Merry Christmas

 Thank you to everyone for making the Christmas program and Polar Express a success.  It was a great night for all and I heard MANY compliments about the program.  On my way out of the church, a grandmother stopped me and asked if I was the principal.  She is a retired principal and she asked me to pass along her congrats and feeling of awe at how well the teachers got the children on and off the "stage."  She loved the show but was also very impressed by how smoothly it ran.  Hats off to everyone!

This is a very short week but also a time to remember how important keeping to rules and procedures is this week when students have an eye on the upcoming break.  Do not be surprised if a number of students are absent, but continue with your lessons with the expectation all work will be made up when they return.  

Teachers, please be sure that your rooms are clean and well-organized when you leave on Wednesday and I look forward to celebrating the season with everyone on Wednesday.  Be sure to bring your gift if you are coming so you can play my infamous Left/Right game!  I suggest carpooling to Three Bulls on Wednesday as the parking lot is not that big.  

I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!  Feliz Navidad!

What Were They Thinking?

 This is the title of this year's drama production of the Nativity.  When Heather told me the title, in my head I thought she meant it like, "What were they thinking, are they crazy?!" Then I realized it was an insight into what people were thinking when they heard the Messiah had arrived.  If we pause and think about it, what must it have been like to be a witness to this event?   It truly is hard to imagine and I'm sure they needed great faith to believe that the event foretold in the Bible was actually happening.  I can't wait to hear the insight that the students will share with us Friday night.  The students have also been working hard preparing to sing for us and I know it will be an amazing night.  Please join us in the FLC after the concert to see the magical wonderland of the Polar Express that the PTCO is creating. 

Patty will be back on Monday for the second round of observations.  Please refer to the previously shared schedule.  All math teachers will meet in the media center after carline for a brief wrap-up and discussion of the next PD and remaining observation.  All other teachers may work on CIPA and math teachers will join you as soon as we are done.  Friday afternoon is the next opportunity to work on CIPA.  Please refer to the timeline to be sure you are staying on task.  Mary and Heather will do check-ins with each group on Friday.  

Hats off to Marianne for helping students create outstanding science fair projects.  Last week we were all very impressed with the 7th-grade projects and I am looking forward to seeing how the 6th grade did this week.  

Friday morning we will head over to the church to practice for the Christmas concert.  Please look for an email from Denet with instructions.  

On a final note, Mary is sending home an email regarding uniforms and Christmas break being an opportunity to check uniforms at home and see if it is time for a new size.  However, this will only be meaningful if everyone is doing their part.  I see uniform violations every day and nothing will change unless violations are documented and students receive the consequence of no jean day.  I would expect that MANY students will not have jean day on the last day of school because they are continually out of uniform.  The greatest number of violations are related to the length of skorts for girls and the length of PE shorts for both boys and girls.  After 3rd grade, no one should be wearing cotton shorts.  They should be wearing mesh shorts, which are longer when purchasing the correct size.  Please check every day and follow up with parents.  I am also asking that you remind students to either wear their sweatshirts or put them away.  Students may NOT wear the sweatshirt around their waist.  Thank you for your support in helping with this ongoing issue.  

Have a great week.... 8 more days to go! 

Gingerbread Man seen roaming the halls of St. Stephen.

 

In case you missed him, he's back and ready with his gifts for students to purchase.  All teachers have instructions and a schedule for this event which the children love.  

As promised, as we come to the end of the calendar year, things get busy.  Here are the events for this week:

Monday

• Gingerbread Shop - All week (see schedule)
• Patty from Catapult will be here doing teacher observations/discussions as part of our Math CQA professional development.  I may accompany Patty on some of the observations.
• Faculty Meeting - business meeting.  ALL teachers are expected to attend.  We will be discussing the Christmas concert (Denet, please let teachers know the expectations for that night), last day of school before break, CSW (Julie and friends, please be ready to talk), and more.  

Wednesday

• 7th/8th grade has Reconciliation at 9:15.  Please be on time.

Thursday

• All school Mass at 8:30.  This is a Holy Day of Obligation.  Encore teachers can meet with teachers if you want to try to move a class to another time or if you want your class for 20 min. on Thursday.
• Science Fair for 7th Grade

Friday

• Grades K-8 Adoration (follow the schedule previously provided and please be on time).
• Marvelous Mustang
• Remind students to wear their uniforms to Mass over the weekend for a Holy Card/free dress pass.  

The final amount for our Make a Difference walkathon was just over $27,000.  We are able to write a check to my Warriors Place for $2700 and they are super excited.  This also means that I was able to purchase 45 (yes, 45!!!) new iPads.  The 2nd grade will get a class set of the new iPads and the first grade will have a complete set.  The remaining iPads will be used in MakerSpace and will be available for checkout in groups of 5-6 for class projects.  More info to come when they arrive.  It will take some time to get them set up but hoping to be ready when we return after Christmas.  A BIG thank goes to our families for Making a Difference!  

Have a wonderful week.  

Thankful

For me, it's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is almost here.  With the hurricane days, it feels like we've had a number of long breaks already, but another one is just around the corner.  As you go through the week, remind students of all the things they have to be thankful for.  For me, I am thankful for the St. Stephen community and all the fabulous people I get to work with each day.  Thank you all for the time and effort you put into everything you do.  

At this time of year, it is very important that you pay attention to the calendar, blog, Tidbits, and emails in order to know what is happening.  Once we get back from Thanksgiving break, things move quickly and there is much going on.  With everything that is planned, it is important that teachers keep Mary and I informed of everything you are doing that might be different from normal schedules and activities as your change could impact others.  Please let us know if parents are invited in for activities (Karen appreciates knowing when to expect visitors), you change where you plan to eat lunch (this impacts maintenance and other classes), you are doing anything that requires a donation from parents (this MUST be pre-approved even if it is part of a service project), etc.  As stated during pre-planning, teachers may not ask for donations of anything (except recycled trash - shoe boxes, milk cartons, etc.) unless prior approval is given.  

