Dear Catholic School Parents,
Catholic schools in the Diocese of Camden continue to prepare to welcome students back to school in September. Each school has shared its plan for the 2020-2021 school year or will do so this week. The plans reflect the intense work of principals and local task forces, which included other school leaders, teachers, and countless school and community members. Their tireless efforts have contributed to strong plans that will provide the opportunity for all students to attend school in person safely every day and a remote learning option for those who are not yet ready to return to school. All plans are consistent with the most up to date guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and The Road Back: Restart and Recovery Plan from the New Jersey Department of Education.
I have visited many schools to witness their preparations in person. You can see some of them for yourself in a series of videos produced by the Catholic Star Herald:
- Using technology to support student learning: https://bit.ly/31N6Kap
- Planning health and safety measures: https://bit.ly/3kEDVFP
- Implementing protocols with summer programs: https://bit.ly/3kGyu99
- Enhancing technology infrastructure: https://bit.ly/33Ycml2
These videos only scratch the surface of the extraordinary measures being taken and the extraordinary people taking them. A similar video could be produced at every school. Upcoming videos feature innovative communication between schools and parents and ingenuity in meeting health and safety needs. I also had the opportunity recently to discuss our schools’ plans for 2020-2021 on the Talking Catholic Podcast, which you can hear at: https://bit.ly/31GpNTO.
I know that while schools are working diligently to start a healthy and productive school year, many parents are discerning the best option for their children. I encourage you to consider your children’s school and principal as partners in your decision making. They stand ready to describe the measures they are taking to ensure the students’ health, safety, and learning in school as well as the experience for those who will learn outside of the classroom.
Whether you decide that it is best for your children to be in the classroom or work remotely to start the school year, please know that our Catholic schools remain committed to their partnership with you in supporting your children’s spiritual, academic, social, and emotional growth.
Sincerely in Christ,
Dr. William A. Watson
Superintendent of Schools