April 8, 2020

We are several weeks into our pivot to remote learning; teachers and students have demonstrated both high engagement and ongoing flexibility that speak volumes about the strength of our school community. Our highest responsibility as an aspirational school remains, at this time, helping to slow the rate of infection of COVID-19—for those within the Prep community, those connected, and those beyond. We are also guided by the many resources available to you on this page and seek frequent feedback from our teachers, students, and parents as we aim to 1.) sustain connectivity to the Prep community; 2.) advance our teaching and learning; and 3.) adapt in a fluid environment.

We will advance in remote learning mode through April 30th, with an update to come mid-April about whether we will continue in this modality beyond that date. As of now, the Governor’s office has mandated stay-at-home orders through April 30th; those could well be extended.

Our intention is to “flatten the curve” of the rate of infection here in New Mexico. The above link from the University of Washington shows updated and projected rates of infection state by state. As well, we should think about the tensile strength of our community at this time: the maximum strength of our “material”–relationships, talented faculty, strength of program, students with appetite, physical plant, nimble governance from our trustees, collaborative leadership, financial wherewithal, and so much more–when tension is applied.

We will, at some yet-to-be-determined time, be on the other side of this crisis. Best wishes to us all for good health, steely nerve, and loads of compassion as we–collectively–make this journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

3/14: What technology will students need to access the on-line learning?

We’ll be using Google Meet, which all Prep students can access in the Google Suite that is part of their email account at Santa Fe Prep. Students will need a laptop or desktop with a camera feature for roughly 4-5 hours each school day and a reliable internet connection to support this platform. See below for questions about acquiring these resources if needed. We also understand the need for students to be off their screens during the coming weeks for household chores, time outdoors, and other activities.

3/14: What is likely to happen with Senior Internship Projects (SIP) and, possibly, meeting graduation requirements for seniors?

Prep will be flexible in terms of due dates for SIP forms across the 3/23-4/3 period; for instance, we do not expect any senior to be in physical contact with a SIP mentor to secure a signature. We will take a similarly flexible approach to graduation requirements for seniors in light of this shifting landscape.

3/14: If my family encounters hardships—food, income, childcare—because of COVID-19, what are my options?

The Governor’s Office announced yesterday that those seeking general assistance with supplies, food, loss of income, etc. can call this number, (833) 551-0518.

3/14: What if my student does not have a laptop computer or reliable access to the Internet at home?

Please contact Director of Technology John Utsey. We plan to lend school computers to those who need them, and we have ordered T-Mobile wi-fi hotspots that can be picked up on Monday, March 23rd on campus.

3/14: My child (or someone else in my family) is or becomes sick? What steps should I take?

The New Mexico Department of Health has established a Coronavirus Hotline at (855) 600-3453. You should consult with your healthcare provider. It’s very important that anyone who feels sick 1.) gets medical attention and 2.) stays home.

3/14: How will the school take attendance during the period of remote learning?

Teachers will take individual attendance in each of their classes through the Google Meet platform. If students know in advance they will be unable to attend a given class—say, for a scheduled medical appointment—they should email that teacher.

3/14: Whom should I contact if I have questions, or my child does, as the remote learning program rolls out?

For questions about technology, please contact Director of Technology John Utsey. For questions or concerns about the overall program, please contact Assistant Head/US Head Suzie Matthews, MS Head Chris Chakeres, or Head of School Jim Leonard.