Dear Members of the APHS Class of 2020, and their Parents/Guardians,
The events of the past month have certainly presented all of us with numerous challenges. There is no question that these unprecedented times have been unique and difficult, asking us to look at everything we do in new ways. Please know that, within the context of our school world, I am particularly sensitive to the many events and experiences which have been lost for our current seniors. This should have been an exciting time, full of traditions and events aimed at celebrating the completion of their K-12 journey with the Averill Park Central School District.
I remain hopeful that we still may be able to celebrate our seniors in some of our already scheduled, and more traditional, ways. That said, given our circumstances, I do think it is now important that we begin to create alternative plans, in case we are not able to return to school and/or host large group gatherings as the academic year comes to a close.
Last week, I met virtually with the Senior Class Officers and their Advisor to begin these conversations. As a group, we focused our discussion on two specific events: the Senior Dinner Dance, and of course Graduation.
I will share that we do aim to still have our Senior Awards Night, even if presented in a virtual/digital format.
Over the next couple of weeks, in case we need them, I will be working with students and staff to create alternate plans to celebrate each of the above events. As you can imagine, we have already received numerous ideas, thoughts and suggestions. Before we begin to nail down a specific direction, I would like to take a period of time to collect the broader perspectives of our Senior Class and their parents/guardians. Please share your thoughts between now and Thursday, April 23rd at a link that has been shared with you in your emails.
As we move through the remainder of April and into early May, I will keep you in the loop with outcomes on these topics. Please rest assured that, whether we are back in our traditional school setting or not, we are all committed to making sure that we celebrate and recognize the outstanding accomplishments of our students in the APHS Class of 2020.
I hope that you and your families are healthy, staying well, and taking good care of one another!
Sincerely yours,
Heath C. Quiles
Principal
Averill Park High School
Principal
Averill Park High School