Igniting Hope is the theme this year at the Office for Catholic Schools. Hope, the anchor of the soul, is a good virtue to practice right now in these very uncertain times. We have our constant – God, our father – and as God’s people, our mission is to live in His image, especially now. We are one human family whatever our national, racial, ethnic, ideological, and economic differences may be. Our Catholic values and our school mission call on us to love and care for one another.
Caring for one another means we often have to make sacrifices and I am now asking the first-grade families, students, parents, and their teachers to make one. One of our on-campus students, a first grader, tested positive today for COVID-19. We filed a report with Public Health King Co. late this afternoon as soon as we heard. Because that person was in school earlier this week (Monday) and may have been in contact with more than one teacher, we are asking ALL first graders to stay home tomorrow. Once we verify which teachers/assistants may have been in close contact, we will reopen two of the three cohorts. Per Public Health guidelines, the students in the third cohort, where exposure may be likely, will need to quarantine and transition to remote learning until November 23rd. The school has been in direct contact with first grade families this evening.
Thank you to St. John Girl Scout Troop 44091, now 5th graders, who lived the mission and were empowered disciples when they voted to donate their 2018 cookie sale proceeds to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. They were honored with a brick at the Mundie Courtyard at the research center. It took some time to get the brick installed, but it finally happened! Former Troop Leader, Tracy Smith shares, “[We’re] super proud of these girls – many of them had seen cancer affect their loved one
s – including Mrs. Flood who several of these girls knew. They had lots of ideas to choose from, and they choose this. Eventually, they’ll be able to go see the brick in person.” Currently led by Amy Szyszko and Kathy Beck, Troop 44091 has also raised funds for the Orca Conservancy, Seattle Humane Society, and Saint Vincent de Paul. We are so proud of you!
Fr. Crispin has lived the mission as a shepherd of the flock for thirty years now. We will celebrate this anniversary in a socially-distanced fashion with a drive-by to congratulate him on Sunday, 11/15, at 11:30 (after the 10:30 Mass). We are so thankful to Fr. Crispin for his leadership and the love he shows to the entire community.
As you are well aware, the transmission rates are sharply rising. As you bring students in for pictures next week, make sure temperatures are checked and the health screening is completed. It is really important that you all complete the screening right before you leave for school. We have noticed that some of you are completing it the night before, others are forgetting, and I am concerned that you are neglecting to take your child’s temperature in the morning. Please check temperatures before you leave for school. We will then check it again. We need to care for everyone on campus: Students, parents, faculty, and staff. If teachers get sick, we may be unable to keep our doors open for in-person instruction! Please take a moment to read this important update from the School Response Team at Public Health-Seattle & King County.
Thank you for your cooperation and support.
God bless,
Bernadette O’Leary
