Superintendent's Message to Gretna No. 2 Academy Families: September 27
Dear Gretna No.2 Academy Families,
As Louisianans, we know how to take care of each other in times of crisis. We’re seeing these examples of love and support across Jefferson Parish in the wake of Hurricane Ida. We wanted to inform you of updates we are making to the Gretna No.2 Academy facility that will allow us to support some of our children and educators most severely impacted by this natural disaster.
As you may be aware, a town hall meeting was held this evening with Ray St. Pierre Academy employees and families to help establish a clear path forward for teaching and learning as their current building remains closed indefinitely. I’d like to take this opportunity to share with you the information that was discussed, as these plans are likely to have an indirect effect on you as well.
The majority of St. Pierre students will be sharing a campus with Ruppel Academy. However, due to the limited number of 1st floor classrooms at Ruppel Academy, two St. Pierre Academy kindergarten classes will share a campus with Gretna No. 2 Academy. Starting in early October, Gretna No.2 Academy will begin to temporarily share its campus with two St. Pierre kindergarten classes. This will not impact Gretna No. 2 Academy start times, transportation, classes, lunch, recess, or other aspects of the normal school day. Students will keep their same classmates, teachers, support staff, and administrators. St. Pierre kindergarten students will have their own classrooms.
These arrangements are what we deem as a temporary solution based on the long-term status of the St. Pierre campus. As previously mentioned, we recognize that efforts to maintain structure and stability are imperative for our children's growth and learning, and this plan allows us to support that initiative.
As we continue to rebuild our community and support one another, I ask you to continue to do so with an empathetic and gracious frame of mind. Making any sort of adjustment can be an act of service. Our St. Pierre extended family is facing abrupt and difficult challenges under what is an already adverse circumstance. They need our thoughts, prayers and most importantly, our support.
We know that reopening schools has its challenges, and fluctuating circumstances can cause well-organized plans to change. However, maintaining an open dialogue with you is key to our restoration and recovery efforts throughout this difficult time. I look forward to moving forward together to meet the needs of both our students and our community.
Dr. James Gray