Dear Families:
Department of Education
As I mentioned in my previous post, I had the opportunity to attend the Department of Education’s Office of Non-Public Education (ONPE) Leadership Conference in Washington, DC last week. There were presentations on teacher recruitment and retention issues, Supreme Court cases affecting education, collaboration with state education agencies, and inclusion of diverse learners. The highlight for me was the invitation to join 9 other attendees in a two-hour private, round-table discussion with Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos and five members of her staff. With representatives from Catholic, Hebrew, Christian, Montessori and Islamic schools participating, we quickly realized we are all facing the same issues from recruiting high quality teachers, to funding, to professional development. Secretary DeVos asked our opinions on what her office can do to elevate the teaching profession and support private education. Her staff took notes with the promise of follow-up conversations.
Move-a-thon
With just a little over two weeks until our annual Move-a-thon, I hope your students are phoning or e-mailing all those relatives, friends and neighbors for donations or pledges. Free dress passes will be awarded to all families who raise $225 or more. We want to surpass our Super Goal of $36,000 so we can celebrate with an all school ice cream party. Once again, donations can be made online on the school website under the Give Tab at https://stannesea.org/give-to-moveathon/
If you or a friend or family member owns a business or works for a company that might be interested in sponsorship, please contact co-chairs, Scott and Amy Graff or Monica Flora, St. Anne Development Director.
Harvest Fest
Make plans now to attend the annual parish Harvest Fest on Saturday, October 6th. Children’s activities, including pony rides, will be happening on the school playground starting at 1:30pm with hot dogs and other snacks available during the afternoon as well.An arts & crafts fair/sale (featuring parishioners’ gifts and talents) will take place in Banchero Hall until 6:30 pm, and will be available again on Sunday morning October 7th until noon.
Free Dress
Finally, the last Friday of the month is a free dress day for students and staff. With this Friday being the last Friday in September, students are welcome to wear non-uniform, school appropriate dress. Please check the Uniform Policy (p.7-10) in your Family Handbook if you have any questions about school appropriate dress.
Have a great week!
