Glenbard West Community
I hope everyone managed to navigate through the snowy conditions this morning! I wanted to send a quick message to address our decision to cancel the traditional school-sponsored February dance, Heart Hop, due to concerns around COVID and transmission. While most parents and students understand this decision, I have heard from some concerned that we are being inconsistent. Below are the key reasons why we decided to cancel this school sponsored dance:
- Dances are not like other events (athletics, performing arts, etc.). They are ostensibly social events where students are in very close proximity for lengthy periods. Those who have been to our dances know that the dance floor is packed with students, and enforcing masking is nearly impossible.
- At a dance, students are not stationary and facing in one direction. It can be challenging and, at times, impossible to ensure precautions are taken by all attendees.
- At this time, cases are still high for Glenbard West students and staff. During high transmission rates like we have now, a dance is not safe for students.
- Peer schools in our area have similarly canceled dances during these months for these same reasons.
Making these kinds of decisions is very difficult. Our administrative team is hyper-aware of the many sacrifices students have had to make during these last two years. No one relishes the idea of adding to that list. As Dr. Larson pointed out in his message, we are committed to being in person for most of our student activities, including our play, athletic competitions, Forensics Tournaments, Eighth Grade Athletic/Activity Night, Winter White Out and other events. We are just not comfortable adding a student dance to that list. I am sure that this note will not convince everyone that this is the right decision, but for me, it was important to share our thoughts with the community.
Thank you for your ongoing support of Glenbard West and our students,
Peter Monaghan, Ed.D.
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