November Letter from the Principal
November 2014
Dear Parents,
It is hard to believe that it is time for Parent -Teacher conferences! It is a privilege to partner with you for the education of your children. In the month of November, we exemplify our theme of “Come, Follow Me” by living the Beatitude of “Blessed are they who mourn, they shall be comforted.” All are welcome to write deceased loved ones’ names in the parish Book of Remembrance in church. May the Holy Spirit comfort everyone who has experienced loss this past year.
SJA-Faith: Two more children were baptized this past month at an All School Mass. We are grateful for the gift of faith and for John and Miranda C.!
Our 3rd grade class led the school in an All Saints Prayer Service on October 31st. Thanks to Ms. Hanson and to Mrs. Crowe for preparing the children and coordinating the event.
SJA- Learning: We are fortunate to be part of the Des Lee Fine Arts Collaborative. This provides our students with the highest quality fine arts experiences that in turn serve as a springboard for learning. K-8th students attended Jazz St. Louis concerts at the Touhill Center in October. The 4th grade has had the first in a series of visits by St. Louis Symphony musicians through the “Symphony in Your School” program.
James S., a 7th grader, was selected to participate in the Honors Band at Bishop DuBourg. The program was held on Saturday, October 25, 2014. James did an outstanding job. Congratulations, James!
Our K-4 teachers coordinated STEM lessons and held a “Great Pumpkin Drop” on Halloween. It was a fun way for students to develop their thinking and writing skills.
SJA-Leadership: The Mini Vinnie Club held a day of service on November 5th. Over 60 students volunteered to help neighbors who needed a hand raking leaves.
The Student Council hosted a sale to benefit our sister parish in Guatemala and raised over $300. Our young leaders continue to develop activities that promote school spirit and lead us to serve others. We are proud of our students’ efforts!
SJA-Families: A 1st Reconciliation Parent Meeting was held on October 14th to inform and support parents as their children prepare to receive the sacrament later this month. On October 30th, we held a Bunco night for 2nd graders (Both SJA School and PSR) and their parents. It was a fun community building night. Thanks to Mrs. Mason for organizing this event and to all who were able to attend. The 6th Grade Parent Support Meeting was held on October 28th to provide parents with helpful information and resources as their children enter the middle grades.
Our PTO’s Trunk or Treat on October 24th was a great success and very well attended. Thanks to our PTO for all they do for our school community!
In November, we reflect on the many blessings in our lives for which we are grateful. We especially appreciate our Oasis volunteers. Thanks to the 10 people who have volunteered their time to work one-on-one with our students on a weekly basis.
Please keep the 2nd graders in your prayers as they continue their preparation to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation on November 18th. God’s mercy and forgiveness abound!
Hope to see you at our Thursday Masses!
Deborah DaLay
“Come, follow me.” Matthew 4:19
