August 10, 2021
Dear Parents/Guardians,
I trust this correspondence finds you well, and hope that you have experienced a summer of valuable family time and relaxation. While Olympic fervor has gripped the nation, we have been diligently preparing to welcome your child to HFC on Thursday, September 2 for the beginning of the 2021-22 academic year.
I have had the opportunity to watch various Olympic events, and I am continually fascinated by the raw emotion and steadfast desire to compete at a high level. This presents an authentic connection to Carey’s mission and philosophy. Students and staff consistently persevere with great pride to achieve personal bests.
According to the USOC website, the Olympics are based on a set of three core values: excellence (giving one’s best), friendship (utilizing solidarity to precipitate peace), and respect (for oneself and others). Our vision for success is closely related. Maximum effort in and out of the classroom and exhibiting respect and decorum will reinforce the professionalism that exemplifies HFC.
The Olympic Creed preaches participation, not winning. Experiencing as much as possible, from high level academics to clubs and activities, and challenging oneself to stretch the mind leads to increased knowledge and greater confidence, even if one is not alone at the top.
The Olympic Motto is “Citius, Altius, Fortius,” translated from Latin to be faster, higher, braver (or stronger). This correlates to the analysis, synthesis and exploration beyond one’s comfort zone. Extending just past one’s reach enhances the academic experience and fosters continued progress.
Just as the five, interlocked rings constitute the symbol of unity and the hues represent one color from every flag of every nation, we must join together to promote the collaboration necessary to assist each student to prosper and triumph in sound mind and body.
I apologize for the lengthy communication, but there are important details to discuss. As we embark on a new academic year, there are a number of significant changes of which you should take notice.
COVID 19 Protocol
- Safety is first and foremost in our minds as we prepare to welcome students back into Carey. NYS guidance is currently to follow the CDC recommendations in place. We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as we approach the start of school.
Website
- The new website has been unveiled. We will continue to update information for your convenience.
- Please click the link to view: https://www.sewanhakaschools.org/o/hfc
Calendar Dates
- School has an unusual start this year, as Week 1 begins with classes in session on 9/2 and 9/3, followed by a five-day break. Week 2 consists of classes on 9/9 and 9/10 before starting more conventional weeks on 9/13.
- The school calendar is posted on the website and a more interactive calendar will be posted and updated regularly.
New Student Orientation
- Orientation for students who are new to Carey will be on August 30.
- Mr. Carmody will send an email with details.
Student Management System
- The SCHSD has moved to Infinite Campus. A detailed email regarding the parent portal was shared with you on 8/10 and outlines specific instructions. Please set up the parent portal as per the directions listed. This will facilitate the dissemination of student schedules later in August.
Daily Operations
- The SCHSD has moved to five lunch periods a day, Periods 4 – 8, to alleviate overcrowding in the cafeterias.
- The District has also moved from a four-day cycle to a two-day cycle. As you look at schedules upon release, there will only be options for classes on days 1 and 2.
Lockers
- HFC will return to the dissemination of lockers. Please have your child locate their black and orange locks for use in hallways and locker rooms respectively.
New Leadership Staff
- Daniela Bivona- Lead Librarian
- Meghan Parenteau- Math Chairperson
- Julie Elena- PPS Chairperson
Military/First Responder Appreciation Weekend
- With the twenty-year anniversary of 9/11 this September, HFC is beginning the year with an eye toward recognizing those who have and continue to protect and serve. As we approach the onset of school, more details will be provided.
It is time for the students of HFC to carry the torch into a new year of excitement and opportunity. Let us work together to make it special. I wish you good health and happiness as you enjoy the remainder of your summer.
In pursuit of excellence,
Christopher T. Fiore