Key West School with Long History of Assisting in Times of Trial Tackles Another Emergency

Following the Monroe County School District calendar, faculty at The Basilica School of Saint Mary Star of the Sea in Key West were able to mobilize during spring break before launching virtual instruction on Monday, March 23. "Fortunately, our students have not missed a single day of instruction, said Principal Robert Wright. "While teachers and parents are climbing the learning curve, our students have adapted well. I imagine that everyone will settle in and find a routine in this second week of distance learning."

Over 60% of the families at the Basilica School have jobs tied directly to local tourism. The island is completely shutdown and a roadblock has been set up in Florida City to prevent non-residents from entering. The generosity of several donors have helped alleviate the burden of tuition on hard hit families who work in the service industry.

The Basilica School also offers a limited childcare option for children whose parents are vital medical personnel. This service has been offered to students not currently enrolled and there is no charge. The parish and school have a long history of providing such care -- during the Spanish American War and during yellow fever in the late 1800's.

While admitting that Hurricane Irma, which made landfall in the Florida Keys in September 2017, was an easier calamity to face than this pandemic accompanied by so much fear and unknown, Wright continues to express optimism. "With Easter on the horizon, I can't help but feel hope that when this is resolved, we will walk away from this with a renewed appreciation for the common things in life that we may otherwise take for granted -- things like time spent with family and the reception of Holy Eucharist."