AMDG

December 13, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

The blessings of the season were seen this weekend when students and parents delivered Christmas presents to 26 Detroit families as part of our Adopt-A-Family program. I always enjoy hearing the boys talk about their heartwarming experiences in making these Christmas deliveries. Thank you to our entire community for making this program possible.

I will be leading the Examen on the final day of the semester this week. Parents are welcome to tune-in on Wednesday, December 16, at 12:30 p.m. You can find the link in your 12/13/20 email.

Please join us for Mass on Christmas Eve at 4:30 p.m. The Mass will be live streamed from the Chapel of the North American Martyrs. Let’s start the Christmas Season with joy and celebrate the gifts of the Lord’s love that we share in the Cub community.  The Mass will conclude around 5:15, so you can plan your evening accordingly. You can join us for the Mass on December 24 by clicking on the link found in your 12/13/20 email.

The health of each of us is the health of all of us.  Vaccines are beginning to roll out.  This long battle is coming to an end.  Let’s continue to be vigilant, however.  The coming weeks and winter months will test our mettle and resolve.  One consistent research finding is that even when people see and understand risks, they underestimate the risks to themselves. Masks, social distancing, and hand washing continue to be our bulwarks against the coronavirus.  Avoiding gatherings of people outside our “bubbles” is also a key weapon.

Let’s hope the current remote education order will be lifted on December 20 so we can return to school and also start up winter sports.  We will apprise you later this week of the return to school for the New Year, subject to change depending on what the governor announces on December 20. 

Your brother,

James J. Boynton, S.J.

Principal

AMDG

November 29, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

We hope your Thanksgiving holiday was relaxing and safe.

Each year it is our tradition to provide Christmas gifts to Detroit families in need through the Adopt-A-Family program. During these challenging times, we need your help to make sure all the adopted families are cared for this Christmas. Cubs, have you signed up to purchase a wish list item for your homeroom yet? Homeroom teachers have provided the link to students. Time is running out. Food and Gift Drop Off will take place on Saturday, 12/5 or after school on Monday, 12/7 and Tuesday, 12/8. (Check your email for link to sign-up for drop-off day/time.)

Semester One Exams

After careful review and discussion with academic departments this past month, the traditional semester exam schedule will be modified. Most departments will have students complete an alternative cumulative assignment (portfolio, project, etc.) in lieu of a traditional final exam. Three departments will offer more traditional assessments. Please note the following for semester one exams:

·         The regular seven-period class schedule will continue into finals week for Monday (12/14), Tuesday (12/15), and Wednesday (12/16) only. Thursday (12/17) and Friday (12/18) will be non-school days reserved for grading and records.

·         Three departments, Math, Science, and Social Studies, are approved to hold either traditional cumulative exams or end of unit tests. They will take place within the 40 minute class period during the seven period schedule—and the 40 minutes must account for students receiving extended time. In order to spread out the dates and preparations for these assessments, the following schedules will be used:

o   If we return to the at-school-daily, hybrid, remote (A and B day) schedules, then the testing schedule will be:

·         Wednesday, 12/9 (B day) and Thursday, 12/10 (A day) – Social Studies

·         Friday, 12/11 (B day) and Monday, 12/14 (A day) – Science

·         Tuesday, 12/15 (B day) and Wednesday, 12/16 (A day) – Math

·         Thursday, 12/17 and Friday, 12/18 – NO SCHOOL – RECORDS DAYS

o   If the school schedule remains all-remote, then the testing schedules will be:

·         Monday, 12/14 – Social Studies

·         Tuesday, 12/15 – Science

·         Wednesday, 12/16 – Math

·         Thursday, 12/17 and Friday, 12/18 – No School - Record Day.

 Parents, please contact your son’s teacher or review the teacher’s myUofDJesuit course page for further details about their end of semester assessments.

As we approach colder weather and the Christmas holidays with more time spent indoors, please continue to be safe.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

November 8, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

The health of each of us is the health of all of us. Let us continue to be vigilant and cautious in fighting the coronavirus. Please consider downsizing Thanksgiving gatherings and travel plans. Avoid large crowds, observe social distance, mask up, and keep your “bubble” safe.

Welcome New Director of Security

We welcome Craig Schrameck as our new director of safety and security. Craig comes to us from a long career with the Detroit Police Department. He knows the city and our neighborhood. Craig has good relationships within the department. He holds certifications in firefighting and EMS as well.

Auction Success

Last night’s virtual auction, Living the Magis, was a great success. It helps ensure all our Cubs are formed in the tradition of Jesuit education regardless of family financial circumstances. Thank you to all who participated. We can’t be U of D without you! If you missed it, watch the auction video to learn how tuition assistance can transform someone’s life. You can still be part of the auction’s Tuition Assistance Appeal by clicking here. Thank you to the Auction staff for all the hard work that made the event so special.

Academy (7th and 8th Grade) Return to School

 The Detroit Health Department has advised us that Academy students may return to their normal school schedules and attendance beginning Tuesday, November 10. All Academy students will continue remote education from home on Monday, November 9. Academy students attending school daily or hybrid are cleared to return to their normal A and B day schedules on Tuesday, November 10.

Attendance Option Change Window Opens This Week

Requesting to change from in-school every day to another option:

Students may change from the in-school every day option to hybrid or at-home every day option at any time; however, email Mr. Trudel first with the request and await confirmation and approval. Email Mr. Trudel by Friday, November 13.

Requesting changes to other attendance options:

If your request falls into one of these two categories: 1.) Change from the at-home every day option to hybrid or in-school every day option or 2.) Change from the hybrid option to at-school every day option, then you must email Mr. Trudel with both the request and the reason for the change no later than Friday, November 13. We will review the request and email a confirmation and approval. If approved, students will begin their new attendance option on Monday, November 16.  We want to make certain the number of students in the building does not exceed a capacity that would compromise social distancing and safety throughout the school day.

With our prayers,

Fr. Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Mr. Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

November 1, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

Caution and vigilance. As we move into colder weather and with people spending more time indoors, it is important to continue to be cautious and vigilant in the observance of health and safety protocols. Frequent hand washing, wearing masks, and keeping social distance remain important. Avoid congested settings and gatherings where you don’t know people. It might be good to scale back Thanksgiving plans, particularly if there is travel or a large indoor gathering.

The collective national mood is tense and worried right now as the election nears and the virus spreads. It’s a time to harness fortitude, courage, and resilience. Prayer is always good and surely an antidote during these times. Check out Psalms 20, 34, and 63. 

Today is the traditional feast of All Saints.  Let us give thanks for the saints in our lives.  Tomorrow is All Souls Day.  Let us remember our loved ones who we have gone to glory, and for all those who have been lost during this pandemic.

NOVEMBER A/B CALENDAR

A link to the November A/B Day calendar is provided below.

November A/B Day Calendar

MESSAGE FROM DR. WOLFE

CLICK HERE to read Dr. Wolfe’s communication about the Academy, contact tracing, and quarantine.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

October 28, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

Our COVID-19 Response Team and School Leadership have reviewed advice from the Detroit Health Department (DHD). Based upon that information, Jesuit Academy students (7th and 8th grades) should continue remote learning through the remainder of this week.  This will facilitate the investigation underway as it pertains to the COVID-19 positive case in the Academy.  This action helps to ensure the safety of everyone.  

