Peck News: Fall/Winter 2020

Giving New Meaning to Timely Transformation

Our tagline, “Timeless Traditions, Timely Transformation,” has proven to be quite relevant as we navigate Covid-19.

When we were forced to pivot to distance learning in March amidst an emerging global pandemic, we knew that what was most important was maintaining our connection as a community. We focused on the health and wellbeing of our students, continued skill-building, and found innovative ways for our students to continue thinking critically, problem solving, and participating in their own learning.

This summer, we stopped at nothing to re-open our campus for in-person learning. While resolving to provide the safest possible environment for our students and faculty, we built a program structure that allows teaching and learning to thrive, no matter the setting.

We reimagined our time-honored traditions so the “what” and the “why” didn’t change, just the “how,” ensuring that what makes the Peck experience unique shines through during these challenging times.

Whether offered in person or online, our program continues to orbit around our mission’s central belief: that, in life, knowledge must be guided by values. In crafting our distance learning program, our adapted in-person program, and our remote learning offering, our approach to K-8 education ensures that we can uphold our values, nurture our close-knit community, and provide the space for our kids to be kids just a little bit longer— especially now, when the world can seem so heavy. We still have recess. We will still have snow days. Our kids still smile and laugh.

Despite the masks, despite the plexiglass, and despite the physical distancing, Peck is still Peck. Our masterful teachers keep the curriculum alive. They find teachable moments in everyday actions. They lead our students through important dialogue with courage and bravery. They care about our students—and our students know it.

In the pages of this very special issue of Peck News, you will explore how our program remains both true to the essence of Peck, and adaptable to the constraints of the current educational landscape. You will see that the Peck we all know and love is still here—and getting better all the time.

Warmly,

Andrew C. Delinsky

Head of School