Updated 3/20/20
Dear Mesa Grande Academy students and families,
I hope that you are all in good health and that you are taking time to care for everyone in your family. I don’t think any of us were adequately prepared for the rapid change from our normal lives into this new paradigm. This virus has created chaos and uncertainty. However, I firmly believe that God has us in his hands. He knows what we fear, and he knows each situation. He is walking right alongside us, picking us up, and helping us look forward to better times.
Students, I want to make sure you know that your teachers are working very diligently to make sure your education continues. We really miss being face-to-face with you in our classes. Even though we don’t know when we will be able to be back together in school, we want to do everything we can to help you finish this school year well prepared for next year’s studies.
That being said, you have spring break next week. Get whatever school work you can get done today. Then take a break. Enjoy your time off and have fun with your family. Take a hike, ride a bike or motorcycle, build something, fly something, invent something, learn about something you really want to learn about, listen to new music, draw or paint something, play a table game with your family, do something you have not done before or something you haven’t done in a long time. Of course do it all with “proper social distancing”.
Parents, we know that this may be the most difficult time you have ever experienced. Many of you are trying to work and still keep your kids focused on meaningful learning experiences. Just know that our teachers have been working non-stop to find ways that will help you and your students continue learning in this difficult time.
Your child’s education is changing – but we cannot let it stop. We are mindful of the stresses your students are facing. We want to assure you that we are committed to trying new strategies and to making adjustments as we discover what works for you. If something is not working, let us know as soon as possible. If your student needs a resource such as a computer from the school, just let us know. Many, if not most of the public schools have had to dismiss their students with no hope of additional education for the rest of the year. We do not believe that approach is healthy for your students. We at Mesa Grande Academy are committed to continuing your child’s education, even though the processes may be different.
None of us really know what is going to happen in the next weeks, days, or even hours. I just know that God encourages us to keep moving forward with our lives in all the ways we can, trusting that He will take care of us in the end.
My favorite Bible text since I was a child is found in Psalms 46: God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea…
I don’t know about you, but I am not going to live my life ruled by fear. Yes we have to do things differently now, but the learning and living does not have to stop. I will pray for each of you everyday and cannot wait until we have a welcome back party. God Bless!
Sincerely yours,
Alfred Riddle, Principal
