October 15, 2010
Dear Parents,
Thanks to the kindness and generosity of two of our parents, Heather Bartle and Sue Converse, your child may receive a flu shot here at Holy Family for a nominal fee of $12. The flu shots will be administered during the school day. Parents need to pre-register their child/children by sending in the payment no later than Monday, October 25. Please make checks payable to Holy Family School. When the date of the flu shots has been set, parents will be notified and invited to go with their child while they receive the shot. The clinic will be held during the school day. Students of all grades, including Early Childhood and Pre-Kindergarten, are welcome to sign up for a flu shot. Please note that the flu shots will be available only to HFS students.
Class field trips begin next week. The students in Kindergarten, First, Second, and Third grade will be traveling to Critz Farms in Cazenovia on Thursday, October 21st. As part of the Science curriculum, Second graders will be visiting Howe's Caverns on Wednesday, October 27.
A Walk-a-Thon and Pancake Breakfast will be held to raise money for Pete and Julie Asma. The Walk-a-Thon will be held on Friday, October 22. The students in EC, PK, K, 1st and 2nd grade will be walking from 1:00pm until 1:30pm. Grades 3-8 will walk from 1:45pm until 2:15pm. Please send in all of your donation money in an envelope by Thursday, October 21st to your child's classroom teacher. The top two classes with the highest total donation average will receive a non-uniform day. As of right now, the weather calls for 30% chance of showers with a high of 52. Students are to wear gym uniforms for the entire school day. Have your child dress appropriately and with proper footwear. The parking lot will be closed to all traffic from 1:00 until 2:30pm. Thank you for your support!
We would like to thank all of our students who participated in our second annual MARS Program (Math and Reading Superstars). Please have your child return their forms for reading over the summer and their math work to their classroom teacher by Monday, October 25th. We will be treating all our students who completed the program with an Ice Cream Sundae on Thursday, October 28th in the afternoon. Thanks to Nikki Strano for all her help with this project.
This week, we will highlight Donna Manley, our part-time Pre-Kindergarten Aide. Originally from Norwich, Donna has lived and worked in Norwich all her life. She was with the Norwich Pennysaver for 16 years and here with us at Holy Family for 14 years before retiring in 2007. She and her husband, Tom, raised three sons, Joseph, Patrick and Brian, all of whom graduated from Holy Family. Her oldest son, Joseph, is a Clarkson University graduate with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Patrick graduated from Canisus with a Business Management and Marketing degree and is currently studying for a Masters in Public Administration at Syracuse University. Brian recently graduated from LeMoyne College with a degree in Marketing. In her free time, Donna likes to research her family's genealogy, tend her flower garden in the summer, and play the piano. Donna's retirement was short-lived as she accepted the part-time position of pre-k aide, working alongside her good friend, Nancy Ritzel. We are grateful for Donna's decision to leave retirement, and rejoin us here at Holy Family.
Have a great weekend!
Mary & Gene
Friday, October 15, 2010
Friday, October 8, 2010
October 8 Parent Letter
October 8, 2010
Dear Parents,
We would like to remind all parents that all of our children in grades 1-8 will be given an individual reading assessment exam within the next few weeks. The results of this assessment will be shared with you during the parent conferences in November.
Upcoming Events!
Wednesday, October 13
St. Bart's Spaghetti Dinner, 4:30pm
Commission Meeting, 6:00pm
PTO Meeting, 7:00pm
Thursday, October 14
St. Bart's Spaghetti Dinner, 4:30pm
Thursday, October 21
Critz Pumpkin Farm, grades K-2, 8:30am-2pm
Friday, October 22
Walk-A-Thon to Benefit Pete and Julie Asma, 1-2:15pm
Thursday, October 28
Tri-Cities Opera "Billy Goats Gruff" in the gym, 9am. All are invited.
God bless,
Gene and Mary
Dear Parents,
We would like to remind all parents that all of our children in grades 1-8 will be given an individual reading assessment exam within the next few weeks. The results of this assessment will be shared with you during the parent conferences in November.
Upcoming Events!
Wednesday, October 13
St. Bart's Spaghetti Dinner, 4:30pm
Commission Meeting, 6:00pm
PTO Meeting, 7:00pm
Thursday, October 14
St. Bart's Spaghetti Dinner, 4:30pm
Thursday, October 21
Critz Pumpkin Farm, grades K-2, 8:30am-2pm
Friday, October 22
Walk-A-Thon to Benefit Pete and Julie Asma, 1-2:15pm
Thursday, October 28
Tri-Cities Opera "Billy Goats Gruff" in the gym, 9am. All are invited.
God bless,
Gene and Mary
Friday, October 1, 2010
Friday letter
October 1st, 2010
Dear Parents,
This Tuesday we had a super successful Open House night with more than 85% of students represented. Thank you parents for showing your commitment to and support of your child's education. We look forward to a rewarding year for both you and your children!
All students in grades K-8 will be given an individual reading assessment during the month of October. The results will be shared during parent teacher conferences in November.
You should have received your password for our new on-line program, My Students Progress. If you have any problems or questions, please contact Mrs. Ann French.
On Wednesday, students were able to make their confession with Father Ralph. Please encourage your children to attend if you would like them to go to confession. Please practice the Act of Contrition with your children. This is the version used at school:
O my God, I heartily sorry for having offended thee and I detest all my sins because they offend Thee, my God, Who art all-good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve with the help of Thy grace, to sin no more, and to avoid the near occasions of sin. Amen.
This week we would like to introduce you to John Jablonski, our newly hired temporary custodian. John is a native of Norwich and graduated from Valley Heights Christian Academy. In his free time, John likes to spend time with Tara and their 13 month-old baby girl, Angelina. John also likes the great outdoors. John is doing a great job helping us to keep our school clean and we want to thank him for that!
All students should be in their classrooms by 8:00am. Students not in their classrooms by 8:05am will be marked tardy.
Today we celebrated our monthly Mass planned and organized by students in grades 6th-8th. Starting today the entire student body will be praying a decade of the rosary after each Mass. Our next school Mass will be 9:00am on Monday, November 1st to celebrate the feast day of All Saints. We hope to see you there!
Sincerely,
Gene and Mary
Dear Parents,
This Tuesday we had a super successful Open House night with more than 85% of students represented. Thank you parents for showing your commitment to and support of your child's education. We look forward to a rewarding year for both you and your children!
All students in grades K-8 will be given an individual reading assessment during the month of October. The results will be shared during parent teacher conferences in November.
You should have received your password for our new on-line program, My Students Progress. If you have any problems or questions, please contact Mrs. Ann French.
On Wednesday, students were able to make their confession with Father Ralph. Please encourage your children to attend if you would like them to go to confession. Please practice the Act of Contrition with your children. This is the version used at school:
O my God, I heartily sorry for having offended thee and I detest all my sins because they offend Thee, my God, Who art all-good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve with the help of Thy grace, to sin no more, and to avoid the near occasions of sin. Amen.
This week we would like to introduce you to John Jablonski, our newly hired temporary custodian. John is a native of Norwich and graduated from Valley Heights Christian Academy. In his free time, John likes to spend time with Tara and their 13 month-old baby girl, Angelina. John also likes the great outdoors. John is doing a great job helping us to keep our school clean and we want to thank him for that!
All students should be in their classrooms by 8:00am. Students not in their classrooms by 8:05am will be marked tardy.
Today we celebrated our monthly Mass planned and organized by students in grades 6th-8th. Starting today the entire student body will be praying a decade of the rosary after each Mass. Our next school Mass will be 9:00am on Monday, November 1st to celebrate the feast day of All Saints. We hope to see you there!
Sincerely,
Gene and Mary
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Welcome to a new School Year!!!!
September 10, 2010
Dear Parents,
It was great to see all our children, parents and grandparents back at Holy Family School! We really missed all of you! The first two days of school were great. From my point of view, they could not have gone smoother. There have been many changes at HFS involving the physical structure, new staff and new textbooks. But one very important aspect remains the same – we are truly a family that cares about each other. One only needs to look at the smiles on the faces of our parents, grandparents, children and staff as they enter the school. As an educator, parent and grandparent myself, it’s great to hear so many of our children say how happy they are to be back at HFS!
Vickie Lake, our new cafeteria manager, has made the transition to HFS smoothly. Vickie has made several changes to the daily menu. Students may purchase a peanut butterr/jelly sandwich or a yogurt instead of the main meal. The yogurt may also be purchased separately for $1.00. Ice cream will cost either $.50 or $.75. The juice machine has been removed from the school, so several options will be available for students. A 12oz. bottle of Gatorade may be purchased for $1.00 or a Minute Maid 100% juice box will be available for $.75. Homemade cookies will also be available at different times for $.50. The cost of student lunches will be:
EC – 1st Grade $ 1.75
2nd -8th Grade $ 2.25
Adults $ 3.25
Once again, we ask that parents send in a check or cash to deposit into their child’s lunch account. Please try to make these deposits on Monday, so that Mrs. Hose doesn’t have to count and make a bank deposit every day. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Students who have already received the Sacrament of Penance will have the opportunity to do so on Wednesday, October . Our next children’s mass will be on Friday, October 1st. We invite all parents to attend and we hope to see you there.
With six new staff members this year, I thought it would be interesting to highlight one each week. This week we will get to know Sara Chrystie Locke, our new 1st grade teacher.
Although Sara Locke was born in Norwich, she has lived in Oxford her whole life. Sara’s mom is a private day care provider in Oxford and her older brother, Mike, is a Social Studies teacher at Norwich High School. Sports has always been a big part of Sara’s life as she played basketball, field hockey, and track in high school. At Oneonta State, Sara played basketball and majored in Childhood Education, graduating in May 2010. Soon after graduation, Sara married Tom Locke at St. Paul’s Church on July 24 and they now live in Oxford. Sara enjoys reading and loves challenges. This past summer, Sara and her sister-in-law ran the 15K in the Boilermaker for the first time. At some point in the near future, Sara hopes to coach girls’ basketball. Sara is visibly excited about joining Holy Family and we are blessed to have her. When Sara’s dad called to see how her first day went, without a moment’s hesitation Sara responded, “Dad, I know that I am in the right profession.” We couldn’t agree more!
Gene and Mary
Dear Parents,
It was great to see all our children, parents and grandparents back at Holy Family School! We really missed all of you! The first two days of school were great. From my point of view, they could not have gone smoother. There have been many changes at HFS involving the physical structure, new staff and new textbooks. But one very important aspect remains the same – we are truly a family that cares about each other. One only needs to look at the smiles on the faces of our parents, grandparents, children and staff as they enter the school. As an educator, parent and grandparent myself, it’s great to hear so many of our children say how happy they are to be back at HFS!
Vickie Lake, our new cafeteria manager, has made the transition to HFS smoothly. Vickie has made several changes to the daily menu. Students may purchase a peanut butterr/jelly sandwich or a yogurt instead of the main meal. The yogurt may also be purchased separately for $1.00. Ice cream will cost either $.50 or $.75. The juice machine has been removed from the school, so several options will be available for students. A 12oz. bottle of Gatorade may be purchased for $1.00 or a Minute Maid 100% juice box will be available for $.75. Homemade cookies will also be available at different times for $.50. The cost of student lunches will be:
EC – 1st Grade $ 1.75
2nd -8th Grade $ 2.25
Adults $ 3.25
Once again, we ask that parents send in a check or cash to deposit into their child’s lunch account. Please try to make these deposits on Monday, so that Mrs. Hose doesn’t have to count and make a bank deposit every day. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Students who have already received the Sacrament of Penance will have the opportunity to do so on Wednesday, October . Our next children’s mass will be on Friday, October 1st. We invite all parents to attend and we hope to see you there.
With six new staff members this year, I thought it would be interesting to highlight one each week. This week we will get to know Sara Chrystie Locke, our new 1st grade teacher.
Although Sara Locke was born in Norwich, she has lived in Oxford her whole life. Sara’s mom is a private day care provider in Oxford and her older brother, Mike, is a Social Studies teacher at Norwich High School. Sports has always been a big part of Sara’s life as she played basketball, field hockey, and track in high school. At Oneonta State, Sara played basketball and majored in Childhood Education, graduating in May 2010. Soon after graduation, Sara married Tom Locke at St. Paul’s Church on July 24 and they now live in Oxford. Sara enjoys reading and loves challenges. This past summer, Sara and her sister-in-law ran the 15K in the Boilermaker for the first time. At some point in the near future, Sara hopes to coach girls’ basketball. Sara is visibly excited about joining Holy Family and we are blessed to have her. When Sara’s dad called to see how her first day went, without a moment’s hesitation Sara responded, “Dad, I know that I am in the right profession.” We couldn’t agree more!