Things to remember this week:

• Monday is a Holy Card Free Dress day
• Monday is also a CIPA faculty meeting.  Chairperson, please let your committee know where you will be meeting after school
• Friday is a jean day with a fall colored/themed shirt.  Any student with 3 or more uniform violations since the last jean day may not participate.  

Have a wonderful week everyone!

Honoring All Who Served

 This week we remember all those who served in our military and their commitment to our nation.  Friday morning, we will have a ceremony to honor veterans and 10% of the money raised that day will be donated to My Warrior's Place in Ruskin.  

Here is the plan for Friday.  When the bell rings at 7:50, proceed IMMEDIATELY to the FLC.  The ceremony will begin promptly at 8:00 am so that Fr. Izzie can get back to church for Mass.  I will be there before students arrive and will direct you where to go.  Students will sit on the floor.  The ceremony will include a prayer, pledge, song, flag folding demonstration by the Knights of Columbus, brief speech, student works and closing remarks.  It should last approx. 20 min.  Parents and parishioners were invited to join us.  

When the ceremony is over, PK, K and 1st grade will proceed to the soccer field for the Walkathon.  The other grades will come out during their scheduled time.  Students will wear their PE shorts and Make a Difference t-shirt.  Please remind them about that.  They may also add red, white, and blue accessories.  

Friday afternoon is parent/teacher conference time.  All teachers must follow their regular Friday schedule even if they do not have any conferences that day.  Please share your conference schedule with me so I know how long Karen should be here.  If you have a conference scheduled after 4 pm, you are responsible for letting the parents into the building.  The gate may stay propped open, but not doors.  Please do not tell parents to come in through the art room.  

Please keep our 6th graders in your prayers as they head off to Focus 11 on Thursday.  

Have a great week!

Oh When the Saints

 Go marching in!  We will be surrounded by saints on Tuesday and I can't wait to guess who they are.  Please remember that we will go to Mass on Tuesday this week.  If you have an Encore class (Gr. 1 Art, Gr. 2 Spanish, Gr. 5B Music), try to have the class later in the day.  For example, 5B could have music after Mass at 9:34.  Teachers, please work this out among yourselves.

Most important thing to be thinking about this week is making sure all make-ups and retakes are completed, all work is turned in, and do not schedule summatives for the end of the week (at least not if you want to count it for this Trimester).  There would not be time for absent makeups and retakes.  Please review Mary's email completely and see her if you have any questions about report cards.  

All middle school teachers and I will be out Thursday and Friday this week.  Please pray for the subs :) 

Finally, I am asking that everyone promote our Walkathon fundraiser.  All details are in Tidbits.  My plan is to purchase 30 iPads with the money and maybe more if we meet our goal.  Your enthusiasm will transfer to your students and help make this a success.  I will give more details about Nov. 11 and what to expect at the ceremony in my next blog.

Have a great week!  Happy Halloween 

AND.....

Happy All Saints Day!  

Humility

 ...the one who humbles himself will be exalted. Lk 18:14 

Today at Mass, Fr. Anthony once again challenged everyone to pray the Litany of Humility.  He said it was a difficult prayer and I can understand why.  I sometimes hesitate when praying the Our Father because of a few words that are in.. forgive my trespasses as I forgive others.  I would prefer God forgave me better than I sometimes forgive others.  After reading this litany, I found it even more difficult.  Imagine asking that everyone be put before us in every way.  It seems contrary to everything we hear -- be the best, rise to the top, seek reward, etc.  Imagine living as we called to live and ask that we remain unnoticed.  The prayer is at the bottom, and in echoing Fr. Anthony, I challenge you to pray it.  This is also a good time to reflect on our Faith Dev. Plans.  Are you doing what you said you would do?  Have you started that book you were going to read?  Are you praying daily when you are alone?  Are you reading the Bible each day?  Keep your goals present and reflect each day on your achievements toward reaching those goals.  

Reminders for this week:

• Monday's PLC has been changed to a subject area PLC since the last one was cancelled due to the hurricane.  If you teach math, please meet in Anthony's room and if you teach ELA, please meet in Heather's room.  Mary will join the ELA group and I will join the Math group.  Since PK-2nd teach both, I am going to ask that you all join the math group as we are focused on that subject this year.  Connor will join the ELA group.  
• Everyone has shared with me what the students will wear on Nov. 1.  If you have not done so already, be sure you are doing your Saints' lesson this week and students must know by Monday what they need to wear.  Parents should also be emailed by tomorrow what the expectations are for dressing on Nov. 1.
• Friday is a noon dismissal.  Teachers will work on CIPA in the afternoon.  Chairpersons should let their members know where you would like to meet.  I will work on the final items this week that people have asked for so you have it for Friday.  Mary and Heather will visit each of the Domain groups to check on your progress and I will be available for questions/evidence.  I can say that based on the emails I have received and listening to people in the office talk about evidence, it is clear that everyone is doing their part with CIPA and I am very grateful for your support and how you've all made this a priority.  
• Friday is also Marvelous Mustang.  Many of you still have not chosen your student.  Please do this on Monday and remember to let the parents know.  If you are an Encore teacher, please cc the homeroom teacher so they know to send that student to the Media Center in the morning.
• Friday is Trunk or Treat.  Please stop by if you are able.  Students love seeing teachers/staff at these events.  Trust me, when they see you, you will feel like a movie star.  
• Finally, Oct. 31 is Halloween.  Be sure to go over jean day rules this week.  On that day, students may wear blue/black jeans or PE shorts (nothing else) and a halloween/fall colors shirt, any spirit shirt, or their PE shirt.  

Thank you for being amazing!  Have a great week.  

A Few Reminders...

 I hope everyone is enjoying the long weekend.  Teachers, enjoy your workshops tomorrow.  The teachers who are meeting me at school have received emails regarding the plan for tomorrow.

Reminders for this week:

• Tuesday is picture day.  Everyone comes to school in regular uniform.  No PE uniforms.  8th graders were told what to wear for graduation pictures.
• Boo Gram sales continue during lunch
• Barbara will only be in on Tuesday and Wednesday this week
• 6th grade Focus 11 video is due to the Diocese
• 7th grade will be on a field trip all day Friday with Mr. Plumer 
• Friday is Family Movie Night

Please remember All Saints Day is just around the corner.  I will be sending a google form to teachers so I know the plan for your homeroom.  

Hurricane days decision was included in Tidbits this week.  

Have a great week!

Boo!

 Thank you to everyone who helped with and supported the Pumpkin Patch.  It was a great success and everything looked beautiful.  Note for next time...  More face painters need to be on hand!  That was very popular and our students did a great job painting.  I'm not sure the older students appreciate how much the little ones look up to them and think they are really cool.  

This week the fun continues with Boo Gram sales.  Mr. Brozak should have sent teachers information on what to expect.  Sales will take place all week for delivery on Halloween.  This is also the time to prepare for All Saints Day.  Typically our PK-2nd grade will dress up as saints for Mass.  How much of the costume the students wear throughout the day is up to the teacher.  I recommend PE uniforms underneath.  Our other students have decorated a plain white t-shirt with images of a saint and things that represent them they have researched (Ex. St. Therese - flowers).   For 8th graders, it should be their Confirmation saint.  In middle school, you could think about the option to decorate a t-shirt or maybe have them dress as the saint or what they are the patron saint of.  What is most important is to put this in your religion lessons plans soon so students have time to learn about their saint.

Remember that there is no school on Friday and students do not have school on Monday.  As discussed previously, the plan for Oct. 17 is PK teachers are registered for one event, Mary G and Maria are going to the Instructional Coaches PD, All teachers K-5, David, and Connor are going to the ELA PD.  The Encore teachers (Yesenia, Denet, Darien, George, and Claudia) are here with me as are Marianne and Lisa.  If you have any questions, please see me.  

Finally, the superintendent was vague about hurricane make up days and for a few reasons.  It was too late to cancel Oct. 14 and 17, he didn't want to mess with Thanksgiving, and we are still not out of hurricane season.  I think he is also taking the lead from the county where they are looking at hours and not days.  We will address this again after Christmas and he will decide what to do then.  In the meantime, I will be paying everyone for all four days for your regularly scheduled hours.  If you were scheduled to work and were able to work any of those days (Tues-Fri), you will be paid for your regular hours.  Please put your hours in Paylocity as if you were here those days based on your regular schedule.  Again, see me if you have any questions.  

Have a wonderful week!

Prayers for those affected by Hurricane Ian

 Good afternoon.  I hope everyone is doing well and hopefully most of you have power.  I know some were affected more than others, but I am sure we are all grateful when we see the damage Ian caused for those south of us.  Let us continue to pray for them.  

October is the month of the Rosary.  Teachers were sent an email this morning regarding what we do as a school during the morning show this month and rosaries were placed in each K-8 homeroom teacher's mailbox this morning.  If anyone needs more or if PK would like some, please just let me know.  I will be in late tomorrow and Mary will lead the Rosary tomorrow on the Morning Show.  After that, the morning show crew will lead it.  

I can't thank you all enough for how quickly you pulled it all together on Monday to send the students home for two days of virtual learning.  I popped in on most classes on Wednesday and was very impressed with the attendance.  I have a principal's meeting on Friday to learn more about how we will make up the two days we missed.  After I learn that decision, I will inform everyone on how to complete your time card for last week (including part time personnel).  

Please be careful on the big playground.  The picnic tables under the green awning are off limit until we can secure the one pole that came out of the ground.  PreK will also need to stay away from the awning on their playground.  I am asking Duffy to put up caution tape until they can be repaired.  There is still a lot of debris to clean up on the property and I'm hoping the lawn crew will be here Monday to work on that.  

Mass this week will be a Communion Service as priests are not available.  This means everything is the same except there is no consecration.  Melissa will let choir know if they are singing.  Denet, please be sure choir members have all the new songs including the two new 5th graders.

Finally, we will have Marvelous Mustang on Thursday.  Please be sure you have let all the parents know their child was chosen and invite them to be present on Thursday for the morning show.  

Have a wonderful week!

Ian is Coming!

No, not Ian Fleming or Ian Anderson, but a different, unwelcome Ian.  Hopefully, you all took time this weekend preparing (not buying 14 cases of water, just preparing).  As the cone of uncertainty is very wide and keeps changing, most likely decisions will not be made until Tuesday or Wednesday.  Remember, we do NOT follow Hillsborough County closures.  At times, public schools close a day early to prepare because they are used as evacuation shelters.  I will keep you all up-to-date as the week progresses.  

Here are some reminders for this week:

Monday - For teachers - Subject area PLC (directions to follow on Monday)

Thursday - Encore teacher PLC at 2:15 (meet in the art room)

Friday - Marvelous Mustang and PK/K Trike-a-thon

If you have chosen your Marvelous Mustang with the reason why, please do so by Monday morning so that we have time to print out the certificates.  

Finally, Book Fair was a GREAT SUCCESS!  Thank you to Nicki and Yesenia and all the PTCO members and parent volunteers for helping to make this happen.  Our gross sales were over $15,000 and everyone had a great time!

Have a wonderful week!

I Love Rock and Roll

 Whether it's Chuck Berry singing "Let me hear some of that Rock and Roll" or Led Zeppelin singing "It's been a long time since I rock and rolled," I Love Rock and Roll, and maybe you do too.  So make sure you make like a Rolling Stone and find some Satisfaction at the Book Fair this week.  Teacher preview is Monday morning at 7am with breakfast treats provided by PTCO.  It's going to be a crazy week so please be sure you have read all the emails.  If you have any question about Friday, please come see me.  

Saturday was the SVDP Ladies Tea and some of our students were the entertainment.  Bree and Mallory in grade 4 sang, Nina and Alli in grade 7 played piano, and Leah in grade 7 sang a solo that was beautiful.  We have some amazing talent in our school and I was so proud of our students.  

Teachers have two professional development workshops this week, i-Ready on Monday at 3:30 in the Media Center for all homeroom teachers grades K-8, Lisa, Amanda, Barbara, and Melissa.  For Friday's professional development, please refer to my emails.  

