Principal's Corner

June 17, 2020

Dear Parents and Students,

You don’t need me to tell you how remarkable this past school year has been. You and I have lived through days that will mark history and change the course of the future. I cannot help but recall the words of the prophet Jeremiah to the Israelites, who were exiled in Babylon,

For I know well the plans I have in mind for you—oracle of the LORD—plans for your welfare and not for woe, so as to give you a future of hope. When you call me, and come and pray to me, I will listen to you.  When you look for me, you will find me. Yes, when you seek me with all your heart, I will let you find me—oracle of the LORD—and I will change your lot; I will gather you together from all the nations and all the places to which I have banished you—oracle of the LORD—and bring you back to the place from which I have exiled you. (Jer. 29: 11-14).

Verse 11 has long been posted on our website because it is our firm belief God provides and cares for His people; and, we are His. Like the Israelites, we have been exiled. In the same manner, God will lead us back home.

During the recent Stay at Home order, teachers, parents and students learned to communicate differently with one another. Teachers learned, designed and implemented lessons so that the student’s learning experience was not interrupted. Our efforts were applauded by many and found to be lacking by others. Those who offered constructive criticism gave us the springboard from which to launch professional development. We will continue to develop and explore resources and schedules for remote learning so that we are prepared should the need arise to be away from our buildings.

Our greatest hope is to have everyone return to SAS in the fall. The administration is working closely with the Office of Catholic Education’s task force to develop a plan for facilities and procedures.  St. Andrew the Apostle’s Pastoral Council and Finance Committee provides additional guidance and support for transitioning back to school. As plans are solidified, they will be relayed to you.

Some changes that have been finalized are as follows:

• School will open for grades 1-8 on Monday, August 31^st. This early start will help us reacclimate to school procedures.
• Arrival time is 8:00am. Dismissal times for August 31^st, September 1^st and September 2^nd will be at 1:00pm. School will be closed on September 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th for the Labor Day holiday.
• First Penance will be held on Wednesday, September 23^rd; First Holy Communion will be held on Saturday, September 26^th. Confirmation with Bishop Edward Deliman is on Wednesday, October 21^st.
• The spring/fall uniform has been updated to include walking shorts, skorts and a red polo with the school logo. These pieces are not mandatory! They are optional. Flynn & O’Hara, the uniform supplier will offer discounts over the summer months for online orders.

Shortly you will recieve a packet your child(ren)s final report card and award certificates they may have received. Parents and students are applauded for a job well done! Take time now to relax and enjoy the free and easy weeks of summer. May God bless you all!

Peace and all Good,

Dr. Helen McLean
Principal