In a typical year, our entire campus would have gathered today to pay tribute to our country and our fallen soldiers in honor of Memorial Day. We would have sung patriotic songs (and our school song, Fortune Favors the Bold) and stood together in solemn tribute while simultaneously marking the beginning of the end of the school year. It is one of the annual occasions most anticipated by many. Since we cannot be together, please take a moment to observe the raising of our flag as Band Teacher Andy Tyson plays “Taps” – a typical component of our Memorial Day assembly – to honor those who have served our country and salute those who continue to do so.
These traditions and rhythms, so familiar for so many years, are obviously different this year. Nevertheless, the importance of remembering, of slowing down to reflect, and of observing Memorial Day for its original purpose remains. And, for many years to come, Memorial Day will also take on an additional meaning and import within the NCCS community. One year ago today, a parent in our community, Jennifer Dulos, went missing.
Loving, involved, warm and funny, Jennifer touched many in her short two years in the NCCS community. Her five beautiful children have as well, and I am pleased to report that they remain safe and healthy and doing as well as anyone could hope. They are surrounded by love and a deep support network. So, we also spend this weekend remembering Jennifer and all the ways she touched so many lives in our community. Her tragic loss leaves a great emptiness that we can only hope to bridge together.
On Sunday, we will light candles on the front steps of Grace House in honor of Jennifer and in recognition that many in our community did the same at their houses throughout late May and June last year. If you are so moved, please feel welcome to light candles at your own home. I know that each person remembers and mourns in their own way, and that is natural. We are fortunate to have an extraordinary Wellness Team at NCCS, and School Psychologist Rebecca Comizio shares a number of thoughts and tips for adults and children to consider when grief anniversaries occur.
While I know that this Memorial Day weekend will be different than others in the past, I hope that you are able to take some time to reflect and remember in honor of the day and that you also have time to mark the beginning of the end of the school year. Despite the challenges of the last months, there is much progress to celebrate. Our students have achieved and learned and grown tremendously, and we will honor that in June as we always do.
Letters from Aaron 