Dear Parents:
Right now, I should be on the Bayside Bluff preparing to deliver the commencement address to the class of 2020. Graduation was scheduled to begin in an hour with the Bayside community celebrating together. It is strange to instead be at home without the company of friends. Yet, I am looking forward to June 27 when we plan to hold our graduation ceremony on the bluff. It will be incredibly special to gather with the seniors and their parents for an intimate ceremony honoring all they have accomplished. I am so very proud of the class of 2020. This morning, Bayside faculty and staff delivered gifts to the homes of each senior in recognition of the importance of today's date and in appreciation of their grace during this last quarter.
On Friday, we celebrated our class of 2020 with a senior drive-thru where they received their caps and gowns and, in keeping with Bayside tradition, their senior books. This was a joyous way to see all of these students and celebrate their accomplishments one more time. They were welcomed into the Alumni Association as well, beginning their next chapter with Bayside Academy.
As we transition into the last week of school, I want to again thank our faculty and staff for their dedication and support. These times have been so unique, and their ability to adapt to the changes has been remarkable. Never in my 46 year career as an educator did I think I would see a school year end this way, but as I look upon it, it is with great pride and joy that Bayside has remained strong and steadfast in all we do. When we began this path nine weeks ago, I was convinced we would come out stronger. To that end, I believe we have succeeded—and more. We have paved the way for other schools to begin their virtual learning environments, and we have remained a role model in making responsible decisions for the benefit of our entire community.
There are several more ceremonies that will take place this week as end-of-the-year events. We are excited to see our Kindergarten Bayside Academy Awards, along with end-of-year ceremonies for 7th & 8th grade, Intermediate School, and Lower School students. We celebrated our Upper School students this past week, and as always, I watched in awe at the accomplishments of Bayside Academy students.
I hope to see many of you on Friday as you pass through the carline one last time to collect your student's items. I am thankful for you—our parents—and for all of your trust in Bayside. Let's finish strong this week, and I cannot wait for the day when I can welcome everyone back to campus for school. Have a wonderful summer!
Respectfully,