In case you missed it, I put lockdown magnets on all the doors.  All classroom doors should remain locked at all times.  The magnet will allow the door to stay open.  In the event of a lockdown or shelter in place, just remove the magnet and the door will be secure.  

Have a great week!

Remember

 ... to say a prayer for those we lost on 9/11/01 and especially those who gave their life to help others.

I hope everyone is enjoying a break from the rain today, at least for now.  We have a fairly quiet week coming up before our exciting book fair week.  Teachers, please be sure you have read everything related to the book fair so that you are prepared for next week (Sept. 19-23).  

Our faculty meeting tomorrow will be time to work on CIPA.  The schedule says, "Review benchmarks and discuss the evidence needed and create a plan to collect evidence." Chairpersons should reach out to their committee and let them know where you will meet at 3:30.

Please be sure you are promoting our SVDP food drive. The last day to bring in canned/dry food is Thursday.

Have a wonderful week!

Happy Labor Day

 Good afternoon to all.  I hope you all found some rest from your labors this weekend.  There is not much happening this week. Please remind your students to wear their uniform to Mass this coming weekend for a free dress on Monday.  Mary will be attending a CE Tracker training Thursday morning and I will be at a principal's meeting on Friday.  

For those of you who were here in 2014, I want you to be aware of a trial involving the HCSO that is starting in Tampa the week of Sept. 12.  Andrew Joseph was an 8th grade student at St. Stephen the year he met with a tragic accident after attending the state fair.  The trial centers around the circumstances that led to his death.  Should anyone form the news media approach you as a representative of St. Stephen, your reply is no comment and you may direct them to me.  Please keep the Joseph family in your prayers.

Have a wonderful 4-day week!

Celebrating the Birth of Mary

 Thank you to those who have already turned in their Faith Development Plan.  Please be sure to turn those in to my mailbox by Friday, Sept. 2.  I can see how you were inspired by Fr. Anthony at the retreat in completing your plans.  Many have incorporated the idea of the 3X5 daily prayer and that peace comes from knowing God.  A couple of you have mentioned the book Set the World on Fire.  I would suggest sharing that you are reading the book and possibly meet a few times for a book study/reflection.  I did this one year with a few teachers (until Covid stopped us short), and found it helped me keep on track with my plan.  Many also mentioned having check-ins to stay on track with your plan.  I will incorporate that into my blog a few times throughout the year and also ask the priests to join us at meetings throughout the year to continue to inspire us.  

This year, our first St. Vincent de Paul collection will take place from Sept. 8 - 16.  The organization has struggled to meet the needs of the community and Fr. Dermot has asked Faith Formation and the School to do a collection early in the year.  Sept. 8 is the Feast of the Nativity of Mary.  As we celebrate her birth, we will remember to ask her intercession for those in need.  I would like us to pray the Memorare each morning on the Morning Show Sept. 8-16 and have the students include petitions that the needs of those who are struggling will be met by our generosity.  I will put it in Tidbits this Thursday and I ask that you promote this with your students.  The theme of the Collection will be Help Feed the Children of Mary. Mary was a lowly handmaid but, by the grace of God, her soul magnifies the Lord, and she became the Mother of God and our mother too.  It is our responsibility to honor our Heavenly Father and our spiritual mother.  What better way to honor our mother but to help her children who are struggling at this moment in their lives.  

For those who are new to St. Stephen, the St. Vincent de Paul Society provides food to the community.  People are able to come every Friday to pick up bags of food.  You probably see them in their golf carts on Friday between the FLC and portable.  

Friday is a noon dismissal and teachers will meet in the Media Center at 1:00 pm.  Our Professional Development will be i-Ready and GoGuardian.  More details to follow.

Have a wonderful week!  

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To you I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word incarnate, despise not my petitions, but, in your mercy, hear and answer me.  Amen.

Grand Opening!

 This will be an exciting week for our school.  As you saw in Tidbits, we will be having our Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for our reimagined Media Center on Tuesday at 8:00 am with the Riverview Chamber of Commerce in attendance.  We have also invited those who helped make this dream a reality.  Yesenia will video tape it and we can play the actual ribbon cutting and blessing on the morning show on Thursday for everyone to watch.

This is the week the students should be completing their Mustang Writes.  Next Monday's faculty meeting (Aug. 29) will be the time to score their work.  Some teachers will be doing this and some will be in a zoom meeting with me to go over the CIPA self-study process.  This will be attended by committee chairs and the steering committee (Heather, Maria, Galy, Susana, Mary, Lisa and me).  Tomorrow's meeting will be a grade level PLC.  I have already sent an email to the Early Childhood teachers and the Encore teachers regarding tomorrow's faculty meeting.  More information will be shared tomorrow.  

Final reminder that Wednesday is the All Parish Retreat at the Franciscan Center.  I'm looking forward to a peaceful day led by Fr. Anthony.  

Have a wonderful week!

Who's Ready? I - Ready!

 Ok, maybe that was corny.  I hope you all had a great first week and a restful weekend.  I can tell you all this, I heard SO many good things about our first week of school and about our teachers.  THIS was the best first week ever!!  If you haven't seen our Facebook posts (Thank you Yesenia!), check them out and you will see why this was a great week.

Our second week will focus on i-Ready testing for grades 1-8.  I sent out the schedule for this week and Amanda added the small group support to it.  Barbara sent passwords today, Yesenia made sure the technology is good to go, and Mary helped pull it all together.  Way to go Mustangs!  Barbara will follow up with K to schedule their testing and 1st grade to finish the week of Aug. 22.  

For teachers, we will have a regular faculty meeting on Monday and the topics for discussion will be Student Support Plans and Services.  Please bring any questions you still may have on any topic.

Just a reminder that our All Parish Retreat is Wednesday, August 24, at the Franciscan Center in Tampa. This event is mandatory for all employees. The location is 21 miles from the school, therefore, we will not reimburse for mileage and I do recommend carpooling as there is limited parking.  If you are a part time employee, you may put in for 6 hours that day even if it puts you over 29.5 for the week.  Our start time is 9:00 am with a continental breakfast and we will end at 3:00 pm.  Lunch will be included.  Here is the address:  3010 N Perry Ave., Tampa.  

