Head of School Updates

As we move into the final stretch of the school year, it is important that we continue to build on the positive momentum we have established together. This time of year is critical for reinforcing strong habits, maintaining focus, and finishing with purpose and pride. Your partnership and support play a key role in sustaining the high level of achievement we’ve seen across our K–12 community once again this year. Please encourage your children to take their time and do their best on all upcoming state assessments.

I would also like to share an update on our Soaring Higher campaign. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we have now raised $115,017.83 in support of our students, programs, and future initiatives. We are incredibly grateful to all of the donors listed below for your investment in our future.

We love to share the stories of our students’ successes on our social media pages, and our parents have become a great source of information about these accomplishments! Please keep the story ideas coming to Ellen Driscoll at ellen.driscoll@saas.k12.de.us.

Keep up to date with school and student happenings by following us on Facebook and Instagram, and continue to check our website for our most recent news releases.

Here’s a couple recent headlines:

• Sussex Academy launches comprehensive plan

• Sussex Academy shows up strong at Science Olympiad

Support our Interact Club’s school supplies drive, taking place through the end of this month. All donated items will be sent to a rural school in Guatemala.

• April 17 Dress Down Day (Free)

• April 24 & 25 Seussical the Musical (see flyer below)

• April 30 from 5:30 - 7:00 PM Math and Science Night

• April 30 Dress Down Day ($2.00)

• May 21 (K-2 @ 12:15 & 3-5 @1:30) Spring Concert & Art Show (see flyer below)

• 3rd - 5th grades State Testing Dates: April 15 &16, 28 & 29. May 11, 12, 13, 14

• Funland Tickets will be available to purchase - 20% of sales will go to the school to be used for Field Day and other student activities.

• YEARBOOKS - LAST CALL for online sales SALES LINK

Dominos Fundraiser is up and running! This is our Slice the Price Card, buy one pizza get one free! The money raised will go towards hosting Teacher Appreciation Week and Field Day!

Every student should register for the fundraiser https://register.dominos.cards/53771! Once you register you will get your own personal link to share with friends and family.

Field Day is coming up quickly! Please click on the links below to submit t-shirt sizes and volunteer to help make this day a huge success. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to Mr. Petrella.

Student Field Day T-Shirt Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdfv7TbdK7Isd_mF_V9EgTdwIVJz6KvuYw78FgnYG2oxy9rpw/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=106449393250396397953

Volunteer Field Day Sign Up Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdUj6_kyKyXb-DFouJdbiU_eo9m5JEPyGf1v_0FlRdSGUfsvA/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=106449393250396397953

Mark your calendars now for our upcoming production of Seussical the Musical! See the flyer below and click here to purchase your tickets in advance.

April is World Autism Acceptance Month, a time to move beyond awareness and focus on what truly matters—acceptance, inclusion, and belonging.

While awareness helps us understand autism, acceptance means taking action—showing kindness, practicing patience, and making sure every student feels valued for who they are. At Sussex Academy, we are reinforcing these ideas by encouraging students to recognize and respect differences, include others, and build meaningful connections.

How you can support at home:

• Talk about differences as strengths

• Encourage your child to include others

• Reinforce that everyone deserves to feel they belong

Together, we can continue building a school community where every student is seen, respected, and included.

Friendly reminder! Sussex Academy, in partnership with SOAH, invites you to join us tomorrow, Thursday, April 16, at 6:30 PM for a screening of Childhood 2.0.

This eye-opening documentary explores how smartphones and social media are shaping students’ lives—and sparks important conversations for families. Tatiana Jordan, CPO from BARK phones (featured in the film), will join us on Zoom after the showing for a Q&A session.

Please note: The film is unrated and contains mature themes that may not be suitable for children under 13.

Supervised activities for younger children will be available, hosted by Sussex Academy student volunteers. We hope to see you there! RSVP here or scan the code on the attached flyer.

Get ready for an unforgettable evening— Prom 2026 will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the beautiful Cambria Hotel in Rehoboth Beach, DE!

Mark your calendars and start planning your look, because this is one night you won’t want to miss!

🎟 Ticket Details:

• On Sale: April 13–April 17 (one week only!)

• Where: During lunch

• Price: $65 per ticket (includes Mocktails, hors d'oeuvres, buffet dinner, and dessert)

✨ With great music, dancing, and lasting memories, Prom 2026 promises to be a truly special night.

Don’t wait—tickets are on sale now and the sale window is short! 🎉

Prom Night Timeline:

• 5:30 - Student arrival at Cambria Hotel

• 6:00 - 6:45 - Promenade (viewing area for families available)

• 7:00 - Dinner and dancing

• 9:00 - Prom Court and King/Queen announced - students cannot leave before this time

• 10:00 - Prom officially commences

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Norton (caron.norton@saas.k12.de.us).

As prom season approaches, we are committed to helping students celebrate safely and responsibly. Students attending prom can participate in our Prom Promise Program on April 21.

This program, started by Nationwide Insurance, focuses on the dangers of alcohol and drug use—especially when combined with driving. As part of the program, students will witness a realistic reenactment of a vehicular accident. This is a serious and impactful demonstration intended to show how quickly unsafe choices can lead to life-altering consequences. The goal is not to frighten, but to educate and encourage thoughtful, responsible choices. Prior to prom, students will be asked to sign a pledge to never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or ride with someone who is.

We are grateful for Sussex County EMS for their partnership in delivering this important message. Given the emotional intense nature of this reenactment, clinicians will be available onsite to support students if needed. If you prefer your child not participate, or have questions, please contact Mrs. Norton (caron.norton@saas.k12.de.us).

Together, we can help to ensure that this memorable night remains a positive experience for everyone.