Parents and Friends,

With the end of the semester approaching, it is time to evaluate and reflect on the current hybrid learning experience in preparation for the second semester. Your input is very important to us and, as such, we are asking that families respond to this survey by Wednesday, December 9. Your feedback will allow us to better understand your experiences and desires to help guide our plans for the Spring semester. 

Now that our faculty are more experienced in teaching in this environment and our students are familiar with navigating campus and understand all of the necessary virus mitigation protocol measures, we are considering how we can safely increase student access to campus* for in-person learning and social engagement while maintaining the safest school environment possible when we return in January.

Jesuit’s current model took into account the feedback you provided in September when we were in full distance learning. At that time, the overwhelming feedback was that the amount of screen time was unsustainable academically, socially, and emotionally. The change was then made to reduce screen time, allow for a healthier overall experience, and give time for the community to adapt to a hybrid model of instruction.

We know there is great enthusiasm on the part of many parents and students to return to campus every day, five days a week. We also acknowledge that creating a sense of community with fewer students on campus each day is challenging. Until we are able to safely return to school “as usual,” we continue to seek ways for students to engage and connect with each other while respecting social distancing. Some examples of the creative ways Jesuit was able to continue our mission and serve your son included:

• We returned to in-person, on-campus synchronous learning 
• Maintained a robust virus mitigation protocol for everyone’s health and safety, establishing that our campus can operate without being a vector of high COVID spread
• Provided the option for students and families who prefer to learn remotely
• Offered standardized tests (ACT/SAT) for college admissions
• Held virtual college rep visits, application guidance and personalized counseling sessions
• Provided formation experiences through online Masses, retreats and service opportunities
• Developed bonds and supported the brotherhood through Freshmen and Senior Companion Pods  
• Optimized opportunities for student engagement and co-curriculars based on what is allowable by county guidelines, including the student newspaper, fall drama production, chamber choir, academic teams, athletics conditioning, and many student-led clubs.

Our work is never done and we are still looking to improve and expand our school program. We will continue our COVID antigen screening program that has successfully identified positive cases of COVID, proactively preventing access and spread on campus. We will also remain committed to providing the school choice option for students who prefer to learn remotely.

We value your input and take seriously your experiences as a member of the Jesuit High School Sacramento community. Please discuss this survey as a family and respond as a household. This survey will close on December 9 at noon.

Thank you for your commitment to Jesuit. We are humbled and honored that you trust us to serve your sons and advance the mission of Jesuit High School each day. 

Michael Wood ‘99

Principal

*As we have experienced since the start of this pandemic, Jesuit High School’s plans are contingent upon the status of the virus in our community and the subsequent restrictions and guidelines that are issued by local and state officials.

Next Week’s Calendar At-A-Glance