A MESSAGE FROM THE HILLTOP
March 17, 2020
Hello from the Hilltop!
Though campus is quiet these days, Salisbury faculty and staff are working very hard to ensure continuity in our academic program and to provide informative communications regarding the implications of COVID-19 on our school community.
As you are aware, March Break has been expanded to an April 1 start date for our Distance Learning Program. Please note that we are also prepared to extend the Distance Learning Program through the end of the year, if the School is forced to move to online classes through the final trimester. Dean of Academic Life Sarah Mulrooney will be reaching out to both families and students next week with a detailed outline as to the workings and requirements of the program. Our Distance Learning Program is designed to maintain continuity in our academic program as well as reinforce Salisbury's commitment to relational learning, providing multiple touchpoints for students to utilize in their academic development.
With flexibility and creativity, we will provide students with meaningful opportunities to continue their learning that are modeled after the on-campus experience of a Salisbury School education. We will take into account differences in time zones, individual student's access to resources, and the unforeseeable circumstances that may arise over the coming weeks. Our teachers and administrators understand this reality and will be, first and foremost, accommodating and supportive when working with students and families throughout the implementation of this plan. Again, you can expect a detailed plan from our Academic Office early next week.
Additionally, Salisbury's athletic department will be working to re-design a competitive schedule for all of our spring teams that will provide our Knights with valuable playing time for our final trimester, as some schools (the Founders League, for example) have recently canceled their spring athletics.
COVID-19 presents many challenges and changes to Salisbury's day-to-day and long-term planning. In order to keep each of our constituencies informed, we have created a COVID-19 web-page that addresses many questions and concerns. The page will be updated regularly to reflect changes and additions, and we strongly encourage members of the school community to refer to it regularly, as we navigate this trying time.
Finally, we will continue to provide direction and news in the days ahead. Our faculty and staff remain unquestionably committed to you and your son and will work hard to guide you through this ever-changing landscape.
Sincerely, Chisholm Chandler '11 (Hon.), P'17 Headmaster Bobby Wynne P'19 Associate Headmaster ©2020 Salisbury School |