Behind the Mask

2 Behind the Mask Behind the Mask:

How Staff Transformed Campus for Safe On-Campus Learning

By Jen Jordan

Ellen Browning Scripps believed that educational methods should reflect the “experimental age” of the era. The 2020-2021 school year was certainly an experiment for The Bishop’s School— one with a successful outcome.

As we looked around at all the masked faces on campus this year, there was one thing they all had in common— the commitment to offer on-campus learning in a COVID-safe environment.

“Facilities and how we use this campus have changed dramatically,” says Bishop’s Assistant Head of School for Internal Affairs Michael Beamer. “We’ve tried to think about every aspect of life on campus and how we can make it as safe as it can be.”

Many spaces that held the same function for decades—the Alumni Courtyard between Scripps and

Bentham Halls, Manchester Tennis Center, even the Quad—transformed into classroom spaces, allowing students safe spaces in which to learn.

“The School has been remarkable in its capacity to say, whatever you need, we will make sure you have it to make sure that our employees are safe, our students are safe, and we can continue to teach and learn the way we always have,” Michael adds.

A huge part of the full Bishop’s experience is providing nourishment for our community through the outstanding work of Bishop’s Director of Food Services Sara Sweet. “We have a great team, and everybody has risen to the challenge,” Sara shares. “We’re constantly re-evaluating. It kind of feels like a circus sometimes.”

All circus jokes aside, Sara has handled food services at Bishop’s with the aplomb of a three-ring circus master. She and her team have spent an enormous amount of time packaging grab-and-go offerings for milk break and lunches, providing varied options that include favorites such as Greek, Mexican and burgers.

“I thought people were going to come and talk about what isn’t. ‘Oh, this is it? This is all?’ Or, ‘I want more,’ or ‘where is this?’” Sara continues. “But it’s been totally the opposite. People have been so appreciative and so supportive. They say thank you. They’re just so happy to be here.”

Bishop’s Dean of Students Michelle Shea feels that at every turn the safety and well-being of our students is put first. “There are a lot of people who really care about the students here. I think the students really care about us and the place. That’s what keeps things going. And frankly, the day-to-day interaction with students cannot be overstated. It’s enlivening and enriching all the time.”

Michael notes that he has found an amazing spirit in everyone with whom he has interacted. “They share a common vision. They have a common desire to help out and to pitch in to make our campus welcoming and safe and really productive. We all share that goal, and we want to make sure that this can be a place that allows students to flourish the way that it always has.”

Learn more about the facilities, kitchen and student services teams’ work on Bishop’s YouTube channel.