From the Desk of Sister Christina

January 3, 2008

A new year -- a new beginning!

Special prayers of gratitude to you for your many kindnesses at Christmas! Your generosity and thoughtfulness are treasured "gifts" and heartfully appreciated. Thank you for your presence and support at our Christmas concert and Live Nativity. It is wonderful that we gather as a school family to remember together and foster the true meaning of Christmas. may the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ be a daily inspiration and influence for each of us as we live each day fostering in our families, among our co-workers and friends, peace, compassion, and kindness in our daily interactions.

I ask for your continued encouragement and support of your children's education. This month we complete the second quarter of the school year on January 18th with report cards at the end of this month. If study habits and routines have waned, now's the time to begin again and re-establish good work habits for life.

As indicated on the January calendar, Grades 5 - 8 will be taking mid-term exams the week of January 14th. An exam schedule will be coming in time for ample study.

On January 15th our second graders will receive their First Reconciliation. We ask you to keep them and their families in your prayers as they continue to prepare for this special occasion. May their reception bring upon all of us God's graces of peace, mercy, and forgiveness.

Science Fair 2008 -- thank you for your assistance and guidance in accomplishing the long term project for the Science Fair. I hope that the time and effort put into each student's project was well spent, informative, and enriching. Science Fair projects are due on January 27th.

Auction 2008 is coming! Once again we count on the continued support of SMS parents and families. Your donations of gifts (small or large), services, vacation homes, business advertisements are all greatly appreciated. Special "Thanks" to Sally Pauloz and Margaret Spann who have been working on the auction donations and prizes since the summer. "Many hands make light work," so the saying goes. Much assistance is needed to make this event a huge success. Auction 2008 will be March 15th.

Sister Christina Joseph, IHM