January 26, 2012

     This week we celebrate Catholic Schools Week. This year’s theme of “Faith, Academics and Service” expresses in three words what Catholic Schools are all about. We teach children not just the basics of Christianity, but how to have a relationship with God. We hold our students to high standards and do everything we can to help them reach their full potential. We also teach our students how to serve, both as a way to express their faith and to grow in good citizenship. Join us this week in celebrating St. Mary’s School! Thank you to Mrs. Ares, Mrs. Merritt and Mrs. Walsh and their committees for planning our Catholic Schools Week activities.

      Registration for the 2012-2013 school year begins this week for current families. We appreciate the sacrifices our families make to send their children to St. Mary’s. We have tried to keep costs down. However, we are faced with rising costs of utilities, building maintenance, health care costs, supplies, and vendor contracts. Although we have increased tuition this year, our tuition is still among the lowest in the diocese. We will, once again, offer financial aid to families. In order to be considered for a financial aid package, parents must apply for financial aid through FACTS. The Beacon of Hope Award, which is funded through the Diocese, is also available to our families. This application is also on-line. Both forms must be completed by April 1, 2012. If you need assistance in completing these forms or would like to speak with me concerning financial aid, please call me at 885-7300 to set up an appointment.

      Families of students in grades K – 5 need to register on-line. Please go to our website, www.smsbspa.org. Under the “Admissions” tab you will find “Application Process.” Please follow the directions. Families of students attending our pre-K programs must call the school office at 885-7300 to obtain a pre-K registration packet. Due to the increased demand for full day pre-K programs, we are adding another FDPK class this year.

Looking ahead on our calendar:

·         February 20-24                  Mid-winter Recess

·         February 22                        Ash Wednesday

·         March 14-15                       Grades 3-5 Science Fair

·         March 16                             Early Release Day – Teacher Inservice

(More information to follow – After School Program will be available)

     I look forward to seeing you this weekend as we begin Catholic Schools Week. Thank you to all who help make our school a success: our pastor, teachers, staff, board members, donors, parents, and volunteers. Through your dedication and commitment, our students are learning in a culture of faith, academics and service that is preparing them for a full life.

Blessings,

Michele Lezon

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