Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving!

| Published on: November 23, 2020 |

Dear Families,

We have been blessed throughout previous academic years with families who understand the importance of our mission for Catholic Education and who are committed to working alongside us to accomplish these goals. This year, while unbelievably challenging, has demonstrated the level of commitment our families have to support the Catholic Academies and Parish Schools within the Diocese of Brooklyn. It is incredible to witness. I find it inadequate to simply say thank you, as those words don’t even begin to cover my gratitude for your unending support but nonetheless, I will try.

Thank you for your patience. This year has been the most challenging, regarding opening the Catholic Academies and Parish Schools that I have seen in over 40 years in Catholic Education. The phrase “unprecedented times” has been used endlessly, but it really encompasses the experience.  Families have encountered tremendous uncertainty; from questioning health and safety to wondering if their Catholic Academy/Parish School will even open tomorrow. I thank you for your patience this year that undoubtedly has been stretched to its breaking point in the shifting regulations and constant barrage of information. Thank you for continuing to weather this storm. 

Thank you for your time. I know in the life of families even extra minutes of preparation can tip the scales for the day. Wellness checks, symptom monitoring, packing extra masks and sanitizer, adjusting to shifting schedules, and facilitating online learning have dramatically altered your day to day lives. Your diligence in shifting your own schedules to adjust to this “new normal” has been paramount in helping our Catholic Academies and Parish Schools reopen and your children succeed. 

Thank you for adjusting to new roles. Being a parent or guardian, while wonderful, is a constant job. You wear many hats daily, and this academic year has added even more. As you have navigated through fears and worry, you have also worked with your children to help them process this experience. You are constantly providing for the emotional needs of your children in typical times. This situation has amplified those needs, but you have continued to provide. While shifting between in-person, hybrid, and remote learning, families have been tasked with increased supervision and education roles. You have selflessly stepped into these roles, despite your other commitments and jobs, to make learning a priority.

Above all, thank you for the gift of your precious children. You have entrusted your children to our Catholic Academies and Parish Schools.  This is something we do not take for granted.  Being a parent myself, I understand that nothing is a quick decision, especially when you must weigh the risks associated with COVID-19. We are honored that you continue to choose the path of Catholic Education. 

As you prepare for your Thanksgiving celebration, however different that may look this year, know that prayers are being said throughout the Diocese for you and your family. I pray this short break provides you a much-needed opportunity to unwind and decompress. I pray for your continued health, safety, happiness, and peace. 

In Gratitude,

Thomas Chadzutko, Ed.D.
Superintendent ~ Catholic School Support Services