Gene and Mary
Friday, June 11, 2010
June 11, 2010
Dear Parents,
Wow!!! What a whirlwind year! I can’t believe we’re nearing the end of the 2009/10 school year. So much has happened this year. Thanks go to all the people - PTO, staff, parents, grandparents, children, etc who have graciously volunteered their time and talents to make Holy Family School a nurturing environment for our children. I know I’m leaving out many events, but I’d still be typing if I included all of them.
• Summer Ice Cream Social to welcome new staff and families to HFS
• Boo Hoo Breakfast
• Family PTO picnic
• Open House
• First Friday Masses
• Halloween Float
• Parent Conferences
• Family Thanksgiving Dinner
• Advent Activities
• Christmas Concert/Art Show
• Visit from Santa Claus
• Fall and Spring Book Fairs
• Catholic Schools’ Week Events
• Lenten Fish Fries
• National Day of Prayer Events
• May Crowning
• Golf Tournament
• Spring Disney Concert
• Dessert Theatre
• Olympic Day (next Tuesday)
• PK and K Celebration (next Thursday)
• Educational Field Trips/Assemblies
Howe Caverns
Tri Cities Opera – “Little Red Riding Hood”
“Beauty and the Beast” – Forum Theatre
“The Lightening Thief” Movie
“Looking glass Alice” – Syracuse Stage
Popp Butterfly Conservatory
Step Into Seuss
Ross Park Zoo Mobile
Auriesville Retreat
Binghamton Mets Baseball Game
Farmers’ Museum
Ecology/Fishing Field Trip
Again, I know I left many events out of the list, but it is important to realize how many opportunities our children are exposed to. Thanks for all the help and support.
I hope you had the opportunity to attend the Dessert Theatre Show last week. The students put a lot of time and effort into preparing their acts. The audience seemed to love the performances as the children gave their “all.” Thanks to Ms. Buckley, Rhett Genung (lighting and sound) and all the other people who made this event possible.
Gene
UPCOMING EVENTS
Tues, June 15 Olympic Day – Gr. 1 – 7
Wed, June 16 Olympic Awards Assembly
Wed, June 16 PreK Pinic
Thurs, June 17 PreK – K Celebration 6 pm
Fri, June 18 Kindergarten Picnic
Mon, June 21 Ecology/Fishing Field Trip Gr. 5-7
Wed, June 23 Early Childhood Celebration 9:30 am
Sat, July 2 Annual HFS Rummage Sale - Gym
Dear Parents,
Wow!!! What a whirlwind year! I can’t believe we’re nearing the end of the 2009/10 school year. So much has happened this year. Thanks go to all the people - PTO, staff, parents, grandparents, children, etc who have graciously volunteered their time and talents to make Holy Family School a nurturing environment for our children. I know I’m leaving out many events, but I’d still be typing if I included all of them.
• Summer Ice Cream Social to welcome new staff and families to HFS
• Boo Hoo Breakfast
• Family PTO picnic
• Open House
• First Friday Masses
• Halloween Float
• Parent Conferences
• Family Thanksgiving Dinner
• Advent Activities
• Christmas Concert/Art Show
• Visit from Santa Claus
• Fall and Spring Book Fairs
• Catholic Schools’ Week Events
• Lenten Fish Fries
• National Day of Prayer Events
• May Crowning
• Golf Tournament
• Spring Disney Concert
• Dessert Theatre
• Olympic Day (next Tuesday)
• PK and K Celebration (next Thursday)
• Educational Field Trips/Assemblies
Howe Caverns
Tri Cities Opera – “Little Red Riding Hood”
“Beauty and the Beast” – Forum Theatre
“The Lightening Thief” Movie
“Looking glass Alice” – Syracuse Stage
Popp Butterfly Conservatory
Step Into Seuss
Ross Park Zoo Mobile
Auriesville Retreat
Binghamton Mets Baseball Game
Farmers’ Museum
Ecology/Fishing Field Trip
Again, I know I left many events out of the list, but it is important to realize how many opportunities our children are exposed to. Thanks for all the help and support.
I hope you had the opportunity to attend the Dessert Theatre Show last week. The students put a lot of time and effort into preparing their acts. The audience seemed to love the performances as the children gave their “all.” Thanks to Ms. Buckley, Rhett Genung (lighting and sound) and all the other people who made this event possible.
Gene
UPCOMING EVENTS
Tues, June 15 Olympic Day – Gr. 1 – 7
Wed, June 16 Olympic Awards Assembly
Wed, June 16 PreK Pinic
Thurs, June 17 PreK – K Celebration 6 pm
Fri, June 18 Kindergarten Picnic
Mon, June 21 Ecology/Fishing Field Trip Gr. 5-7
Wed, June 23 Early Childhood Celebration 9:30 am
Sat, July 2 Annual HFS Rummage Sale - Gym
Friday, May 28, 2010
May 27, 2010
Dear Parents,
We’d like to welcome a new student to our school, Zachary Vincent XiZhong Marsh. Zac will be joining his sister Riley in the 3rd grade class for the remainder of the school year. He is the son of Cathy and Rod Marsh of Norwich. Zac is 8 years old and was born in Shenzhen, China, which is near Hong Kong. He’s a typical boy – his favorite subject is physical education. During his free-time in class, Zac can be seen playing chess on the computer. Now several of his classmates have joined in. It appears that this is a win-win situation for everyone!
Congratulations to Father Ralph on another milestone birthday today, May 28th. It’s amazing how he seems to look and act younger each year!!! All of our students enjoyed singing Happy Birthday to Father at lunchtime – they also didn’t mind sharing a bit of his birthday cake with him.
Please join us at several important events this week. They include:
• Tues, June 1st Canine Police Dog – Officer Clarke 9 am
• Wed, June 2nd Dessert Theatre Rehearsal 11:30 am
• Wed, June 2nd Flynn & O’Hara Uniform 1 pm
Measurements
• Thurs, June 3rd Dessert Theatre 6 pm
Council of the Arts
• Fri, June 4th 1st Friday Mass – 2nd Graders 9 am
• Fri, June 4th Adoration – St. Paul’s Chapel
Gene
Dear Parents,
We’d like to welcome a new student to our school, Zachary Vincent XiZhong Marsh. Zac will be joining his sister Riley in the 3rd grade class for the remainder of the school year. He is the son of Cathy and Rod Marsh of Norwich. Zac is 8 years old and was born in Shenzhen, China, which is near Hong Kong. He’s a typical boy – his favorite subject is physical education. During his free-time in class, Zac can be seen playing chess on the computer. Now several of his classmates have joined in. It appears that this is a win-win situation for everyone!
Congratulations to Father Ralph on another milestone birthday today, May 28th. It’s amazing how he seems to look and act younger each year!!! All of our students enjoyed singing Happy Birthday to Father at lunchtime – they also didn’t mind sharing a bit of his birthday cake with him.
Please join us at several important events this week. They include:
• Tues, June 1st Canine Police Dog – Officer Clarke 9 am
• Wed, June 2nd Dessert Theatre Rehearsal 11:30 am
• Wed, June 2nd Flynn & O’Hara Uniform 1 pm
Measurements
• Thurs, June 3rd Dessert Theatre 6 pm
Council of the Arts
• Fri, June 4th 1st Friday Mass – 2nd Graders 9 am
• Fri, June 4th Adoration – St. Paul’s Chapel
Gene
Thursday, May 20, 2010
May 20, 2010
Dear Parents,
Please remember tomorrow (Friday) is a free will offering “non-uniform” day to support the Relay for Life Cancer Event. Classroom teachers will collect the donations. Below are the upcoming events.
Upcoming Events
Fri, May 21 Kindergarten Screening 8am – 3pm
May 24-26 Fountas-Pinnell Reading Assessments
Tues, May 25 4th Gr. Science PerfTest 8:20-10am
Wed, May 26 Father O’Connor – speaking on vocations
Fri, May 28 Science Fair – Gym 10-11 am
June 1,2,3 or Officier Clarke and his canine
last week of All students in gym 9 am
school
Wed, June 2 Dessert Theatre Rehearsal 12:15 pm
Wed, June 2 Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Measurements 1-2 pm
Thurs, June 3 Dessert Theatre 6pm
Fri, June 4 2nd Gr. Mass 9am
Fri, June 4 Adoration TBD
Mon, June 7 4th Gr. Science Written Exam 8:20 – 10am
June 8 or last Fishing – Gr. 5-7 Time TBD
Week of school Sarah Stroh’s property, including a picnic
Wed, June 9 Auriesville Retreat – Gr. 5-7 8:30-5:30pm
Thurs, June 10 Binghamton Mets BB Game 9am-2:10pm
Grades 1 - 7
Fri, June 11 Farmers’ Museum Gr. 2,4,5,7 8:45-3:30pm
Tues, June 15 Olympic Day – Gr. 1 - 7 All Day
Tues, June 15 Police Station Visit – Kindergarten
Surprise Picnic
Tues, June 15 PreK Picnic (weather permitting)
Wed, June 16 Olympic Awards Ceremony Time TBD
Thurs, June 17 PreK and K Celebration 6pm
Fri, June 18 Kindergarten Picnic 11am – 1pm
Parents invited
Dear Parents,
Please remember tomorrow (Friday) is a free will offering “non-uniform” day to support the Relay for Life Cancer Event. Classroom teachers will collect the donations. Below are the upcoming events.
Upcoming Events
Fri, May 21 Kindergarten Screening 8am – 3pm
May 24-26 Fountas-Pinnell Reading Assessments
Tues, May 25 4th Gr. Science PerfTest 8:20-10am
Wed, May 26 Father O’Connor – speaking on vocations
Fri, May 28 Science Fair – Gym 10-11 am
June 1,2,3 or Officier Clarke and his canine
last week of All students in gym 9 am
school
Wed, June 2 Dessert Theatre Rehearsal 12:15 pm
Wed, June 2 Flynn & O’Hara Uniform Measurements 1-2 pm
Thurs, June 3 Dessert Theatre 6pm
Fri, June 4 2nd Gr. Mass 9am
Fri, June 4 Adoration TBD
Mon, June 7 4th Gr. Science Written Exam 8:20 – 10am
June 8 or last Fishing – Gr. 5-7 Time TBD
Week of school Sarah Stroh’s property, including a picnic
Wed, June 9 Auriesville Retreat – Gr. 5-7 8:30-5:30pm
Thurs, June 10 Binghamton Mets BB Game 9am-2:10pm
Grades 1 - 7
Fri, June 11 Farmers’ Museum Gr. 2,4,5,7 8:45-3:30pm
Tues, June 15 Olympic Day – Gr. 1 - 7 All Day
Tues, June 15 Police Station Visit – Kindergarten
Surprise Picnic
Tues, June 15 PreK Picnic (weather permitting)
Wed, June 16 Olympic Awards Ceremony Time TBD
Thurs, June 17 PreK and K Celebration 6pm
Fri, June 18 Kindergarten Picnic 11am – 1pm
Parents invited
Friday, May 14, 2010
May 14, 2010
Dear Parents,
I hope you were able to attend the Spring Concert last night. What a wonderful event! Next up is our Dessert Theatre on Thursday, June 3rd at 6pm. Hope to see you there.
We have a very busy spring with many educational field trips on the horizon. I have listed the events that are now scheduled. Please mark them on your calendar.
Upcoming Events
Fri, May 14 Ross Park Zoo Mobile EC-K 8:45
1 – 3 9:40
4 – 7 10:30
Fri, May 21 Kindergarten Screening 8am – 3pm
May Fountas-Pinnell Reading Assessments
Tues, May 25 4th Gr. Science Perf. Test 8:20-10am
Wed, May 26 Father O’Connor – speaking on vocations
Fri, May 28 Science Fair – Gym 10-11 am
June 1,2,3 or Officier Clarke and his canine
last week of All students in gym Time TBD
school
Wed, June 2 Dessert Theatre Rehearsal 12:15 pm
Thurs, June 3 Dessert Theatre 6pm
Fri, June 4 2nd Gr. Mass 9am
Fri, June 4 Adoration TBD
Mon, June 7 4th Gr. Science Written Exam 8:20 – 10am
June 8 or last Fishing – Gr. 5-7 Time TBD
Week of school Sarah Stroh’s property, including a picnic
Thurs, June 10 Binghamton Mets BB Game 9am-2:10pm
Grades 1 - 7
Fri, June 11 Farmers’ Museum Gr. 2,4,5,7 8:45-3:30pm
Tues, June 15 Olympic Day – Gr. 1 - 7 All Day
Tues, June 15 Police Station Visit – Kindergarten
Surprise Picnic
Tues, June 15 PreK Picnic (weather permitting)
Wed, June 16 Olympic Awards Ceremony Time TBD
Thurs, June 17 PreK and K Celebration 6pm
Fri, June 18 Kindergarten Picnic 11am – 1pm
Parents invited
Dear Parents,
I hope you were able to attend the Spring Concert last night. What a wonderful event! Next up is our Dessert Theatre on Thursday, June 3rd at 6pm. Hope to see you there.
