Aloha mai kākou, 

In the aftermath of all the pandemic restrictions, one of the key benefits of being back on campus--and in person--is the development of relationships: interpersonal as well as internal. We hold social emotional learning (SEL) as a priority in light of national trends resulting from the pandemic. A report from the CDC states, “the pandemic has created traumatic stressors that have the potential to further erode students’ mental wellbeing”. Schools, families and communities now bear a responsibility to help young people recover from disruptions brought on by the pandemic.

At Saint Louis School, we continue work that we began last year on students’ social emotional learning. Upon notification of any occurrence of bullying, or signs of withdrawal, administrators, counselors, and teachers vigorously follow up with the boys and with their parents. We are currently in the process of doubling our efforts to keep our students informed of cyberbullying and the risks associated with social media. That’s why it is essential for all of our students, especially in grades 6 and up, to be present and participate in the daily Advisory period, when focal lessons will utilize up-to-date online curricula toward developing healthier social and emotional well-being.

We are increasing our emphasis on internet safety through our curriculum, and your sons will be learning more about essential tools for staying out of trouble online; however, efforts in the classroom will not guarantee our children are immune from making risky choices. Through unsupervised time online, our youth may choose to tangle with danger when using the internet, especially social media. Please view this link for some helpful tips for parents and guardians to bear in mind when working with your sons on internet safety: Online Safety (for Parents)

Our teachers and staff will continue doing our share in actively monitoring online behavior here on campus. All teachers undergo training from HPD on cybercrime awareness and safe and appropriate interactions online. We would appreciate your reinforcing our efforts by having honest discussions with your sons, by monitoring their online activity at home, and above all, by encouraging them to report anything suspicious that may be of concern.

Thank you for continuing to work with us to align your son’s trajectory to success. Please let us know how we can better support our students--our goal is to cultivate in all of our young men the grains of skills and knowledge for a future full of opportunities.

Finally, this Sunday’s Gospel harks back to the story of the wayward son for whom his father celebrates and regales with gifts upon his return. This reminds us that repentance and forgiveness go hand-in-hand:

“Rejoice with me because I have found the coin that I lost.

In just the same way, I tell you, there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

Wishing you a beautiful and blessed week,