Dr. Beth Reaves – Head of School, Washington School for Girls (WSG)

Washington School for Girls is a co-sponsored ministry of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus.

Like most schools throughout the country, Washington School for Girls (WSG) has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since March 14, WSG has been operating remotely and providing distance learning to all of our students. Clearly unanticipated, this kind of educational experience has been a significant adjustment for our community, but one that has been made possible thanks to our excellent teachers. Each of these amazing women and men is responding with grace, flexibility, and open-mindedness. We are equally indebted to our robust community of philanthropic supporters who have helped WSG build its technology infrastructure and capacity over the past several years. Last, but definitely not least, we are proud of the extremely high participation and engagement of our students, each one demonstrating daily a commitment to her studies.

Our priorities during this time are to maintain a strong academic program, support students’ emotional well-being, and foster a strong sense of community. Throughout the day, students receive a blend of virtual group instruction and age-appropriate independent work. When not in “class,” students can video-chat with their teachers for one-on-one help in reading and math. Our student-led morning prayer creates yet another opportunity for the WSG community to gather. Together, we trust these practices offer comfort as well as preserve a sense of normalcy and structure.

Additionally, for our families who have been economically impacted by the sweeping closures in our region, WSG offers, with donations from our program partners, meal assistance and at-home technology. Because we have been so very blessed and believe profoundly in the power of intercessory prayer, perhaps the most important moments of each day are the prayers we offer for all those in our community, country, and world who really are the victims of this pandemic. We know you join us in our prayer, and we thank you!