Impact Report
Most of our 357 students, K to 12, came to school daily this past school year. Our students wore masks, kept distance, wiped desks, ate lunch outside (a good change!), adjusted to new schedules, and limited interactions to smaller groups. Some did classwork from home.
It was hard in many ways. But it also brought our learning community together in care, support, and encouragement for one another.
“I cannot adequately thank our families who took health screening practices seriously, our flexible and committed teachers, and our students whose attitudes were exemplary.”
With care,
Paul Leaman, Head of School
P.S. Special thanks to our board of directors for their leadership and keeping our focus on our mission and vision.
Highlights from the 20-21 School Year
STAYING STRONG
Sustainability
Students, volunteers, teachers and staff installed 357 solar panels on newly constructed roof. See more, including live data, at easternmennonite.org/solar.
Faculty and staff
Professional Development included a fall seminar focus on "building community in polarized times," and a winter workshop about implicit bias and helping all feel welcome.
Donor support
Donors made it all possible through events, Christmas Fund Drive, the Virginia Education Tax Credit program and more!
CORE VALUES
Faith Gatherings
Speakers shared personal stories of belonging during elementary gathering and chapel 6-12th grade. Gatherings also lamented loss and marked anniversaries.
Music Creativity
Innovative efforts made some choral singing possible. Instrumental classes continued, often outdoors, and with masked instruments. An outdoor, musical production of Les Miserables played to capacity audiences.
Service
National Honor Society students led a fall food drive for a DC-area food pantry. Other service included the annual, spring Community Service Day (6-12), highway cleanup, and a clothing drive.
TRADITIONS
Spring Events
As COVID restrictions eased, juniors and seniors enjoyed a banquet and party at an outdoor venue in May. Students built more memories through E-term and Explore Week activities, a one-day senior trip to DC, and commencement exercises on the lawn.
Flames Athletics
Varsity athletics had a chance at completive play. Other teams enjoyed skill building programs. Intramural teams competed to socialize and stay active.
Elementary School
Traditions now 15 years old included the annual peace parade, a Christmas music program, Easter Passion Walk, and a dessert theater production. Parents helped finish up part of the three-acre outdoor learning and play space.