DHD is looking at newly obtained data as it relates to information they received from us earlier this week. We will work with DHD in developing the next steps after the new data has been evaluated.

Parents, please continue to stress to your son the importance of social distancing and proper mask wearing throughout the entire school day.

We will keep you updated of any developments and changes.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

October 18, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

COVID-19 MESSAGE FROM DR. WOLFE

I would like to give context to this week's COVID-19 Dashboard numbers, which are higher than past weeks.

There were two COVID positive cases. It is important to acknowledge and appreciate the responsibility shown by these individuals in staying home at the first sign of illness, getting evaluated, and letting me know their test results ASAP.

Proactive contact tracing of the most recent case indicated the need to quarantine a significant number of students as a consequence of a non-UDJ extracurricular athletic activity involving only students from U of D Jesuit. This group was in addition to those in the classroom setting deemed a close contact. Otherwise, the number of individuals who entered quarantine this week was not unexpected.

I appreciate the anxiety that may arise from this week's quarantine numbers. It is understandable. The goal of quarantine is to mitigate an outbreak occurring. I hope there is some comfort in knowing that our case manager at the Detroit Health Department (DHD) viewed our proactive approach to contact tracing as "you're ahead of the curve and the school body has a great layer of protection." A review by the DHD Medical Director approved our actions and concluded in-person instruction can continue.

I have been impressed by the conscientious efforts of students and families in staying home when ill. This is the embodiment of "for the greater good." With the approach of cold and flu season, extra vigilance is required. I strongly recommend getting your flu shot and practicing the measures known to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

You may anticipate a more comprehensive communication coming from me in the near future. I encourage you to visit our COVID-19 webpage for information from the CDC, where to find testing, etc.​

Thank you for your efforts and support.

BUILDING SANITATION

The commercial firm, Touchpoint Sanitation, applied their process to the interior and exterior surfaces of all student lockers this past week. This is another preventive measure that complements our regular fogging of the building and frequent sanitizing of commonly touched surfaces.

2020-21 SCHOOL CALENDAR & NOVEMBER A/B CALENDAR

A link to the updated 2020-21 School Calendar list is below. All events on this year’s school calendar should be viewed as tentative due the constantly changing nature of COVID-19. Please note all events are subject to changes in time, date, or cancellation. A link to the November A/B Day calendar is also provided below.

2020-2021 School Calendar (list form)

November A/B Day Calendar

JOE LOUIS PARK AND JOHNSON RECREATION CENTER

Huge mounds of dirt are being moved as work is underway on the fields at Joe Louis Park. The fields and the Johnson Recreation Center just north of the school were acquired from the City of Detroit last January. Three soccer-size fields are being constructed on the site, along with new exterior basketball courts, community garden, and playground. A new and expanded parking lot will be constructed as well. This outside work should be finished by Christmas. If the weather cooperates, the fields will be ready for the spring season. The long-abandoned recreation center will be completely restored. A date is not yet set for that work.More information can be found on our website.

VIRTUAL JESUIT ACADEMY INFORMATION NIGHT

For the last several years, the Academy has established a wait list for both seventh and eighth grades. Do you know a family with a son entering seventh or eighth grade next year? If so, encourage them to join us on Wednesday, October 21 at 7 p.m. for our Virtual Jesuit Academy Information Night. They will hear from administrators and students as we discuss the uniqueness of Jesuit Education, character and spiritual formation, student activities, athletics, financial aid, and our admission process and timeline.

If you know someone who would like to attend the Information Night, have them email admissions@uofdjesuit.org and we will share the link with them.

The health of each of us is the health of all of us. Let’s all remain careful and vigilant. Masks up. Be sure that the people with whom you spend time are also careful and cautious. CubStrong!

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

September 23, 2020

Dear Cub parents and students,

Good news! We have worked through the details of the final phase of our Reopening Plan. Those of you who signed up for the “at school every day” attendance option will be able to start this plan on Wednesday, September 30, 2020.

We will give more details in our Sunday email communications.

Thank you for your patience. Continue to stay healthy and safe.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

September 20, 2020

Dear Cub parents and students,

An Important schedule change this week: There will be No School on Wednesday, September 23 (Seniors see information below about Senior Service.) Initially Wednesday was planned as a delayed start day, however, additional time is needed to meet with faculty and staff to review details of the final phase of reopening. This phase allows additional students to return to school every day.  Communication will go out to families this week with a date and details for families who chose the “at school every day” option for their son.

Please note the following:

• ​Senior Service will go on as planned.  Mrs. Koster Rigg and Mrs. Gonzales will follow up with seniors with more information.
• The A/B Day schedule will not be changed for the remainder of the week and month.  Thursday, September 24 will be a B day and Friday, September 25 will be an A day.

As always, we thank you for your patience. Please contact us if you have questions. Stay healthy and safe.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

September 16, 2020

Dear Parents,

Movement to the final phase of our Reopening Plan has taken time, but the end is in sight. We hope to have details to you next week. As a reminder, we have a delayed start next Wednesday, September 23, for the purpose of reviewing the plan with faculty and staff. School start time on Wednesday will be 10 a.m.

We appreciate your patience and valuable input during this process.  We know the delay to the final phase of reopening may have been difficult for those who chose the “every day at school” option. We apologize for the delay.

As we prepare for the final phase, we ask you take a 2-minute (or less) survey to help us make sure we are addressing your needs.

[Please see your email for link to survey]

We look forward to having news for you next week. Please let us know if you have any questions.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

September 2, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

We are sorry to report that we have to extend our hybrid Schedule Transition & Evaluation Period (STEP) past Labor Day.  The situation, unfortunately, is more fluid and changing than we anticipated.  Ideally, we would be able to end this transition period by September 21.  Alas, we can’t make that a firm promise.  An outside date would be the end of September.

We know this can be disappointing news to students who want to be here every day and their parents who want them to be here every day as well.  We are sorry for this.

HEALTH & SAFETY

The demands of getting geared up have simply proven more challenging than anticipated.  As we have said all along, health of everyone is our top priority.  Although thankfully we have not had many cases reported, the careful routines of contact tracing and informing the necessary families is proving more time consuming than anticipated.  We want to make sure we have developed good routines when more students are in the building.

Another factor of safety, beyond our control, is some safety equipment was backordered, and we will not be able to deploy that equipment until after Labor Day.

CLASS SIZE REVIEW – SOCIAL DISTANCING

A third factor is the need to have faculty with larger classes getting switched into the spaces that can accommodate them.  Additionally, while all our classrooms meet the state standards for safety, we are actively exploring possibilities to make them safer.  What is driving this is that while the state guidelines do not require strict social distancing, our health department is using a strict standard of distancing to determine which individuals in a classroom would have to be quarantined if a student in that class tests positive.  We only learned this within the past days.

You can easily imagine how hard our faculty members are working in delivering instruction both live in the classroom and to students not in the classroom.  We believe we will serve their health and wellness better if we relieve some of the pressure on them.  Put another way, we cannot afford to have our teachers feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or discouraged.  We are actively engaging the teachers to assess where they are. We feel this is important before bringing more students into the building.