We have a very busy spring with many educational field trips on the horizon. I have listed the events that are now scheduled. Please mark them on your calendar.
Upcoming Events
Fri, May 14 Ross Park Zoo Mobile EC-K 8:45
1 – 3 9:40
4 – 7 10:30
Fri, May 21 Kindergarten Screening 8am – 3pm
May Fountas-Pinnell Reading Assessments
Tues, May 25 4th Gr. Science Perf. Test 8:20-10am
Wed, May 26 Father O’Connor – speaking on vocations
Fri, May 28 Science Fair – Gym 10-11 am
June 1,2,3 or Officier Clarke and his canine
last week of All students in gym Time TBD
school
Wed, June 2 Dessert Theatre Rehearsal 12:15 pm
Thurs, June 3 Dessert Theatre 6pm
Fri, June 4 2nd Gr. Mass 9am
Fri, June 4 Adoration TBD
Mon, June 7 4th Gr. Science Written Exam 8:20 – 10am
June 8 or last Fishing – Gr. 5-7 Time TBD
Week of school Sarah Stroh’s property, including a picnic
Thurs, June 10 Binghamton Mets BB Game 9am-2:10pm
Grades 1 - 7
Fri, June 11 Farmers’ Museum Gr. 2,4,5,7 8:45-3:30pm
Tues, June 15 Olympic Day – Gr. 1 - 7 All Day
Tues, June 15 Police Station Visit – Kindergarten
Surprise Picnic
Tues, June 15 PreK Picnic (weather permitting)
Wed, June 16 Olympic Awards Ceremony Time TBD
Thurs, June 17 PreK and K Celebration 6pm
Fri, June 18 Kindergarten Picnic 11am – 1pm
Parents invited
Friday, May 7, 2010
May 7, 2010
Dear Parents,
Just last week I read a disturbing story in the newspaper about a Good Samaritan who came to the assistance of a woman being attacked in New York City. The attacker stabbed the Good Samaritan several times and left him bleeding on the sidewalk. Seven people walked by within an hour of the attack and looked down at the Good Samaritan as he lay bleeding. One passerby even lifted up the dying man, laid him back down and then walked away. The Good Samaritan bled to death before help arrived. All of this was captured on surveillance cameras.
Why would I share this disturbing story with you? The reason is simple – we often forget how fortunate we are. We live in a beautiful part of the State where our children can still enjoy the simple things in life and we have a compassionate, caring and supportive community we live in. This once again came to the forefront last week at the benefit for Maureen Walhberg. The show of support and encouragement was phenomenal! Thirty-three beautiful baskets were raffled off, cakes/pies/cookies sold and a free-will offering taken. While these events were occurring, we were treated to the wonderful music of the Sons of Ireland. All of this was donated by the friends in our community. How different from the opening scenario.
As an educator, I look at this as a “teachable moment.” Here we are as adults/parents/grandparents teaching our children by example how to care for each other. As adults, we all know that an education is important, but there’s more to an education than what we learn from textbooks or cyber-space. We just taught our children, by modeling, how to be caring, considerate and compassionate. How fortunate we are to have a supportive community like Holy Family School and the Norwich community.
Gene
UPCOMING EVENTS
Wednesday, May 12 PTO Meeting 7pm
Thursday, May 13 Ascension Thursday 9am
Mass – 1st Graders
Thursday, May 13 Spring Concert 6pm
Friday, May 14 Ross Park Zoo Mobile
EC – Kindergarten 8:45am
Grades 1 – 3 9:40am
Grades 4 – 7 10:30am
Sunday, May 16 PTO Golf Tournament - Norwich
Friday, May 21 Kindergarten Screening 8am – 3pm
Tuesday, May 25 Science Performance 8:20 – 10am
State Exam
Wednesday, May 26 Father O’Connor Visit – Vocations
Monday, May 31 No School – Memorial Day
Dear Parents,
Just last week I read a disturbing story in the newspaper about a Good Samaritan who came to the assistance of a woman being attacked in New York City. The attacker stabbed the Good Samaritan several times and left him bleeding on the sidewalk. Seven people walked by within an hour of the attack and looked down at the Good Samaritan as he lay bleeding. One passerby even lifted up the dying man, laid him back down and then walked away. The Good Samaritan bled to death before help arrived. All of this was captured on surveillance cameras.
Why would I share this disturbing story with you? The reason is simple – we often forget how fortunate we are. We live in a beautiful part of the State where our children can still enjoy the simple things in life and we have a compassionate, caring and supportive community we live in. This once again came to the forefront last week at the benefit for Maureen Walhberg. The show of support and encouragement was phenomenal! Thirty-three beautiful baskets were raffled off, cakes/pies/cookies sold and a free-will offering taken. While these events were occurring, we were treated to the wonderful music of the Sons of Ireland. All of this was donated by the friends in our community. How different from the opening scenario.
As an educator, I look at this as a “teachable moment.” Here we are as adults/parents/grandparents teaching our children by example how to care for each other. As adults, we all know that an education is important, but there’s more to an education than what we learn from textbooks or cyber-space. We just taught our children, by modeling, how to be caring, considerate and compassionate. How fortunate we are to have a supportive community like Holy Family School and the Norwich community.
Gene
UPCOMING EVENTS
Wednesday, May 12 PTO Meeting 7pm
Thursday, May 13 Ascension Thursday 9am
Mass – 1st Graders
Thursday, May 13 Spring Concert 6pm
Friday, May 14 Ross Park Zoo Mobile
EC – Kindergarten 8:45am
Grades 1 – 3 9:40am
Grades 4 – 7 10:30am
Sunday, May 16 PTO Golf Tournament - Norwich
Friday, May 21 Kindergarten Screening 8am – 3pm
Tuesday, May 25 Science Performance 8:20 – 10am
State Exam
Wednesday, May 26 Father O’Connor Visit – Vocations
Monday, May 31 No School – Memorial Day
Saturday, May 1, 2010
April 30, 2010
Dear Parents,
I hope to see everyone tonight from 6-8pm in our gym for the Maureen Wahlberg Benefit. I’ll be glad when I can move around my office again – but it’s a good thing. My office is full of baskets that were donated by the families at our school. It’s nice to know that when someone is in need in our family, we all band together to help out. It should be an awesome event!
I’m not sure what dress to wear to the event – oh, I forgot, Gina doesn’t exist anymore! I hope everyone had as much fun as Pete, Rob and I did at the fashion show. The students (and their parents) certainly earned it by raising over $700 in Box Tops.
Our children have just completed the State ELA Assessment Exams and will take the Math Exams from May 5-7. The students performed very well on the ELA exams and we expect the same for the Math exams. Please ensure that your children receive the proper rest the night before the exams.
I know I’m harping, but please turn in your child’s Enrollment Application as soon as possible if your child is returning next year. Please see me if you have any questions.
Thank you for all the feedback concerning next year’s school calendar. I heard from approximately 30 families and the vote was split right down the middle. After reflecting on this, I have decided to follow the public school calendar for the Spring break. This means we will have off the 2nd week of April (April 11-15) and April 21 & 22 for Holy Thursday and Good Friday.
Please mark on your calendars May 6th and 7th. All parents/grandparents and friends are invited to join us for the National Day of Prayer and May Crowning events.
Gene
Upcoming Events
Wed, May 5th Math State Exams Grades 3,4,5,6 & 7
Thurs, May 6th Math State Exams Grades 3,4,5 & 6
Thurs, May 6th Nat’l Day of Prayer
All American Lunch 11 am
(Parents Invited)
Festivities 12:15 pm
Fri, May 7th Math State Exams Grades 4 & 7
Fri, May 7th May Crowning & Living 1 pm
Rosary - Gym
Wed, May 12th PTO Meeting 7 pm
Thurs, May 13th Ascension Thursday 9 am
Mass – 1st Graders
Thurs, May 13th Spring Concert 6 pm
Fri, May 14th Ross Park Zoo Mobile
EC – Kindergarten 8:45 am
Grades 1-3 9:40 am
Grades 4-7 10:30 am
Sun, May 16th Golf Tournament
Dear Parents,
I hope to see everyone tonight from 6-8pm in our gym for the Maureen Wahlberg Benefit. I’ll be glad when I can move around my office again – but it’s a good thing. My office is full of baskets that were donated by the families at our school. It’s nice to know that when someone is in need in our family, we all band together to help out. It should be an awesome event!
I’m not sure what dress to wear to the event – oh, I forgot, Gina doesn’t exist anymore! I hope everyone had as much fun as Pete, Rob and I did at the fashion show. The students (and their parents) certainly earned it by raising over $700 in Box Tops.
Our children have just completed the State ELA Assessment Exams and will take the Math Exams from May 5-7. The students performed very well on the ELA exams and we expect the same for the Math exams. Please ensure that your children receive the proper rest the night before the exams.
I know I’m harping, but please turn in your child’s Enrollment Application as soon as possible if your child is returning next year. Please see me if you have any questions.
Thank you for all the feedback concerning next year’s school calendar. I heard from approximately 30 families and the vote was split right down the middle. After reflecting on this, I have decided to follow the public school calendar for the Spring break. This means we will have off the 2nd week of April (April 11-15) and April 21 & 22 for Holy Thursday and Good Friday.
Please mark on your calendars May 6th and 7th. All parents/grandparents and friends are invited to join us for the National Day of Prayer and May Crowning events.
Gene
Upcoming Events
Wed, May 5th Math State Exams Grades 3,4,5,6 & 7
Thurs, May 6th Math State Exams Grades 3,4,5 & 6
Thurs, May 6th Nat’l Day of Prayer
All American Lunch 11 am
(Parents Invited)
Festivities 12:15 pm
Fri, May 7th Math State Exams Grades 4 & 7
Fri, May 7th May Crowning & Living 1 pm
Rosary - Gym
Wed, May 12th PTO Meeting 7 pm
Thurs, May 13th Ascension Thursday 9 am
Mass – 1st Graders
Thurs, May 13th Spring Concert 6 pm
Fri, May 14th Ross Park Zoo Mobile
EC – Kindergarten 8:45 am
Grades 1-3 9:40 am
Grades 4-7 10:30 am
Sun, May 16th Golf Tournament
Thursday, April 15, 2010
April 16, 2010
Dear Parents,
I wish to congratulate all of our students who have achieved academic excellence this past ten weeks. Whether a student achieves Honor or High Honor status or neither is not the point. What is important is that each child strives to do his or her best and gives 100% effort. Please make it a point to congratulate your child if they have given their best.
I would like to thank those parents who answered my email last week concerning next year’s spring vacation. Norwich has not yet published their 2010/11 school calendar, so I don’t know for certain if they will follow the BOCES calendar or not. Once they publish their calendar, I will share a copy of our calendar with all of our parents.
Once again I’m asking those parents who have not returned the enrollment form for next year to do so at their earliest convenience. Please contact me if you have any questions concerning the form.
Every two weeks you should be receiving a statement from our cafeteria. If you owe a balance, please send in payment with your child or give it to Mrs. Hose. Thank you in advance for addressing this issue.
The New York State ELA and Math tests are on the horizon. The test schedule is as follows:
ELA: Grade 7 Mon, April 26, and Thurs, April 29
Grade 6 Tues, April 27, Wed, April and Fri, April 30
Grade 5 Tues, April 27 and Thurs, April 29
Grade 4 Tues, April 27, Wed, April 28 and Fri, April 30
Grade 3 Wed, April 28 and Thurs, April 29
Math: Grade 7 Wed, May 5 and Fri, May 7
Grade 6 Wed, May 5 and Thurs, May 6
Grade 5 Wed, May 5 and Thurs, May 6
Grade 4 Wed, May 5, Thurs, May 6 and Fri, May 7
Grade 3 Thurs, May 6 and Fri, May 7
Please ensure that your child receives the proper amount of rest and eats a good breakfast prior to the exams.
