Yesterday at 10am, two seventh grade students, Lucy B. and Maddie A. led a moving prayer service for the victims of the shooting in Florida. Fifth graders and middle school students were invited and about 150 people attended. Parish staff and faculty members who didn’t have students at the time came and prayed. We continue to pray for peace and safety in all our schools.
Construction Update
You may have noticed remodeling has begun in the former rectory space. Detailed information regarding the current capital campaign and renovation projects can be found in this week’s NewsViews and on the campaign web page. The Parish Building Advisory Committee (BAC) is working with the project management team and builder to ensure a September 2018 completion date for the entire project. In an effort to meet construction deadlines, the preschool and parish offices are vacating Quigley Hall by Friday, March 30. Beginning in April, Preschool classes are re-locating to the main school building. Temporary parish office space arrives on campus this Friday. Starting next week, a portion of the parking lot will be sectioned off for storage, portable work spaces, and construction use. Things are happening at St. John!
We thank the teachers and parish staff for their flexibility and trust that the final 12 weeks of school will be positive for everyone. We appreciate your partnership and understanding in this endeavor. We look forward to opening our new learning spaces, school, and parish offices.
I would like to call your attention, again, to the important dates and directives for the coming months:
- School will dismiss for students in grades K-8 on Friday, June 8. Preschool will dismiss on Thursday, June 7.
- XDC will be closed on Thursday, June 7, and Friday, June 8, to allow XDC staff to relocate for the summer.
- Summer Extended Daycare will be open beginning Monday, June 11. Registration for summer session is open now.
- 2018-2019 school year will begin September 5. If construction is not completed at this time, we will begin the school year in temporary spaces.
- As construction work begins, please do not park or leave your vehicles in the yellow zone on 79th Street at morning arrival.
This is an exciting time for St. John Parish and School. We thank you again for your pledges and gifts to the campaign and your patience and support as we Embrace the Present and Secure the Future. Should you have any questions, please contact me.
We started the St. Patrick’s Day celebration early this morning with the rousing music of the Highland pipes! Some of the students who take Irish dancing joined in with a performance of jigs and reels. It was a lovely way to start the day.
Lá Fhéile Padraig Sona Dhaoibh!
(Happy St. Patrick’s Day!)
Bernadette Ní Laoire