These are the major factors at play at this time, and you can likely sense that it does spill over into some other areas.  However, we do not judge those to be critical at this time.

FORMATION PERIOD

The Formation Period is an important element within our Jesuit mission and your son’s experience at The High. It has taken considerable effort to develop a safe plan with the current number of students in the building. The Formation Period will formally launch Tuesday, September 8, and will be evaluated prior to bringing more students into the building. During this period (11:40 a.m. – 12:36 p.m.) students will take part in:

·         Social and emotional learning programs

·         Class meetings

·         Masses

·         Large group programs

·         All school programs and presentations

·         MAGIS

·         Student Activities and Clubs

·         Intramurals

·         Academy Students will have PE during Formation Period

CONTACT TRACING

• In an effort to remain transparent, our COVID-19 Dashboard can be viewed at uofdjesuit.org/COVID. The dashboard updates weekly on Friday evenings.
• If a student is in direct contact with an outside person who tested positive, Dr. Deb Wolfe, our School Health Professional, will email parents of the student’s classmate or teammate.
• If a student tests positive, seating charts from all of his classes are evaluated to determine if other students need to quarantine. Wolfe will isolate those students and call parents with quarantine instructions. (Contact tracing is done under consultation with the Detroit Health Department.) Parents of students who are considered sufficiently socially distanced will receive an alert email from Dr. Wolfe informing them of the positive case and precautions they should take.

We thank the many families who have provided input on our reopening process. Additionally, we sincerely appreciate those who immediately reached out to Dr. Wolfe upon learning of their son’s direct contact or positive case of COVID-19.

We know this is difficult and we thank you for your continued patience as we work things out. As always, please contact us if you have questions or concerns.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

August 23, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

We appreciate your patience while we sort out the complexities of this year's unique scheduling requirements and groupings.

STUDENT GROUP CHANGES

Requests for A, B, C group changes end TODAY at 6 p.m. so teachers and staff are able to prepare accurate seating and attendance charts.  If you have a group change request, please email Mr. Trudel atAnthony.Trudel@uofdjesuit.org.

CLICK HERE to view the student grouping list. If a student's name is not on the list, he is in GROUP C.

TWO WEEK SCHEDULE (STEP – SCHEDULE TRANSITION & EVALUATION PERIOD)

Below is the attendance schedule for students in Groups A, B, and C through Thursday, September 3:

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ONLY – TEXTBOOK UPDATE

Follett is experiencing delays with shipping due to publishing shortages as a result of COVID-19 closures. For the first few weeks of school, teachers will be flexible and accommodating with students missing textbooks. Please continue to check with Follett for updates on shipping and expected delivery dates. Alternatively, you may search for textbook availability from a different supplier. Visit the Follett bookstore website, note the ISBN for each textbook you still need and check availability with other providers. Be sure to cancel any order with Follett if you do decide to purchase elsewhere.

COURSE SCHEDULE UPDATE

ALL students, both in-person and virtual, should check their schedules on MyUofDJesuit (mUDJ) before attending classes. This will ensure all students are visiting the appropriate classrooms (in-person and virtual) at the correct times. Minor schedule modifications were made as late as Friday afternoon to balance class sizes, and account for faculty and student conflicts.

HEALTH & SAFETY VIDEO

Your sons were shown a COVID Health & Safety video during orientation. You may want to watch it with him to ensure he has an understanding of the changes at school.  The health of each of us is the health of all of us.Click here to watch the Health & Safety video.

MESSAGE FROM DR. WOLFE

You will receive a separate email today from our School Health Professional, Dr. Wolfe about our COVID-19 Dashboard, testing, and other important health information.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

August 23, 2020

Dear Cubs and Cub Parents,

It was wonderful to see returning and new faces this week during orientation. As one smiling senior said, “I’mglad to be back.”

U of D JESUIT COVID-19 DASHBOARD

While this week did not involve the full attendance of students as will occur during a regular school day, we felt it important to start the COVID-19 reporting dashboard as outlined in the town hall meetings. No students on campus this week reported being diagnosed with or were deemed a close-contact of an individual with COVID-19. The U of D Jesuit COVID-19 Dashboard is viewable on our public website at www.uofdjesuit.org/COVID

I would like to sincerely thank those families who reached out to me prior to orientation concerning “COVID-19 related” situations. This conscientiousness is appreciated and needed as our school community reopens for in-person learning. As a reminder to all parents, if your son is awaiting the results of a COVID test, he should not be at school.

QUARANTINE

Being in close contact with an individual diagnosed positive with COVID-19 will be a situation encountered by our community. The following link from the CDC explains various scenarios and the required length of quarantine with each. Learn more about when to quarantine.

TRAVEL

Gratitude also goes out to those families who contacted me with questions regarding travel. The following two websites provide valuable information concerning each state’s COVID-19 infection rate and may serve as a resource prior to travel.

COVID risk levels in each state

See the latest COVID data by region

YOUR SON’S HEALTH & SAFETY

As Fr. Munz and Mr. Trudel mentioned in their communications to you earlier, we have a COVID Health & Safety video, which I highly recommend you watch. It shows the steps taken to protect your son, faculty, and staff.Please monitor your family’s health for symptoms of the coronavirus and get tested if you are experiencing COVID-like symptoms. If someone in the family tests positive, your son must not come to school, and I need to be notified. Masks, social distancing, and frequent handwashing are potent measures that keep your risk to a minimum.

Stay safe Cubs.

Sincerely

Deb Wolfe, M.D.

U of D Jesuit Health Professional

AMDG

August 2, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

Congratulations to members of the 143^rd graduating class, who celebrated their long-awaited commencement ceremony this past Thursday. Your career at The High has come to a close, but your life as Cub is only just beginning.  “Here’s to the fellows. Loyal they’ll be.”

BACK TO SCHOOL INFORMATION

The annual Back to School email with key information for the start of the 20-21 school year will be sent this week. The Back to School email will include:

• Information on how to access your son’s 20-21 class schedule.
• A link to the official School Attendance Selection Form for parents to complete. Parents will make their selection for where their sons will receive instruction:  at school, at home, or a combination of school and home. A Back to School Family Guide will be provided with information to assist in your decision-making process. You can review the features of the 20-21 School Schedule here.
• Calendar details for Semester One, including orientation information, distribution of parking passes, etc.
• Information on textbook orders from Follett, the U of D Jesuit textbook provider. Follet ensures speedy delivery of textbooks for the start of classes on August 20.

YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH IN AUGUST

The health of each of us is the health of all of us. Please be mindful of this in the two weeks of August leading up to the school’s reopening. Please monitor your family’s health for symptoms of the coronavirus and get testing as indicated. If someone in the family tests positive during these weeks, your son should not come to school, and Dr. Wolfe should be notified for further instructions. We recommend you do not travel to hot spots, which might increase your risk of exposure. Masks, social distancing, and frequent handwashing are potent measures that keep your risk to a minimum.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

August 9, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

BACK TO SCHOOL INFORMATION EMAIL

Emails were sent to all enrolled families Friday evening. We were made aware that some people did not receive the email. We are investigating the matter and will resend the email with myUofDJesuit (MUDJ) login ID and password information again on Monday. Many of you already know your MUDJ login ID and password. For new parents: if you created a Login ID/Password during the application process, please continue to use that login ID/Password for myUofDJesuit. Otherwise, if you are new to the school and do not have a login ID/Password, email the helpdesk@uofdjesuit.org to request a login. 