I hope everyone has a great vacation. Kids Zone will be open for the full week.
Gene
Upcoming Events
Maureen Wahlberg Benefit 6-8pm Friday, April 30
National Day of Prayer Thursday, May 6
Family Luncheon 11am - Noon
Festivities 12:15pm
May Crowning Friday, May 7
Crowning & Living Rosary 1pm
Dear Parents,
I wish to congratulate all of our students who have achieved academic excellence this past ten weeks. Whether a student achieves Honor or High Honor status or neither is not the point. What is important is that each child strives to do his or her best and gives 100% effort. Please make it a point to congratulate your child if they have given their best.
I would like to thank those parents who answered my email last week concerning next year’s spring vacation. Norwich has not yet published their 2010/11 school calendar, so I don’t know for certain if they will follow the BOCES calendar or not. Once they publish their calendar, I will share a copy of our calendar with all of our parents.
Once again I’m asking those parents who have not returned the enrollment form for next year to do so at their earliest convenience. Please contact me if you have any questions concerning the form.
Every two weeks you should be receiving a statement from our cafeteria. If you owe a balance, please send in payment with your child or give it to Mrs. Hose. Thank you in advance for addressing this issue.
The New York State ELA and Math tests are on the horizon. The test schedule is as follows:
ELA: Grade 7 Mon, April 26, and Thurs, April 29
Grade 6 Tues, April 27, Wed, April and Fri, April 30
Grade 5 Tues, April 27 and Thurs, April 29
Grade 4 Tues, April 27, Wed, April 28 and Fri, April 30
Grade 3 Wed, April 28 and Thurs, April 29
Math: Grade 7 Wed, May 5 and Fri, May 7
Grade 6 Wed, May 5 and Thurs, May 6
Grade 5 Wed, May 5 and Thurs, May 6
Grade 4 Wed, May 5, Thurs, May 6 and Fri, May 7
Grade 3 Thurs, May 6 and Fri, May 7
Please ensure that your child receives the proper amount of rest and eats a good breakfast prior to the exams.
I hope everyone has a great vacation. Kids Zone will be open for the full week.
Gene
Upcoming Events
Maureen Wahlberg Benefit 6-8pm Friday, April 30
National Day of Prayer Thursday, May 6
Family Luncheon 11am - Noon
Festivities 12:15pm
May Crowning Friday, May 7
Crowning & Living Rosary 1pm
Friday, April 9, 2010
April 9, 2010
Dear Parents,
Hope everyone had a joyful and blessed Easter. Time is going by so fast, it’s difficult to keep up, but I’ll try. Enrollment for the 2010/11 school year now stands at 88. If you haven’t returned your form yet, please do so as soon as possible. Speaking of next year, I sent out an email concerning the school calendar. Please choose one of the two options and email me your preference. I will weigh all responses carefully before a decision is made. I am also in the process of finalizing the student schedule for next year. I will be sending home a copy of this schedule after the spring vacation with your child.
Please remember that we will be off from school the week of April 19 – 23. Kids Zone will be open on these days.
Congratulations to all our students who did extra chores at home and donated their own money for the Haiti Relief Services. Our children donated $209.82 that will be forwarded to the Catholic Relief Services. Please continue to keep the people of Haiti in your prayers as they struggle to recover from the disaster.
The Friday, April 30th benefit for Maureen Wahlberg is fast approaching. Please send in your items for the baskets to your child’s teacher by April 16th so that we can prepare the baskets over Spring break.
At this time I would like to congratulate our students and parents for exceeding the goal of 6000 boxtops. As a result of this accomplishment, we will be holding our first Debutante Fashion Show on Friday, April 15th at 1:15pm in the gym. All are invited to attend the show as Roberta (Rob Converse), Petunia Pete Asma), and Gena (Gene Chilion) show off the latest spring fashions. Your eyes will not believe what they see (and unfortunately your minds will remember). Photos are not only encouraged, but required – the girls are not bashful and will be profiled in an upcoming edition of the Evening Sun.
Here is a list of upcoming events:
Fri, April 16th Debutante Fashion Show - Gym 1:15pm
OM Celebration Party 1:30pm
Report Cards Sent Home
April 19-23 Spring Vacation – Kids Zone Open
April 26 – 30 ELA State Exams
Fri, April 30 Maureen Wahlberg Benefit – Gym 6 – 8pm
May 5 – 7 Math State Exams
Thurs, May 6th National Day of Prayer
Lunch – Parents Invited 11:15-Noon
Ceremony – Gym 12:15pm
Fri, May 7th May Crowning – Parents Invited 1 pm
Living Rosary – Gym
God Bless,
Gene
Dear Parents,
Hope everyone had a joyful and blessed Easter. Time is going by so fast, it’s difficult to keep up, but I’ll try. Enrollment for the 2010/11 school year now stands at 88. If you haven’t returned your form yet, please do so as soon as possible. Speaking of next year, I sent out an email concerning the school calendar. Please choose one of the two options and email me your preference. I will weigh all responses carefully before a decision is made. I am also in the process of finalizing the student schedule for next year. I will be sending home a copy of this schedule after the spring vacation with your child.
Please remember that we will be off from school the week of April 19 – 23. Kids Zone will be open on these days.
Congratulations to all our students who did extra chores at home and donated their own money for the Haiti Relief Services. Our children donated $209.82 that will be forwarded to the Catholic Relief Services. Please continue to keep the people of Haiti in your prayers as they struggle to recover from the disaster.
The Friday, April 30th benefit for Maureen Wahlberg is fast approaching. Please send in your items for the baskets to your child’s teacher by April 16th so that we can prepare the baskets over Spring break.
At this time I would like to congratulate our students and parents for exceeding the goal of 6000 boxtops. As a result of this accomplishment, we will be holding our first Debutante Fashion Show on Friday, April 15th at 1:15pm in the gym. All are invited to attend the show as Roberta (Rob Converse), Petunia Pete Asma), and Gena (Gene Chilion) show off the latest spring fashions. Your eyes will not believe what they see (and unfortunately your minds will remember). Photos are not only encouraged, but required – the girls are not bashful and will be profiled in an upcoming edition of the Evening Sun.
Here is a list of upcoming events:
Fri, April 16th Debutante Fashion Show - Gym 1:15pm
OM Celebration Party 1:30pm
Report Cards Sent Home
April 19-23 Spring Vacation – Kids Zone Open
April 26 – 30 ELA State Exams
Fri, April 30 Maureen Wahlberg Benefit – Gym 6 – 8pm
May 5 – 7 Math State Exams
Thurs, May 6th National Day of Prayer
Lunch – Parents Invited 11:15-Noon
Ceremony – Gym 12:15pm
Fri, May 7th May Crowning – Parents Invited 1 pm
Living Rosary – Gym
God Bless,
Gene
Thursday, March 25, 2010
March 25, 2010
Dear Parents,
This week I would like to devote my letter to the changes the state has made to our elementary State Assessment Exams. The social studies and science exams remain unchanged. However, in past years, the ELA exams were given in January and the math exams in March. Schools were given five full school days to administer each exam. This year, the ELA exams will be given in April. The State is requiring all schools to administer all the ELA exams in three days, rather than five. The testing dates are April 26-28. This is, unfortunately, the first week back after our spring vacation.
The math exams will be given beginning on May 5th and ending on May 7th. Administering the exams later in the school year will mean that a larger percentage of the material for each grade will be on the exams. This year the number of questions and format will remain the same as in past years, but the state is considering changes for next year.
Administering the exams later in the school year will mean that schools (and parents) will not receive the results back from the state until a much later date. This may cause some issues with preparing student schedules for the next school year. As always, I will keep you informed as changes and information come my way.
The March 31st date for handing in Tuition Agreement forms for the 2010-11 school year is fast approaching. Please send in your form if you haven’t done so already.
Good luck to both our Odyssey of the Mind Teams who compete in the State competition at Binghamton University this Saturday. We’re extremely proud of each member of the team and their advisors, Kate Conron and Melissa Lawrence. You can watch their performances and the award ceromony via a live video stream available via a link on the NYSOMA website: www.nysoma.org
Congratulations also go out to Michael Trevisani for finishing in 1st Place in the Knights of Columbus State competition for his poster on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. Michael now moves on to the International competition, which is held in New Haven, Connecticut on March 30th. Congratulations go out to Michael and our other students who entered this contest, along with our art teacher, Sarah Mahan.
I will not be writing a letter next week since our last day of school is Wednesday, March 31st. Please remember that we have Thursday and Friday off for Holy Week. See everyone on the Monday after Easter. Have a great Easter.
Dear Parents,
This week I would like to devote my letter to the changes the state has made to our elementary State Assessment Exams. The social studies and science exams remain unchanged. However, in past years, the ELA exams were given in January and the math exams in March. Schools were given five full school days to administer each exam. This year, the ELA exams will be given in April. The State is requiring all schools to administer all the ELA exams in three days, rather than five. The testing dates are April 26-28. This is, unfortunately, the first week back after our spring vacation.
The math exams will be given beginning on May 5th and ending on May 7th. Administering the exams later in the school year will mean that a larger percentage of the material for each grade will be on the exams. This year the number of questions and format will remain the same as in past years, but the state is considering changes for next year.
Administering the exams later in the school year will mean that schools (and parents) will not receive the results back from the state until a much later date. This may cause some issues with preparing student schedules for the next school year. As always, I will keep you informed as changes and information come my way.
The March 31st date for handing in Tuition Agreement forms for the 2010-11 school year is fast approaching. Please send in your form if you haven’t done so already.
Good luck to both our Odyssey of the Mind Teams who compete in the State competition at Binghamton University this Saturday. We’re extremely proud of each member of the team and their advisors, Kate Conron and Melissa Lawrence. You can watch their performances and the award ceromony via a live video stream available via a link on the NYSOMA website: www.nysoma.org
Congratulations also go out to Michael Trevisani for finishing in 1st Place in the Knights of Columbus State competition for his poster on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. Michael now moves on to the International competition, which is held in New Haven, Connecticut on March 30th. Congratulations go out to Michael and our other students who entered this contest, along with our art teacher, Sarah Mahan.
I will not be writing a letter next week since our last day of school is Wednesday, March 31st. Please remember that we have Thursday and Friday off for Holy Week. See everyone on the Monday after Easter. Have a great Easter.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
March 19, 2010
Dear Parents,
As you are probably aware, Maureen Wahlberg is battling cancer. She began her chemo treatments recently. Our staff is planning a fundraiser for Maureen to help her with the additional costs she is incurring. You will shortly be receiving specific information regarding this fundraiser, which will take place on Friday, April 30th. We ask that you consider helping us with this event in any way you can. All proceeds from the fundraiser will be given to Maureen. Don’t hesitate to contact Cassie Buckley or me if you have any questions. Please continue to keep Maureen and her entire family in your prayers.
Several incidents occurred at the end of last week that I would like to address at this time. I’m not trying to preach or make it sound as though I’m perfect - nothing could be farther from the truth. I’m sharing these events so that we can reflect on them and see if we need to make some changes in our lives. The first involves bullying, which occurs far too often in our society. Parents can try to make all kinds of excuses for their children to try to justify bullying, but the bottom line is that it is inexcusable and unacceptable. What also occurred last week was that several students witnessed bullying and did nothing to stop it, several actually were laughing as it occurred. Children, just like adults, are responsible for their actions. The worst thing that can happen is that parents try to rationalize or make excuses for their children when they bully or allow bullying to occur. This is not the type of parental role modeling we want or should accept. Fortunately, the parents I spoke with were disappointed in their child’s behavior - not standing up when they knew it was wrong and assured me they would deal with their child, regardless of the school consequences. If we want bullying to stop, this is what we need, parents being positive role models and students standing up for what they believe in. We also need to reinforce in our children that they are responsible for their behavior. There are consequences for our actions, and as parents, we can’t make excuses for our children’s inappropriate actions. My hope is that we’ve all learned a lesson from these incidents and if faced with a similar situation, our children will do the right thing.
