There is a hush all over the community today as our students get ready for tomorrow's "opening day." The floors are polished, the new books are delivered, the gym looks terrific with the new lighting, and our wee folks from pre-school are now joining us in the big school....we are looking forward to a great year.
We are sorry that we are not able to host the traditional back to school coffee on Wednesday morning. Because of the new floor in Church, we are having daily Mass in Kane Hall until next Monday. We will miss greeting you more officially, but know there will be additional opportunities.
Do you have your wheels greased and ready for Thursday's skating party? This back to school event is always such great fun. All are welcome to the parking lot for the event which begins at 6:30 p.m. Pray now for good weather.
We will post the September calendar on the school website later this week. Look for important information and up to the minute news.
One important piece of information deals with the health and safety of all of our children.
We are getting daily information about the H1N1 virus. The best advice is precaution. We will do our best to have children wash their hands often. (Each room is now equipped with industrial size hand sanitizer soap!) The cleaning company has also promised to be diligent about cleaning all surfaces carefully each day and teachers will help students in their rooms with regular clorox wipes desk cleaning. We will keep you updated as more information is received.
Another concern is the apparent outbreak of pediculosis (head lice) over the summer. I used to think we did not have to worry about this until winter hats and scarves were out, but apparently baseball helmets and summer sleepovers have created a significant outbreak in this area. We have put together a letter about some preventative measures everyone can take. I have also talked to the Chicago Board of Health who is working with the alderman's office to provide helpful information including a meeting here at school for those who might want to learn more about prevention and treatment. Look for the letter and more information on Wednesday.
Remember that Wednesday is a half-day session with dismissal at 11:30. Thursday and Friday are full day sessions. We will also open our new extended day program on Thursday.
The start of a new year offers amazing enthusiasm and challenge. The faculty, staff and I look forward to working with you to build an environment where each of our students is encouraged to become his or her best self.
See you on Wednesday morning.
S. Jean