Opening the new year with safety, love in mind

At the very least, pivoting to new ways of teaching and learning while experiencing the loss of normalcy and routine is emotionally and physically taxing. The idea of preparing to reopen schools in August during this time of uncertainty can produce even more anxiety. Yet, the Catholic school community is called to approach the current challenges as an opportunity to identify creative and innovative methods of engaging and ministering to students and families.
    

Armed with information from local and national experts, the Office of Catholic Schools created a task force to further develop guidelines for school leaders in the Archdiocese of New Orleans. The task force is composed of a diverse group of elementary and secondary school leaders from various regions. With support from the Office of Catholic Schools, the task force worked diligently to create a well-crafted framework to guide each school’s leadership team to finalize individualized school plans.
    

I commend each member of the task force for their dedication and their desire to make Catholic education safe for all in our community.
    

It is our goal to begin the 2020-21 academic year in our school buildings, and our school leaders are planning and preparing for a safe return to our campuses. However, it would be irresponsible of us if we did not prepare for the other possibilities or scenarios that exist. 
    

Therefore, each Catholic school will submit plans to the Office of Catholic Schools for reopening and operating during Phase I, Phase II and Phase III. Please note that each school has to plan for its particular community based on its population, facilities, stakeholder feedback and resources.
    

The situation before us is evolving and changing. We are working collaboratively with national and local officials to obtain the most current guidelines as we update our reopening plans. 
    

To that end, school leaders will take into consideration the federal, state, local civil authority and archdiocesan guidelines and directives in effect at the time and as they change with the situation. I appreciate your patience as we navigate the path forward.
    

During this unprecedented time, we must rely on our faith. As members of the Catholic school community we are called to respond to adversity with faith and love. In 1 Corinthians 16:13-14, St. Paul reminds us, “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” 
    

Our Catholic school community will plan and prepare; we will stand firm, courageous and strong in our faith, and we will do so with love. 
    

Dr. RaeNell Houston is superintendent of Catholic schools for the Archdiocese of New Orleans.