A Message from Jim Skrumbis, Head of School

Dear Sierra Canyon Parents, Faculty and Staff,

 

Over the last 20 years, our school has become one of the most diverse independent schools in the country. We might, in fact, be the most diverse. Our identity and our mission have become inextricably linked to this aspect of our school. I hope and expect that many of you, in part, chose Sierra Canyon over other school options because of our diversity, values, and culture.

 

As a result, we are uniquely positioned to speak out for what is right and, quite frankly, what is possible. Our School is not perfect, but we have made a real effort to make a historically exclusive and elitist form of education different. Our student and family population reflects our region. Our experience together makes us all better. Our daily mix helps promote understanding, and our values can develop a generation of leadership that can help this country grow and thrive.

 

The promise of America has always been in tension with issues around race and racism. I was a history teacher before becoming an administrator, and I loved teaching American history. However, I always knew I was responsible for addressing and trying my best to explain the unreconciled tragedy of our history. It has always been hard to be Black in America. Tragically, it still is. We have not made enough progress on a variety of issues around race, and we have seen too many incidents like those captured on video in recent weeks. George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and the video from Central Park are all outrageous and intolerable expressions of our lack of progress as a nation.

 

Tomorrow, we will give our Upper Campus students the opportunity to have a conversation with our faculty about what is happening in our country. This conversation can only be the start of a commitment by all of us -- faculty, parents, students, and me -- to double down on our mission and culture, making us an example to be emulated. Encourage your kids to participate. Encourage them to learn the history of this country. Encourage them to be active. As a school, that is what we are going to do more of tomorrow and going forward.

 

Our commitment to inclusiveness, understanding, academic excellence, and action will be our mission. I hope you will join me in this commitment.

 

Sincerely,