I will be out this Friday at the Bethany Center for an Administrator's Meeting.  Mary will be here and I will be available by text and email.  

Thank you for a great start to this new year!

Welcome Back!

 
Welcome to the day before the first day of school!  Thank you to everyone for making the school look beautiful.  Parents had good things to say (mostly, thank goodness school is starting!) and they are looking forward to this new year.  

I heard from Denet and she is scheduled to fly out of Marrakesh on Aug. 15 but it will take her two days to get back to Tampa.  I'm hoping she will start on Aug. 18.  In the meantime, I will work with Mary to come up with some ideas beyond what we already planned.  

Middle School teachers, please remember to meet me at 9:45 in the breezeway for the House Sorting Ceremony.  Darien or Yesenia, if available, please come take pictures.   I will stay and speak with students interested in being in the choir right after the sorting ceremony.  Our first Mass is Wednesday with 8th grade leading the Mass.

Don't forget lunch in the FLC hosted by PTCO on Monday.  Please refer back to the presentation if you forgot if you have lunch duty that day.  

I plan to visit all the classrooms on Monday.  Please pause whatever you are doing for a few minutes so that I can greet the students and welcome them back.  

Bells are set.  You may be confused when you hear them because it sounds a little like a doorbell.  I will share the bell schedule with everyone which shows the times and where they ring.  I have the bells set to ring at the end of class and also when class should begin.  The bells on the playground indicate the end of your recess time.  

Teachers, we will have a brief faculty meeting after carline (hopefully at 3:30) in the media center.  This is just a "how did today go and what did we forget to tell you" discussion.  It should not be long but it is always good to check in after the first day.  Please remind students this week that the upcoming weekend is Uniform Weekend and that they should wear their uniforms and get their holy card for free dress Monday.  It's also a good time to go over the free dress rules in the handbook.  

Thank you everyone.  This is going to be a great year!!

The Final Countdown

...and my final blog of this school year.  I think I can, I think I can....  I know you can, I know you can...  I know we can all do this.  Just 5 MORE DAYS!!  

Most important thing to remember is to keep to routines.  The students need routines and consistency to help manage behavior.  

Monday, the people who sponsor the Shining Light award will be here to present a basket to Lisa for being among the finalists.  Lisa is truly a Shining Light among us and I appreciate all she does for our students.  

Teachers have a faculty meeting on Monday in Heather's room.  Our plan is to review some of the key points of the end-of-year requirements.  Please bring your questions.  We hope to keep it brief so that you have time to work on the tasks.

Grades are due on Wednesday at 8 am.  Please be sure to include ATLs and Conduct grades.

Our talent show will take place in the FLC on Thursday.  All students should be seated by 1:00 pm.  Thank you Heather for putting this together!!

On Friday, parents may begin picking their children up at 11:30 to take them to the End of Year Bash.  Because our PA system is not working and to keep things simple, please prop open the Angel's Wing gate and doors at 11:30 and allow parents to take their children.  If you are unsure who someone is, please ask them to show their ID.  We will continue with classroom pick-up at noon.  Any student  still remaining in your classroom at 12:15 should be sent to the office as we will not have Extended Day.  

Please DO NOT pass out yearbooks until Friday.  If there are families who have not met their financial obligations, we will come get their yearbook and test scores envelope.  If any parent asks, tell them to come to the office.  

Please head out to the FLC on Friday between 12:15-12:30.  Grab some lunch, take a shot at Coach Green in the dunk tank, and wave goodbye to your students.  The afternoon is for finalizing report cards and completing cum folders (instructions will be given at the faculty meeting).

Have a great week.  Thank you everyone for making it to the end of a challenging year.  Thank you for laughing with me as we navigated through the year.  

Happy Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week

 This week we celebrate everyone!  PTCO has put together a number of treats for you and Gina and I have put together some FUN!!  It is called SURVIVOR - The Game You Didn't Know You Were Preparing for ALL YEAR!  If the word survivor were to apply to any school year, this certainly would be the one.  I want to thank all of you who have held in there knowing that this will get better!  I also appreciate your commitment to the students because they are who we are here for.  No back to Survivor.  No, we won't be sending people home early ... sorry... but there will be dares, challenges, riddles, and ridiculousness of all kinds.  Mostly, thought, this is going to be an excuse to hand out tons of prizes and show as much appreciation for everything you all do around here.

You may have noticed some decorations in the office cubicles last week.  THAT is where the fun happens.  The game feels like a combination of Wheel of Fortune (because there is a Wheel and there is Big Money - well some money) and Survivor because you will have tasks to complete for your prize.  The game will take place over three days - Monday through Wednesday - during which you will earn points.  Those who earn enough points will go onto the Bonus Round on Thursday and that's where you will find the really cool prizes.  The Bonus Round prizes consist of themed tote bags and the themes are:  Beach Fun, Self-Care, and Family Game Night.  There is also a very nice Grand Prize for the person who earns the most points.  So how does it work?  Here are the directions:

• Come to the cubicles near the office copy machine
• Everyone can spin the wheel ONE time each day
• Ring the bell near the computer to alert staff in the office someone is spinning.  We will come out and cheer you on.
• Using the computer, Spin the Wheel (directions on how to do that are on the desk)
• It will land on a number.  Look that number up in the binder.
• If you complete the challenge next to that number, you get points.  Be sure you put the challenge number you completed and the points earned on the score sheet.  NO CHEATING - We have cameras :)
• If you have to take a picture or send a video, send it to both Gina and me by email.
• Some spaces on the wheel include a Grab Bag Prize (all the little brown bags on the desks)
• Some spaces say Big Prize and we have special bags for that.  If you land on Big Prize, see Karen, Flo, Gina or me and we will get you your prize.
• If you earn 600 points by the end of day Wednesday, you will be able to compete in the Bonus Round.
• If you are going on a field trip this week, be sure to stop by the Wheel before you go home that day.

Who's ready to spin??  I hope you all enjoy this and have a wonderful week.