The second issue I would like to discuss concerns how we, as adults, treat each other. Children are wiser and more observant then we give them credit for. I have previously addressed the concern I have that some adults can walk down our hallways and say hello to certain people, but not to others. It’s not difficult to say a friendly hello or good morning as we pass each other in the halls. If we do this, our children certainly will follow our example. The same holds true for families that no longer attend our school. During the past 1 ½ years, I’ve heard on several occasions that once their children leave Holy Family, some parents don’t say hello to them when they see each other in stores or other places. I hope this is due to not seeing them, rather than ignoring them. Remember, we all represent Holy Family School by our actions, but even more important, I would hope we’d want our children to treat all people with respect. Chances are this will only happen if we model this behavior for them.
Now that spring is only one day away, perhaps the remaining snow will melt and be replaced with green. One can only hope! Don’t forget that students will not have school on Friday, March 26th due to a teachers’ conference day. Kids Zone will be open for those parents needing it. Thursday, March 25th will be our non-uniform day for the month of March. Have a great week!
Dear Parents,
As you are probably aware, Maureen Wahlberg is battling cancer. She began her chemo treatments recently. Our staff is planning a fundraiser for Maureen to help her with the additional costs she is incurring. You will shortly be receiving specific information regarding this fundraiser, which will take place on Friday, April 30th. We ask that you consider helping us with this event in any way you can. All proceeds from the fundraiser will be given to Maureen. Don’t hesitate to contact Cassie Buckley or me if you have any questions. Please continue to keep Maureen and her entire family in your prayers.
Several incidents occurred at the end of last week that I would like to address at this time. I’m not trying to preach or make it sound as though I’m perfect - nothing could be farther from the truth. I’m sharing these events so that we can reflect on them and see if we need to make some changes in our lives. The first involves bullying, which occurs far too often in our society. Parents can try to make all kinds of excuses for their children to try to justify bullying, but the bottom line is that it is inexcusable and unacceptable. What also occurred last week was that several students witnessed bullying and did nothing to stop it, several actually were laughing as it occurred. Children, just like adults, are responsible for their actions. The worst thing that can happen is that parents try to rationalize or make excuses for their children when they bully or allow bullying to occur. This is not the type of parental role modeling we want or should accept. Fortunately, the parents I spoke with were disappointed in their child’s behavior - not standing up when they knew it was wrong and assured me they would deal with their child, regardless of the school consequences. If we want bullying to stop, this is what we need, parents being positive role models and students standing up for what they believe in. We also need to reinforce in our children that they are responsible for their behavior. There are consequences for our actions, and as parents, we can’t make excuses for our children’s inappropriate actions. My hope is that we’ve all learned a lesson from these incidents and if faced with a similar situation, our children will do the right thing.
The second issue I would like to discuss concerns how we, as adults, treat each other. Children are wiser and more observant then we give them credit for. I have previously addressed the concern I have that some adults can walk down our hallways and say hello to certain people, but not to others. It’s not difficult to say a friendly hello or good morning as we pass each other in the halls. If we do this, our children certainly will follow our example. The same holds true for families that no longer attend our school. During the past 1 ½ years, I’ve heard on several occasions that once their children leave Holy Family, some parents don’t say hello to them when they see each other in stores or other places. I hope this is due to not seeing them, rather than ignoring them. Remember, we all represent Holy Family School by our actions, but even more important, I would hope we’d want our children to treat all people with respect. Chances are this will only happen if we model this behavior for them.
Now that spring is only one day away, perhaps the remaining snow will melt and be replaced with green. One can only hope! Don’t forget that students will not have school on Friday, March 26th due to a teachers’ conference day. Kids Zone will be open for those parents needing it. Thursday, March 25th will be our non-uniform day for the month of March. Have a great week!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
March 12, 2010
Dear Parents,
The enrollment period for the 2010/11 school year began on February 1st. If you have not already returned your Tuition Agreement form, please hand it in as soon as possible. I am trying to prepare the budget for next year and of course, enrollment dictates a large portion of the budget. If you are applying for Diocesan Tuition Assistance, the deadline to mail your forms in is March 15th. If you have any questions, please stop in and see me.
This past week our Odyssey of the Mind students were fortunate to meet with Bud Kelleher, a SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry professor who spoke to them about the properties and efficient use of balsam wood for building strong structures. The students found the presentation enlightening and useful to assist them in preparing for the State OM competition on March 27th at Binghamton University.
If you haven’t had the good fortune to savor one of our delicious fish fry dinners, please join us. You only have three opportunities left, counting today. Sit down dinners are available from 5-7 pm. Take out dinners begin at 4:30 pm. You can call 337-2208 for take out ahead of time so that your dinner is waiting for you when you arrive.
We have two special days this week. Students will not be required to wear their school uniform if they wear traditional colors for these days. Don’t forget to wear your “green” on Wednesday, March 17th for St. Patrick’s Day. Weather permitting, our students in Pre-K through 4th grade will be walking down to Courthouse Park for a short St. Patrick’s Day tribute. Our middle school chorus will be singing the National Anthem to begin the ceremony. Please join us if you can. Friday is St. Joseph’s Day and as is our tradition at Holy Family School, we encourage everyone to wear red.
Lastly, Mrs. Hose’s count-down to spring is almost at “zero!” Unfortunately, that means it’s that time of year when we need to set our clocks ahead one hour and “spring forward.” So, on Sunday at 2:00 am, we will set our clocks ahead one hour (and lose one hour of sleep). Have a great weekend!
Dear Parents,
The enrollment period for the 2010/11 school year began on February 1st. If you have not already returned your Tuition Agreement form, please hand it in as soon as possible. I am trying to prepare the budget for next year and of course, enrollment dictates a large portion of the budget. If you are applying for Diocesan Tuition Assistance, the deadline to mail your forms in is March 15th. If you have any questions, please stop in and see me.
This past week our Odyssey of the Mind students were fortunate to meet with Bud Kelleher, a SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry professor who spoke to them about the properties and efficient use of balsam wood for building strong structures. The students found the presentation enlightening and useful to assist them in preparing for the State OM competition on March 27th at Binghamton University.
If you haven’t had the good fortune to savor one of our delicious fish fry dinners, please join us. You only have three opportunities left, counting today. Sit down dinners are available from 5-7 pm. Take out dinners begin at 4:30 pm. You can call 337-2208 for take out ahead of time so that your dinner is waiting for you when you arrive.
We have two special days this week. Students will not be required to wear their school uniform if they wear traditional colors for these days. Don’t forget to wear your “green” on Wednesday, March 17th for St. Patrick’s Day. Weather permitting, our students in Pre-K through 4th grade will be walking down to Courthouse Park for a short St. Patrick’s Day tribute. Our middle school chorus will be singing the National Anthem to begin the ceremony. Please join us if you can. Friday is St. Joseph’s Day and as is our tradition at Holy Family School, we encourage everyone to wear red.
Lastly, Mrs. Hose’s count-down to spring is almost at “zero!” Unfortunately, that means it’s that time of year when we need to set our clocks ahead one hour and “spring forward.” So, on Sunday at 2:00 am, we will set our clocks ahead one hour (and lose one hour of sleep). Have a great weekend!
Friday, March 5, 2010
March 5, 2010
Dear Parents,
If you haven’t worked at a Fish Fry, you’re missing out! It’s not just one night serving a dinner to 300 guests, it’s an event! It’s what Holy Family School is all about – parents, staff, students and former students working together for a common cause.
This type of event doesn’t happen overnight. The committee has been working for several months planning for this event. Several changes were made this year, including upgrading to haddock and adding potato wedges. But what didn’t change was the commitment of our extended family. Whether it is baking desserts, doing the prep work for the dinner, or working at the dinner, the cooperation and camaraderie is clearly evident. It is great to see how our parents work together and have lots of fun. Fish Fries are teachable moments as parents role model for their children what community service is and how important it is. It should be noted that parents took vacation days off, and took non-paid days off from their jobs to work on our team. This is truly amazing to me. The level of commitment to Holy Family School is extremely high. If you haven’t joined our team yet and would like to help us out, please contact Ann French at school.
We have begun the enrollment process for the 2010/11 school year. Please hand in your Tuition Agreement Form with your deposit as soon as possible. If you are applying for Diocesan Tuition Assistance, your forms must be mailed in the envelopes provided and received by the Diocese by March 15th. Likewise, if you are applying for local assistance, please fill out the Local Assistance Form and return it with your Tuition Agreement Form. Please see me if you have any questions regarding assistance.
Mrs. Hose has alerted me to an issue that arises at times when parents notify the school to inform us that their children are staying after school or someone else is picking up their child. It is fine to email Mrs. Hose, but please do this before noon, as sometimes emails do not get delivered immediately or Mrs. Hose doesn‘t have the time to check her emails in the afternoon. After noon, please call the office to notify us. Thank you for your cooperation on this matter.
Below is a list of upcoming field trips/assemblies at Holy Family School. Please be on the lookout for the permission slips your child will be bringing home. We strongly encourage and invite you to join your child on these field trips when there is room. Please check the list below and let your child’s teacher know if you plan on attending.
Gene
UPCOMING EVENTS
Wed, Mar. 10th “Lookingglass Alice: Gr. 5 – 7 10:30-5:30
Syracuse Stage Theatre
Friday, Mar. 12th Popp Butterfly Conser. 3rd Grade 9 -11:30 am
Oneonta
Thursday, Mar. 18th Popp Butterfly Conser. 4th Grade 11:30-2 pm
Oneonta
Friday, Mar. 19th “Little Red Riding Hood” EC – 7th 9 – 10 am
TriCities Opera – In gym
Parents & Guests Invited to Attend
Dear Parents,
If you haven’t worked at a Fish Fry, you’re missing out! It’s not just one night serving a dinner to 300 guests, it’s an event! It’s what Holy Family School is all about – parents, staff, students and former students working together for a common cause.
This type of event doesn’t happen overnight. The committee has been working for several months planning for this event. Several changes were made this year, including upgrading to haddock and adding potato wedges. But what didn’t change was the commitment of our extended family. Whether it is baking desserts, doing the prep work for the dinner, or working at the dinner, the cooperation and camaraderie is clearly evident. It is great to see how our parents work together and have lots of fun. Fish Fries are teachable moments as parents role model for their children what community service is and how important it is. It should be noted that parents took vacation days off, and took non-paid days off from their jobs to work on our team. This is truly amazing to me. The level of commitment to Holy Family School is extremely high. If you haven’t joined our team yet and would like to help us out, please contact Ann French at school.
We have begun the enrollment process for the 2010/11 school year. Please hand in your Tuition Agreement Form with your deposit as soon as possible. If you are applying for Diocesan Tuition Assistance, your forms must be mailed in the envelopes provided and received by the Diocese by March 15th. Likewise, if you are applying for local assistance, please fill out the Local Assistance Form and return it with your Tuition Agreement Form. Please see me if you have any questions regarding assistance.
Mrs. Hose has alerted me to an issue that arises at times when parents notify the school to inform us that their children are staying after school or someone else is picking up their child. It is fine to email Mrs. Hose, but please do this before noon, as sometimes emails do not get delivered immediately or Mrs. Hose doesn‘t have the time to check her emails in the afternoon. After noon, please call the office to notify us. Thank you for your cooperation on this matter.
Below is a list of upcoming field trips/assemblies at Holy Family School. Please be on the lookout for the permission slips your child will be bringing home. We strongly encourage and invite you to join your child on these field trips when there is room. Please check the list below and let your child’s teacher know if you plan on attending.
Gene
UPCOMING EVENTS
Wed, Mar. 10th “Lookingglass Alice: Gr. 5 – 7 10:30-5:30
Syracuse Stage Theatre
Friday, Mar. 12th Popp Butterfly Conser. 3rd Grade 9 -11:30 am
Oneonta
Thursday, Mar. 18th Popp Butterfly Conser. 4th Grade 11:30-2 pm
Oneonta
Friday, Mar. 19th “Little Red Riding Hood” EC – 7th 9 – 10 am
TriCities Opera – In gym
Parents & Guests Invited to Attend
Friday, February 26, 2010
February 26, 2010
Dear Parents,
I was fortunate, along with about 40 other members of the Holy Family School community to witness this year’s OM competition in Masonville. This year, under the direction of Kate Conron and Melissa Lawrence, we entered two teams. In the elementary school division, fourth graders Adriana Fratini, Michael Hayes, Elijah Kwasnik, Garrison French, Michael Trevisani, Cole Olsen and Emma Blenis competed in the elementary school division, finishing first. In the middle school division, the team of Danika Tworkowsky, Anastasia Tenney, Josh Wilcox, Pablo Rojas, Ethan French and Bryan French also finished in first place. All team members should be congratulated on the amount of time, planning and effort they devoted to this event. They all represented Holy Family School well. Both teams now have one month to prepare for the State competition, which will be held on Saturday, March 27th at Binghamton University. Congratulations to all our students for a job well-done!
