Dear Ivymount Families,
Today is the 30th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). As we salute this important landmark that recognizes the value and rights of all, we congratulate you and your students for your continued embodiment of excellence and positivity during challenging circumstances. The ADA's impact has renewed significance today given many of our student's challenges with technology and cooperation with social distancing and face masks.
As we look ahead to beginning the fall semester with remote instruction, we recognize that a delay to returning to campus is difficult, but it gives Ivymount additional time to prepare for a robust virtual program and make the necessary adjustments to our building and Return to Campus Plan. Please scroll to the bottom of the newsletter to read a summary of our current status for fall. This summary does not include new information since last week's Ivynotes, but provides a recap for your convenience.
Last week, several more local school systems released plans to continue a distance learning format until January. Ivymount does not follow MCPS for decision making on school closures unless it is related to inclement weather. However, we are eager to hear more from the Montgomery County Department of Health to fully understand its guidance and requirements related to bringing students on campus. Health department officials plan to speak to private schools this week and this information will play a large role in how we determine when and how we will return to campus.
We've enjoyed hearing feedback from families on aspects of our draft Return to Campus Plan. The Autism and MLN programs have held Q and A sessions and we look forward to hearing from MAP and Post High School families in the coming days. Thank you for your support and open feedback. Our goal is to determine and implement a plan that we all feel mitigates the staff and students' risk when returning during the pandemic.
Cooperation with social distancing and wearing face masks are top priorities in ensuring a safe and healthy return to campus plan. We will all work together to support your students in preparing for these expectations. Please look for an email next week asking you about your child's cooperation level with these areas.
At the mid-point of the summer session, students remain engaged in re-imagined lessons and extracurricular activities. See below for some photos and also watch our video of highlights from 2019-20. I wish you continued health and safety.
Sincerely,
Susan Holt