Now for the serious side of the week.  Here is what is happening:

• Catapult visitors Patty, Sarah, and Maureen will be here on Monday to see how we are doing with our Math instruction.  Please have two chairs somewhere in the room for them to use.  Ken can grab some chairs from the music room in the morning if you need them.
• May crowning on Wednesday.  There will be some seat adjustments for grades 2, 3, 4 and 8.  I will send a separate email.
• i-Ready testing on Wed. and Thurs. 
• Marvelous Mustang on Friday
• Professional Development on Friday.  Gina will finish up the Evolving Learner Presentation

Have a great week!

Jesus, I Trust in You!

 As Fr. Dermot said in his homily today, this is the final day we can say Happy Easter as it is the 8th day of celebrating the Resurrection of our Lord.  So today, I wish you all a very Happy Easter and I hope that this past week allowed you to rest and gear up for the final stretch.  Today is also Divine Mercy Sunday and as we skate through these final weeks, make this your prayer... Jesus, I Trust in You!

As we are wrapping up this year, I am already preparing for next year.  You will find all the events I am currently aware of on the school's Google calendar.  Please remember that ALL teacher requested events and class/NJHS/Student Council/etc. fundraising, MUST be in school dude by April 30.  Requests may not be honored next year if they do not make it on the calendar now.  If you need help, please send the details to Flo and she will put them in school dude.  Be sure to send her all the details she needs. Keep in mind that she will need time to do this, therefore, if sending to Flo, be sure she gets it by Wednesday morning.  

Gina and I will both be out on Friday at the Bethany Center.  Gina will be there in the morning and I will be there in the afternoon.  I will be at school in the morning and we both can be reached by phone.  

Tuesday we will be administering the ARK test to grades 2-8 and i-Ready testing starts later in the week.  I did not tell parents about the ARK test yet because I did not want anyone stressing this.  I am going to send an email today asking that parents ensure students arrive on time.  When you talk to the students that morning, ask them to do their best to show how much they have learned about their faith.  Explain that this information will help us develop our Religion program next year.  Also, let them know that Part II, which is more personal, will be anonymous.  

Thank you and have a wonderful week!

Palm Sunday

 This morning I sat and listen to the Gospel reading and thanked our Lord for the sacrifice he made so that we may be saved.  I was also reminded how insignificant my own crosses are in comparison to what Jesus was made to bare for our salvation.  Later in the day I learned that one of our own, Brian Laxton, a former instructional assistant at St. Stephen, was called home to be with our Lord.  He was a young man of about 26 years old and my heart goes out to his family for the cross they are called to carry as then mourn the loss of this kind, beautiful soul.  Please keep the Laxton family in your prayers.  His funeral is April 20 at 11 am in St. Stephen church.  

This Thursday during our retreat, you will all be amazed at how awesome our 7th graders and 6th grade choir members are when they present the living stations of the cross.  I had so many compliments Friday night after their presentation.  Thank you to all who played a part in it.  

Please be sure to check the calendar for other events this week.  The faculty meeting tomorrow will just be for all K-8 homeroom teachers and ESE support personnel (if you could all stay that would be great) to go over administering the ARK test.  It should be a brief meeting. If you have any questions about the retreat, let me know.  I wish you all a WONDERFUL and much deserved Easter Break!

Best April Fools Day Ever!!

 

Thank you to everyone who made April 1 a great April Fool's Day!  Yes, it was time we all got Julie back, but all of the shenanigans that were going on were a lot of fun. 

 
There is a lot going on this week with field trips and field day.  The Gabie Bus will be here on Thursday morning.  They will arrive at approximately 7:45 am to set up.  The participation schedule is:

8:15 - 9:15     -   PK 4 & K

9:30 - 10:45   -   1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grades

Please be outside in front of the school at your scheduled time.  I will have them park close to the Angel's Wing gate.  

Field Day is also on Thursday and the schedule is:

9:30 - 11:00 am  -  Grades 5-8

1:00 - 2:30 pm    -  Grades K-4

The fun continues on Thursday with the Sunshine Committee Game Night at 4 pm at Leaven Brewing, 11238 Boyette Rd., Riverview. 

Friday is the last Fish Fry followed by Living Stations of the Cross presented by our 7th graders.  I hope many of you will be able to join us for this presentation.  

The Lent Retreat is finished and I will share the folder with everything you need for it by tomorrow (Sunday).  

The faculty meeting on Monday is a business meeting and the main topic of conversation will be Clubs/Electives for next year.  Bring your thoughts.

Finally, the payroll budget for next year is set.  While we are not ready to sign agreements, everyone is welcome to stop by my office to see what you will earn next year.  The 6% increase in tuition for next year has allowed me to give wage increases that are more substantial than in the past and I'm hoping everyone will be pleased.  

Have a wonderful week!

Blue and Yellow Day

 

Happy Sunday everyone.  The School will be having a Blue and Yellow non-uniform day in support of the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine on Friday, April 1.  We are asking that each student pay $1 to have free dress and wear the colors blue and yellow, the colors of the Ukrainian flag.  Students should give the $1 to their teacher Friday morning.  Please send the money down with the runners.  (Karen, please put an envelope in each HR teacher's mailbox labeled "Ukraine" before Friday.)  The funds will be sent to Catholic Relief Services to help with the work they are doing to support refugees.  This is optional, but we hope that everyone, including teachers and staff, will stand together in solidarity for our brothers and sisters in Ukraine.  I have sent an email home to the families, and I am also asking that each HR teacher talk it up this week with your class.  Also, keep reminding students to continue to add to their rice bowls. We are also having our final canned food drive this week for SVDP and I know they appreciate all you do to promote this in your class.  

This week I will work on the Triduum Retreat and get that information out to everyone.  We will continue with Confession on Wednesday this week and next.  

During the month of April (and maybe this week too), I will be conducting the second formal classroom observation.  I will be coming in as my schedule allows.  Please be sure your lesson plans are up-to-date so I can choose a day when you are not testing.  If something different than I am expecting is happening when I arrive, I may decide to come back another time which is perfectly fine.  

Thank you for all you continue to do this year for our students.  

