First and foremost, I am immensely grateful for the grace and flexibility of our LaSalle team. They have been truly outstanding in meeting the educational and personal needs of our students this year. In addition to their work with “in-person” students in class, they have simultaneously worked with students attending virtually for a host of reasons—multitasking at its best!  They have gone the extra mile by calling, emailing and texting students and parents to help shepherd them through the complexities of online submissions, classes on Microsoft Teams and more.  To a greater extent than ever before, LaSalle teachers have been emotional life rafts for students by providing a sounding board for their frustrations about all they have missed out on this year. The dedication of the LaSalle teachers speaks volumes about the care they have for our students. 

Secondly, I am thankful for the administration’s continued recognition of the unique learning needs of the LaSalle students.  Prior to the start of the school year, LaSalle students were given the option to attend school all four days in person (Wednesdays have been virtual “zero” days of the cycle, with only half credit classes meeting). Every LaSalle freshman opted to attend four days, as did the majority of the upperclassmen.  This accommodation for LaSalle Students made a significant difference in their ability to adjust to the unique demands of school during Covid.

Thirdly, I consider myself very blessed to work with such great students and parents.  Even in the worst of times, it is a joy to work with such terrific young men!  They have been forced to grow in many new ways over the past year, especially in terms of their adaptability, flexibility and resiliency. Being witness to and part of students’ individual growth is my favorite part of LaSalle! In addition to our current students, Covid brought LaSalle applications for next year to an all-time high; as a result, we are expanding the program once again to a total of 70 students and 7 language specialists. 

Finally, as always, I am so very grateful for the support of all who have contributed to the LaSalle endowment.  It continues to be our goal to grow this fund so that the program can be accessible for all socioeconomic groups.  If you’d like to help with this, you can earmark any donation to CHC for “the LaSalle endowment.” 

I hope you and your family are well.  Stay safe!

Jennifer Healy