January Newsletter
The very cold temperatures did not dampen the enthusiasm of most of our students as they returned to school today after a relaxing Christmas vacation. Judging from the tales they shared, it seemed that Santa was VERY good to all of our students.
Santa was also very good to our faculty. Thank you for your generous gifts, your kind words, and delicious treats. There is a new resolve to finish every crumb and only then think about those weight-loss plans for the new year.
Thanks also for your amazing generosity for the Sacks for Santa Program. The drivers who come to pick up the toys to bring them to Catholic Charities distribution centers are always astounded by the volume of gifts that come from SJF. You have taught your children well to be aware of the needs of those who have so little.
Our Christmas pageants and plays were a wonderful success. I love the idea that every child has a role: king, angel, or drummer boy, and thinks that he or she is THE star of the show. These productions are memory makers for parents, grandparents, or other fans who know that this is the real meaning of Christmas.
And now to the New Year! Although the January Calendar does not seem as busy as December, there are many important events ahead.
Our eighth graders will be taking the high school placement test at the schools of their choice on Saturday. This is always an important day, not only for our graduates, but for their parents as well as they mark this next important step in their child's life journey. The faculty and I are very proud of the class of 2010 who have already demonstrated so many talents and accomplishments. I know they will represent our school well in the various high schools that will be fortunate to have them next year.
The eighth graders will also be celebrating their Confirmation on January 30, at the 4:00 Mass. They have worked very hard to learn the doctrines of our Faith, have contributed many hours of service to people who need help, and are ready to make a strong commitment to live their lives as more mature Catholics. Keep them and their families in your prayers in these final weeks before Confirmation.
January also marks the beginning of Catholic Schools Week, our annual celebration of the role that our schools play in the formation of Catholic Christian values and the provision for a strong academic foundation so necessary for today's world. Catholic Schools Week opens on Sunday, January 24, with a family Mass at 10:00 followed by Open House throughout the school. We hope that you will be able to join us to meet the teachers and see some of the creative work that our students are doing.
Among the other events planned that week is the Pro-Kids Show. This nationally known program uses comedy, magic, and audience participation to teach respect and responsibility. The show is scheduled to appear at SJF on Thursday, January 28 with a student performance in the afternoon and a family performance at 7:00. The show has received rave reviews at other local schools. Some of the reviews include: "Your show is the best I've seen for parents and families." "Through the years, we have had many wonderful assemblies for students . . . PRO-KIDS tops them all." We hope that you will make this evening a priority. The family show begins in Church at 7:00 p.m.
Even though we have not completed the second trimester of the school year, we are already making plans for next year. Catholic Schools week is the official beginning of registration for our kindergarten and pre-school programs. If you have neighbors or relatives who might not have children in school yet, but who are interested in sending their children to our school, please invite them to come for Mass and Open House or to call the school for more information about registration.
Are your bowling shoes polished? You will want to look your bowling best for the annual Family School Association's Candle Light Bowl at Bleekers on Saturday, January 16. (Information should be in your child's back pack today.) Previous attendees affirm that this is an inexpensive and fun night for all. If you have a question, please call and we will put you in touch with the appropriate planner.
Plans are also underway for the Super Bowl Party on Sunday, February 5th. Although the Bears will not be there this year, this party is a great gathering of friends and neighbors that features several screens and delicious food. Tickets are only $20.00 and all proceeds from the event will be used for the Tuition Assistance Program. Look for more information in the bulletin, in a special flyer, and on the parish website.
Although the Bears will not be in the Super Bowl, the Hawks will be in the playoffs and thanks to a very generous benefactor we are having a special limited raffle to benefit the tuition assistance program. Four premium lower level seats (row seven!) for the first playoff game will be the prize in our limited raffle. Only 100 tickets will be sold at $50.00 each. For more information or to purchase a raffle ticket, please email Jackie Long at michaellong@comcast.net. We anticipate the 100 chances will go very quickly, so let Jackie know immediately if you are interested.
During these very cold days, please keep the children in the warmth and safety of your home until the last minute. Many times teachers have meetings before school and although no one will be "left out in the cold", we do not have adequate supervision for all of the children who might want to come to school early. Thank you for your cooperation.
In the event of a snow day (which we hope will not happen), we ordinarily follow the lead of the Chicago Public Schools, which as you know do not usually close. If, however, there are extenuating circumstances, you will be advised via our email and phone blast that school is closed. We will announce the closing on the major radio and television stations that provide that service.
Please mark your calendar for Monday, February 22. As announced previously, our new Archdiocesan Superintendent requires that we participate in two professional development days mandated for the entire Archdiocese. All of our teachers will be at Marian High School on that day, so the students will not have school.
Progress Reports will be distributed on Wednesday, January 13. This is a good time to do a "reality check" to be sure that your child's grades are not in a mid-winter slump and to encourage new efforts to do well before the second report card of the year.
Congratulations to several of our Girl Scouts who participated in an essay contest called "The Patriot's Pen" based on the theme: "Are There Heroes Among Us". Three of our eighth grade girl scouts were winners. Their essays will now go to state -wide competition in Springfield. Congratulations, girls!
The New Year holds so much promise and possibility. Enjoy each day!