Spring has Sprung!

 Happy Spring!  If you had a chance to be outside today, it truly was a beautiful spring day.  

Spring pictures take place on Tuesday.  Teachers received a schedule from Karen last week.  Please be sure students know it is free dress in a school-appropriate outfit.  Students in grades 5 and 6 should bring their PE uniforms to change into right after pictures.  Coach Green has requested that 1st and 2nd graders either wear or bring sneakers to change into.  Flo will send an email home to all parents Monday morning and a text alert Monday afternoon reminding them what students should wear. 

Please be sure you continue to encourage students to put their money in their rice bowls which will be collected the week before Easter Break.  

Grades 5, 6, and 8 will have confession after Mass on Wednesday.  Teachers, take some time during religion class on Tuesday to prepare them.  

Please pray for our 7th graders who we are sending off into the woods this week to Nature's Classroom in Palm Harbor.  Please pray twice as hard for the chaperones staying with them!  

Have a wonderful week!

Happy St. Patrick's Day... almost

 May the luck of the Irish be with you all!  I hope you all enjoyed this long weekend.  It's important that everyone checks the calendar on a regular basis as there are many events happening this month.

Here is a quick look at some of the events:

• On Wednesday, teachers please remind students what they should be wearing for Jeans and Green day on March 17.  
• Spring pictures are the following week and Karen B. will be sending out a schedule.
• 7th graders will be missed from March 23 to March 25 when they will be attending Nature's Classroom in Palm Harbor.  
• Lent confessions begin on March 23.  Check the calendar or refer to my email.  
• Our final canned food drive begins the week of March 28.  Please tie this into your discussions about Lent in religion class.

You may have seen the update from the Office of Evangelization in the Weekly Update last week where they talk about Ukraine.  They wrote, "CRS and Ukraine Relief:  Please consider the possibility of holding additional fundraisers, such as a Dress Down Day, in solidarity for our brothers and sisters in Ukraine. This would be a way to raise additional monies for the work that CRS is doing to support refugees."  

We did talk about how we could promote helping those in Ukraine prior to this and I gave parents information in Tidbits that was posted on the Diocese website.  When a few of us saw this idea Thursday in the Weekly Update, we felt this was something simple we can do and this money will be added to the Rice Bowl money we send to CRS.  The Dress Down Blue and Yellow Day will be April 1.  Please help students understand what we are doing.  Rice bowls, a dress-down day, and canned food are all excellent ways we can help those in need during Lent. 

Have a great week and teachers I hope you enjoy your various professional developments tomorrow (Tuesday).  

Entering into Lent

 This Wednesday is Ash Wednesday which marks the beginning of our Lenten journey toward Easter.  If you are looking for something to challenge your prayer life during lent, check out the Hallow app (there is a free version) and join the Lent Challenge which focuses on the seven last words of Jesus.  You will find more information here - https://hallow.com/pray40/    A good resource for your class is Joe Paprocki's 40 Ideas for 40 Days at https://catechistsjourney.loyolapress.com/resources/40-ideas-for-40-days/ 

This week we continue with Terra Nova testing on Monday and Tuesday with make-ups beginning on Wednesday after Mass.  Thank you all for your patience and flexibility.  The fire inspector will be here on Monday but he will not make noise and should only be here for an hour.  Please tell your students to ignore him if he happens to walk through your classroom during testing.  Unfortunately, our deadline for this inspection is Monday.  

Upcoming in March we have our Spirit Raffle, final SVDP canned food drive, the 7th grade trip to Nature's Classroom, and our Diocesan-Wide Teacher PD.  Please be sure to check the calendar for dates and details.  

Thank you all for your smiles, patience, and perseverance.  Happy Lent!

Terra Nova Time

 Good afternoon everyone.  I hope you all enjoyed the long weekend and you are ready for Terra Nova.  Teachers, please be sure you have returned your practice tests to Barbara.  Remind the students that all they need to do is their best and that this is their opportunity to show off how much they know.  

This is also report card week.  Teachers should follow the directions that Gina has been sending to make sure the process goes smoothly.  

For those of you returning next school year, here are some dates to keep in mind as you plan your summer and begin thinking about the new school year.  The calendar is not complete, but these dates have been determined and most a non-negotiable:

Teacher Pre-planning - August 1 - 5, 2022

1st Day of School - August 8

No School and All church/school retreat - August 31

Thanksgiving Holiday - Nov. 21-15 (Monday and Tuesday are hurricane make-up days if needed)

Christmas Holiday - Dec. 22 - Jan. 3, 2023

Easter Holiday - April 7 - 14

Last Day of School - May 26

(Flo, please share these dates in Tidbits this week with the exception of teacher pre-planning.)

Finally, I am sharing an amazing photo.  We are making progress!!!  

Have a wonderful week!

Happy Valentine's Day

 Good evening.  I hope everyone had a great weekend.  A big thank you to Nicki and all her volunteers for putting together a wonderful (and profitable!) Gala for the school.  Everyone who attended had a great time.  

Be sure to check the calendar. Keep our 6th graders in your prayers on Wednesday as they participate in Focus 11.  This is an annual event focused on helping students discern their vocation.  On Thursday, Dominic DeMuro in 6th grade will be the principal for the day.  This is something his mom purchased at our Angel's event two years ago and we have not been able to accommodate it until now.  Dominic will spend the morning with me observing classes and doing uniform checks and then he will help with the ice cream event also purchased through Angels.  We will be delivering ice cream to every classroom that day during lunch to celebrate Ben Basilicato's birthday.  

This will be a busy week with many things happening.  A few reminders for the week:

• Tomorrow is Valentine's shirt and jean day and Tuesday is Holy Card free dress.  
• Teachers will meet in Heather's room Monday after carline to grade the Mustang Writes.
• Friday is the last day of the Trimester
• Feb. 15 is the day that all Intent to Return forms are due.    

Have a wonderful week filled with lots of love!

The Angels are Almost Among Us!

