August 18, 2020
Dear Parents,
As we continue to prepare for the re-opening of St. Joseph School on September 1, 2020, the staff and I wish you to know that you are in our prayers daily. The first week of school will be all 12:30 dismissal times.
We are all concerned for the health and safety of all of our children, our families and our staff. In light of this concern, we want everyone to know that the school is confident that we have measures in place. These are based on our school policies, and the health and safety recommendation of the Ledge Light Health Department, in keeping with State and CDC guidelines.
We are happy to answer any questions you might have at any time.
Everyone should have received the school calendar for the coming school year. Please be advised that the calendar is subject to change as time passes.
Today, I am sending the Re-opening Plan with revisions in RED, as well as the Health Procedures and Policies. More detailed information regarding the latter will be available on an individual basis.
Summer uniforms for students will be worn from September 1st through mid-October, weather permitting. All students with the exception of Kindergarten shall come to school with a backpack. This will hang on the backs of their chairs and will accommodate lunches and water bottles during the school day.
I am currently in discussion with Father Mark, regarding how our school masses will take place. Further updates will be available in the very near future. We will celebrate Mass with a portion of the students on September 1st for teachers and students ONLY. I am truly sorry that for the reason of accommodating the recommended numbers, no one else may attend at this time.
As we say goodbye to Ms. Morrell and wish her well and many thanks for her 4 years at SJS, I am pleased to announce that a new physical education and health teacher will join us this year. Ms. Madeline Kornacki formerly taught at St. Mary-St. Joseph in Willimantic, and comes to us with many additional qualifications. Ms. Kornacki is from Stonington. Sadly, after 30 years of teaching Art at St. Joseph School, Mrs. Butchka has decided to retire from that position. We are forever grateful for the sharing of her time and talent, as well as the many ways in which she has inspired our young artists. Mrs. Shannon Brenek will replace Mrs. Butchka in the art position. We have known Mrs. Brenek for many years as a parent and now we are fortunate to welcome her and her talent as our new Art teacher.
We are currently looking for a fulltime 17.5 hour per week aftercare person. If you or anyone you know might be interested in caring for our aftercare students, please contact me through principal@sjsnl.org or call the office at 860 442-1720.
You continue to be in my prayers. Please continue to keep each of us in yours.
Marianne Cote
Principal