Click here to read this letter in Spanish
Dear Alma Families,
As you may know, Alma has traditionally stayed open on election days as a way to give our scholars an up-close look at this important day in American democracy.
This year, Alma del Mar will be closed on Tuesday, Nov. 5, the day of the Presidential Election. We made this decision because election officials anticipate increased activity near and around polling places on Election Day, and Alma’s Ottiwell Campus serves as a polling place for wards 2B and 2C. This is a one-time decision, and we anticipate that we will return to keeping our schools open on future days of primary and general elections.
Don’t forget to vote in the General Election! Find your polling place and learn about early voting opportunities by visiting www.newbedford-ma.gov/election-commission/voter-info/polling-locations/
As a school committed to supporting scholars in being service-minded, we are also excited to encourage your scholars to participate in an optional Election Day of Service Bingo activity, which will be sent home with your scholars soon!
At Alma, we are proud to have such a vibrant and diverse school community. This diversity of backgrounds and perspectives, along with your positive energy and support, are what make Alma special.
With so much in the news regarding our country’s immigration policies, we wanted to make sure you heard directly from us that all of our immigrant families are welcome and safe at Alma. As a charter public school, we have a moral and legal obligation to enroll and serve any child living in our district who chooses to attend our school, regardless of their immigration status. Additionally, per federal law, we do not inquire about or share records regarding student or family immigration status without the family’s consent. Our focus continues to be on providing all scholars with the academic and social-emotional guidance that will put them on the path to college while challenging them to be service-minded leaders.
While we continue to put our energy into providing a welcoming, safe, and challenging educational experience for all of our students, we also want to be a resource for any families who may have questions or concerns about immigration related issues. As with any concern regarding your scholar’s well-being, please don’t hesitate to let us know how we can support you. You may reach our family engagement coordinator at [email protected]
Our name Alma del Mar, means “Soul of the Sea” in Spanish and also shares words with Portuguese. This name speaks to the rich history of New Bedford as a diverse port city, and this diversity is what makes our school community and our curriculum truly exceptional. Thank you for partnering with us on this journey. We will continue to support all of our families to ensure the continued success of your scholars.
In Service,
Taylor DeLoach, Executive Director
Alma del Mar Charter Schools