Principal’s Letter
Make no mistake; this is a long Principal’s Letter, but there is much to say and much to do before we end the 2022-2023 school year, especially since this is the last NewsViews before the summer holiday. I encourage you to read this thoroughly; thank you for a truly remarkable year.
That oft-repeated phrase, “It takes a village,” is so understated when it comes to St. John. Sometimes we only realize it when we have to say goodbye. Over the past few days, faculty, staff and students have been acknowledging the roles played and the big shoes that will have to be filled as we bid farewell to some of our St. John family.
Diane Crockett’s shoes will have to be filled by a number of people! Over the past year, we have been trying to figure out how she accomplishes so much – enrollment, budget and finance, scheduling and calendar, instructional supplies and federal programs to name just a few things. The title ‘business manager’ fails to reflect the incredible impact she has made at St. John over the past thirty years.
At the BBQ, you helped us toast Chef Michael, our lunchtime hero. You experienced a taste of the delicious meals we have enjoyed! You also cheered on Sean Laverty, who, for thirty-six years plus, has cared for the building and for us. Julie Lee, alumni parent, events manager, and assistant in the kitchen, is also leaving us. Yesterday, the students showed their appreciation with banners and cheers for this lunchtime team!
We have to say farewell to other wonderful team members: Amy Morris, assistant teacher and parent of two alumni, is also leaving. We are grateful for the many years of teaching and technology assistance that Amy has provided. If you cross at 1st and 79th Streets, you know Rick Villareal. We will miss his friendly greeting and the safe crossing he provides. He is retiring and looks forward to traveling with his wife.
From goodbyes to thank yous and congratulations: a big thank you Dick’s Drive-In for donating our end-of-the-year lunch! We are grateful for your continued support. Thank you to all the volunteers who helped with the School’s Out Grill’s Out BBQ. And a big thank you, too, to all our kitchen volunteers. Your cutting, prepping and cooking help make our lunch program the envy of all. Congratulations to the Track and Field team! You are the champions! We are also very proud of your Sportsmanship Award! A huge shout-out to the coaches and especially Eric Souder who led the program.
Concerts, bbq’s, graduations – there are so many great events that celebrate our welcoming Catholic community, our spirit and academic excellence. The students in grade 6, then, would like to invite you to another great event: the 6th Grade Ancient Greek Living Wax Museum on Monday, June 12, 1:45-3pm in Egan Hall. Come learn more about important historical figures and the gods and goddesses of Greek mythology!
As we look forward to the summer holiday, do recall that NewsViews will be on hiatus until mid-August. You will receive periodic emails from the school over the summer; do read them. It will make your student’s entry into the 2023-2024 school year smoother. Another way to help make that entry smoother is to encourage your student to take advantage of St. John’s summer learning opportunities. One last item: class assignments will be released the week of August 21. Please do not request class placement; students are thoughtfully placed by teachers as we are committed to having classes that are well-balanced and diverse, understanding that each child brings their unique spirit to the classroom experience.
Congratulations, Class of 2023; you are amazing! We are so proud of you and can’t wait to celebrate you and your families at Commencement. We wish you all the best as you embark on your future endeavors. We know that you will continue to make us proud. Go, Eagles!
Thank you, all!
Bernadette O’Leary