We have begun the enrollment process for the 2010/11 school year. Please hand in your Tuition Agreement Form with your deposit as soon as possible. If you are applying for Diocesan Tuition Assistance, your forms must be mailed in the envelopes provided and received by the Diocese by March 15th. Likewise, if you are applying for local assistance, please fill out the Local Assistance Form and return it with your Tuition Agreement Form. Please see me if you have any questions regarding assistance.
Don’t forget our Friday Fish Fries. If you haven’t savored the great food yet, please don’t miss out this Friday. Take out orders are taken from 4:30-7:00 pm and eat in hours are 5:00-7:00 pm. Also, if you have any bird feeder money that you haven’t turned in, please do so as soon as possible.
We continue to offer our students numerous field trips to extend their learning experiences. Please be on the lookout for the permission slips your child will be bringing home. We strongly encourage and invite you to join your child on these field trips when there is room. Please check the list
below and let your child’s teacher know if you plan on attending.
Gene
UPCOMING EVENTS
Friday, Feb. 26th “The Lightening Thief” Gr. 5-7 Noon
Hamilton Theatre
Tuesday, Mar. 2nd “Step Into Seuss” Gr. K & 1 9 am-Noon
St. Mary’s – Oneonta
Parents & Guests Invited to Attend
Friday, Mar. 5th 1st Friday Mass 4th Grade 9 am
Wed, Mar. 10th “Lookingglass Alice” Gr. 5 – 7 10:30-5:30
Syracuse Stage Theatre
Friday, Mar. 12th Popp Butterfly Conser. 3rd Grade 9 -11:30 am
Oneonta
Thursday, Mar. 18th Popp Butterfly Conser. 4th Grade 9 - 11:30 am
Oneonta
Friday, Mar. 19th “Little Red Riding Hood” EC – 7th 9 – 10 am
TriCities Opera – In gym
Parents & Guests Invited to Attend
Dear Parents,
I was fortunate, along with about 40 other members of the Holy Family School community to witness this year’s OM competition in Masonville. This year, under the direction of Kate Conron and Melissa Lawrence, we entered two teams. In the elementary school division, fourth graders Adriana Fratini, Michael Hayes, Elijah Kwasnik, Garrison French, Michael Trevisani, Cole Olsen and Emma Blenis competed in the elementary school division, finishing first. In the middle school division, the team of Danika Tworkowsky, Anastasia Tenney, Josh Wilcox, Pablo Rojas, Ethan French and Bryan French also finished in first place. All team members should be congratulated on the amount of time, planning and effort they devoted to this event. They all represented Holy Family School well. Both teams now have one month to prepare for the State competition, which will be held on Saturday, March 27th at Binghamton University. Congratulations to all our students for a job well-done!
We have begun the enrollment process for the 2010/11 school year. Please hand in your Tuition Agreement Form with your deposit as soon as possible. If you are applying for Diocesan Tuition Assistance, your forms must be mailed in the envelopes provided and received by the Diocese by March 15th. Likewise, if you are applying for local assistance, please fill out the Local Assistance Form and return it with your Tuition Agreement Form. Please see me if you have any questions regarding assistance.
Don’t forget our Friday Fish Fries. If you haven’t savored the great food yet, please don’t miss out this Friday. Take out orders are taken from 4:30-7:00 pm and eat in hours are 5:00-7:00 pm. Also, if you have any bird feeder money that you haven’t turned in, please do so as soon as possible.
We continue to offer our students numerous field trips to extend their learning experiences. Please be on the lookout for the permission slips your child will be bringing home. We strongly encourage and invite you to join your child on these field trips when there is room. Please check the list
below and let your child’s teacher know if you plan on attending.
Gene
UPCOMING EVENTS
Friday, Feb. 26th “The Lightening Thief” Gr. 5-7 Noon
Hamilton Theatre
Tuesday, Mar. 2nd “Step Into Seuss” Gr. K & 1 9 am-Noon
St. Mary’s – Oneonta
Parents & Guests Invited to Attend
Friday, Mar. 5th 1st Friday Mass 4th Grade 9 am
Wed, Mar. 10th “Lookingglass Alice” Gr. 5 – 7 10:30-5:30
Syracuse Stage Theatre
Friday, Mar. 12th Popp Butterfly Conser. 3rd Grade 9 -11:30 am
Oneonta
Thursday, Mar. 18th Popp Butterfly Conser. 4th Grade 9 - 11:30 am
Oneonta
Friday, Mar. 19th “Little Red Riding Hood” EC – 7th 9 – 10 am
TriCities Opera – In gym
Parents & Guests Invited to Attend
Thursday, February 11, 2010
February 12, 2010
Dear Parents,
Well, the second half of the school year has begun. As a type of midyear review, I thought it would be a good time to look at the changes we have undertaken at Holy Family School this year. Too often life gets so busy and complicated that we forget to reflect on our successes and just take them for granted. So, here goes!
• We began by hiring three new staff members, Suzanne Scafidi for the Early Childhood Program, Lisa Halsteter for first grade and Sarah Mahan for art.
• We focused on expanding our Early Childhood Program to a full time program, but still allowing parents the flexibility of half days and 3 day a week options. We worked on creating a curriculum that would academically challenge our students and still create an environment where they could refine their social skills.
• We purchased a new ELA series for our students in kindergarten through 5th grade, including textbooks, workbooks and leveled readers. This is allowing us to coordinate our curriculum from one grade level to the next.
• We purchased a new reading assessment tool and tested all our students in October, sharing the results with our parents. We are just concluding retesting those students that scored below grade level to see if the supports we put in place for them are effective. We will retest all of our students at the end of the school year.
• We remodeled the kindergarten and first grade rooms, adding cubbies and more useable storage areas.
• We added reading lofts in the first and third grade rooms.
• We purchased new tables and chairs for the Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and first and third grade classrooms for their learning centers. We also purchased new tables and chairs for our middle school social studies room.
• We purchased Smartboards for our kindergarten and first grade classrooms. Now all our classrooms on the main floor have Smartboards.
• We purchased 16 new computers to create computer centers in our elementary classrooms for student use, as well as additional computers for our computer lab.
• We changed our webpage and grading system to Edline and Grade Quick, providing our parents, staff and the entire school with a better system to communicate with each other.
• We painted the gym/stage area and the entrance way. We also installed new lighting and ceiling tiles in the entrance way and the hallway by the library.
• We instituted many energy efficient initiatives to conserve natural gas and electricity that we use to heat and provide lighting to our facility. Although there were upfront costs to these measures, the long-term savings should be significant.
• Additional outlets were installed in many of our classrooms.
• The main fire alarm system was inspected and a new alarm installed in the elementary wing.
• New lockers have just been installed for our middle school students.
• We are in the process of purchasing 12 new computers for our middle school classrooms for student use.
I’m sure I forgot to mention some additional changes we have instituted this year, but even I’m amazed with this list! We have accomplished a lot this year, but more improvements are on the horizon.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Friday, Feb. 12th Non-uniform Day – Box Tops Reward
Feb. 13th – 21st Winter Break – No School
Feb. 15th – 19th Kids Zone is Open
Dear Parents,
Well, the second half of the school year has begun. As a type of midyear review, I thought it would be a good time to look at the changes we have undertaken at Holy Family School this year. Too often life gets so busy and complicated that we forget to reflect on our successes and just take them for granted. So, here goes!
• We began by hiring three new staff members, Suzanne Scafidi for the Early Childhood Program, Lisa Halsteter for first grade and Sarah Mahan for art.
• We focused on expanding our Early Childhood Program to a full time program, but still allowing parents the flexibility of half days and 3 day a week options. We worked on creating a curriculum that would academically challenge our students and still create an environment where they could refine their social skills.
• We purchased a new ELA series for our students in kindergarten through 5th grade, including textbooks, workbooks and leveled readers. This is allowing us to coordinate our curriculum from one grade level to the next.
• We purchased a new reading assessment tool and tested all our students in October, sharing the results with our parents. We are just concluding retesting those students that scored below grade level to see if the supports we put in place for them are effective. We will retest all of our students at the end of the school year.
• We remodeled the kindergarten and first grade rooms, adding cubbies and more useable storage areas.
• We added reading lofts in the first and third grade rooms.
• We purchased new tables and chairs for the Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and first and third grade classrooms for their learning centers. We also purchased new tables and chairs for our middle school social studies room.
• We purchased Smartboards for our kindergarten and first grade classrooms. Now all our classrooms on the main floor have Smartboards.
• We purchased 16 new computers to create computer centers in our elementary classrooms for student use, as well as additional computers for our computer lab.
• We changed our webpage and grading system to Edline and Grade Quick, providing our parents, staff and the entire school with a better system to communicate with each other.
• We painted the gym/stage area and the entrance way. We also installed new lighting and ceiling tiles in the entrance way and the hallway by the library.
• We instituted many energy efficient initiatives to conserve natural gas and electricity that we use to heat and provide lighting to our facility. Although there were upfront costs to these measures, the long-term savings should be significant.
• Additional outlets were installed in many of our classrooms.
• The main fire alarm system was inspected and a new alarm installed in the elementary wing.
• New lockers have just been installed for our middle school students.
• We are in the process of purchasing 12 new computers for our middle school classrooms for student use.
I’m sure I forgot to mention some additional changes we have instituted this year, but even I’m amazed with this list! We have accomplished a lot this year, but more improvements are on the horizon.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Friday, Feb. 12th Non-uniform Day – Box Tops Reward
Feb. 13th – 21st Winter Break – No School
Feb. 15th – 19th Kids Zone is Open
Friday, February 5, 2010
February 5, 2010
Dear Parents,
Congratulations to all on a very successful Catholic Schools Week! Many people pitched in to make this a very memorable week, one celebrating Catholic education in the United States. It was great to see all the moms, dads and grandparents for donuts and muffins. Once again it reinforces my belief that parents really do care – they just want to be kept informed and feel welcome in their child’s school. I thought it would be appropriate, and possibly enlightening, if I shared a brief overview of the history of St. Paul’s/Holy Family School. Before I begin, please note that all the information I am sharing was found in the documents that I reorganized when I began working here. I make no claim substantiating the authenticity of this history only that it was in a file labeled “History of St. Paul’s School.” Here is that history exactly as it was written. After you read it, please let me know of any inaccuracies. Better yet, if you have any additional information I would appreciate you sharing it with me. I’d like to compile a more complete, accurate history of our school.
Saint Paul’s School was established in 1922 with a staff of three Dominican Sisters. In 1925 a fourth Sister was assigned to the school and in 1926 another Sister. No further Sisters joined the school until 1954. The original site of the school was the Maydole (or Merritt Mansion) Mansion on the corner of North Broad Street and Mitchell Avenue. There were twelve first graders and approximately twenty-five primary students in all under the leadership of the Reverend Joseph S. Tiernan. It was a combination school and convent. The first graduating class consisted of three eighth grade students in 1927.
The Reverend Henry L. Contois was appointed pastor in October 1951 by Bishop Foery. By that time the post-war birth rate was being felt in all schools, and St. Paul’s was no exception. The building, which was adequate in the beginning, now proved to be unsuitable to the needs of the children and the Sisters. In 1952, it was decided that a new school building was needed for the increasing enrollment. Meanwhile, a convent on Prospect Street (were our new playground is) was purchased and renovated and was ready for the Sisters in September 1953. The new building was dedicated on September 19, 1954 with nine Dominican Sisters staffing the school.
Under the pastorate of Father Robert F. Coombs, $278,000 was raised for an addition to Saint Paul’s School. The addition consisted of the gymnasium/
auditorium, the boys’ and girls’ locker rooms, the carpeted Manley Memorial Library containing two thousand four hundred books, the present sixth grade classroom and the cafeteria with a seating capacity of 250 people. The new addition was dedicated in February of 1964.
In 1971, the Dominican Sisters were unable to continue their duties at Saint Paul’s School because of increased responsibilities in New York City. Father Thomas Kiernan searched for a year until he was able to announce that the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet would assume the teaching responsibilities at Saint Paul’s School.
In 1978, the Norwich City School District included the ninth grade in the high school for the first time. It was decided to drop the ninth grade from Saint Paul’s School at this time to allow an easier transition for the students into the high school. For similar reasons, in 1983, the seventh and eighth grades were dropped from Saint Paul’s School when the new Norwich City Middle School was built next to the high school.
