MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Trinity-Pawling Head of School Bill Taylor

During the Board of Trustees meeting in May 2022, members of the board adopted a new proclamation. This proclamation came about as a reflection of the Board’s profound gratitude for and pride in the work of the faculty since the impact of COVID-19 hit in earnest in March 2020. The Board wanted to manifest its deep appreciation for the courage, perseverance, and professionalism of the faculty whose collective efforts led to a highly successful response to this challenge, and prioritized student learning, mental health, and overall support. The challenges of COVID-19 forced schools and students to react and adapt to constantly changing parameters in ways that were foreign to the somewhat predictable rhythm of boarding school life. Trinity-Pawling’s adaptation was creative, dynamic, and student-centered. This proclamation provides a tangible expression of acknowledgment that the success of the School’s adaptability was the direct result of the commitment and professionalism of the faculty. It was presented to the faculty at the School’s final faculty meeting before the summer break.

Resolution of the Trinity-Pawling School Board of Trustees

WHEREAS the coronavirus pandemic has created disruption for everyone and every institution; and

WHEREAS boarding school communities have faced unique challenges while trying to maintain and preserve their programs and fulfill their mission; and

WHEREAS the pandemic has caused anxiety, frustration, and uncertainty; and

WHEREAS usual teaching methods and evaluation practices were rendered insufficient; and

WHEREAS social distancing is unnatural and antithetical to the boarding school experience, and masks have shielded smiles and soaked up tears;

WHEREAS remote teaching and learning was an ineffective substitute for direct face-to-face interaction between student and teacher;

NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved, by the Trinity-Pawling Board of Trustees that the Board:

1. Acknowledges and applauds the sacrifices and adjustments made by its Faculty, staff, administration, and students to ensure student and community safety;

2. In particular, expresses its gratitude to the Faculty for its continued goodwill;

3. Appreciates the Faculty’s extraordinary efforts to maintain its high standards of excellence in all areas;

4. Recognizes and values the extra time and effort of the Faculty and its willingness to learn new methods and approaches to teaching and its ability to adjust to these challenges;

5. Admires and celebrates the Faculty’s continued commitment to the ideals and mission of the School.