Head of School Updates

As we close another incredible school year at Sussex Academy, I would like to thank all of our families for choosing Sussex Academy as a partner in your child's educational journey.

Throughout the year, our students have been writing their own stories through academics, athletics, the arts, leadership opportunities, and countless memorable experiences. Much like the Choose Your Own Adventure books that inspired my end of year messages, every family in our community made the choice to join us on this adventure. We could not be more appreciative of your support throughout the 2025-26 school year.

Have a safe, healthy, and wonderful summer break!

Thank you to our families for a great year! It has been a pleasure highlighting the accomplishments of our students and staff this school year.

Over the summer, please keep up to date with us on Facebook and Instagram. As always, our website will contain our most recent news releases.

Even while our students are not in school, we would love to share the news about their activities. This goes for our graduates, too! Email Ellen Driscoll at ellen.driscoll@saas.k12.de.us with news tips and photos!

Here’s to a great summer!

As summer begins, it's important to balance fun, relaxation, and learning. Research shows that children can lose some of the academic gains they made during the school year if they are not regularly engaged in reading and learning activities over the summer—a phenomenon often called the "summer slide." Consistent reading, simple math practice, and hands-on learning can help children maintain their skills and start the new school year with confidence.

Just as important is your child's mental health and well-being. Summer is a great time to slow down, spend time outdoors, connect as a family, and build healthy routines. Even 30 minutes of outdoor play each day can support children's physical health, mood, creativity, and social development.

Wishing your family a summer filled with learning, laughter, adventure, and plenty of time to recharge! ☀️

Read for 20 minutes each day (books, magazines, comics, or audiobooks all count!)

Practice math in everyday life:

• Count change at the store

• Measure ingredients while cooking

• Track scores during games

Turn everyday activities into learning:

• Visit the library

• Explore nature trails

• Keep a summer journal

• Create scavenger hunts

Play board games that build reading, problem-solving, and math skills.

Try the 20-20-20 Summer Challenge:

• 20 minutes of reading

• 20 minutes of physical activity

• 20 minutes of family connection

Small daily habits can make a big difference!

• Maintain a predictable daily routine.

• Spend time outdoors and encourage active play.

• Prioritize sleep and limit excessive screen time.

• Make time for family conversations and check in regularly about feelings.

• Encourage creativity through art, music, building, or imaginative play.

• Scholastic Summer Reading: https://www.scholastic.com/parents/books-and-reading

• Reading Rockets Family Literacy Resources: https://www.readingrockets.org

• PBS Parents Summer Learning Ideas: https://www.pbs.org/parents

• National Association of School Psychologists Parent Resources: Link

• Delaware Libraries Summer Reading Programs: https://lib.de.us

Mrs. Bobby recently met with all juniors in the Class of 2027 about their post-graduate college and career options. Students who are planning to apply for college and/or military academies should have by now asked at least two adults (at least one of whom needs to be a high school teacher) to write them a letter of recommendation and sent him/her their completed College Letter of Recommendation Form. This form should also be shared to Mrs. Bobby at erin.bobby@sussexacademy.org.

Links to Mrs. Bobby's presentation and the recommendation form are linked below. Students who have not yet secured their recommenders and/or sent them (and Mrs. Bobby) their recommendation forms should handle these tasks by no later than mid June. Contact erin.bobby@sussexacdaemy.org with any questions.

Junior Spring College/Career Presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1G7NJBLeJ7qOBPo281dDN-KeXwwZbO8gKnBr1meVjod0/edit?usp=sharing

College Letter of Recommendation Form: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gI2gjhu3uIiHK2fgT3d2fx0cJCOhY0lW_WoSje_HiFE/edit?usp=sharing

Information regarding senior portraits will be shared with families as soon as they become available from the photographer. We will communicate details regarding dates and ordering information once everything is ready.

Throughout the year, our Student Services Department has been honored to support students and families through academic planning, college and career exploration, social-emotional learning, individual counseling, wellness initiatives, student leadership, and countless conversations along the way. Every interaction reminds us of the strength, resilience, and potential within our school community.

As summer begins, we encourage everyone to make time for rest, reflection, and self-care. We hope our students continue exploring their interests, setting goals, and making memories. Here are a few simple ways to support your well-being:

• Stay connected with family and friends who uplift and support you.

• Maintain healthy routines with consistent sleep, movement, and downtime.

• Get outside and enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and physical activity.

• Take breaks from screens and make time for hobbies, reading, or creativity.

• Practice gratitude by reflecting on positive moments each day.

• Be kind to yourself and remember that growth takes time.

Most importantly, remember that mental health matters year-round. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to a trusted adult, healthcare provider, or call/text 988 for immediate mental health assistance.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey this year. We wish everyone a safe, healthy, and restorative summer and look forward to welcoming you back in the fall.