Tharptown Elementary School

This week we received the sad news that we and our students would not be returning to the traditional school setting for the remainder of the school year. Our hearts were grieved at the thought of no more hugs, no more smiles, and no opportunity to say goodbye. But....we must remember that even though our doors are closed, our students are still with us. All of you have done such a great job reaching out to your students to let them know you are there and that you care about them. They need this. Even though you are missing your students, I am quite sure your students are missing you more! Our goal now is to build the bridge between where we were and where we are now and I am confident that together we can do it!

Mr. Hamilton will be leading us in the direction we will be taking as we move forward. As plans develop, I will be sending out information to you so please make sure to check you email frequently. Please remember, we are treading in uncharted territory with no map, so be patient as we work to devise plans that are appropriate, while keeping everyone safe.

One thing that has stood out in this whole unprecendented situation is the way people have shown love and stepped up to help. It is in times like these, that we are able to see the true nature of people and the size of their heart. I am so thankful to be surrounded by people who care so deeply and love so strongly. I am also so thankful for all the "helpers" that have stepped up and worked so very hard to make a tough situation better. If we all take a minute and look around, we will see helpers everywhere. This week, I encourage all of you to take the time to personally thank at least one helper. It could be through a note, text message, social media message, or even a phone call. Everyone needs to know they are appreciated and especially now, as we all struggle to navigate a new normal.

I also continue to encourage you to stay home, limit your contact with others, and maintain social distancing. We all have a personal responbility to do everything we can to stop the spread of the virus. It has no respector of persons as it hits the old, the young, the educated, the uneducated, the single, the married, male and female, and many different ethnicities. Let's all do our part so that very soon, we can all return to school to see the smiling faces of our students!