TA News

Dear TA Families & Students,

We have an important milestone to take note of today.

We made it to Thanksgiving with no cases of COVID and no school closure days. We have had a healthy and productive three months together, with our campus open to students four days of the week. I know that we are all missing so much right now – in our lives and at TA. The compromises are wearying and sometimes feel downright unfair. However, I am grateful for the school experience we have been able to create for students this fall and grateful to you, our TA staff, and the community for making it possible. 

A few important school updates & reminders:

• Families who have decided they are unable to follow Vermont guidance regarding multi-household gatherings and/or travel over the holiday weekend should contact Dean of Students Siobhan Lopez to confirm a quarantine plan for their student to work remotely.
• We are happy to report that we have resolved the drinking water issue on campus. Please read the official statement posted on our website.
• The winter athletics season has been further postponed based on today’s guidance from Governor Phil Scott. Please look for more details coming out soon from Athletic Director Blendon Salls.
• There is no school tomorrow. TA’s Thanksgiving holiday is Nov. 25-29.

Social media incident update: I am sorry to report that TA was the subject of a viral social media attack last night and into the morning. We posted the following statement to our social media accounts at noon today: “We recently became aware of social media posts allegedly made by a former contract employee. This individual has not been employed by the Academy since 2019. We find the content of the posts reprehensible. Thetford Academy unequivocally rejects and condemns racism, and does not tolerate racist, violent, or hateful behavior or speech.”

Thanksgiving this year requires us yet again to make compromises and tough choices. Despite COVID, may we find bounty and a sense of connectedness in the holiday – however adapted –  and perhaps discover new traditions that stick around for years to come.

Giving thanks,

Carrie Brennan, Head of School