Click here to access the Back to School email sent Friday.

 Click here to access the Family Guide.

THE HEALTH OF EACH OF US IS THE HEALTH OF ALL OF US

As we approach the start of school, please continue to monitor your family’s health for symptoms of the coronavirus and get tested, if needed. If someone in the family tests positive during these weeks, your son should not come to school, and Dr. Wolfe should be notified for further instructions. We recommend you do not travel to hot spots, which might increase your risk of exposure. Masks, social distancing, and frequent handwashing are potent measures that keep your risk to a minimum.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

July 26, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

Here’s to the Class of 2020! This week we salute the Cubs of the Class of 2020 with Baccalaureate Mass today at St. Scholastica Catholic Church and with the 143rd Commencement Ceremony on Thursday at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre in Detroit. Tune in to WJR 760 AM radio on Monday night at 8:05 for “WJR Congratulates Michigan’s 2020 High School Graduates.”  The U of D Jesuit Class of 2020 will be featured in Monday evening’s broadcast.

BACK TO SCHOOL INFORMATION

The annual Back to School email with key information for the start of the 20-21 school year will be sent the first week of August. Please be on the lookout for this crucial information (20-21 school calendar, orientation, parking passes, etc.)  Student schedules will also be available the first week of August. Follett, the U of D Jesuit textbook provider, will ensure speedy delivery of textbooks for the start of classes on August 20.

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NOTICE

If you have traveled outside of Michigan or plan to, we strongly recommend a return by August 1 due to health considerations prior to the start of school. For more information refer to the CDC website regarding domestic travel.

REOPENING THE HIGH – TOWN HALLS

Join us on either July 28 or July 29 at 6:30 p.m. if you have questions or want to learn more about our Preparedness and Response Plan or the 20-21 School Schedule.  [Links for the Town Halls were sent to parents by email on 7/26/2020.]

REOPENING SURVEY

If you have not already done so, we ask you to indicate your current preference about returning to school every day or staying at home every day for the upcoming school year in this Reopening Survey. What you choose at the start of the school year can always be changed later. The survey also solicits your transportation preferences and questions about senior service for those entering the 12th grade.

Stay healthy and safe. Be CubStrong!

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

July 19, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

Rest in peace John Lewis, a man for others, committed to justice. You have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith.

SPIRIT OF DETROIT AWARD

The Detroit City Council conferred the Spirit of Detroit Award on the U of D Jesuit Class of 2020. Here’s to all the fellows! Congratulations! More information is forthcoming on social media, along with hopes for a photo shoot of the 2019-2020 Student Senate officers with the award.

REOPENING PLAN

The health of each of us is the health of all of us. The linked document, “Reopening The High,” sets out the health and safety protocols for the coming school year at U of D Jesuit.  We wrote the document in the spirit of our already articulated Principle of Health and Principle of Mission. The document conforms to requirements and recommendations set out by the State of Michigan’s Safe Start Plan for Phase Four. It also aligns with the protocols set forth by the Archdiocese of Detroit.

Please familiarize yourself with the contents of this document.  Adherence to the protocols during the school year will ensure the health and safety of everyone in our Cub community.

REOPENING SURVEY

We are including a hybrid model in our reopening plans to give you a choice between in-school or at-home learning. We ask you to indicate your current preference about returning to school every day or staying at home every day for the upcoming school year in this Reopening Survey. What you choose at the start of the school year can always be changed later. The survey also solicits your transportation preferences and questions about senior service for those entering the 12th grade.

DAILY CLASS SCHEDULE FOR 2020 - 21

Later this week we will circulate what the daily schedule will be for the coming year. We hope you find the schedule is a good adaptation to the circumstances we are experiencing. We will use this schedule regardless of what Phase of the state’s reopening plan we are in. On Tuesday, July 28 and Wednesday, July 29, we will have online town hall meetings to discuss the schedule and reopening plan with you.

We encourage you to be safe at home, in your neighborhood, and when you venture out. A tight collective bubble will be good for the health of everyone. Stay healthy and safe.  Be CubStrong!

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

July 5, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

Governor Whitmer issued the Michigan Return to School Roadmap this past Wednesday. The document details the required actions all schools must take to open for the 2020-21 school year, according to each phase of the governor’s state reopening plan. There are additional guidelines listed as "highly recommended" and "recommended."

It is our hope at this time that students will return to classes at U of D Jesuit in August. Good news! This comes with the caveat that the state will only permit the return if we are in Phase Four, Five, or Six of the governor’s state reopening plan. Michigan is currently in Phase Four, which is cause for optimism. We must be vigilant in fighting the coronavirus so the state does not revert to Phases One, Two, or Three. No instruction at the school is permitted in those phases.

Our planning to this point aligns well with the governor’s roadmap. The roadmap requires all schools in Michigan to submit a COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan to the State Superintendent of Schools no later than August 17. We are mobilizing internal task forces to convert our plans to the outline of the governor’s roadmap. The converted document will be reviewed by a parent and faculty group. The final document will be communicated to you prior to July 13. As required by the roadmap, the document will be posted on our website no later than August 17.

We have previously communicated to you that our reopening plan will not surprise you. That remains true. What is described in the prior paragraph is a necessary exercise to satisfy the state’s roadmap, with which we are in agreement.

We are eager to welcome you back! We understand, too, there may be students or families who are reluctant to return to the classroom. Remote learning will be available to those students. It is also important that a student stays at home if he is ill, for whatever reason and for whatever duration of time. Remote learning will be available for students who are home.

Enjoy your summer.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

June 28, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

The health of each of us is the health of all of us.

REOPENING PLANS

Governor Whitmer will issue the State of Michigan’s back to school plan on Tuesday, June 30. We will compare the state’s document with the plan we have been developing, to ensure our plan complies with all state-mandated criteria. Following the Independence Day holiday, we will vet our plan with a faculty and parent group for any final edits and changes.  We will distribute the document shortly thereafter.

The protocols and guidelines will not surprise you. Health and government organizations, along with public institution, have circulated guidelines on a regular basis. Many guidelines are part of regular conversation. Social media regularly report on how people follow protocols, or not.

Here are a few familiar examples:

• Daily health screenings 
• Regular hand washing 
• Social distancing 
• Use of masks 
• Students should always stay home when sick.  A learning platform will be in place when a student has to stay at home. 
• Protocols for symptoms of Covid-19, a positive Covid-19 test, and contact with someone with Covid-19 will be in place, along with necessary follow-up and communication. 
• Students will sanitize their desks before each class. 
• Cleaning crews will sanitize the building throughout the day accompanied by a planned routine of fogging the building.

CLASS OF 2020 UPDATE

An update on details for Class of 2020 events (Baccalaureate Mass, Graduation, and Senior All Night Party) will be sent the week of July 6.  We are hoping for an additional update from Governor Whitmer this week on Michigan’s Safe Start plan before our plans are determined and finalized.

CELEBRATION VIDEO

We received wonderful feedback from students, parents, faculty/staff, and alumni on our senior celebration video, which was posted on social media last week. If you missed it, be sure to watch the inspiring message to the Class of 2020. New U of D Jesuit families will enjoy seeing the strength of a worldwide Cub community.

