as an integral part of this team. Trust is one of the reasons why CDS is such a special place.
It is no surprise there is considerable trepidation within all facets of our community about bringing all the staff and students back on campus. We are so fortunate that our teachers want to come back and be with your children in person. They are willing to do this because they trust that I, our leadership, and the entire CDS team, will do everything possible to keep them safe. Numerous teachers and staff, as well as families, reached out to me after my letter to the community last week about our safety protocols thanking me for making them feel more at ease about coming back.
One of the primary reasons they felt more secure is knowing that all students and adults will wear some face covering when they cannot social distance, be it a mask, buffs (neck gaiter), or a face shield. For full transparency, we do have faculty, staff, and students who are cancer survivors, diabetics, and have other underlying health issues. They are coming back because of the safety protocols we have in place. If your child cannot wear a face mask, then have them wear a buff or face shield when social distancing is not possible. In no uncertain terms, do I expect students to wear a mask or face covering every minute of the day. They need to wear a face covering when the 6-feet of social distancing is not possible; when they are outside, they do not need to wear a mask. We must work as a team to keep children and CDS employees safe. Do I like wearing any of the things I outlined? Absolutely not, but I wear a mask every day when I cannot social distance for my own children, the staff who trusts me, and the children that each of you entrusts to CDS every day.
Please take these next few weeks to find what works best for your child. I know we can do this, Patriot Nation. I know we can work as a team and emerge from this pandemic more resilient than ever. Please understand that when it is safe, I will immediately remove the face covering requirement.
Returning to School
Thank you for trusting me, believing in CDS, and being part of our outstanding team to protect everyone from COVID-19.
See you all soon, Dr. Ryan Kelly Forward this message to a Friend © 2016 Carrollwood Day School If you wish to unsubscribe from these emails, please click here. |