Principal’s Letter – 12/01/21

We have begun the Advent season with our traditional St. Joseph School Advent morning prayer in the auditorium with appropriate spacing and mask wearing.  As we light the Advent wreath candles and remember the scripture stories, we are reminded of the journey we have traveled awaiting the birth of Jesus. Each day, we remember all of you in our prayers.

Starting on December 13th, boys will be allowed to wear Christmas ties in lieu of their school ties.  All students may wear Christmas sweaters or sweatshirts as well.

Wreath pick-up, for those who ordered Christmas wreaths, will be today Wednesday, December 1st from 2:30 to 6 p.m. in the Church parking lot to the right of the school.

We also wish to remind everyone that our 2021 St. Joseph School laser cut Ornament is available at the school.  There is a limited quantity of 50. This year the ornament features a Lamp with the words “Be a light for all to see.” and the school’s name and year. The cost is $20.  We thank Ashley and Colin Higgins who made and donated these ornaments to our school.  An order form for the ornament is attached.

St. Joseph School spirit wear is also available via the order form that was sent to your email.

On Thursday, December 2nd , students, who are bringing a toy for our toy collection, may wear appropriate casual clothing (No torn jeans or sweatpants please.) I thank you, in advance, for your generosity in giving to this toy collection for the children who otherwise may not receive a gift.  In this season of giving, gifts from your treasure are much appreciated.
Lessons and Carols takes place on December 10th at 7 p.m. in the Church. Attire for boys is dark pants, white shirt and a Christmas appropriate tie. Girls may wear dark skirts or dress slacks, white sweater or blouse. No athletic shoes please. All students will be wearing clear masks which have been purchased and tested by our 4th graders at their play last week.  All family members in attendance are required to wear masks as well.  To keep the numbers in Church reasonable, we are asking that only immediate families of our students attend. For those who have not had this experience, students sit with their classes.  With respect for the health and safety of all, at the conclusion of Lessons and Carols, the students will be dismissed one class at a time to their parents. This will avoid a gathering of many at the front of the Church. The 8th graders, who will be at the front already, will be dismantling the risers and equipment during this dismissal process.

On December 18th, the Home-School Association will provide dinner to the guests of the Community Meal Center on Montauk Avenue.  You have graciously assisted in this effort in the past, and we ask you once again in these difficult times to give as you are able. You will be contacted as to the menu, and your donations should be dropped off at the door of the meal center at 4 p.m..

Christmas recess begins at 12:30 p.m. on December 22nd.  There will be no after-school care on that day.

May this Advent time provide peace in your busy lives, giving you the opportunity to reflect on the reason for this time…the birth of Christ once again into our world and our hearts.

My prayers are with you.  Please keep each of us in yours.

Sincerely,

Marianne Cote, Principal