Letter from the Principal - February 2020

By Mona Passman, Principal
February 12, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I recently sent you a letter about the daily schedule changes effective next school year. The majority of my letter outlined the various changes and the reasons behind them. I also briefly addressed the process we used to design this new schedule. In reality, it’s the process of collaboration among teachers that deserves the most focus. It speaks volumes about Cretin-Derham Hall and reinforces the trust you put in us each day.  

First I want to share a little background about the process. The new schedule emerged from an Academic Think Tank formed during the fall of 2018. Over the last two years, more than 22 teachers have voluntarily served on this Think Tank. During our first few meetings, we brainstormed and explored many important academic issues. Updating the schedule emerged as our overwhelming top priority. 

It is worth noting the diversity of members on the Think Tank. There was a person from each academic discipline represented, along with counselors and administrators. The committee members varied in years of experience and educational philosophy. There weren’t any special interest coalitions. It was purely a group of committed teachers and educators.

After a few meetings, our common purpose became crystal clear. We wanted a schedule designed in the best interest of student wellness. We understood that building a schedule centering on student wellness encompassed many things including academic excellence, life balance, good time management habits, and emotional, mental, and physical health. We also identified similar needs among our faculty, particularly time to collaborate together in Professional Learning Communities. With these elements as the building blocks, the new schedule emerged. Our new schedule gives us an opportunity to question and refine how we teach and how we operate our school. 

Is our new schedule perfect? I am sure it is not. It will have its share of predictable and unforeseen challenges. After working with this committed group of faculty, I am confident that we will find solutions because we have the best interest of students in mind. I am also confident that our faculty and staff are well equipped to implement the changes outlined in our strategic plan to make CDH an even better school. 

This is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had in my twenty years at CDH. It affirmed that I work among remarkable teachers who want the best for their students. I am truly grateful to them.  

Parents and guardians, thank you for putting your trust in us.