January 25, 2021

Dear Pioneer Spring Staff,

As Parents of Pioneers, and members of the Pioneer Springs Community, we are coming together to make our common voice heard that we want our children back in school for in-person instructional learning that accommodates individual medical rights and freedoms. We understand that these are complex issues and unprecedented times with many factors to consider, but we must prioritize our children’s need for a robust education. Every difficult decision should weigh the benefits and the costs, and the costs we are currently placing on our children’s health, education, social development and futures far outweigh the benefits. Alternatively, the benefits of bringing our children back to school would strengthen our community, promote love and connection ahead of fear and mistrust, and provide a positive example of community engagement to counter the inconsistent, arbitrary and unaccountable institutional forces that are standing in the way. There is a wealth of evidence that can be cited that shows the dangers of in-person learning to be miniscule, if not non-existent.

We joined this Community for the shared values of Natural Learning, and the current model is woefully short of providing that. Zoom calls and pre-recorded videos are no replacement for the engagement, personal connection and social development that school provides. Our school has such a unique opportunity to use the outdoor campus to provide fresh air, natural vitamin D through the sun, and exposure to the soil and natural microbiome that is essential in keeping our immune systems strong. There are already numerous families leaving this school, even uprooting their families, and it is likely that many will follow if conditions continue as they are. It is our belief that this community is strong enough to come together, do what is right for our children, and set an empowering example of community strength and resolve.

Respectfully,

Parents and Pioneer Spring Community members: