Dear BFA/NCTC Community:
The start of the second semester has brought some anxiousness with new courses, trepidation with a return to 7:30 start time, and great anticipation for athletic competition with hopes for an expansion of the performing arts. The most noticeable change, however, has been with a visible sense of energy renewal and enthusiasm. The interesting aspect of this more pronounced vibrancy is it being had despite the state’s guidelines, the seldom-seen Vermont sun during the coldest time of year, and no timelines for when students will be allowed to return to education normalcy. The reasons for this renewed energy tells us much about what has been going on at BFA this week.
Enrichment, which served its purpose of setting the stage for success while affording students time and guidance for proficiency recovery, is no longer the start of the day. There is a beauty to starting the day engaged in new learning while having Enrichment after the second class. Some students have spoken to me about being tired but the majority of my many conversations have shown students prefer to be engaged, discussing and getting their day started while having Enrichment after two academic courses.
The challenges of an additional class, less Enrichment time and heavier workload will cause some nervousness but they also provide greater purpose for many of our students. As I have mentioned before, during hybrid learning being able to concentrate on four classes is advantageous over trying to manage seven. I also remain greatly impressed with our staff who continue to seek innovative ways to merge the virtual and in-person learning.
One very important aspect of the high school experience is the positive social connections that team unity brings. At BFA, this unity is developed in our athletic, music, drama and club teams. Since this fall, we have kept most of our clubs up and running, created new extracurricular opportunities and practice sports as much as the state has allowed. We know that fulfilling student personal interest is what enables many to feel that strong sense of connectedness to BFA so we look forward to upcoming plays, games and, before long, larger musical performances.
Have a great weekend and, despite the cold, get outside.
Sincerely,
Brett Blanchard
Principal
News from the Guidance Department:
Students may be asking staff to adjust their letters of recommendation to meet the VSAC requirements. The VSAC letter of recommendation required format is attached.
Thank you for all that you do to support our students as we teach them to dream new dreams during trying times. Due to the changes in the world, we probably have more of an influence than ever in the lives of the students we serve. You make a difference!
We very much hope you enjoy this recording as well as future upcoming videos within the next month to 6 weeks highlighting all of our Senior vocalists in the music department. Watch Bella’s performance here!
