Dear YHS Families,
We face a significant change on May 3 when we will bring students back to school four days a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays (Wednesdays will remain a remote day of learning for the rest of this year). It is our hope that this note will provide you with an overview of the key changes that will take place as we finish the school year.
Different Lunch Schedule
In order to maintain the 6’ social distancing requirements, we will need to hold two lunch periods and split the student body into two groups. For students who have classes in the D Wing during 4th period, lunch will be held from 12 to 12:45. For students who have classes in the A, B, C, and E wings during 4th period, lunch will be held from 10:45 to 11:30. Three additional key points to the new lunch system:
-- Students will still have off-campus privileges.
-- The cafeteria will be open to students.
-- Students must complete an “EHallpass” for every lunch period for contact tracing purposes.
Parking
With the entire student body returning to school, we will need to restrict parking to seniors and juniors only. As we have done in the past, seniors and juniors will need to register in the main office to receive a parking pass for a designated parking space. Starting May 3, there will be no student parking at the West Elm side of campus; student parking will only be available on the Portland Street side of campus.
Update on DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion)
As part of our district and our school efforts to provide opportunities for all staff and students to explore and grow intercultural competence, we are launching a series of advisory discussions on equity and race, beginning Thursday and Friday, April 29 and 30, with the 12th grade advisories. Please see this link on our website for more details.
Cancellation of Prom
After extensive discussions with our class councils, we have decided to cancel this year’s prom given the challenges of maintaining social distancing for an event that is centered on dancing. This is a difficult decision as we recognize the importance of this event for many students and families, yet we feel it is necessary to minimize risks and ensure that all students can participate in graduation this year.
Over the past year, the YHS Clipper Ship has faced some tough weather and stormy seas. During this time, our journey has not wavered from its commitment to core values and beliefs of learning. We would like to thank our faculty who have adjusted to every setback and adjustment with an enduring spirit to what’s best for students. Likewise, our students have navigated through the challenges of fully remote, hybrid, and now “All-In” learning plans while dealing with an ever-changing world of testing, quarantines, and contact tracing. Finally, we would like to thank you as parents for your patience and understanding. Whether April “goes out like a lamb” or brings May flowers, there’s no question that we are nearing the end of this journey and land is in sight.
Be well,
Eric Klein, Amy Bongard, and David Creech - YHS Administrative Team