March 30, 2020
Dear St. Joseph School Families,
As we continue to navigate our way through this unprecedented time in our lives, we are reminded that Jesus continues to walk this journey with us. Yesterday’s Gospel shared with us the words that “Jesus wept” at the death of his friend Lazarus, showing us that Jesus walks with us. We also look at Martha the sister of Lazarus whose faith in Jesus as God knew that He would help, as he raised her brother. May our faith and our prayer each day be that kind of faith, knowing that our persistence in prayer will be heard.
This morning our prayer at school we would have received the mini candle with the words, “You are the light of the world”, reminiscent of the candle we received in Baptism. The flame of that candle reminding us that Jesus is the light of the world, and that each of us is call to be light for others. Learn, Play, and above all pray with your families in this time of uncertainly and concern. God will listen!
The teachers and I will be having a faculty meeting on Tuesday through google meet. Just as you and your families are looking for the best way to continue the learning/teaching process, we are as well. I have been making my way through the family directory, attempting to reach everyone to check in with a personal call. I have talked to some, left messages for others, and in some cases haven’t made it to your family as yet. If you need to speak with me prior to my getting to you, please notify me through principal@sjsnl.org. I am more than happy to speak with you or your children.
I remind you that our superintendent has asked that Fridays be reserved for alternate learning activities (e.g., walking and exercise outside when weather permits, reading appropriately timed for grade levels, craft and art activities, cards and letters to family or those who are helping during this difficult time, board games). The teachers are expected to suggest activities in their messages to the students and you prior to Friday. Students do not need to login on Fridays and teachers will be using this time for planning. This is not to say that they will not be available to you for questions or reassurance.
I am truly grateful for all of our parents and teachers as we continue this unprecedented teaching/learning time. I want our 8th Graders and their families to know that we intend to celebrate your graduation when the times and circumstances allow us to do so. Our diplomas have been ordered and our caps and gowns will be as well. 8th graders will be working on their class banner in pieces and it will come together as a very special quilt when they have completed their piece. What a wonderful opportunity for our families to be a part of this yearly graduation tradition by working with their 8th graders. Materials and ideas will be provided.
You are all in my prayers. I am so proud to be your principal. Please keep me in your prayers as we are all in God’s loving hands.
Marianne Cote, Principal