For the 1988/89 school year St. Paul’s became a county school under the name of Holy Family. In January, 1990, Saint Paul’s School was rededicated as Chenango County Catholic School Holy Family by Bishop Joseph T. O’Keefe. The school was not to be a parish school of Saint Paul’s Church any longer, but a county-wide Catholic school for all children of Chenango County.
There were eight Chenango County parishes that took over the financial support of Saint Paul’s School. These parishes were St. Joseph’s in Oxford, St. Theresa’s in New Berlin, St. Malachy’s in Sherburne, St. Agnes in Afton, St. John’s in Bainbridge, Immaculate Conception in Greene, St. Bartholomew’s in Norwich and St. Paul’s in Norwich.
Here are some notes of interest that I found:
• For the 1983/84 school year, the average Diocesan subsidy to schools for parishes was 42 % of their regular collections.
• I was able to find student tuition for the following years:
1983/84 $450
1987/88 $650
1988/89 $700
2001/02 $1,800
2002/03 $1,895
2003/04 $2,150
2004/05 $2,400
2005/06 $2,500
2006/07 $2,600
2007/08 $2,850
2008/09 $3215
2009/10 $3,215
That’s the information I could find on our school’s history. Enjoy the weekend.
God Bless,
Gene
UPCOMING EVENTS
Mon-Wed, Feb. 8-10 Dinner Theatre Auditions
Wednesday, Feb. 10 Kopernick Observation Day Gr. 3 & 4
Perry Browne School 9 – 11:30 am
Wednesday, Feb. 10 Fish Fry Meeting 6:00 pm
Wednesday, Feb. 10 PTO Meeting 7:00 pm
Wed & Thurs, Feb. 9 & 10 St. Bart’s Spaghetti Dinner 4:30 – 6:30 pm
Thursday, Feb. 11 “Beauty & the Beast” K – 4th Gr.
Forum – Binghamton 8:30am-12:15pm
Friday, Feb. 12 Last day of school prior to Winter Break
School resumes on Monday, February 22nd
Dear Parents,
Congratulations to all on a very successful Catholic Schools Week! Many people pitched in to make this a very memorable week, one celebrating Catholic education in the United States. It was great to see all the moms, dads and grandparents for donuts and muffins. Once again it reinforces my belief that parents really do care – they just want to be kept informed and feel welcome in their child’s school. I thought it would be appropriate, and possibly enlightening, if I shared a brief overview of the history of St. Paul’s/Holy Family School. Before I begin, please note that all the information I am sharing was found in the documents that I reorganized when I began working here. I make no claim substantiating the authenticity of this history only that it was in a file labeled “History of St. Paul’s School.” Here is that history exactly as it was written. After you read it, please let me know of any inaccuracies. Better yet, if you have any additional information I would appreciate you sharing it with me. I’d like to compile a more complete, accurate history of our school.
Saint Paul’s School was established in 1922 with a staff of three Dominican Sisters. In 1925 a fourth Sister was assigned to the school and in 1926 another Sister. No further Sisters joined the school until 1954. The original site of the school was the Maydole (or Merritt Mansion) Mansion on the corner of North Broad Street and Mitchell Avenue. There were twelve first graders and approximately twenty-five primary students in all under the leadership of the Reverend Joseph S. Tiernan. It was a combination school and convent. The first graduating class consisted of three eighth grade students in 1927.
The Reverend Henry L. Contois was appointed pastor in October 1951 by Bishop Foery. By that time the post-war birth rate was being felt in all schools, and St. Paul’s was no exception. The building, which was adequate in the beginning, now proved to be unsuitable to the needs of the children and the Sisters. In 1952, it was decided that a new school building was needed for the increasing enrollment. Meanwhile, a convent on Prospect Street (were our new playground is) was purchased and renovated and was ready for the Sisters in September 1953. The new building was dedicated on September 19, 1954 with nine Dominican Sisters staffing the school.
Under the pastorate of Father Robert F. Coombs, $278,000 was raised for an addition to Saint Paul’s School. The addition consisted of the gymnasium/
auditorium, the boys’ and girls’ locker rooms, the carpeted Manley Memorial Library containing two thousand four hundred books, the present sixth grade classroom and the cafeteria with a seating capacity of 250 people. The new addition was dedicated in February of 1964.
In 1971, the Dominican Sisters were unable to continue their duties at Saint Paul’s School because of increased responsibilities in New York City. Father Thomas Kiernan searched for a year until he was able to announce that the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet would assume the teaching responsibilities at Saint Paul’s School.
In 1978, the Norwich City School District included the ninth grade in the high school for the first time. It was decided to drop the ninth grade from Saint Paul’s School at this time to allow an easier transition for the students into the high school. For similar reasons, in 1983, the seventh and eighth grades were dropped from Saint Paul’s School when the new Norwich City Middle School was built next to the high school.
For the 1988/89 school year St. Paul’s became a county school under the name of Holy Family. In January, 1990, Saint Paul’s School was rededicated as Chenango County Catholic School Holy Family by Bishop Joseph T. O’Keefe. The school was not to be a parish school of Saint Paul’s Church any longer, but a county-wide Catholic school for all children of Chenango County.
There were eight Chenango County parishes that took over the financial support of Saint Paul’s School. These parishes were St. Joseph’s in Oxford, St. Theresa’s in New Berlin, St. Malachy’s in Sherburne, St. Agnes in Afton, St. John’s in Bainbridge, Immaculate Conception in Greene, St. Bartholomew’s in Norwich and St. Paul’s in Norwich.
Here are some notes of interest that I found:
• For the 1983/84 school year, the average Diocesan subsidy to schools for parishes was 42 % of their regular collections.
• I was able to find student tuition for the following years:
1983/84 $450
1987/88 $650
1988/89 $700
2001/02 $1,800
2002/03 $1,895
2003/04 $2,150
2004/05 $2,400
2005/06 $2,500
2006/07 $2,600
2007/08 $2,850
2008/09 $3215
2009/10 $3,215
That’s the information I could find on our school’s history. Enjoy the weekend.
God Bless,
Gene
UPCOMING EVENTS
Mon-Wed, Feb. 8-10 Dinner Theatre Auditions
Wednesday, Feb. 10 Kopernick Observation Day Gr. 3 & 4
Perry Browne School 9 – 11:30 am
Wednesday, Feb. 10 Fish Fry Meeting 6:00 pm
Wednesday, Feb. 10 PTO Meeting 7:00 pm
Wed & Thurs, Feb. 9 & 10 St. Bart’s Spaghetti Dinner 4:30 – 6:30 pm
Thursday, Feb. 11 “Beauty & the Beast” K – 4th Gr.
Forum – Binghamton 8:30am-12:15pm
Friday, Feb. 12 Last day of school prior to Winter Break
School resumes on Monday, February 22nd
Friday, January 29, 2010
January 29th, 2010
January 29, 2010
Dear Parents,
Here we are at the midpoint of the school year and the end of January. Can spring be far off!? I, for one, hope not. Our Science Initiative continues to thrive at Holy Family School. Eric Diefenbacher and our staff have scheduled science experiences for our students for the second half of the school year. Below is the schedule:
Fri, March 12 Popp Butterfly Cons. 3rd Grade
Fri, March 19 Popp Butterfly Cons. 4th Grade
Thurs, April 8 Wolf Mountain 5th - 7th Grade
8:30 – 11:30 am Nature Center
Fri, May 14 Ross Park Zoo Mobile
8:45-9:30 EC , PK, K
9:40-10:25 Gr. 1-3
10:30-11:15 Gr. 4-7
In addition to these activities, Mr. Diefenbacher is scheduling additional activities. These dates have not yet been determined. I will share this information when the dates and times become available. These activities include:
Feb. – April Teddy Bear Clinic EC – 1st Grade
Feb. – April Mr. Bones 2nd – 4th Grade
March Y Fitness Center 5th – 7th Grade
On Monday, February 1st, our public schools have staff conference days. As a result, transportation will not be available on this day for those students riding a bus to school, except those students riding the Oxford school bus. Transportation will be provided as usual for Oxford students. Please try to make other arrangements for your child to attend school on this day.
The PTO is sponsoring a Family Fun Night on Friday, February 5th from
6 – 9 pm. Everyone attending is asked to bring a favorite family game to play and a snack to share. Karaoke and video games will be available for young and old alike. If you have any questions, please contact Steph Coggins.
You should be receiving the enrollment information packet for the 2010/11 school year. The packet will contain a letter from me listing the tuition rates for the next four years, the enrollment form and a letter from the Superintendent of the Syracuse Diocese Catholic Schools, Chris Mominey. Please remember that if you are requesting tuition assistance, all requests must be in writing and handed in by February 28th. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Upcoming Events
Feb. 1 – 5 Catholic Schools’ Week
Wed, Feb. 3rd Blessing of the Throats 10 am
Friday, Feb. 5th Mass 12:30 pm
Coffee/Cake after Mass
for adults
Friday, Feb. 5th Report Cards Sent Home EC – 7th
Friday, Feb. 5th Family Fun Night 6-9 pm
Thursday, Feb. 11th “Beauty & the Beast” K – 4th
Binghamton Forum
10 am performance
God Bless,
Gene
Dear Parents,
Here we are at the midpoint of the school year and the end of January. Can spring be far off!? I, for one, hope not. Our Science Initiative continues to thrive at Holy Family School. Eric Diefenbacher and our staff have scheduled science experiences for our students for the second half of the school year. Below is the schedule:
Fri, March 12 Popp Butterfly Cons. 3rd Grade
Fri, March 19 Popp Butterfly Cons. 4th Grade
Thurs, April 8 Wolf Mountain 5th - 7th Grade
8:30 – 11:30 am Nature Center
Fri, May 14 Ross Park Zoo Mobile
8:45-9:30 EC , PK, K
9:40-10:25 Gr. 1-3
10:30-11:15 Gr. 4-7
In addition to these activities, Mr. Diefenbacher is scheduling additional activities. These dates have not yet been determined. I will share this information when the dates and times become available. These activities include:
Feb. – April Teddy Bear Clinic EC – 1st Grade
Feb. – April Mr. Bones 2nd – 4th Grade
March Y Fitness Center 5th – 7th Grade
On Monday, February 1st, our public schools have staff conference days. As a result, transportation will not be available on this day for those students riding a bus to school, except those students riding the Oxford school bus. Transportation will be provided as usual for Oxford students. Please try to make other arrangements for your child to attend school on this day.
The PTO is sponsoring a Family Fun Night on Friday, February 5th from
6 – 9 pm. Everyone attending is asked to bring a favorite family game to play and a snack to share. Karaoke and video games will be available for young and old alike. If you have any questions, please contact Steph Coggins.
You should be receiving the enrollment information packet for the 2010/11 school year. The packet will contain a letter from me listing the tuition rates for the next four years, the enrollment form and a letter from the Superintendent of the Syracuse Diocese Catholic Schools, Chris Mominey. Please remember that if you are requesting tuition assistance, all requests must be in writing and handed in by February 28th. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Upcoming Events
Feb. 1 – 5 Catholic Schools’ Week
Wed, Feb. 3rd Blessing of the Throats 10 am
Friday, Feb. 5th Mass 12:30 pm
Coffee/Cake after Mass
for adults
Friday, Feb. 5th Report Cards Sent Home EC – 7th
Friday, Feb. 5th Family Fun Night 6-9 pm
Thursday, Feb. 11th “Beauty & the Beast” K – 4th
Binghamton Forum
10 am performance
God Bless,
Gene
Friday, January 22, 2010
January 22, 2010
Dear Parents,
There’s so much happening at Holy Family School, I’m not sure where to begin! The twenty-week marking period ends on Friday, January 29th. That’s right – half the school year will be officially over. Report cards will be sent home with the children on Friday, February 5th. Early Childhood and Pre Kindergarten students will be receiving their mid-year assessment. Please remember to sign the envelope and return it with your child to school. This will let us know that you received the report card.
Enrollment materials will be sent home through the mail at the end of next week. You will notice that the tuition rates for the next four years have been established. The purpose of this was to hopefully allow parents to see that a Catholic education is affordable, not only now, but also in the future. If you have any questions concerning the enrollment information, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Catholic Schools’ Week is January 31st – February 6th this year. Many activities are planned for this event. The Catholic Identity Committee has spent many hours planning for this event with the assistance of several staff members and parents. I’d like to thank all of them, especially Nikki Strano, Dianne Fiorina and Paula Trevisani for planning the exciting activities. Your child will be bringing home a booklet listing the activities and dates. Please refer to this booklet when necessary. The culminating activity for the week is a Mass on Friday, February 5th at 12:30 pm. The Mass will be co-celebrated by the priests of our supporting parishes. A coffee and cake reception for adults attending the Mass will be held in the basement of the church after Mass. We encourage all our parents to attend this important event.
