Greeting from SNA Marianapolis,
As we make our way through another successful week of online learning we wanted to reach out to the community and share some positive perspective we have taken and are experiencing. Before this, we are looking forward to meeting with parents and the community tomorrow (Wednesday) and Thursday, both from 7:00 – 8:00PM. Our session tomorrow is for Lower School (Grades K – 5), and Thursday is for Middle School (Grades 6 – 8). We will meet in our Virtual Assembly Hall (link here).
Despite the global and local circumstances surrounding Covid-19, SNA Marianapolis has still “opened our doors” for the first time to our families and students. The correspondence that we have had with you has been overwhelmingly positive. We very much appreciate the support and understanding you have provided. Government guidance, alongside travel and immigration restrictions, have pressed us to make internal adjustments to our school schedules and teaching faculty. These changes have kept curricular expectations in focus while, most importantly, being sensitive to the needs of the community. We continue to hope and think positively that we will be truly able to “open our doors” in Bien Hoa, and able to lift these temporary measures.
SNA Marianapolis online learning is dynamic and engaging. It will continue to strengthen and evolve as more class time occurs. We are beyond proud of the time and commitment our teachers have dedicated, a small number who are teaching from across the global. SNA Marianapolis continues to strive to make this first quarter as effective and productive as possible. Class times have been shortened to allow students more time to process information that is being presented, while limiting the amount of on-screen time. Classroom sections have been established to keep student to teacher numbers low, allowing them to spend more time in developing a relationship with each other.
We also understand and are sympathetic to students and parents wanting to be sure that lessons, discussions, and assignments are comprehended. And, of course, that students are developing their English language level. Teacher assistants are present in most every classroom, and we will be placing teacher assistants in the remaining middle school grades to support this, and the growth of English language ability will come as the days and weeks go by and, of course, once we are on campus and in the classroom. Our ELA program with Mr. Robert Flynn, has commenced and will continue to expand. Soon, we will have a full array of afterschool activities that students can choose form.
The beginning of the school year has shown us that students (and parents) are both anxious and excited to once again be in school. We will continue to assess and evaluate our programs during the online learning time to ensure our students are assisted, feel supported, and reach their fullest potential.
All of us at SNA Marianapolis want to thank you for your time, cooperation, and support as we all make our way through these challenging times.
We all wish your families continued health and happiness, and look forward to speaking with you tomorrow and Thursday.
Best wishes,
Mr. Gregory “Rocky” vanGoidtsnoven & Mr. Matthew Riniker
Associate Head of School
SNA Marianapolis International School
