Dear Parents and Students,

I am grateful to begin this update with some very positive news: power was restored on campus Monday evening at approximately 6:00 p.m. The return of heat, lights, and hot showers was a tremendous relief, and spirits across campus were noticeably lifted.

I would like to sincerely thank our students and staff. Throughout this extended weather event, you have been absolute troopers—demonstrating patience, resilience, and a positive spirit under challenging circumstances. I am deeply appreciative of the grace and cooperation shown during this time.

While power has been restored, several challenges remain that affect our ability to safely resume normal operations. Significant ice accumulation continues throughout our area, and many trees—both on and off campus—remain down or continue to fall due to the weight of the ice. These conditions pose ongoing safety concerns on campus and surrounding roadways. Additionally, many of our staff members and community families are still without power or are unable to travel safely due to hazardous road conditions and downed trees. Communication has also been difficult, as internet service, cellular networks, and phone lines remain unreliable or down entirely, with no clear timeline for restoration. This has made communication both into and out of campus challenging. Although we currently have ample food available for students, some of our delivery providers have communicated that they are unable to commit to future deliveries at this time.

We have also taken this opportunity to support our local community and church by providing housing for individuals and families who remain without power. The impact of this storm has been significant, and we are grateful to serve as a place of refuge during this time.

Taken together, these factors make it impractical and unsafe to operate a regular school day.

With student safety as our highest priority, school will remain canceled through the February Home Leave. Additionally, Acrofest has been canceled. We are actively exploring alternative opportunities to reschedule and will share updated information as plans are finalized.

Families may begin making arrangements to pick up their child as conditions allow. Our goal is to have all students home by Monday, Feb.2, with the exception of international students who are scheduled to remain on campus. Families who have signed up for Home Leave transportation should communicate directly with the Deans regarding transportation needs. Dormitories will remain open through the coming weekend for students who are unable to return home and for those participating in the mission trip. Classes will resume

If conditions in your area will prevent your child from coming home, please notify us so we can ensure appropriate accommodations and support are in place.

Thank you for your continued patience, understanding, and partnership. We kindly ask for your grace as you attempt to reach Deans, staff members, or myself, as communication systems remain limited. Please know that we are working diligently to address concerns, respond as promptly as possible, and keep you informed as conditions improve. Students are encouraged to use this time productively to make up any missing assignments and stay current with their coursework. We deeply appreciate your understanding and continued focus on safety in the days ahead.

Chadd Watkins

WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY January 28, 2026