February 7, 2010

Dear Hornet Parents,

This morning, I sent a letter to our faculty and staff asking them to exercise patience with our students as we all work to get back on track and hopefully resume with teaching and learning in the upcoming days. Once we get back to school, we will endure several chaotic days as we attempt to make-up all canceled activities along with hosting already scheduled events. I’ve heard we may get even more snow on Tuesday and Wednesday which will add to an already hectic situation.

I asked our teachers to exercise patience with students who will be in and out of their classes as the county attempts to schedule make-ups for students involved in district and regional activities, as well as the administration’s attempt to reschedule canceled day and evening programs (i.e., Rising Grade Level Orientations and Student Scheduling Meetings with the guidance counselors). Of course, we might not get to make-up any of the activities this week. If the weather continues, I’ll be adding more to the list!

Additionally, our students will need everyone's patience and continued support as they settle in and get caught up in their classes and activities. The county will put out a full list of make-up dates soon. The first two have already been posted -- February 15, 2010 (President’s Day - will be a Black Day) and April 12 (formerly a teacher work day Red/Black is still TBD). Here is the current county information regarding make-up dates for past and future snow days:

Days Missed         Makeup Days
1-3                          No makeup required
4                             February 15
5                             April 12
6                             No makeup required
7                            June 23  (extended last day of school)
8                             No makeup required
9                            June 24 (extended last day of school)
10                          No makeup required
Date for the last day of school may be earlier or later depending on unanticipated events.

While I realize everyone is feeling a little anxious about staying focused and on track, sometimes the weather (and life) throws us a curve ball. We will do the best we can together to get the job done. The Herndon family has demonstrated resilience on many occasions, which explains how we always come out on top!!!

Thank you for your continued support.

William L. Bates Jr. Principal
Herndon High School