We're finally back at Bellefontaine—now let's do what it takes to stay here!

We’re back! All our planning, and individual sacrifices, brought us back to Bellefontaine yesterday. Kate Morin and I started the day by breaking physical distancing and hugging; we just couldn’t contain our happiness. There have been many times in the last year that we had set target dates to reopen, and each time we were pushed back. But not this time! Even after the unexpected twist when the Pasadena Department of Health mandated testing for the entire student body at the beginning of the week, we were still able to gather on campus yesterday. It was so good to hear your daughters’ voices and laughter in the halls again! Thank you for your patience and cooperation throughout this last year. We could not have done it without you.

As we move forward, our new goal is to stay open. That’s going to require that we all keep doing what we know works:

If we all keep following this simple advice, we will be able to remain open and finish the year on Bellefontaine.

Many in our community are being vaccinated: faculty, staff, parents and eligible students. No matter which vaccine you receive, you are protecting yourself, your family members and our Mayfield community. I encourage you to be vaccinated when you become eligible. As of April 1st, everyone over the age of 50 is eligible to receive a vaccine. Next week, on April 15th, everyone over the age of 16 becomes eligible. Pasadena residents should contact their healthcare provider or local pharmacy for vaccine availability.

For more information on vaccine availability at local pharmacies, visit:

Once your daughter is vaccinated, please send me a picture of her vaccine card. It’s important for us to be able to verify how protected our Mayfield community is. I also ask parents to let me know when they are vaccinated. This information could help prevent another mandated testing or even school closure.

I’d also like to introduce my Health Office assistant, Leah Carter ’08! She will be starting her residency in Family Health in June and is a wonderful help to me. She will help with contact tracing, attendance and other responsibilities. Please continue to send your attendance emails to me as usual so I am aware.

Being back on Bellefontaine gives us the chance to focus on the 3Rs: relationships, routines and reassurance with each other. I’m excited to see more of you in person.