“Gratefulness makes two hearts glad.” –Else Pannek

I have struggled this week to find my footing, and I imagine I am not alone. Balancing the work of school and the new reality of having my adult children back under my roof at Borland Hall has allowed me to rediscover the importance of gratitude. Throwing a baseball with my sons in the parking lot, going for a jog with my daughter, and making dinner at home have all provided me moments to practice gratefulness.

People here at Lincoln Academy have done so much that I am grateful for. Our academic leaders have provided clear and concise information for us to follow as we begin this remote learning journey. Led by our social workers, Tory and Lisa, and our Chef, Mikael, food deliveries have begun to those families most in need. It is easy to get lost and disheartened by the news, to let fear take control in the face of uncertainty, and to lose sight of those elements right in front of us that we sometimes take for granted.

The LA community of teachers, staff, students, parents, alumni, and trustees is an incredible source of strength and inspiration. I am especially grateful to be part of this community at this moment in time. As I’ve often said in the last few weeks, I know I don’t have all the answers, but I have great faith in those around me to ask the right questions as we find our way forward.

This coming week I think you will see more elements of our community come shining through. Disruption often inspires creativity, and I have seen this in our teachers in the last week. Remote learning has its challenges, but I believe it has the power to bring us together to connect in meaningful ways. Watch our webpage and social media to see how this joint experiment unfolds. On Monday we launch our remote schooling, so make sure your students connect for each class during the time scheduled and let us know about issues that need to be resolved.

As we enter week two together, let us keep our collective commitment to help “flatten the curve.” Keep practicing social distancing, use technology to connect in meaningful ways, and know that our joint efforts will benefit our entire community.

Please reach out with questions or concerns, I know I look forward to starting class remotely next Monday.

Jeffrey S. Burroughs
Head of School