Enjoy the long holiday weekend!

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

“The health of each of us is the health of all of us.” Stay healthy and safe. Be CubStrong! Remember: frequent hand washing, social distancing, wear masks as warranted, stay home if you are ill.

AMDG

June 21, 2020

Dear Cub families,

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads and guardians in the U of D Jesuit community.

Governor Whitmer will announce the state’s back to school plan on June 30. We will announce our plans shortly thereafter.

Town hall meetings over the past two weeks with students and parents revolved around planning for reopening. The principal emphases are health and mission. We will safeguard the health of everyone in the building at U of D Jesuit. We will relentlessly focus on our strong mission of formation and education in the Jesuit tradition. That focus will be present in all aspects of the student experience. The Jesuit experience is, indeed, a treasure for life.

A set of frequently asked questions that came out of the town hall meetings will be sent to you soon.

Daily absences and protracted absences will likely be higher this coming school year than in past years.  Remote learning will be in place so absent students will not fall behind. Faculty are doing professional development in remote learning this summer to “up their game.”

This past Thursday was World Refugee Day. Eighty million people in the world are displaced from their homes. The number of refugees is a staggering 1% of the world’s population, and one quarter of the population of the United States. Learn more by visiting the website of Jesuit Refugee Service (jrsusa.org or jrs.net), founded by Superior General Pedro Arrupe in 1980.

Congratulations to Joshua Peters, a 1997 alumnus of The High, who was ordained to the priesthood yesterday at Ss. Peter and Paul Church in Detroit. He celebrated his first Mass in our Chapel of the North American Martyrs this morning. Joshua entered the Society of Jesus in 2009.

Current and incoming students can register for summer athletic camps by clicking here.

As a reminder, inquiries on tuition assistance can be directed to our Financial Aid Office and questions about tuition plans can be directed to Student Billing. 

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

June 14, 2020

Dear Cub Families,

Phrase of the week: “The health of each of us is the health of all of us.”  Stay healthy this summer, Cubs and Cub families. The big four habits: stay home if sick, frequent hand washing, social distancing, and wearing masks as warranted.

Dr. Denise Mallett, director of our Office of Diversity and Inclusion, recently sent a survey to students. Students who have not completed the survey, please do so by clicking here. The survey will help orient our efforts.

Our three town halls on reopening the school in the next academic year were well attended and favorably received. We are compiling a set of frequently asked questions from the town halls, which will be distributed soon. We welcome your questions and feedback as the planning unfolds.

Summer programs will be starting soon. Check the website for offerings.

Current and incoming students can register for summer athletic camps by clicking here.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

June 7, 2020

Dear Cub community and incoming Cub families:

Town Hall Meetings on the next academic year will take place Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. The links for each grade level are listed below. We previously communicated to you that we plan to be in school and in the building next academic year. What exactly that will look like remains fluid. In the first part of the Town Hall, we will outline our thoughts on mission, health and safety, all aspects of the student experience, and building cleanliness. The second part of the Town Hall will be to listen to you, answer your questions, and get your feedback. We want you to feel confident and comfortable with how U of D Jesuit will proceed.

Town Hall Meetings are scheduled as follows:

2020-21 Grades 10, 11, and 12 Families - Town Hall

    Monday, June 8, 6:30 p.m. 

(Refer to your email for link)

2020-21 Grade 9 Families - Town Hall

    Tuesday, June 9, 6:30 p.m.

 (Refer to your email for link)

2020-21 Grades 7 and 8 Families - Town Hall

    Thursday, June 11, 6:30 p.m.

(Refer to your email for link)

One final note to our current families, this coming week is locker cleanout time: 

Grades 9,10, and 11 Locker Cleanout - Monday, June 8 and Tuesday, June 9. To maintain appropriate social distancing guidelines, we ask each student to use this link to select a time slot for his arrival on campus. Each grade level has 15 slots available for each time frame. Once a time slot has reached capacity, it will no longer be available.

Academy Student Locker Cleanout – 7^th Grade, Thursday, June 11 and 8^th Grade, Friday, June 12.   Click here to schedule a locker clean out time. Each parent/student are asked to select a time slot to pick up his belongings (and, if applicable, to return outstanding library books, musical instruments, etc.). Students and parents will be expected to follow appropriate social distancing guidelines in place when they enter the building.

We hope to see you at the Townhall.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

May 31, 2020

To our Cubs and Cub families,

Congratulations!  We close out the year.  Take a moment to step back, to congratulate one another, and to be thankful.

Mr. Trudel’s Weekly Video Message.  In addition to information below, click here to see this week’s message and updates from Principal Trudel.

 Town Hall Meetings on Next Academic Year.  We previously communicated to you that we plan to be in school and in the building next academic year.  What exactly that will look like remains fluid. Circumstances are changing daily. Our CubStrong Team has been modeling different scenarios that are flexible.

We are partners with you in this mission of Jesuit education.  We need to listen to you, answer your questions, and get your feedback.  We want you to feel confident and comfortable with how U of D Jesuit will proceed.

To that end, we will hold town hall meetings with you and other Cub families.  Meetings are scheduled as follows:

• 2020-21 Grades 10, 11, and 12 Families, Monday, June 8, 6:30 p.m. 
• 2020-21 Grade 9 Families, Tuesday, June 9, 6:30 p.m.  
• 2020-21 Grades 7 and 8 Families, Thursday, June 11, 6:30 p.m.

We will send out a reminder along with the link to the respective town halls next week.  The format will be in two parts.  The first part will outline our thoughts on mission, health and safety, all aspects of the student experience, and building cleanliness.  The second part will be Q&A.

We previously communicated to you the two overarching principles that guide us.  They are given again below.

A Principle of Health. We will safeguard the health and safety of everyone who is part of the U of D Jesuit community.

A Principle of Mission.  We will relentlessly focus on our mission, infusing all that we do with the 472-year tradition of Jesuit education. Some of the terms here may be unfamiliar to you.  But not for long!

• Men for Others to the Greater Glory of God
• Cura Personalis (Care of the Person)
• Grad at Grad  (Open to Growth, Intellectually Competent, Religious, Loving, Committed to Justice)
• Ignatian Leadership
• Jesuit Formation
• The Jesuit Experience.  More Than an Education.
• College is Hard. Life is Hard.  We Prepare You for Both.

Execution of mission will be apparent in all aspects of the student experience at U of D:

• Academics
• Academic support and Magis
• Athletics and physical activities
• Clubs and cocurriculars
• College counseling and school counseling
• Diversity and inclusion
• Faith and service
• Friendships for life
• Hanging out
• Health and wellness
• Social-Emotional learning

An Invitation to Prayer

Please consider spending fifteen to twenty minutes today praying about the school year just ended.  Find a quiet place and adopt a comfortable posture, either standing, sitting, or perhaps walking.

