SHACordechoSummer2020

S P I R I T . M I N D . B O D Y . C O R D E C H O 3 Dear Sacred Heart Family, The 2019-2020 school year has brought blessings and several unexpected challenges to SHA. Strong Board and Administration leadership and a long-term strategic plan have guided us through this unusual year. During these unprecedented times, cooperation from faculty, staff, students and parents has been essential. We appreciate all that is being done by so many to help the Academy continue to thrive. At the March 5, 2020 Board meeting, Ms. Demert described plans that were being developed in case New York State required schools to shut down—that was only 5 days after the first reported case of COVID-19 in New York State and before any cases were reported in Erie County. We had a robust conversation regarding the plan at that meeting and, less than two weeks later, SHA’s plan for distance learning was implemented when Governor Cuomo issued an executive order closing schools. I am grateful for the foresight and planning of the administration and teachers that led to an efficient and effective transition to distance learning. There can be no doubt, the current crisis has posed new and complex challenges for all schools, and SHA is no exception. The Board of Directors sets and oversees the implementation of the strategic direction of the school, guided by its strategic plan. This is a living document, flexible enough to respond to changing circumstances and realities. Periodically when this document is reviewed and refreshed, the effort is led by the Board with significant input from the Head of School and other stakeholders. Plans are underway for such a review and refresh as we head into summer. We are confident that strategic thinking and planning will continue to ensure that SHA will be well-prepared for the many changes necessitated by the current reality of this global pandemic as we head into the 2020-2021 school year. Even as we look to refresh our strategic plan, other components of the plan are coming to fruition. In April, six members of the governing body participated in a “virtual visit” with a verification team from the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, as we took our last step towards authorization as an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme School. The in-person verification visit initially scheduled for April 2 and 3 was converted to a “virtual verification visit” that took place only two weeks later on April 16 and 17. In addition to meeting with members of the Board, the verification teammet with administrators, teachers, parents and students to evaluate the school’s readiness to launch the program. Each board member who participated brought a different and informed perspective to the meeting. We were asked, “Why IB?” The Board participants presented the view that pursuing the addition of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at SHA was an obvious progression that would build on the strength of the current curriculum and would enhance opportunities for our young women with the inclusion of the IB’s world-renowned, well-balanced curriculum. The IB teammembers commended the Board for its involvement in the development process, engagement with students and the larger WNY community, and commitment to the financial investment required by the program. They were pleased by the Board’s and the Sisters’ recognition of the value of this program. We expect to hear the results of the verification visit this summer and hope to implement the IB Diploma Programme in September 2021. We are grateful to all Board members for sharing their expertise, enthusiasm, commitment and generosity as they continue to steward the Academy. I pray that you and your loved ones are healthy and are keeping safe. Sincerely, President, Board of Directors