This week, walking to and from school has been a reminder to treasure the beauty that we so often take for granted; the sunset colors of Autumn leaves is breathtaking. As you rake them and build big heaps, take a moment to be thankful for the changing seasons!
Students in intermediate grades are preparing to welcome grandparents and special friends on Grand Day next week. Make sure you RSVP by tomorrow, Friday so that you don’t miss out on this special occasion. Staging the event takes many hands, and the team is in need of volunteers. Please consider volunteering.
Newsviews will not be sent out next week. I will be with my family giving thanks for them and for the many blessings in my life. You comprise a large part of that list. I am so grateful to each and every one of you. Community flourishes at St. John because you share your creative and helpful input, your service and your thoughtfulness. Your generosity and teamwork count. I want to thank the 6th grade team and all the school families who have participated in our Holiday Food Drive for the St. Vincent de Paul pantry. Big thanks to the 4th grade homerooms and parent volunteers who prepared brown bag Lunches of Love this week. And next week some of our middle school students will be cooking 75 Thanksgiving meals for the residents at the Martina Apartments on Greenwood Ave. I am grateful to the 8th grade families, Ms. Mansfield, Mr. Stinebrickner, and Chef Michael Strimban for leading this service effort. Together we are acting for the common good.
Before we break for the holiday, let me remind you to view the State of the Parish video, not only because it is mandatory for all parish families, but also because the Exnicios family demonstrates so eloquently what it means to be a part of this community. Also remember that Advent starts on Sunday, November 27. The parish is hosting an opportunity to make Advent wreaths after the 10:30am Mass. During the following weeks, there are dates you should not miss. Be sure to check the calendar.
An important reminder as we dive into cold and flu season, please remember to keep children home if they are not feeling well. We are sending kids home daily during the school day who tell us they told a parent/guardian they did not feel well in the morning but came to school anyway. This increases the chance of spreading infectious diseases at school, and it is also disruptive for the classroom, teachers and office staff. Thank you for your support in keeping students safe and healthy! Do remember that if your child is absent for any reason, inform the school via attendance or an email to Mrs. Q.
Happy Thanksgiving,
Bernadette O’Leary
