Dear Mercy Parents & Students, We are now several weeks into the school year and the results are phenomenal! The ability for students to return to school with in-person instruction in a safe and clean environment is of enormous benefit to them academically, socially, emotionally and mentally. The hybrid learning model allows us to strictly adhere to CDC protocol including the important distancing. This success requires a partnership, and we truly appreciate the cooperative efforts of our staff, students, and parents. Implementing a hybrid model requires great demands on both staff and students. There are many additional duties and protocols in place, and the pace and workload is strenuous for all. We frequently speak of the need for our students and staff to extend grace to themselves and each other. Supporting the physical and mental well-being of our community is imperative to our academic success. We will provide opportunities for our staff and students to recharge and catch up as needed with planned breaks in the calendar as follows.   Wednesday, September 23 will be a designated Wellness Day. Students will be able to utilize the time for completing assignments as needed, or simply using the day to re-energize. Thursday, October 22 and Friday, October 23 are days off for staff and students to catch up on personal and professional needs after the successful completion of extended online Parent Teacher Conferences (Wednesday, October 21). Thanksgiving will look different. The break will be extended by two additional days for the entire week of November 23 through November 27. The week after Thanksgiving, November 30 through December 4, instruction will be remote only for all students following our hybrid full day schedule with Wednesday as a usual Flex Day. Many may travel over the holiday weekend or host visitors, and this remote time will help us to maintain the safety of our community prior to returning to our usual hybrid in-person instruction for student cohort groups on December 7. Learning best occurs when there is a supportive climate that prioritizes the well-being of those who are working hard to help challenges become successes. We thank you for your support as our students and staff are afforded this time so they may be at their best potential. In Mercy, Mercy Administration