Dear Early Childhood Parents,

We are writing to share important news that we just received regarding Governor Northam’s new mask mandate that was announced this afternoon for all Virginia public and private schools. The public health order issued by the state health commissioner requires individuals age 2 or older to wear a mask while inside a school building with a few exceptions such as eating, drinking, or at nap time. Infant & Toddler students do not need to wear their masks outdoors. The mandate is effective immediately, Thursday, August 12, 2021.

This new mandate affects our two years and older friends in the Ladybugs, Butterflies, Dragonflies, Fireflies, and Grasshoppers classes who will need to wear a mask when they arrive at school tomorrow. Those who don’t come to school wearing a mask will be provided one at arrival. We understand that wearing a mask will be new to many of our students.  Rest assured, we will encourage them to wear it as much as possible but recognize their age and that this too will take some getting used to.  

We apologize for the short notice as we just received the mandate this evening and thank you for your continued support and flexibility as we navigate the ever-changing nature of the pandemic. 

Sincerely,

Edwin P. Gordon, PhD Head of School

Kim O’Neil Assistant Head of School Director of Early Childhood and Primary School