 Good afternoon and Happy Sunday!  If you are unsure what the title of this post means, I'm referring to our Gala which is only days away.  Nicki and her band of volunteers have been working for weeks (and months) to make this event happen.  I am grateful for all the hours and work they have put into this event.  It will be a fun time for everyone attending and hopefully, a financial success to fund the vision Gina and I have for the Media Center.  We have been blessed with many baskets and live item donations to help us reach our goal.  

Since school is closed on Friday, teachers please remind students of the following on Thursday:

• Feb. 12-13 is uniform/holy card weekend
• Feb. 14 is jeans and Valentine's shirt day.  Remind students of the rules. (Students may not wear leggings, sweat pants, pajama pants, etc., and the shirt must have a Valentine logo or be predominantly red or pink.  This is not a spirit shirt day but they can wear their PE shirt since it's red.)
• Feb. 15 is holy card free-dress day.  Again, please go over the free dress rules.  Anyone wearing leggings MUST have a tunic-style shirt over them which should reach approximately mid-thigh.  

As Gina has been reminding teachers, the last week of the Trimester is almost here.  Please do not give summatives in every class the week of Feb. 14.  If they are needed at this point in the trimester, they should be spread out over this week and next.  

Reminder to everyone, the Intent to Return form is due Tuesday, February 15.  We have received about half already.  Please be sure to turn it in by that date.  

Thank you all for continuing to be awesome!  Have a great week!

Celebrating Catholic Schools

 Happy Catholic Schools Week!  Thank you for your dedication to Catholic education and all that you do for our students and their families.  This is a week in which we take time to thank everyone who is a part of Catholic education or in some way contributes to it.  Please be sure you are aware of all the activities and feel free to dress up as the students will be this week.  The schedule was in Tidbits, the Sunday Bulletin, and teachers also received a more detailed copy.  Thank you to our CSW Committee and the Student Council for their hard work in putting together all the activities.  Also, be sure to thank PTCO for the upcoming lunch on Tuesday. 

For teachers, our PLC Faculty Meeting on Monday will focus on i-Ready scores.  Encore teachers should look for guidance from Gina if you need to attend.

Please keep Fr. Izzie in your prayers.  He was away on vacation last week and returned with an unwelcomed souvenir and is currently quarantined in the rectory.  He is fully vaccinated so our hope is that his case of Covid-19 will be mild.  

I want to take a moment to share with everyone my plans for next year in terms of administration and technology.  Thankfully, our enrollment has improved and I am able to put people back in place so that one or two of us are not trying to do the work of many.  For next year, my plans are to hire a full-time Assistant Principal and a full-time Media Specialist.  The plan is for both to attend the FACTS Elevate Conference in the summer to become skilled in FACTS/SIS and also to spend time with Gina before she leaves at the end of June.  The Media Specialist will be responsible for teaching technology and STREAM, managing all devices, maintaining the library and Makerspace, and collaborating with teachers to make use of the resources we have at school.  This person will also manage all our digital software and student databases as they relate to our curriculum.  This will take many of the tasks from the AP position, allowing that person to focus on providing instructional support to teachers.  If you would like more information on the roles of these two positions, please read the job descriptions on the DOSP website.  We are currently interviewing for both positions and already have a strong candidate for each position.  Please keep this in your prayers that the Lord will provide!  

Finally, Friday is a half-day and all teachers should plan to stay for Professional Development.  Details to follow.  

Have a great CSW!!  

Winter is Here

Good afternoon everyone!  I hope everyone is staying warm.  I do not have much to share today except to talk about the weather.  When temperatures are below 45-50 degrees (as we will see in the next couple of weeks), it's important that students are wearing a sweater or sweatshirt when they go outside.  We may even see temperatures below 40 during morning recess.  I try to catch it in carline in the morning as I'm always amazed when they come out of the car in their PE t-shirt and it's 45 degrees outside.  Please remind the students to wear their school sweatshirt or sweater.  

When it gets cold it's also important to review the uniform rules as this is the time of year when they start wearing all sorts of items to keep warm (unlike those who wear nothing but a t-shirt).  Here are the rules:  

All Student Uniform Requirements and Options (Pre-K – 8)

• Red or navy fleece zip-up jacket with logo

• Navy Cardigan Sweater with logo

• Navy zip-up hooded sweatshirt

• Solid black shoes or solid black athletic shoes including outsole and shoe strings (no slip-on ballerina flats)

• White, black, or navy ankle socks (no logos)

• White ankle socks with plaid ruffle may be worn only with the plaid jumper or skort.

• White or navy knee socks (girls only)

• White or navy footed tights on cold days, no leggings. Generally. Leggings are much thicker, footless, and can sometimes be worn like pants. Tights are somewhat sheer or knit, cover the foot, and must be worn under another garment.

• Black, brown, or navy belt must be worn with flat-front pants (boys and girls, grades 3-8)

• Black, brown, or navy belt must be worn with flat-front shorts (boys grades 3-8)

PE Uniform Girls and Boys (Grades K – 8)

• PE shorts with logo

• PE shirt with logo

• Sweatpants with logo 

• Red Sweatshirt with logo 

• Solid black athletic shoes

Cold Weather

Only school logo sweaters, sweatshirts, or fleece are allowed to be worn inside the school building, the Family Life Center, and Church. Non-uniform jackets or sweatshirts can be worn to school but must be removed in the classroom. Leggings and sweatpants worn under the uniform must also be removed in the classroom.  Non-uniform outerwear will only be permitted outside during the school day on extremely cold days over their school-issued sweater or sweatshirt. White undershirts/camisoles may only be worn if they do not show beneath the uniform (no long sleeves). They have the choice of wearing a school sweater or sweatshirt.

One thing I am seeing a lot of is black tights and black knee socks on the girls - not allowed.  There are some students that I will be VERY surprised if they are in jeans or free dress on our next out-of-uniform day as I see violations almost on a daily basis.  I also saw gray shoes last week.  I don't like to say anything because they may have been wearing them for a while or there may be a reason I'm unaware of.  Please check uniforms daily.  

Teachers, we will all meet in Heather's room after carline for a brief meeting before you go off to your PLC meetings.  Thank you and have a great week.  Keep warm.