Hey Everyone, 

I hope my message finds you well. If you’re anything like me, you’ve spent a fair amount of time in the last few weeks considering and caring for other people. On any given day, I’m considering

• My three year old who can handle zoom chats with her friends but not driving past the school. Gotta be mindful if she happens to be in the car. 
• My close friend who is riding out social-distancing alone in the hot spot of NYC. Gotta be mindful about excessive complaining about my house full of people I get to interact with every day when I’m checking in with her.
• My mom who is both high risk and grieving some friends already lost to COVID-19. I ask about her emotional and physical health when we get the chance to talk. 

The people I love all need different things, and those things change day to day. I feel appreciative that they can communicate those needs to me and vice versa, so that we can all show up for each other in a tough time. Yes, I’ve spent a lot of time considering the things I need in the last few weeks as well. I need to limit my time reading news stories, I need silly TV shows to laugh at, I need a daily schedule that makes time for work and family. I’m grateful for the people around me that help see and meet those needs, including the awesome ATC staff. 

We want to be here for you at this time. We want to make sure we’re helping to meet those professional needs, and that is why we are committed to keeping channels of communication open. The blast, office hours, and personal check-ins all serve the purpose of affirming you and equipping you with the things you need at this time. I encourage you to make use of these tools. I encourage you to reach out to us and to each other. I encourage you to reflect and care for yourself as you care for your students, families, and communities. 

Thanks for all you do, 
Donnalie