May 31, 2020

Dear Summer Families,

I hope that this update finds you and your loved ones safe and in good health. Please read below for updates on virtual programming and refund requests.

Update on Virtual Programming

Shortly after the May 5th notice that Science & Arts Academy would be cancelling all on-site Summer Adventures in Learning programming this summer, we began a similar decision-making process to determine whether or not SAA would offer virtual programming as an alternative. After several weeks of evaluating pros vs. cons, scenario planning, and deliberating what made sense for our school at this time, our school leadership has come to the decision that SAA will not offer virtual programming in Summer 2020.

The rationale behind this decision has many layers, but the leading factor was weighing our available resources against our enduring pledge to deliver an exceptional experience that families have come to expect. With school administrations facing what promises to be one of the busiest and most challenging summers in recent memory, it's critical that our team dedicates full focus and attention to re-entry planning as we prepare for a safe resumption of school in August. Successful management of these new priorities just doesn't leave the time, personnel, or financial commitments necessary to plan for and implement a top-notch virtual program.

We're supremely confident that with appropriate time to evaluate effective models of in-person and distance learning in this new reality, that we will return next summer with improved methods of delivering our unique enrichment and recreation programs while continuing to prioritize the health and safety of our community. We look forward to the opportunity to serve your family next summer and for many summers to come!

Update on Credit/Refund Requests

Thank you to those families who completed the credit/refund request form shared in the May 5th cancellation announcement. We are on track to uphold our promise to process refunds within 30 days, and some families should have received refunds last week. We will continue processing refunds through the early part of this week. Thanks for your patience.

For families who requested a credit for Summer 2021, stay tuned when registration opens about how this will be reflected in your account. We appreciate your sign of confidence in our program and your help in mitigating some of the financial losses from this summer.

Families with payments made for Summer 2020 and who did not complete the credit/refund form will automatically be credited with the amount they paid towards Summer 2021, unless we receive a refund request by email or phone.

All of our summer campers and families are in our thoughts as we navigate through these difficult times. Let's hope that our state and localities can continue to make progress, and that this allows all of us to maximize fun this summer while staying safe. If you have any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to email or call 847-827-7880. Thank you and enjoy your summer!

Sincerely,

Zach Elkin

Director of Auxiliary Programs