We were so looking forward to our annual celebration of Thanksgiving as a school community on Monday, 23 November and Tuesday, 24 November. A prayer service had been planned for the traditional feast that the teachers and staff were going to prepare for the students. During the course of this meal our students would have had the opportunity to learn about this traditional American holiday and for many, especially our younger students, they would have tasted some foods for the very first time.
As a school community, we have always looked forward to this time as a festive occasion and a special chance to thank God for the many blessings that our school has received. Unfortunately, the week before this year's celebrations, we had a staff member test positive for COVID-19, requiring us to close the building and go completely virtual for a two-week period. This was the first time in the history of The De La Salle School that we were unable to come together for the annual traditional Thanksgiving feast.
As we virtually prepared to celebrate Thanksgiving we did ask The De La Salle School students and staff to take the time to reflect on what we are most grateful for. First and foremost, we gave thanks to Lord for the gift of life especially during these difficult days. We expressed gratitude to God for the gift of one another and for bringing us all together as a school community of faith. We then expressed our gratitude for the technology that allowed us to gather remotely and share our sentiments with one another.
We will return to the building on Monday, 30 November. While we were closed, the school building was thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Cleaning and disinfecting protocols will continue daily in order to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff. Our schedule will continue to be hybrid with both in class lessons and virtual learning.
We continue to be eternally grateful to the parents of our students for entrusting their sons to our care. We give thanks and offer our profound appreciation to all our benefactors who contribute their prayers and financial assistance in support of our mission, that makes it possible for us to offer a Catholic School education to those who could not otherwise afford one.
Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Advent season!
Prayerfully yours,
William L. Gault
Executive Director