Maria Pilar Paradiso, Link' s head of school, sent the following message to all Link families today, in response to the events that took place in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, January 6, 2021. You can read the letter here.
January 7, 2021
A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL, Maria Pilar Paradiso
Yesterday, we saw extraordinary events unfold before us in our nation’s capital. Our democratic principles, our elected officials, and our government buildings were under siege. We watched terror, violence, and lawlessness unfold as a mob encroached upon and ultimately entered the Capitol. And, we continued to see a President espouse falsehoods and incite action with a reckless disregard for the wellbeing of the United States of America -- our people and our government.
Over the past four years and countless times before, we have witnessed horrific moments on the screen. And, just as we have each time before, today, we gathered as a school community in Morning Circle to reflect, share, and learn. As educators, we are called on to help our young scholars stay informed and critically evaluate what is happening in the world around them. We must process these moments, no matter how difficult they are. Never before has this been more important.
But as we engage in these important conversations, in the midst of so much uncertainty and loss, we are once again struck by how much we also learn from our scholars. Today was no different. Despite the many failings of this country, we see the very best in the young people who will be tomorrow’s leaders. Their insight and their values speak to the work that our families and our staff do each day to nurture their minds and spirits.
Our scholars, teachers, and staff share in our collective dismay and grief, but we are united in our hope for a better future for us ALL.
Should your children experience any ongoing concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to our social worker, Ms. Dandie-Lashley, at sdandie@linkschool.org, for support.
