May 8, 2020

Dear Parents & Guardians,

Teacher Appreciation Week is celebrated every year during the first full week of May. In past years, we have always tried to stop for a few moments and recognize our hardworking teachers.

Reflecting on our collective experience these last 8 weeks, I think “Teacher Appreciation” has an entirely new meaning. We have always known that our parents and guardians are our children’s first teachers as we do not even meet your child until he or she is at least 3 or 4 years old. But through this pandemic, we have asked you to become much more involved in your child’s daily lessons – particularly for our elementary school children.

Homeschooling is hard – especially recognizing that most of us have been away from a classroom for many years and likely have an employer who has an expectation that you will stay focused on your job. Still somehow you are getting it all done – which is why I did not want this week to go by without also thanking YOU, the parents, for your dedication to online learning, and going above and beyond. Your role in our educational process has become essential and we know it!

Many of you have shared that you now have a new “appreciation” for your child’s teachers. Our teachers are our heroes. We all remember that special teacher who made us realize we have an interest in a particular area – or maybe they were there with comforting and encouraging words when we needed it the most. In the spirit of that appreciation, it would be wonderful to see our students and parents acknowledge your child’s teacher/s with a special note or card – and I hope under these unique circumstances, they will do the same for you.

With Governor Murphy’s recent announcement that our school buildings will be closed for the remainder of this school year, our homeschooling is not yet done. I appreciate your patience and your commitment in helping to ensure our children continue to learn. By the end of next week, I will be updating you on spring events including our moving up and graduation ceremonies.

I pray that you and your family are safe and please continue to follow the health safety guidelines set forth by our State, County and Town officials.

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!

Best Regards,

Dr. Christopher Irving, Superintendent of Schools