Dear Walden Community,
I hope this message finds you and your families staying well and maintaining good mental and physical health during this unusual summer.
You might have seen the recent announcements in the Los Angeles Times or Pasadena Now about Los Angeles County, unlike previously reported, not extending waivers for elementary schools to open for in-person instruction for the fall until COVID-19 cases come down to less than 200 cases per 100,000 residents. While we had communicated on July 18 that we would share the details about our upcoming year in mid-August, I am also mindful that the natural question of "What does this mean for Walden?" might arise.
As I've stated before, this situation remains fluid. A thought that I have come to embrace during this time of uncertainty is that due to a multitude of highly individualized factors, every school and district will have a unique re-opening story. Walden's will be grounded in data, science, and choice while upholding the wellbeing of all members of our community. September 10 is still five weeks away, and as we have seen throughout the summer, the public health situation and corresponding circumstances continue to evolve quickly around the state and the country. I can assure you that we will stay meticulously connected to the pulse of the situation and continue to work hard to meet the diverse needs of our families to the best of our abilities under circumstances that are beyond our control.
Here is what you can expect from us next:
- On August 12, you will receive a link to our updated Walden Way Forward website for our Fall 2020 program offerings. You will also be invited to submit any additional questions that you have.
- On August 18 and 19, we will hold virtual presentations for Pre-K-3rd and 4th-6th grade families. These will include a more detailed overview of the program and answers to the questions you submit to us. At these meetings, we will also share September calendar updates for back-to-school night and other back-to-school events. These meetings will be recorded and available on the website.
I recognize and regret the strain this situation is putting on your families, and know that many of you are hoping for in-person learning for your children, just like we are. Our highest priority remains the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff. In the meantime, no matter the delivery format of our program, we remain guided by our mission and our commitment to delivering an exceptional and innovative child-centered curriculum that is deeply rooted in inquiry, experience, and collaboration.
I am truly grateful for the extraordinary patience, strength, goodwill, creativity, and generosity that has been extended to all members of the Walden community during this time. I remain ever grateful for your partnership and our shared commitment to our students' learning and growth in community.
Please continue to practice social distancing, wear face coverings, and wash hands frequently to collectively help our communities heal and overcome this public health crisis.
With Care,
Terra
Terra Toscano
Head of School
Walden School
"Be true to your work, your word, your friend." ~Henry David Thoreau