SJA

February 2, 2012

Dear Parents,

It has been a great week celebrating our Catholic school! We are grateful for the parish’s continued support both financially and with prayers.
SJA-Alive in Faith! At the beginning of January, we celebrated an Epiphany Mass. Mrs. Mason’s class planned the Mass that included the “Star” and three Magi bearing gifts. We continue to focus on the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit as star qualities to be cultivated in our lives. In February, our star quality is love. We pray for our hearts to be open to God’s love at work in us.
SJA-Alive in Learning! Our students are able to experience first hand the highest quality fine arts productions that are connected across the curriculum to stimulate and enrich learning. The 1st and 2nd grade classrooms attended a Blues Concert at the Sheldon. The 5th grade has begun their Dancing Classroom lessons. Mark your calendars for their culminating activity on March 22nd! More information will be coming. The 7th and 8th grade students attended the Metro Theater production of Battledrum at the History Museum followed by an Art Museum visit and a scavenger hunt for information at the Missouri in the Civil War exhibit at the History Museum.
School Geography and Spelling Bees were held this past month. Our school geography champ is 6th grader, Ben M., 2nd place is Alex B., and 3rd place is Allie L.. Ben has taken a written test to determine if he will proceed to the next level of competition. Our Spelling Bee champ is 6th grader, Maria B., and 2nd place is Jill J.. Maria will go on to represent our school at the Post Dispatch Bee in March.
Congratulations to the following students whose artwork was chosen for the Archdiocesan Art Exhibit at South County Mall: Allison B., Gracie B., Audrey B., Cecilia E., Emily J., Jacob K., Meghan K., Allie L., Courtney L., Victoria M., Ben M., Madison P., and Maggie W.. Please stop by to see their work that will be exhibited from February 5th through the 11th.
Our Band students gave a Concert on February 1st for students and families. The Intermediate Band members will compete in the Archdiocesan Band Festival later this month.
SJA-Alive in Leadership and Service! This past month, a committee from 6th grade prepared and led a prayer service for the school to commemorate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Student Council raised money for their service projects by hosting a paper ”Snow Ball Fight” for students. Many students helped with our Open House as tour guides and classroom helpers. Xavier F., a 7th grader, has been recognized for a top Do The Right Thing Award for his extended service to Jewell Animal Hospital.
SJA-Alive in our Families! A PTO meeting was held on January 11th and various organization members were introduced. A speaker from Unlimited Play presented to the group. Our charity walk in March will raise funds for playgrounds that are accessible for children with special needs. At our opening Mass for Catholic Schools Week, many parents and students joined us to worship and give thanks for our school. The congregation prayed for our Confirmation class as they prepare to receive the sacrament in April. On January 31st, primary students celebrated Mass with their families followed by a doughnut reception in the cafeteria. That evening, 5th through 8th grade students played Bunco with their parents for a fun social time.
Thanks to all our parents that helped with Open House and to the parishioners who were able to stop in to see our school! Please join us to celebrate the Eucharist on Thursday mornings.

Peace and blessings,

Deborah DaLay

“ We Are Alive In Christ!”