Today we launched the 2020-21 academic year at Moravian Academy, the 279th year dedicated to helping students reach their full potential in an atmosphere of love and understanding.

This year, our mission of “encouraging sound innovations to meet contemporary challenges while recognizing the permanence of basic human values” seems more relevant than ever. I’m not sure Countess Benigna could have imagined students attending class in masks while also physically distancing, but I believe she would be proud of how we’ve adapted while staying true to our mission. 

While our first day of school may not resemble those of years past, our extraordinarily faculty and staff rose to the occasion of this challenging moment and made it one filled with wonder and excitement for our students. Through their hard work and dedication, we were able to be on campus safely and commence the year with our traditional All-School Chapel and flag raising. Although we could not gather as one body, students watched a live stream of both ceremonies in their classroom, or at home, capping the day with a hip, hip, hooray! 

Today came with many firsts. I am extraordinarily proud of our families, students, faculty, and staff who did an excellent job navigating this new beginning. By 8:30 this morning, we had 567 students learning safely  on campus, and 64 joining us virtually. Please expect to hear from the division offices over the next few days with more information and instructions as we iron out the processes for lunches, connecting with Zoom links, and pre-screening.

We will also get better everyday at our new normal. Today, while the morning drop-off lines ran smoothly, we will be able to speed up the pre-screening check-in process going forward. In the afternoon, we are working on ways to improve the Downtown Campus pick-up line, which involves new routines for everyone. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation today!

As I watched how our community proceeded with patience and empathy today, I was assured that we are going to have a great year at Moravian Academy. I look forward to continuing this journey with you, going slowly so we can go far, as we prepare our children to thrive in the world they will inherit.

Jeff Zemsky

Head of School