Dear Parents-
Last Tuesday, Gov. Ralph Northam officially delayed the “reopening” of Northern Virginia. At the request of the particular localities, the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William; the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park; and the towns of Dumfries, Herndon, Leesburg, and Vienna will remain in the current “Phase Zero” until Friday, May 29.
Phase Zero, also known as Executive Order 53, is the phase we have operated under since March. All non-essential business remain closed, and all public or private gatherings of more than 10 individuals are prohibited. All citizens are asked to stay at home, except for essential needs, until we move to Phase One. While face masks are not required for all Virginians, they are heavily recommended.
The start of the 2020-2021 school year is a concern for all of us. Fairfax County Public Schools held a school board meeting on May 11, where they discussed a variety of scenarios relative to the upcoming school year. A replay of the meeting can be found here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDXiQmxPCU0
The Office of Catholic Schools is engaging principals in discussions based on multiple scenarios to open school in August.
In addition, OCS will seek parent input regarding school scheduling issues that could arise as a result of the pandemic. The Superintendent will share his survey with you in the next few days, and I know he appreciates your input. Please remember that no decisions have been made regarding the start of next school year, and I will keep you informed as decisions are made, however, we do know that schools will not open during Phase Zero or Phase One of the Forward Virginia initiative.
I hope everyone is doing well. All the mental health officials remind us to stay in the present, take one day at a time, and please reach out if you feel you need help!
Welcome one another...as Christ welcomed you!
(Rom 15:7)
Denise Rutledge
Principal
