Dear Families,

Thank you for attending last night's first-ever virtual Back to School Night. I was particularly pleased that all of us got to "see" all of the adults who enable LFS to function and thrive, even during this pandemic. Whether working in an office, outside around campus, or in a classroom, we all play a key role in creating and sustaining a school community where all kids are challenged, known deeply, and loved as individuals. As I mentioned last night, when children spend every day in a safe, respectful, kind, values-based, purposeful, and innovative community, they develop not only key academic skills, but deep and lasting feelings of respect for themselves, for all people, and for learning itself. I believe that this is the priceless LFS "gift" that sets children up for joy and success throughout their lives. 

I also am grateful to the parents who participated in this morning's virtual parent coffee. It's always so helpful for me to have as much direct conversation with families as possible, particularly as I'm just getting to know everyone. Parents' questions, observations, compliments, and concerns teach me so much and enable us to be truly responsive and to tweak our planning where possible. Please keep this link handy for next week's parent coffee. They're scheduled for every Friday at 8:15AM for the foreseeable future. 

Over the next week or so, we'll be fine-tuning our plans for returning to campus, and we'll surely be sending more information to you about that. 

Please also continue to reach out, and thanks to all for making me feel so welcome in my first months on the job. I couldn't be happier than to be part of this amazing community.

Sincerely, 

Tr. Neal