1.     Ask yourself: “How is the Lord looking at me, right here, right now?”

2.     How have I grown this year?  Intellectually competent, open to growth, religious, loving, committed to justice.

3.     Did I have a generous spirit?

4.     Did I make sure that everyone is included, everyone belongs?

5.     During the lows of the year, how did I find the Lord loving me?  Or, perhaps, was I angry at the Lord?

6.     During the highs of the year, how did I find the Lord loving me?

7.     For what am I thankful?

8.     How are my relationships with friends and family?  How do I care for others?

9.     How do I reach out to those who are poor and vulnerable?

End with the Prayer for Generosity.

Tuition and Billing Assistance

We do not want any student to leave U of D because of a change in family income.  Direct inquiries about tuition assistance to our Financial Aid Office.  Direct questions about you tuition payment plan to Student Billing.

Have a great summer, Cubs.  Stay healthy.  Stay safe.  Be CubStrong!

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

May 24, 2020

Memorial Day Weekend

Dear Cub Community,

Phrase of the week: “…that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”  Abraham Lincoln, The Gettysburg Address, November 19, 1863.

We pause this weekend to remember those who died for our freedom.

We will end the school year this week, CubStrong.  Congratulations!  As summer arrives and lockdown is gradually lifted, remain healthy and safe.  The safety of each of us is the safety of all of us.  Please be CubSmart.

Town halls will be held in the early weeks of June to get your input and feedback on the next academic year.  Stay tuned.  Meanwhile, please expect a few brief surveys in the coming days.  One survey is designed to assess what programming to do next year in the area of diversity and inclusion.  Another survey will help us understand transportation needs and logistics for next year.

Friday, May 29, is the last day of Remote Learning for students in grades 7-11.  Grades will be released in myUofDJesuit the week of June 1.  Look for an email from the Academic Affairs Office that week with details.  Please contact your school counselor if you believe grades and remote learning were adversely impacted these last few months by the pandemic.

Locker Cleanout/Return or Pick Up of Items at School.  The Student Affairs Office is putting together a schedule and protocol for school visits for students that need to drop off or pick up any items at school.  The process will begin with Seniors.  Look for an email from Mr. Chandler in the weeks ahead that will include a sign up to schedule visits.  Social distancing and health and safety protocols will be in place for each visit.

There is no video update this weekend from Mr. Trudel. Next weekend’s video will include end of school year updates.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

May 17, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

Phrase of the week is: “I’m proud of these men.”

Check out the line in a scene from the movie Patton: https://youtu.be/IIFICRj01Mc

We are proud of these men, the students of U of D Jesuit.  Courage. Grace. Grit.  Love.  Thank you for being U of D Jesuit.

Sixty-four days later, there are now only two weeks to go.  Way back at the beginning of this time, we affirmed “We can do this.”  And we have!  Through it all, we have grown together.  Let us be grateful.

Manresa Day was successful, a good time to ratchet back together and reflect on the Lord’s love for us and our care for one another.  Thank you to the planners and facilitators.  If you haven’t yet seen Nicholas Love’s reflection, check it out at here.  Thank you, Nick.

No Remote Learning Friday, May 22 and Monday, May, 25. Next weekend will be a four-day holiday weekend.  No classes on Friday when the faculty and staff will celebrate their annual appreciation “luncheon.”  Service awards will be presented to faculty and staff who have achieved milestones in their careers here at U of D Jesuit. 

Mr. Trudel’s Weekly Video Message. Click here to see this week’s message from Principal Trudel.

Class of 2020 Updates. We are still planning on holding culminating events for seniors as previously communicated.   Plans are underway to arrange for Seniors to come to the school building to collect locker items and to pick up their cap and gown for the July 30 Commencement Ceremony. Expect communication from Mr. Chandler in the next few days.

In a video message, Dr. Anthony Fauci, M.D., the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health and a leading figure in the struggle to contain the coronavirus pandemic, addressed the graduating classes of 2020 at Jesuit secondary schools around the country.  Dr. Fauci’s Message to Graduates of Jesuit High Schools

We plan to be in school and in the building next academic year.  What that will look like exactly is evolving, and we will keep you updated as we learn more.  What we absolutely know is that two overarching principles will guide us in the upcoming year:

A Principle of Health. We will safeguard the health and safety of everyone who is part of the U of D Jesuit community.

A Principle of Mission.  We will relentlessly focus on our mission, infusing all that we do with the 472-year tradition of Jesuit education and the 143-year spirit of U of D Jesuit.

·       Men for Others to the Greater Glory of God

·       Cura Personalis

·       Grad at Grad

·       Ignatian Leadership

·       Jesuit Formation

·       The Jesuit Experience.  More Than an Education.

·       College is Hard. Life is Hard.  We Prepare You for Both.

Execution of mission will be apparent in all aspects of the student experience at U of D:

·       Academics

·       Academic support and Magis

·       Athletics and physical activities

·       Clubs and cocurriculars

·       College counseling and school counseling

·       Diversity and inclusion

·       Faith and service

·       Friendships for life

·       Hanging out

·       Health and wellness

·       Social-Emotional learning

We will stay in timely communication with you as protocols are developed and plans become clearer.  Your input and feedback will be important.  Questions are always welcome.

As a reminder, inquiries on tuition assistance can be directed to our Financial Aid Office and questions about tuition plans can be directed to Student Billing. 

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

May 10, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

Phrase of the week, "In all things, to love and to serve."  This phrase was a favorite of St. Ignatius Loyola.  During his 16 pilgrim years, Ignatius drew consolation from being with the Lord as companion and serving others.  The journey took him to plague ravaged cities, prisons, and shipwrecks.  Through it all, love and service endured.  We walk in those same steps. 

• To all our moms, thank you! Happy Mother's Day.  Next Sunday at 10 a.m. we celebrate a virtual farewell Mass for our senior moms – a Mothers’ Club tradition, and we will be joined by the Alumni Mothers’ Club.  
• Congratulations Class of 2020 on finishing classes.  We saw many smiling faces as the seniors’ lawn signs were delivered on the last day of classes!  The rest of the school will be sporting congratulatory lawn signs for seniors this week.
• Dads' Club meets virtually this Wednesday at 7 p.m.  Details can be found on their website: www.udjdadsclub.org
• Inquiries on tuition assistance can be directed to our Financial Aid Office and questions about tuition plans can be directed to Student Billing. 
• Friday, May 15 is Manresa Day – No Remote Learning.  Take a break with God!  As St. Ignatius retreated to a cave in Manresa near Montserrat, Spain in 1522 to pray, to write, and to ponder his relationship with God, so will we make some time for a uniquely Jesuit formational experience. Remote learning will be suspended so all may participate in this special day. There are more than 30 sessions/workshops offered during four periods. Click here for the workshop descriptions and times.  Once you review the Workshop Descriptions, please click here to access the MANRESA DAY REGISTRATION form. PLEASE NOTE: You must be logged in to your U of D Jesuit Google account for access to the form.
• Summer school registrations are now being accepted. U of D Jesuit High School and Academy students are eligible to enroll in summer courses if they are registered for the 2020 - 2021 school year. Please click this link to the Summer School 2020 page.  Completed registration is preferred by or before June 1, 2020.  COVID-19 NOTICE: These course opportunities are subject to change pending the State of Michigan Stay-at-Home order and social distancing guidelines. If students are unable to meet in person on these dates, some courses will be offered by Remote Learning while some might be subject to cancellation (refunds available). Families will be kept as up-to-date as possible during this situation.
• Watch Mr. Trudel’s Weekly Family Update by clicking here.

