Letter from the Board of Principals

CHÚC MỪNG NĂM MỚI! Hello to all in our PennSchool family! As February unfolds, we find ourselves reflecting on one of the foundational pillars of our community: Equity. Equity is well described by Naheed Dosani, “Equality is giving everyone a shoe; equity is giving everyone a shoe that fits.” I’m delighted to share the strides we’ve made this month in championing this core value.

Equity is vital in cultivating an environment where every student has access to the same opportunities, and where individual needs are met with understanding and support. It’s about creating a level playing field where each voice can be heard and valued equally. The celebration of Tet, with its two-week respite from academic routines, provided us with a chance to embrace this value fully. It’s a time for all of us to recharge, reflect, and honor the vibrant cultural heritage that each of our students and staff members brings to our school.

Upon our return, the school brimmed with renewed energy, and we launched into the Debate Elite contest. This forum exemplifies equity in practice, giving every participant an equal platform to showcase their intellect and passion, irrespective of their background or beliefs. Here, every argument is weighed on its own merit, every opinion is considered with respect, and every student is encouraged to contribute to the rich tapestry of our school’s discourse.

Our commitment to equity is also evident in our curriculum and teaching methods, which are designed to be inclusive and responsive to the diverse ways in which our students learn and excel. We strive to ensure that all students have the resources and support they need to succeed, particularly after an extended break like Tet, when transitioning back to school life can require additional adjustments for some.

As we move forward, let’s carry the spirit of equity with us—not just in our classrooms, but in every aspect of our lives. It’s the collective effort of our entire PennSchool community that makes our commitment to equity a lived reality. Thank you to each one of you for contributing to a school culture where everyone, no matter their starting point, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

May this February be a testament to the strength and unity that comes from our commitment to equity. Here’s to a month of engaging learning experiences and a year of continued dedication to fairness and justice within our educational journey.

Warm regards,
Mr. Tim Nelson – AP Principal