Greetings Bell HS Family,
As we approach the holidays, I cant help but to reflect, when I joined the Bell HS community as the school’s Principal in 2012, I expected that I would face challenges in my role — problems to solve, new initiatives to get off the ground, planning for the school’s future. I certainly did not expect one of those challenges to be contending with a pandemic. I assume that you are also contending with new challenges and doing your best to navigate the current circumstances in which we find ourselves.
Annually, in the month of November, we celebrate the American cultural ritual of giving thanks. This year, Thanksgiving will not feel the same. Unfortunately, I will not be gathering with extended family; I find this difficult, but I also want to ensure everyone in my family is safe. I will make an effort to keep close contacts with the members of my household and try to maintain a few traditions and create new traditions (like virtual socials on zoom).
With that said, in our own school community we know families that will not have an opportunity to have a warm meal, a warm home, or the company of family and friends. As a sharing community, we need to remind ourselves of the greatest act of altruism is to share with others in need. Let us not forget, there are victims in our community that have recently fallen to illness, lost jobs, hunger and poverty. In comparison, we need to give thanks for the health and well being of our families, the shelter to protect us from the elements of the cold, along with the nourishment to sustain our health, and the warm company of our own family that will be with us on this annual festive event. More importantly, we should call or zoom with those in need and express how much we care and that everything will be fine. With our current reality, this act of unselfishness is much needed and it will not go unappreciated.
Genuinely, I would like to give thanks to the dedicated support staff, loyal teachers, administrators, paraprofessionals, and committed classified staff for their genuine service to our school. More importantly, we give thanks to our enthusiastic students and their devoted parents. As we prepare for our short break I want to remind everyone to Mask Up, Social Distance, and wash up! In conclusion, from our Bell High School learning community, I would like to wish you and your families a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.
We Are All In This Together!
In Partnership,
Rafael L. Balderas, Principal
