“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”

- Helen Keller
 

Greetings Laurel Hall Families!

This week, I began to compose my annual report that is presented to the Emmanuel Lutheran congregation. It is a summary of what has transpired during the school year. Though it is not quite ready for distribution, I would like to share a portion of it now:

Our teachers continued the remarkable task of teaching students who are seated in front of them, while simultaneously teaching remotely to those who remain at home. It is safe to say that our wonderful educators have perfected hybrid teaching. While we are not “back to normal” by any means, we have evolved into something far better and stronger than what we had been in the past. I repeatedly remark that Laurel Hall is a wonderful place. It is a place where magic happens. The blend of academic rigor, co-curricular activities and social-emotional learning is second to none, and our graduates matriculate to the finest high schools anywhere. All that is true. Yet, it does not begin to paint the beautiful mosaic of who we are. We have nearly completed an era like no other in history. It is now time for a renaissance of safety, health, and prosperity. Familiarity is on the horizon…

Yesterday, an event occurred. This event, while once considered to be routine, was monumental. The students in the middle school band and strings program treated us to a recital. Of course, the kids were fantastic. What made it a momentous occasion was that it was the first live student performance in 432 days at Laurel Hall. These students, who normally perform as an ensemble, took center stage admirably, and in solo fashion, while their families and peers gave support. It was refreshing. I want to give a big “shout out” to the students, their teachers, and loved ones for making this happen. Indeed, familiarity approaches.

Today, we have our second live event - the annual clinic for prospective cheerleaders! As we close out this school year and march toward the next, there will be more to come. Though, the events may still look different than what they have been in the past, they are all indicators of just how far we have come. The following are some of the important dates and events:

· Tuesday, May 18th - 8th grade east coast trip.

· Friday, June 4th - 8th grade celebration.

· Monday, June 7th - In-person LHS sports information meeting.

· Monday, June 7th - In-person elementary (4/5) live outdoor music performance.

· Wednesday, June 9th - 5th grade celebration.

· Thursday, June 10th – Last day of school.

· Monday, June 21st - Summer camp begins.

· Friday, July 30th - Summer camp ends.

· Monday, August 23rd - Teachers return.

· Wednesday, September 1st - LHS Welcome Back.

· Thursday, September 2nd – First day of school for the 2021-2022 school year.

It is difficult to believe that in four weeks we bid farewell to this school year. I think I speak for everyone when I say that I am very much looking forward to a well-deserved break, followed by a “do-over” opening the new school year!

Best,

Jay