School Reopening Decision

(The following is an email message sent on August 7, 2020, from Fr. Willie and Mr. Roca to parents.)

Throughout the week, the administration has been evaluating the feedback received from faculty, staff and families. We consulted with health professionals once again and continued to monitor information from the CDC. We met with the Board of Directors of our school and discussed the expectations of operating the school under the current circumstances and the various scenarios described in the School Reopening Plan. In addition, we took into consideration the measures taken by Miami Dade County Public Schools, the Archdiocese of Miami and various other private middle and high schools.

 

After much discussion of the benefits and risks associated with bringing our students back on campus, the administration, with the support of the Board of Directors, has made the difficult decision to begin the school year in a full distance learning model. This decision will be reevaluated weekly. As always, the focus of our attention is on the safety and well-being of our community, especially our young men. Everyone’s health and safety is our top priority. Our desire to return to the vibrancy of a full campus cannot outweigh our responsibility to care for the well-being of our entire community.

 

As Jesuit educators, we are committed to providing our students with an educational program that is not only intentionally planned for distance learning, but also prepares our young men to face the challenges of tomorrow as we build God’s kingdom. When classes begin, the faculty will deliver instruction from their classrooms on campus, creating a sense of visual continuity and contextual familiarity for students. Moreover, we will continue to hold our students to the highest level of character and academic standards. Students will be expected to join their classes on time, in full uniform, properly groomed and ready to engage with their teachers and peers. As we begin the semester, we will make every effort to provide opportunities for our young men to safely participate in non-academic activities that will foster friendships, spiritual growth, and a sense of community.   

 

We can all agree, this has been a challenging summer. The reality we are living has forced us to rewrite our game plan, think outside the box and develop programs of instruction worthy of Belen Jesuit. While it was our hope to begin the new academic year with a full return, be assured the steps we are taking are a significant push in that direction. We invite you to take a look at our FAQs page and if you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us. 

 

As we embark on this new academic school year, let us count on one another's support and adhere to public health guidelines in an effort to expedite our return to campus. Remember, Belen Jesuit has overcome great adversity in the past, and there is no question we will do so again.