West Nottingham Academy Successfully Opens its Doors to On-Campus Students Amidst COVID-19

COLORA, MD – On Monday, August 17, 2020, West Nottingham Academy welcomed students back to campus both in-person and virtually to celebrate “Nottingham Open” – an orientation week dedicated to introducing students to their new home and vast curriculum. Over the weekend, 9th to 12th grade day and boarding students arrived from around the country and as far as China and Africa to set forth on a particularly unique school year – all while wearing face masks and getting to know one another six feet apart.

Over the weekend, all staff members, faculty, day-students, and boarding students participated in professionally administered COVID-19 tests. Head of School, Dr. Virginia Kennedy, says, “Everyday, we’re taking the health and safety of our students and staff seriously. Although there is no such thing as ‘no risk’, we’ve implemented countless tactics and measures to ensure WNA remains a safe place to live and learn.”

Per recommendations from the CDC, dietitians, disease specialists, and fellow educational institutions, Dr. Virginia Kennedy and staff have led the charge to assure consistent and mandatory face mask use across campus, an increase in availability of sanitation supplies in classrooms and living spaces, single dwelling dormitories, and a designated quarantine dormitory. As the first full week of class continues, teachers and staff are utilizing the Great Outdoors for activities and exercise, windows are open to increase air circulation, and the dining hall has been rearranged for meals to occur at a 6-feet distance apart.

To ensure educational accessibility to all students throughout the year, cameras have been placed in all classrooms and live-feed instruction has been made available to virtual students around the world – or students who might need to quarantine at any point during session.

As new students arrive on campus, WNA will continue testing and prioritize coronavirus protocol. West Nottingham Academy’s COVID-safety protocol ensures this historical and prized school remains a place educating and inspiring future leaders to have a positive impact on their communities across the globe – now and in the future.

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West Nottingham Academy is a diverse, student-centered day and boarding school for students in 9th through 12th grade and post-graduate. Since its founding in 1744, WNA has stood as an institution as one of the most influential and impactful providers of private education, educating and inspiring future leaders to make a positive impact in their communities and across the globe.