With our Prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

May 3, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

The phrase of the week is from our fight song: “Here’s to all the fellows, loyal they’ll be.”

Loyal to one another.  Loyal to school.  Loyal to mission.  Loyal men for others to the greater glory of God.  Friday’s Student Senate Convention gave powerful testimony to the loyal community spirit of U of D.  The Jesuit experience, indeed, is more than an education. Our Cub community is blessed.  Let us be thankful.

·       Everyone belongs.  No student will have to leave U of D Jesuit because of a change in family financial circumstances.  The Financial Aid Office and Student Billing Office are at your service. 

·       2020-2021 School Year. Two weeks ago, we began exploring what the next school year will look like.  Health and safety of everyone will be the highest priority, standing alongside the commitment to our mission.  We are cautiously optimistic the building will be open and classes will be held.  What exactly it will look like will unfold in the next few months.  For now, we are modeling scenarios with the intention of being prepared for any or all developments.  Expect an outline of possibilities in the next two weeks.  We will keep you informed at each step in this process and always welcome your input and feedback. 

·       Virtual Student Senate Convention 2020 a SUCCESS!  Congratulation to the new officers for the 2020-2021 school year:  Nick Love (President), Nick Kouza (Vice President), Jack Paroly (Secretary), Keegan Kochanek (Treasurer), and Sam Lanni (Sergeant-at-Arms). We had about 300 people viewing the Convention live and 451 of our students cast their votes. If you missed it, you can view it by CLICKING HERE.  Special thanks to Ms. Amy Ong, Ms. Chelsea Estes, Mrs. Rosemarie Gonzales, the Cub Broadcast and Cub News teams, as well as all of the Student Senate candidates and current officers for their efforts towards a successful convention and campaign season.

·       Attention Class of 2020 Families.  Senior Honors Night will be live-streamed from the U of D Jesuit Chapel on Wednesday, May 6 at 7 p.m.  The live-stream link will be emailed to all Senior students and parents, and guardians on Monday.  The live-stream will feature a performance by Mr. John Thorne, current Theology teacher and alumnus from the class of 1996.

·       Amendment to Grade Policy.  The policy will include no failing grades on transcripts at the end of the semester.  Incomplete (INC) grades will be used in these situations.  For students with INC grades, remediation plans and timelines will be worked out in consultation with teachers, school counselors, and the Academic Affairs Office.  Thank you to all students and parents who responded to the surveys on remote learning and grades. We continue to review feedback from both faculty and families. We will communicate more on survey results in the near future. 

·       Manresa Day – Friday, May 15 – No Remote Learning.  We will take a break from Remote Learning to participate in Manresa Day, an opportunity to reflect, meditate, and grow closer to the Lord.  There will be a selection of virtual activities and workshops led by teachers and staff designed to engage and discover the spirit within each of us.  We will conclude with Mass celebrated by Fr. Ted Munz, S.J.

·       Weekly Video Message from the Principal’s Office. Click here to view Mr. Trudel’s updates.

·       May 4-8 is Teacher Appreciation Week!  U of D Jesuit faculty have been stepping up in unprecedented ways to maintain Jesuit education during Remote Learning.  Please consider offering an email or shout out on social media with words of thanks to your teachers this week.

Stay healthy.  Stay safe.  CubStrong!

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

April 26, 2020

Dear Cub community,

Phrase of the week: Cura Personalis, Care of the Person

From the time of his conversion in 1521, Ignatius Loyola wanted only to be with the Lord and to help souls. Helping souls, or cura personalis, has been an enduring characteristic of Jesuit education for more than 470 years. Our love for one another in the U of D Jesuit community binds us more closely, especially now. Consider a few of many possible examples:

• Juniors running for Student Senate office with a singular desire to care for others.
• Students helping others in need during this crisis.
• Students assisting their younger brothers and sisters or taking care of an elderly relative.
• Parents and alumni serving on the “front lines.”
• Faculty and staff providing academic and counseling support; assisting with financial aid and tuition payment plans.
• Mothers’ Club and Dads’ Club supporting the school in countless ways.

May we be grateful and continue to grow in our care for one another.

Briefly noted:

• Watch Mr. Trudel’s Weekly Update at www.uofdjesuit.org/coronavirus
• Big week ahead for Student Senate elections. Election day is Friday, May 1 – there will be no Remote Learning on Friday. We will share links to view the debates, the convention, and live-streamed results. Good luck to the candidates!
• Cassius Winston ’16 has been elected to the Catholic High School League Hall of Fame. Congratulations, Cassius! Look for another inductee to be announced Monday.
• Lawn signs, celebrating the Class of 2020, will be delivered within the next two weeks. If you prefer not to have a sign placed in your yard, please click here to opt-out.

Stay healthy. Stay safe. Cub Strong!

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President
Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

April 19, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

Word of the week: Resilience. You are building resilience.

Think of long-suffering Job. In the words of the great Peruvian theologian, Gustavo Gutierrez, “He flung himself upon the impossible and into an enigmatic future. In that effort, he met the Lord.” Perhaps Job took heart in the words of the psalmist:

Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever. (Psalm 73:23-24, 26)

• We celebrated the annual Senior Mother/Son Mass via live-stream today in the chapel of the North American Martyrs. The Motown Jesuits led the music, accompanied by special guest, Sean English ’18. Sean is a man of resilience. At the Mass, Sean gave a reflection on how his life was changed the morning of the Mother/Son Mass in 2017 when he lost his leg in an accident. It was his resilience that got him through the tragedy and helped him build a new normal. After Mass, Alexander Davidson '06 served as a guest speaker, offering wisdom to the senior class about the benefits of "living like a mascot."

• We are changing up the lawn signs that seniors put out, celebrating their graduation. This year every senior will receive a lawn sign with his name on it. All other students will receive lawn signs that say “Congratulations Class of 2020.” Social media photos standing by one’s lawn sign will be encouraged. Details of distribution will follow.

• Follow the Senior Spotlights on Facebook and Instagram. Senior Spring Athletes are being highlighted on Twitter.

• We are here for you. Academic, counseling, college counseling resources are here for you. We are prepared to answer your inquiries about tuition payments and financial aid. We do not want anyone to leave the school for financial reasons. Please contact us. The contact information for Financial Aid, Student Billing, Admissions, and more can be found on our home page at www.uofdjesuit.org

• The last day of Remote Learning for students in Grades 7-11 will be Friday, May 29. The last day of Remote Learning for Seniors is Thursday, May 7.

• Marking Period Two grades/report cards will be released on MyUofDJesuit (MUDJ) on Tuesday, April 28.

• June summer camps will not be held. The camps will be rescheduled, as conditions permit.

• All Seniors and their parents will receive an email on Tuesday, April 21 with updates and information on Class of 2020 events (for example, t-shirt design, Honors Night, All Night Party).

Stay healthy. Stay safe. Cub Strong!

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

April 5, 2020

Dear Cub Community,

Listed below are important updates. Be sure to watch the brief video update from the Principal’s Office at the link below.

We need a break! Easter Break will be from Holy Thursday (4/9) through Easter Wednesday (4/15). Optional activities will be made available, as well as College Counseling for junior families. Remote learning resumes Thursday, April 16. View the revised Remote Learning Plan and expectations on our website.

