17 December Letter from Mr. Kelly

Friday of the Third Week of Advent

Dear SJS Catholic School Community,

The severe weather day on this past Wednesday was very unusual, and we appreciate your help in getting the students picked up early with short notice.  The day brought forth a few points that are worth remembering.

-While oftentimes the Catholic Schools Office follows what OPS does in severe weather situations, that is not always the case.  The Catholic schools are an independent system, and as such we call our own weather emergencies.  So, it is best to keep an eye out for Catholic school specific announcements. 

-If we do not have a current phone number on file in the office, please call us and update asap.  (You can check on Sycamore on your parent profile the info we have on file).

-It’s also good to remember that we use our email system to make announcements.  Sometimes that can happen quickly.  So, it’s wise to make sure you have an email on file that is current and you check frequently.

– And the CSO calls weather related days off, not SJS.  Thank you for your help and support this week with that unique weather situation. 

We have made it through our first semester!  Way to go, SJS!  And with zero room closures and zero days of remote learning.  We had to form a partnership with our parents in order to keep the school open and kids out of quarantine.  And, you have done a great job, SJS parents, thank you.  In fact, this week is the lowest number of quarantining kids we have had in months.  So, I am confident that our next semester will also be quite successful.  SJS staff and parents working together make for a powerful team.  And, I cannot say enough about the efforts of our SJS staff.  We have tremendous teachers and staff, who are clearly driven to do what is best for the students.  Thank you, SJS staff, for all you do.

It started as a simple idea, perhaps parents would contribute to a Christmas gift for SJS teaching staff to show appreciation.  And your response has been tremendous.  It was humbling to see such generosity, kindness, and gratitude.  The teaching staff is very grateful to all of those that contributed.  2021 has been very difficult, but the generosity of our SJS parents has been one of the highlights.  Thank you for your Catholic kindness.

We will soon be on the lookout for new families for next school year at SJS.  If you know of a family that would be a good fit, please send them our way or contact the office with contact information.

On behalf of the entire SJS School staff, Christmas blessings to you all.  I hope the holiday season is a time of relaxation and enjoyment.  Enjoy the break and thank you for all that you do for SJS.

Peace,
William Kelly
Principal