The Spirit of Easter - Superintendent's Blog

As we move closer to the season of Easter, we have been experiencing the initial throes of the COVID-19 pandemic. Easter this year will perhaps be unlike any other celebrated before. Many of us will not be able to participate in the Paschal Mystery in our traditional way, however, it may present a new opportunity to reflect on our own experiences in light of Christ’s passion, death, Resurrection and Ascension.

This Easter season will provide us with an opportunity to focus on our own lives as Christians. Many Jesuit writers have shared that this includes living with Joy (a gladness that cannot be taken away - even in the midst of sorrow), living without Fear (When the Risen Christ appears to the women at the tomb and later to his disciples, his first words are “Do not be afraid!” (Mt 28:5,10) - We trust that God will help us overcome every difficulty), and Living with a sense of Renewal (The Resurrection of Jesus makes “all things new.” (Rev. 21:5), this is a challenge for each of us to look at the world and our lives through God’s eyes). Let us therefore embrace the Easter season as a time to be true Christians: to embrace Joy, live without Fear and see the world as God sees it.

Easter is the season of renewal, and we are strengthened by the cross of Jesus. I know that many have struggled with the changes that have come to us as a result of the need to isolate. And yet from this I am evermore proud of all of the work that has been accomplished, by each of you, in every manner. Whether this has been through the delivery of lessons, taking part in online PD or simply reaching out to connect with students, to make this new way of teaching successful. Please know that I am incredibly proud of each one of you, and thank you for making a difference! It was once shared with me that “you never know when you are making a memory”, I can share with you that you are all making memories as we speak! We know you are doing your best and it is sincerely appreciated.

I would also like to take a moment to recognize the efforts of our Board and Central Office team. These folks have devoted countless hours to ensure that our system keeps functioning as normally as it can, as well as ensuring that we meet the needs of all of our students and staff. We have had a few situations over the last few weeks that required a tremendous amount of time and creative thinking and they have not let us down! Please keep them in your prayers this Easter Season!

Finally, I would like to thank our students and families. During this unprecedented time, you have had to make incredible adjustments to your lives with little to no notice. Thank you for your patience and understanding, and thank you for your faith in us! I hope that the Easter season brings for you the joy that each one of you deserve! Your teachers will be in contact with you to resume classes after the Easter break is done!

God bless!
Dwayne Zarichny