Posting of semester-two, marking-period-two grades are postponed until after the Easter Break.

Final exams are canceled. Departments, at their discretion, may require students to complete a summative project, a written essay, or other culminating work.

Letter grades will be used on report cards and transcripts.

Graduation will be scheduled late July or early August – health conditions permitting.

Please bring your questions or concerns to our attention.

Watch the video update from Principal Trudel.

Luke 9:51 tells us, “When the days drew near for Jesus to be received up, he resolutely set out for Jerusalem.” We begin Holy Week today. We encourage you to spend time each day this week reading sections of the Passion of Jesus in Scripture. Jesus resolutely entered into his suffering and death so that we may know the power of his love for us. Be resolute. Keep reaching out to those among us who are in need. Stay Cub Strong.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

1. View the short Weekly Cub Family Update from Principal Trudel.
2. Please share your stories with us, including photos or videos. On social media, use the hashtag #CubStrong, which we will monitor, or send an email to Communications-Team@uofdjesuit.org
3. Thank you to those who are serving on the front lines during these times. We want to assemble an online “photo album” of you. Please email Communications-Team@uofdjesuit.org with your name, photo, and what you are doing.
4. Let us continue to pray for one another and all who are suffering. Pray the school’s morning prayer and the Examen. Check out the Prayer for Generosity video by faculty and staff at www.uofdjesuit.org/Pray
5. Our Resources page continues to be updated. Among other items, it now includes free workout websites and apps, and tips on how to help a friend remotely.
6. Please let us know if you need anything from us. We are here for you.

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

AMDG

March 20, 2020

Dear U of D Jesuit community,

U of D Jesuit is here for you. Throughout our 143 years, we have worked with families and built community through difficult times. These times are no different. Together we can meet the challenges ahead and grow closer as a community in the tradition of Jesuit education. We will continue to communicate with you regularly through a variety of platforms. Never hesitate to bring your needs or questions to us. We welcome the insights you may have on how we can work better with you.

We know families are already confronting economic challenges. We will work with you. We do not want students or families to worry about whether you can financially afford to stay at U of D Jesuit. The school will be increasing the pool for financial aid. Additionally, plans are being refined for registration fees and tuition payments. We are prepared to work with you on tuition payment schedules. Please contact the Financial Aid Office or Student Billing with any questions or concerns.

For our seniors and their families, we know how important senior year is to you. Many of you have discussed the wide range of emotions you are experiencing, from disappointment to anxiety. We hear you. Every day we are evaluating our options for end of school year senior events. We will keep you informed as we progress through this crisis together. One amazing thing we are seeing is how seniors are looking out for one another – please keep this up.

You will receive communication this weekend from the Principal’s Office summarizing what we have learned from the first week of remote learning, along with tips and suggestions moving forward into next week.

Some of you inquired about the article in today’s Detroit Free Press regarding the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) announcement that online learning won’t count toward yearly instructional requirements. While this is true for public schools, please know the MDE announcement is not applicable to U of D Jesuit and other Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Detroit. For U of D Jesuit students, each day of remote learning is equivalent to an in-school day of learning.

As we have mentioned before, all the school’s resources are available to you during this time, including counseling, college counseling, and the Arrupe Learning Center. We are also compiling a list of outside resources for such things as meal assistance, medical expenses, employment help, and mental health services. These will be posted in the next few days on our website. Some of you have offered your services, for which we are grateful.

Please continue to stay healthy and observe guidelines set out by health organizations and the government. The health of each of us individually is the health of all of us together. We have had no notifications of any coronavirus infection of students, faculty/staff, or members of their families. Please let us know if anyone in your family tests positive for the virus.

Let us continue to keep one another in prayer,

Theodore G. Munz, S.J., President

AMDG

March 16, 2020

Dear U of D Jesuit Community,

Outlined below is the schedule for U of D Jesuit for March 17 through April 20 along with Remote Learning Plans and Expectations. We have listened, consulted, and deliberated over the past seventy-two hours in order to make an appropriate decision that prioritizes the formation of our students and the needs of our families. Thank you for your patience.

Please note the following:

1. The pandemic situation is evolving rapidly, which may require changes in these plans over the next several weeks.
2. Some directives are mandated by the Archdiocese. We adapted our plan as best as possible to serve the needs of the U of D Jesuit community.

March 17- 20 Ramp-up of Remote Learning

Students should check in to MyUofDJesuit (MUDJ) at some point each morning to view the exercises posted by teachers. It is a time for students to familiarize themselves with online learning, engage with teachers as to what works and what doesn’t, get a feel for a study rhythm, and find out how this will work within your family. All work will be voluntary. Exercises will not be graded. Students and families should engage these exercises at a level best suited for their particular needs.

March 23 – April 3 Remote Learning in Operation

The full implementation of Remote Learning begins this week. Students are expected to log in to MUDJ beginning at 8 a.m. each school day. All assignments, activities, and assessments are subject to due dates and grading.

April 6 – 8 Remote Learning in Operation at Home or at U of D Jesuit

If the governor allows schools to open, students have the option to return to school from 8 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. to engage in “Remote Learning” at U of D Jesuit. Alternatively, students can continue Remote Learning from home.

April 9 – 10 Holy Thursday and Good Friday

No classes.

April 13 – 17 Remote Learning in Operation at Home or at U of D Jesuit

There are diverse needs in the school community during this week. We want to accommodate those needs. 1) Some families will need or want to send their sons to school, therefore, the school will be open, if allowed by the governor. 2) Other families may not want to come to school for health reasons, for family time together, or because of previously made Easter Break plans. That’s okay.

All students will be expected to do some academic work during this week. Be assured the work will be modest. Regardless of whether the work is in school or online, performance expectations will be the same for all students. We will communicate details of coursework, as we get closer to Easter. The Archdiocese directed schools be open during Easter week. The plan outlined here represents a compromise we worked out as to that directive.

April 20 Students Return to U of D Jesuit for Regular Order

Regular in-school classes resume if allowed by the governor.

Remote Learning Plan and Expectations

Please visit the following links for details and resources on the U of D Jesuit Remote Learning Plan and expectations.

• U OF D JESUIT REMOTE LEARNING PLAN & EXPECTATIONS
• HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT YOUR STUDENT DURING REMOTE LEARNING

Social and Emotional Learning

Some parents have inquired about the status of the recently announced social and emotional learning and mental health curriculum – Prepare U. We are evaluating options to be able to give parents and students access to the program during the Remote Learning period – more details will be coming soon.

We realize the current situation brings challenges to many in the U of D Jesuit family, particularly members of the Class of 2020. Knowing the abundant spirit and commitment of our community, we are confident we will resolve any challenge we face. We will remain in regular communications with you. Do not hesitate to email or call if you have questions or concerns.

Visit the Coronavirus page on our website for health advisory statements and questions regarding COVID-19.

With our prayers,

Theodore G. Munz, President

Anthony R. Trudel, Principal

• CDC Coronavirus website
• Michigan's Coronavirus website
• CDC Protects and Prepares Communities
• CDC Travel Health Notices
• CDC's Coronavirus Disease-2019 and Children
• Coronavirus Guide for Kids (NPR)