| As we step into the new year, it brings us great joy to share with you the inspiring message from Pope Francis for 2024. Pope Francis has dedicated this year to the profound act of prayer, inviting Christians worldwide to deepen their connection with Christ and unlock the transformative power that lies within prayer. The Holy Father wants us to understand that prayer is more than a routine or something we do for peace of mind. It’s a beautiful way for us to place our trust in God and share our hopes, concerns, and gratitude.
During the month of January we will celebrate the virtue of Unity. We will reflect extensively on how Jesus in the scriptures and the saints in their lives modeled unity and inclusiveness as we are all “one in Jesus.” Welcome Vice Principal Capone to St. Mary. It is with great pleasure that we extend a heartfelt welcome to our new Vice Principal, Mrs. Amanda Capone! We are excited to have her join our team and look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly bring to our school. Mrs. Capone comes to us with a wealth of experience and a passion for education. Her dedication to fostering a supportive learning environment aligns perfectly with our school’s values. Ms. Capone will join our St. Mary family on Monday, January 8th. Kindergarten registrations are now welcome for the 2024-2025 school year. If you have a child or know someone who has a child starting school in September, the online registration form can be completed by visiting the St. Mary website. The Junior (Grades 4-6) Boys’ and Girls’ Mustang Volleyball practices will take place during the lunch hour throughout the month of January. The Junior Boys’ Volleyball Team will compete on Thursday, January 18th at Holy Name and our Junior Girls’ Volleyball Team will compete on Monday, January 22nd at St. Mary. Hot Lunch Update NO HOT LUNCH THIS WEEK OR NEXT! Information regarding the next term Hot Lunch orders will be communicated to parents through School Messenger in the coming days. Orders will be available for purchase from January 9th to 16th. Stay tuned for more information to be shared! Lunch-Time Programs Begin this Month
Safe Arrival Procedures- REMINDER To ensure the safe arrival of all students every day, parents are reminded to use our Safe Arrival Reporting tool. Please use the Safe Arrival System to report absences, lates and early dismissal before 9:00 am. Call 1-855-865-7862 or online at go.schoolmessenger.ca. In the interest of safety and to maximize the learning experience for all, we encourage all students to arrive at school on time so that they can enter with their class line at 9:00a.m. Punctuality for school is essential for a positive learning experience and academic achievement. Winter Weather Reminders ● Students will be outdoors for 2 – 15 min recesses and 1 – 40 min recess every day. Students are strongly encouraged to dress appropriately for the cold weather by wearing a hat, gloves, snowsuit and boots. ● Students who are playing on the field must wear winter boots. Snow pants are strongly recommended to ensure students stay dry and warm during play. ● Students should have an extra pair of socks, mittens/gloves, and pants at school in case their clothes become wet during outdoor play. Please ensure all items are clearly labeled with your child’s name. ● All students and parents are reminded to exercise extra caution when accessing our school grounds as slippery conditions may be present due to the weather conditions. Our custodial team will work proactively to clear walkways, however we ask that you exercise extra caution in the interest of the safety of all our students and families. ● When inclement routines are implemented during morning arrival (either due to rain, temperatures exceeding -18, icy conditions, etc.) students will be guided to enter one of two entrances: 1. On the Parking Lot Side (Kiss ‘N Ride)- students will enter the building through the Grade 1 doors only 2. On the Bus Loop Side – students will enter the building through the Intermediate doors only St. Mary Mustangs Spirit Wear Store Spirit wear will be available on demand by visiting the website https://stores.inksoft.com/st_mary_ces/shop/home. Parents are welcome to place your order whenever your child goes through a growth spurt or if/when new clothes are needed. Orders will be delivered to the school every 2-3 weeks. We have much to be thankful for at St. Mary Catholic School. We have a very dedicated and caring staff, supportive parents and guardians, students who are motivated to do well, and a collaborative school community that works in partnership with our church. We are truly blessed! We look forward to another term of dedicated efforts so that our students may continue to strive to reach their full academic potential. We also look forward to engaging activities, student leadership and athletics to keep up our school spirit and morale. Thank you for your continued confidence in us and for all of your support. L. D’Andrea A. Capone Principal Vice Principal |