January 13, 2021

Dear Parents,

I've never been so relieved and optimistic to say, "Happy New Year!" May 2021 bring us all calm, health and happiness. I loved spending the holiday season with our wonderful group of "Holineers," who joined my family in our home for many of the season's festivities, like the New Year's party shown in the photo above. And now, I'm overjoyed to have all our students back, either on campus or engaged virtually.

We began the first week back with several victories, primarily the safe and healthy return to classes. The historic Cleveland Browns playoff victory was icing on the cake.

As we enter our newest learning module, I'm heartened by the creative and meaningful ways we engage with your children each day. I am looking forward to spending more time in the classroom this year, championing our faculty in their element and your students in pursuit of new knowledge. Outside of academic pursuits, I am committed to fostering positive surprises, joy and opportunities for connection on campus. I also want to celebrate outcomes, offerings and insights including:

Our college acceptances to-date. Hooray Class of 2021!
Our amazing course offerings (disclaimer: this book is written in student-speak!)
This recently-published article by our Dean of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Dr. James Greenwood

Last weekend, a student activity asked participants to create vision boards for the coming year. What a great way to say goodbye to 2020 and dream of what's to come. My vision board would include strong partnerships with our parents, continued attention to excellence, empathy and wellness, and a strategic plan that will guide WRA into its third century! My vision also includes the opportunity to work with the Classes of 2022, 2023 and 2024 and their families during the 2021-22 school year. To this end, re-enrollment contracts will soon be sent from the Admission Office.

Thank you for all you do. We know the world is full of educational choices, and we are deeply grateful that you choose WRA.

Warmly,