Brian's Blog

February 22, 2010

I apologize for not blogging for some time.  Those who are close to my family understand and we certainly appreciate the support and well-wishes.

This blog is about how the decision is made to cancel school because of inclement weather.  A friend and former public school superintendent once told me that canceling school was the one action he could do without consulting with the Board.

The decision to close school because of snow must be made early in the morning, and when possible the night before would be most beneficial.  My decision takes into consideration the conditions of the surrounding areas from where our students live.  In addition, I must also consider the distance traveled by our faculty members.  Finally, in our continuous effort to keep operating costs low I must make this decision before our Executive Chef begins to prepare food for the day.

Winter still has a few more weeks remaining.  We all are looking forward to spring and the warmer weather.  However, there is still time for another snow day at RCDS.  Watch the weather carefully and I will keep you well informed on weather related decisions at RCDS.

For RCDS,

Brian

January 22, 2010

RCDS is planning an amazing summer experience.   Check the summer section of our Web site for information on how RCDS will celebrate with campers the relationship between art and nature on our beautiful 20-acre campus.

Our summer program, Summer Studios, consists of four (4) one-week sessions – Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM – and will involve campers (ages 5-12) in visual arts, music, drama … and food!  Sign up for one week or for all four.  Be sure to bring your child(ren) to visit one of our “open studios” and get a taste of Summer Studios.

We will be hosting our open studios on February 6 and 27, March 13 and 27, and April 11, 2010. There will be a sample arts activity for the kids from 10:30 – 12:00 PM, and a guided tour of the campus and facilities in the early afternoon. You can arrange a reservation with Lorraine Greenwell: 845.268.6802 ext 201 or at lgreenwell@rocklandcds.org.

For RCDS,

Brian

January 21, 2010

Dear Friends of RCDS,

The news and pictures coming out of Haiti are heartbreaking.  Spearheaded by our Student Action Group, Middle School Student Government, and Events Committee we have decided to take action and raise money for the relief effort in Haiti.

Our Student Action Group and Middle School Student Government will be running bake sales on Friday, January 22^nd, and Tuesday, January 26^th.  Our Events Committee will be donating a portion of the proceeds raised at the February 6^th Valentine’s Ballroom Dance Event as well.

All funds raised will be combined in a single check to support Save the Children.  Charles MacCormack, President & CEO of Save the Children, recently partnered with the UN to coordinate efforts to reunite separated children and to help lead the rapid opening of temporary schools to help restore children’s sense of safety and security.

Please consider partnering with RCDS as we support Save the Children and their organized relief efforts in Haiti.

For RCDS,

Brian

Friday, January 15th

This week’s tragedy in Haiti has touched the hearts of the entire world and the RCDS community, as several of our families are connected to the stricken nation. While we know that this disaster will require the commitment of enormous resources over a long period of time, the staff of the Rockland Country Day School is formulating our own response. In the next week, we’ll announce our plans to raise money and send help: students, parents and staff will all be able to get involved, so that we can do our part. For now, we offer our deepest condolences to all who have been affected, and our full support to the survivors and their loved ones.

For RCDS,
Brian

Welcome to the inaugural post of “Brian’s Blog”.  This weekly blog will provide parents, students, and friends of RCDS with a first-hand look into a week at our school.  These exciting posts will bring you along on the journey through the hallways, classrooms, and various meetings at RCDS.  I’m looking forward to sharing with you the great teaching and learning that occur on this beautiful 20-acre campus we call home.

Each day the students at RCDS are excited to learn from enthusiastic, knowledgeable teachers whose dedication and passion help bring the curriculum to life.  I hope you’ll enjoy this blog. Please feel free to leave comments and be sure to check back often.

For RCDS,
Brian