Dear Students and Parents,
Greetings from snowy Schroon Lake and the entire Bible Institute team! This update is only for the NY campus at this time. We cannot begin to explain how much we miss each and every one of you and your presence on campus! It has been a learning process for all of us as we adjust to a new normal in light of COVID-19. Since we updated you last week, the number of confirmed Coronavirus cases continue to climb here in NY. Today, the confirmed COVID-19 cases in New York account for about 46% of all the cases in the United States. Most of these cases are in and around New York City, which is over 250 miles from our campus. As we consider all of the regulations and health concerns, we firmly believe that we made the best decision for you, the student, in shifting to remote learning for the remainder of the semester.
As a result of our State being “ground zero” for the virus, the New York State government is taking the most aggressive steps in the nation to stop the spread. NY State has in place what it has labeled the NY Pause Law, which has mandated a 100% stop to all non-essential business, no gatherings for any reason, strict social distancing measures, and enforcement protocols with fines for businesses and organizations who are non-compliant. From the beginning, we have stated that we will be responsible and reasonable in our response to the entire COVID-19 situation. Scripture reminds us that we are to be in submission to the government and they have issued very clear instructions at this time. We also want to be reasonable in our response because student safety and health concerns are of the utmost importance to us.
I have instructed the team that we will fully comply with all government mandates and be a testimony to our community, students and staff.
Unfortunately, this eliminates our ability to reconnect students with their belongings from the dormitories, as this activity is currently deemed non-essential. We expect the situation to change in the next 2-3 weeks, but things are very fluid right now. We are so grateful for your understanding and patience in this. I know this is not the answer you are looking for, and it is certainly not the outcome I would like.
One question I often ask myself, “Would the decision I have made and advice I am giving to the students look any different if my own children were involved?” Upon reflection, I do not think that my decision and advice would be any different. I don’t desire to be overly dramatic or overstate this, but I would not allow or advise my child to make a trip to New York, nor would I personally make this trip at this time. You and your child’s safety and health are far more important than any personal belongings. I know not all would agree with me on this, but I do have your best interests in mind.
We will be sure to keep you informed with updates. If you have further questions, please direct those to safety@wol.org, or call our hotline by dialing 518-300-4444.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we navigate this time in world history. Please know we are praying for you daily!
Yours for the Master’s Use,
Roger L. Peace, Jr.
President of Camps and Bible Institute
