Dear FVS Community:
I’m writing with important updates about our ongoing efforts to respond to the evolving situation with COVID-19, the most significant of which is our decision to transition to online learning following spring break. This message also contains information about:
- Spring Break Staycation 2020 activities
- Campus visitor screening
- Enhanced facilities cleaning protocols
- Interim trip refunds
- The return of students to campus
First, I’d like to share my sincere hopes for the weeks ahead. We are moving into uncharted territory, and like me, you are probably experiencing a range of emotions. I encourage you to lean into the discomfort, assume the best in each other, and lead with questions as you seek to turn uncertainty into understanding, and bridge divides so that we may do our best, together. This is what we are doing on campus, and I am incredibly proud of the work being undertaken to ensure the safety of our community and continuity of our ability to deliver transformative educational experiences.
Transition to Online Learning
Toward that end, our administrative team has made the decision to transition to online learning at the end of spring break. At this point, we believe that our students will be best served by remaining off campus and connecting with their teachers and classmates through a virtual experience. The process will begin on Friday, April 3 with initial online connections and an orientation with teachers and advisors. Then, on Monday, April 6, classes will resume through the online platform and take place in real time following the normal daily schedule. Students who were unable to return home for spring break and who remain on campus will participate in the virtual experience from locations on campus. Faculty will participate in professional development and use the additional days added to spring break to become familiar with the tools and adapt their curriculum to the online experience. In-depth instructions and additional details will follow in the coming weeks. In the meantime, please begin preparations by reviewing what materials your child has on hand, ensuring that they have access to a laptop or desktop computer, a reliable high-speed internet connection, and a suitable workspace. For the time being, it is our intention for the online experience to continue until it is safe and prudent to reconvene classes on campus.
Staycation 2020
37 students remain on campus and as the spread of COVID-19 expands around us, we have decided to limit activities to those available on campus. Fortunately, our facilities and the 1100 acres of prairie that surround us provide a comforting buffer and abundant opportunities for engaging activities. Our faculty and students continue to step up with creative ideas to make the most of their time together. We are exploring global perspectives through cooking and baking, enjoying classic and contemporary films, and taking full advantage of our gym, pool, and other athletic facilities. Of course, we are also enjoying the spring weather which affords opportunities to unplug, connect with nature, and also with each other.
Campus Access and Visitor Screening
Managing access to campus and limiting potential exposure remains a top priority. This week, the school will institute a visitor screening policy and will restrict access by those whose travel patterns or exposure may present a risk. Similarly, any members of our community who have recently traveled by air or who have traveled by other means to areas deemed hot spots are being required to self quarantine for a period of 14 days following guidelines established by the CDC and local health departments.
Facilities Cleaning & Food Service
This morning, I saw our facilities team on campus completing a recently-instituted, daily sanitizing of surfaces using protocols established by the CDC and others. This is being undertaken out of an abundance of caution. In addition, Flik Dining continues to serve our community daily but has suspended self service. Food is served by staff directly to students and faculty on single use, and when possible, recyclable and compostable plates and flatware.
Interim Refunds
Work to secure refunds from myriad Interim vendors is ongoing and nearing completion. We hope to share more concrete information in next week’s communications. We are grateful for your patience and understanding as the School works to maximize the monies that can be recouped.
Return to Campus
Our time together is special and while we are confident in our ability to learn together at a distance, we look forward to being back together as soon as it is safe and prudent to do so. This will be determined by a number of factors and assessed on an ongoing basis once online classes resume April 6. Please know that it is our hope that we will be able to enjoy a wonderful spring together and close out the year celebrating the Class of 2020 and all they have achieved in their time at Fountain Valley School.
A Personal Appeal for Your Help
Never before in our lifetimes have we been so empowered to write our own histories. The world's foremost experts and the experiences of communities around the world show clearly that social distancing and good hygiene can significantly slow the spread of COVID-19 and thus save lives. The choices we make as individuals moving forward will have a profound effect on the trajectory of this virus and the lives of those around us. I implore you to follow the guidance offered by the CDC and local governments, and support the greater good however hard it may be. Though we may not know what lies ahead, the strength of our community and wisdom found in our core values can help sustain and guide us. Courage, compassion, curiosity, open-mindedness, and self-reliance have never been more relevant.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Take good care of yourselves and those around you, and be well.
William Webb
Head of School
Fountain Valley School of Colorado
6155 Fountain Valley School Road
Colorado Springs, CO 80911
