On a Mission

12-20-2020Nurse's LetterShannon David, RN, NCSN

The Mission Statement for OLMC School reads: “The role of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School is to provide a holistic Catholic Christian environment that serves the soul, mind and body of each child.” Notice it has no qualifiers. No, “if everything is perfect”. No, “when things are normal”. No, “except when challenges arise”. The year 2020 has been anything but perfect, not even close to normal and filled with unique challenges. Yet, because of a strong “Home & School” partnership, our shared commitment to serve our children, and the hard work and sacrifices of so many, we are finishing out the year with our students having had the greatest number of in-person school days for all of 2020!

From January 6, 2020 through March 5, 2020 (when we left for spring break) we had 42 in-person school days. From August 17, 2020 through December 18, 2020 we have had twice as many school days, roughly 85, and 95% of students are in-person. Thinking back to those first days in August, I recall the fear and uncertainty that seemed to permeate the air and was all too evident in the eyes of many. This week, more than one teacher remarked that the kids were just a little wound up and so full of excitement. And, I thought, “Yes, they always are the week of Christmas Break”. . .how thoroughly normal! That we have been able to provide an environment where the kids can come and experience “normal” is truly a blessing! Though the case numbers of COVID in the community continue to be very high, we have learned that by developing creative approaches, implementing infection control strategies and above all, working together, we can overcome the challenges this Pandemic has presented.

Please continue to do those things that make us “Smart, Healthy & Holy” over the Christmas Break. We want to return to school in January with those healthy habits still in place, fit to accomplish our mission. If you, your student, or a family member are diagnosed with COVID over break, please email me at shannondavid@olmcschool.info. May the Peace & Joy of Christmas be yours. Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

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