Dear Terra Nova families,
We are writing to provide an update and request your support.
At the beginning of this academic year, Terra Nova transitioned to joining the Away For The Day movement, providing cell phone lockers for students to secure their personal electronic devices (cell phones & wireless earbuds).
This initiative has proven to be highly successful, fostering increased student engagement, productivity, community building, and overall positivity. It has been wonderful to witness the development of interpersonal connections and social emotional skill-building among our students. This change has allowed for students to increase focus on school content & more deeply explore interests. With the lack of the online/digital distractions, the learning environment has become more dynamic & supportive, increasing achievement and the sense of belonging.
Despite these positive outcomes, our community continues to face challenges related to cell phone usage and responsible online citizenship related to communication on personal devices outside of school. While reports of bullying and violence on social media outside of school hours are beyond our direct control, their impact on our students is undeniable & the school needs on-going family support and involvement around this topic.
We urge parents & guardians to engage in open and meaningful conversations with your children & their peers about the importance of maintaining kindness, peacefulness, and positivity during both in-person and online interactions. Please take regular opportunities to connect with your children and review their social media accounts together at home. Use this time to provide guidance and support to discourage participation in negativity, gossip, and inappropriate group chats if they arise, just as school staff have always done & will continue to do so.
At Terra Nova, we are steadfast in our commitment to fostering a supportive, respectful, and inclusive learning environment where all students are valued and treated with dignity. This environment is inclusive of students from diverse backgrounds, races, ethnicities, political beliefs, orientations, disability status, and religious affiliations.
We appreciate your understanding, support, & partnership in addressing & resolving these concerns. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s advisor or school counselor.
Sincerely,
Terra Nova School