Weekly News from the Office - Week of 11/19/18 and 11/26/2018

Dear School Families,
 
We only had a few families apply for the Bishop's Scholarship so far.  To be a part of the first round of scholarships awarded for the 2019-2020 school year, you need to have your SmartAid application completed by December 1, 2018. Visit our website to download the SmartAid Parent Instructions https://www.stmarysl.org/smart-tuition.html.
 
Our Virtue these past two weeks have been Gratitude.  I hope everyone takes time to reflect on the blessings in our lives. Next, we will introduce the Virtue Docility which means willingness to be taught.   I'm very thankful and blessed to be the principal of St. Mary's Catholic School. We have a supportive parish and school community that shows their generosity in many ways, from our fundraisers and offertory, to our new building campaigns.  Our students and staff are grateful to have this beautiful new school to learn and teach in, along with the updated security and technology.
 
This coming week we will also have our annual Christmas Food Drive on Friday, November 30th.  These items go to the St. Mary's Food Pantry so families in need in the Spring Lake area will have a nice dinner to celebrate the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ.
 
The first trimester ends and grades will be posted on Infinite Campus.  The new report cards and grading system was given out at conference time.  The Diocese of Grand Rapids has made a few changes to them already.  This is new for all of us, so if you have any questions please contact your child's teacher.  The report cards will be printed out and sent home the week after Thanksgiving break if everything goes as planned.
 
God Bless.
Steve VanHammen, Principal
St. Mary's School, Spring Lake