Dear Black Knight Families,

The pace and rhythms of a school year are both frenetic and exhilarating. I am fortunate to be at a phase in my life that affords me the wherewithal to take a beat, be present in the moments before me, and appreciate what is happening around me. For as long as I have been an educator, the conclusion of a school year has brought forward complex emotions in me: relief, melancholy, joy, hopefulness, pride, worry, and deep appreciation.

The Charlottesville High School community is a collection of extraordinary people — kind, supportive, talented, creative, and understanding humans. People who think they know CHS based only on what they see, hear, or perceive from afar simply do not. The Black Knight Nation is the preeminent high school community in this area, and I am always proud — and thankful — to lift up, honor, serve, and champion our students, their legacy, and their futures.

To the CHS Staff: Thank you for giving your best each day to this profession and to this community. The health and success of our school starts and ends with the work that happens through you and with our students when they are in your company.

To our CHS Families: Thank you for supporting and believing in our students and helping them give their best. School life places demands on all of us. Thank you for taking time from life’s other priorities and stressors to show up for CHS and continue to light our school.

To our CHS Students: Thank you for your trust in us; for your voice that moves us to do better; for your efforts to give your best; and for being the culture and the change within our school community.

Thank you, all, for your contribution to our Black Knight Nation.

Be safe and healthy this summer. I look forward to our reunion this August as we continue to build on what makes this school so special.

Warmly,

Dr. Malone