The PTO Lenten Fish Fries will begin on Friday, February 19th and run for six consecutive Friday’s. The committee has been meeting regularly to get ready for this important event. Workers are needed for this event. Please contact Kate Conron if you can help us out.
I’d like to remind parents to please be careful in our parking lot. With the snowy conditions that prevail here, the parking lot can become very dangerous for our children. Please drive slowly and shut your cars off when you leave them. Thanks for putting the safety of our children first.
We are once again collecting Box Tops. The contest has taken a different turn this time around. Instead of it being a competition between grades, we have made it a team competition. As we reach each level of 1000 Box Tops, all our students will earn a reward. The rewards are a well-kept secret. As an added bonus, if we reach the 6000 and 7000 level, there will be an exciting event that all will enjoy (except possibly the four male staff members). That’s all I’ll share for now. Bring in your Box Tops and let the fun begin. The last date to hand in Box Tops is April 9th. Let’s see how many prizes our students can earn!
I’d like to thank all those parents/staff who volunteered to serve on Commission Committees. I have met with four of the five committees. The last meeting is scheduled for next week. From my perspective, it’s great having the opinions of many of the parents when decisions have to be made. It also reinforces the fact that we are truly a “community” school, where our parents take an active role in the educational process.
Have a great weekend!
Gene
Dear Parents,
There’s so much happening at Holy Family School, I’m not sure where to begin! The twenty-week marking period ends on Friday, January 29th. That’s right – half the school year will be officially over. Report cards will be sent home with the children on Friday, February 5th. Early Childhood and Pre Kindergarten students will be receiving their mid-year assessment. Please remember to sign the envelope and return it with your child to school. This will let us know that you received the report card.
Enrollment materials will be sent home through the mail at the end of next week. You will notice that the tuition rates for the next four years have been established. The purpose of this was to hopefully allow parents to see that a Catholic education is affordable, not only now, but also in the future. If you have any questions concerning the enrollment information, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Catholic Schools’ Week is January 31st – February 6th this year. Many activities are planned for this event. The Catholic Identity Committee has spent many hours planning for this event with the assistance of several staff members and parents. I’d like to thank all of them, especially Nikki Strano, Dianne Fiorina and Paula Trevisani for planning the exciting activities. Your child will be bringing home a booklet listing the activities and dates. Please refer to this booklet when necessary. The culminating activity for the week is a Mass on Friday, February 5th at 12:30 pm. The Mass will be co-celebrated by the priests of our supporting parishes. A coffee and cake reception for adults attending the Mass will be held in the basement of the church after Mass. We encourage all our parents to attend this important event.
The PTO Lenten Fish Fries will begin on Friday, February 19th and run for six consecutive Friday’s. The committee has been meeting regularly to get ready for this important event. Workers are needed for this event. Please contact Kate Conron if you can help us out.
I’d like to remind parents to please be careful in our parking lot. With the snowy conditions that prevail here, the parking lot can become very dangerous for our children. Please drive slowly and shut your cars off when you leave them. Thanks for putting the safety of our children first.
We are once again collecting Box Tops. The contest has taken a different turn this time around. Instead of it being a competition between grades, we have made it a team competition. As we reach each level of 1000 Box Tops, all our students will earn a reward. The rewards are a well-kept secret. As an added bonus, if we reach the 6000 and 7000 level, there will be an exciting event that all will enjoy (except possibly the four male staff members). That’s all I’ll share for now. Bring in your Box Tops and let the fun begin. The last date to hand in Box Tops is April 9th. Let’s see how many prizes our students can earn!
I’d like to thank all those parents/staff who volunteered to serve on Commission Committees. I have met with four of the five committees. The last meeting is scheduled for next week. From my perspective, it’s great having the opinions of many of the parents when decisions have to be made. It also reinforces the fact that we are truly a “community” school, where our parents take an active role in the educational process.
Have a great weekend!
Gene
Friday, January 15, 2010
January 15, 2010
Dear Parents,
Have cabin fever yet? I have a solution. Wolf Mountain Nature Center in Symrna is sponsoring a “Full Winter Wolf Moon Howl Night” on Saturday, January 30th and Saturday, February 27th from 7-9pm. It involves hiking up the mountain on their new snow shoe trail (or walking up the long driveway for those who don’t have snow shoes) and gathering around a camp fire with hot chocolate. Pre-registration is required. Call 607-627-6784 for more information and to register. Wolf Mountain Nature Center is one of the field trips we conducted this summer as part of our summer Science field trip endeavor. It’s a great place to experience wolves in their natural habitat.
Great news! The new lockers have arrived and are being installed as I write this letter. The students are excited to actually have a locker that their books fit into. Thanks go to the Knights of Columbus and one of our many generous families for donating the funds to pay for these lockers.
Just a reminder that your child will be bringing home a cafeteria statement on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. It will show either a balance due or a credit. Please try to pay any balance you may have in a timely fashion. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Please remember that school will be closed on Monday, January 18th for Martin Luther King Day. On Tuesday, January 19th at 9:00 am, the Tri Cities Opera will be performing at our school. All are invited to attend. Our students will be participating in several of the songs. They have been practicing with Ms. Buckley in Music class for this production.
I hope everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the long weekend with their families. Hope to see everyone at the Tri Cities assembly on Tuesday!
Gene
Have cabin fever yet? I have a solution. Wolf Mountain Nature Center in Symrna is sponsoring a “Full Winter Wolf Moon Howl Night” on Saturday, January 30th and Saturday, February 27th from 7-9pm. It involves hiking up the mountain on their new snow shoe trail (or walking up the long driveway for those who don’t have snow shoes) and gathering around a camp fire with hot chocolate. Pre-registration is required. Call 607-627-6784 for more information and to register. Wolf Mountain Nature Center is one of the field trips we conducted this summer as part of our summer Science field trip endeavor. It’s a great place to experience wolves in their natural habitat.
Great news! The new lockers have arrived and are being installed as I write this letter. The students are excited to actually have a locker that their books fit into. Thanks go to the Knights of Columbus and one of our many generous families for donating the funds to pay for these lockers.
Just a reminder that your child will be bringing home a cafeteria statement on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. It will show either a balance due or a credit. Please try to pay any balance you may have in a timely fashion. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Please remember that school will be closed on Monday, January 18th for Martin Luther King Day. On Tuesday, January 19th at 9:00 am, the Tri Cities Opera will be performing at our school. All are invited to attend. Our students will be participating in several of the songs. They have been practicing with Ms. Buckley in Music class for this production.
I hope everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the long weekend with their families. Hope to see everyone at the Tri Cities assembly on Tuesday!
Gene
Monday, January 11, 2010
Happy New Year
January 8, 2010
Dear Parents,
Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a safe and holy Christmas and was able to spend quality time with their families. The tradition for the New Year is to make resolutions, which often go unfulfilled. Personally, I am not in the habit of making New Year’s resolutions. However, this year I am making an exception to this. I’d like to make a resolution concerning Holy Family School. My resolution is to try to create an atmosphere/environment in our school whereby every student is provided the opportunity to be successful and be valued. Although you may say that every person deserves this (and I would agree), it doesn’t always happen. You can rest assured that I will do everything in my power to fulfill this resolution. Remember, I am always available to discuss any concerns/issues/questions you may have.
The enrollment process for next year will begin at the end of this month. You will be receiving a letter which will include the tuition rates for the next four years, along with the Tuition Agreement Form. If you are applying for tuition assistance, please notify Mrs. Hose. She will provide you with the forms when we receive them from the Diocese. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions concerning the process.
I am pleased to announce that Elaine Genute has been hired as an aide in our 1st grade classroom. Elaine has a Bachelor’s and Masters’ Degree in education. Elaine and her husband Mike have two sons that attend HFS. Lex is a first grader and Athen is in Pre Kindergarten.
Our next Box Tops challenge will begin on Monday. Several goals for the entire school will be set and awards/prizes given to all our students upon reaching these goals. We just received a check in the amount of $679.22 from our last challenge. In addition to the Box Tops, we are also collecting Campbell’s labels for classroom equipment.
Pleases remember that our Lenten Fish Fries will begin on Friday, February
19th. Volunteers are still needed! Please contact our chairperson, Ann French (afrench@syrdiocese.org) or our volunteer coordinator Kate Conron (kconron@syrdiocese.org).
Lastly, we have two Odyssey of the Mind teams this year under the direction of Kate Conron and Melissa Lawrence. One team consists of 4th graders, while the other team consists of students in grades 5 – 7. Both teams are working on the Balsa Wood Project. The project involves building a balsa wood support whose mass is no greater than 18 grams that will support the greatest weight. Each team is also working on a skit for the competition which is scheduled for February 20th in Sidney.
Listed below are the events for the next five weeks:
Friday, January 8th Mass – Gr.5-7 responsible 9am
for liturgy
Wednesday, January 13th Fish Fry Meeting 5pm
Wednesday, January 13th Commission Meeting 6pm
Wednesday, January 13th PTO Meeting 7pm
Monday, January 18th Martin Luther King Day No School
Tuesday, January 19th TriCities Opera Assembly 9am-Gym
All families are encouraged
to attend
Friday, January 29th Non-Uniform Day
January 31st-February 5th Catholic Schools’ Week
More info to follow
Friday, February 5th First Friday Mass/Catholic 12:30pm
Schools’ Week Mass
Dress up day similar to Christmas Mass
Dear Parents,
Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a safe and holy Christmas and was able to spend quality time with their families. The tradition for the New Year is to make resolutions, which often go unfulfilled. Personally, I am not in the habit of making New Year’s resolutions. However, this year I am making an exception to this. I’d like to make a resolution concerning Holy Family School. My resolution is to try to create an atmosphere/environment in our school whereby every student is provided the opportunity to be successful and be valued. Although you may say that every person deserves this (and I would agree), it doesn’t always happen. You can rest assured that I will do everything in my power to fulfill this resolution. Remember, I am always available to discuss any concerns/issues/questions you may have.
The enrollment process for next year will begin at the end of this month. You will be receiving a letter which will include the tuition rates for the next four years, along with the Tuition Agreement Form. If you are applying for tuition assistance, please notify Mrs. Hose. She will provide you with the forms when we receive them from the Diocese. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions concerning the process.
I am pleased to announce that Elaine Genute has been hired as an aide in our 1st grade classroom. Elaine has a Bachelor’s and Masters’ Degree in education. Elaine and her husband Mike have two sons that attend HFS. Lex is a first grader and Athen is in Pre Kindergarten.
Our next Box Tops challenge will begin on Monday. Several goals for the entire school will be set and awards/prizes given to all our students upon reaching these goals. We just received a check in the amount of $679.22 from our last challenge. In addition to the Box Tops, we are also collecting Campbell’s labels for classroom equipment.
Pleases remember that our Lenten Fish Fries will begin on Friday, February
19th. Volunteers are still needed! Please contact our chairperson, Ann French (afrench@syrdiocese.org) or our volunteer coordinator Kate Conron (kconron@syrdiocese.org).
Lastly, we have two Odyssey of the Mind teams this year under the direction of Kate Conron and Melissa Lawrence. One team consists of 4th graders, while the other team consists of students in grades 5 – 7. Both teams are working on the Balsa Wood Project. The project involves building a balsa wood support whose mass is no greater than 18 grams that will support the greatest weight. Each team is also working on a skit for the competition which is scheduled for February 20th in Sidney.
Listed below are the events for the next five weeks:
Friday, January 8th Mass – Gr.5-7 responsible 9am
for liturgy
Wednesday, January 13th Fish Fry Meeting 5pm
Wednesday, January 13th Commission Meeting 6pm
Wednesday, January 13th PTO Meeting 7pm
Monday, January 18th Martin Luther King Day No School
Tuesday, January 19th TriCities Opera Assembly 9am-Gym
All families are encouraged
to attend
Friday, January 29th Non-Uniform Day
January 31st-February 5th Catholic Schools’ Week
More info to follow
Friday, February 5th First Friday Mass/Catholic 12:30pm
Schools’ Week Mass
Dress up day similar to Christmas Mass
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