ø  Change the Official Start Time of the Day to 8:00 a.m. (10 minute gain).  Carpool will begin at 7:45 a.m. and conclude at 8:00 a.m.

ø  Change the Official End Time to 3:00 p.m. (5 minute gain)

ø  Reduce the Travel Time between Middle School Classes from 3 Minutes to 2 Minutes (6 minute gain)

ø  Reduce the Length of Middle School Lunch/Recess by 7 minutes providing students with a 38 minute combined period (7 minute gain)

Principal’s Message

As we approach the close of another academic year, it is important that we acknowledge and thank those members of the faculty and staff who will not be returning in the fall.  Each, in their own way, has contributed to the success of our school and has forever touched the lives of the children.

I wish to first recognize and thank Mrs. Melissa DeBruyne for her fine work as middle school language arts teacher during the second semester.  When the position became open in January, I was delighted to have learned of her background and expertise and so pleased that she agreed to teach for us for the remainder of the year.  While she has enjoyed her time as a faculty member, she has decided that she will be unable to extend the commitment into the new year.  We do look forward, however, to her continued involvement as a parent in our community.

As previously announced earlier this semester, Mrs. Christina Brown, math teacher, is resigning at the end of the year as she prepares for the birth of her baby in September.  While she has been a member of our faculty for only one year, she has provided a very sound mathematics foundation for students in the middle school.

After two years of teaching at All Saints, Mrs. Hillyard has decided to resign at the conclusion of this year in order to pursue other opportunities in the field of education.  It has been a joy to have welcomed Mrs. Hillyard, a graduate of All Saints, back to our community and to have witnessed the beginning of her teaching career.  We wish her every success and blessing as she continues to share her gift of teaching.

Commuting a great distance from Front Royal each day, Mrs. Antunes, school nurse, has also decided that she will not be returning in the fall.  I am grateful for the care and concern that she has demonstrated for students and faculty during her two years in our community.  With thoroughness and professionalism, she has promoted wellness in our school and been a source of comfort for those ill or injured in our community.

It is with a profound sense of gratitude for their commitment to our school that I announce the departure of two teachers whose time at All Saints is marked by decades rather than years.  After twenty-four years of service as our P.E. teacher, Mrs. Engstrom will be retiring at the close of this year.  More than just a P.E. teacher, she has coordinated the Health & Wellness initiative, moderated the Safety Patrol program, and facilitated our annual Field Day event.  While her impact in our community has been significant and lasting, it is her servant’s heart and patient manner that have earned her the admiration of students, parents and faculty alike.

Additionally, Mrs. Vice has decided that this will also be her final year of teaching at All Saints.  After a sixteen year span during which she advanced from part-time cafeteria assistant to lead kindergarten teacher, she will be relocating to the coast where she and her husband will begin the next phase in their lives.  With her trademark sense of humor and down to earth approach, she has been a highly regarded member of the faculty who has truly made a difference in the instructional program at All Saints.

All students, parents, faculty & staff are cordially invited to attend a Retirement Mass & Farewell Celebration for Mrs. Engstrom and Mrs. Vice on Wednesday, May 30^th beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the church.  The liturgy will be followed by a light dessert reception in the gym.  Families in attendance are cordially invited to bring a tray of cookies or brownies in support of the event.  Please join us as we celebrate the life and careers of these two extraordinary teachers!

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It was a joy and an honor to witness many of our 2^nd grade students receiving their First Communion on Saturday morning.  In the days leading up to the special occasion, a number of the children shared their excitement and told me just how much they were looking forward to the May Crowning and their First Communion.  Their enthusiasm for their faith is an inspiration for all of us at All Saints.  Congratulations, 2^nd graders, and thank you for your example.

I want to take a moment to thank Mrs. Cummings and Mrs. Gurley for so thoughtfully preparing the children for this beautiful moment in their lives.  Through their careful planning and recognition of the fact that this Sacrament is the central focus of the second grade experience, they provided a wonderful environment of faith and learning through each day of the year.

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Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends of All Saints gathered last Thursday in support of the 7^th Annual Race for Education.  As always, the students ran with a lot of heart, enjoying the extra time outside and the opportunity to run in support of a great cause ~ their Catholic school.

I wish to again thank all of our donors from across the country and around the globe who so generously contributed to the success of this program.  As previously announced, 15% of the proceeds from the event will be sent directly to St. Judes Children’s Hospital.

I also wish to thank Mrs. Beth Ross and Mrs. Marjorie Collins for serving as co-coordinators of our 7^th Annual Race for Education.  They invested many hours in planning for the big day and continue to volunteer in the school each week, recording and depositing the many contributions.  I am also grateful to the volunteers who worked behind the scenes, processing mailers and assisting on the day of the event.  The many supportive hands assisting with the hole-punching of race cards and water stations helped to insure a safe and enjoyable event for the children, start to finish!

As her daughter will be graduating in June, Mrs. Ross will conclude her leadership of the Race for Education this spring.  I am particularly grateful for the long-term dedication she has demonstrated as event coordinator since the inception of the Race for Education at All Saints in 2006.  In 2005 when we began to learn about the fundraising program and what it might mean for our community, Mrs. Ross was quick to volunteer her time as the leader of the initiative.  Since those early days, she has enthusiastically lead the program, investing countless hours each year in planning as well as processing donations as they are received.  I want to take this opportunity, on behalf of the All Saints Catholic School community, to thank Mrs. Ross for leading this very successful fundraising program.  Through the success of the Race, All Saints has acquired an ACTIV Board for every classroom, slowed the rate of tuition increase and benefitted the research efforts of the St. Judes Childrens’ Research Hospital.  Thank you, Mrs. Ross!

************************************************************************************

As we look to the future of our school, it is increasingly important that we take a strategic approach to our financial planning and fundraising.  Later today all parents will receive a brief email outlining a new development effort that is currently under consideration for the 2012-2013 academic year.  Additionally, parents are being provided a link to an electronic survey. Recognizing that the feedback you provide is important for our planning and critical for our success, we welcome your candid response to three brief questions.  Again, look for this email later today and thank you, in advance, for your thoughts as we look to the future of All Saints.

All Saints Golf Tournament

All Saints will be sponsoring its 12^th Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, May 21^st at Evergreen Country Club in Haymarket, VA. Proceeds from our 2012 tournament will support youth-centered programs at All Saints, including spiritual retreats for area teens, sacramental preparation activities, and facility renovations in our parish gym and school.

• Early Bird Special!
  Register for golf by April 30^th and you’ll pay $150, a savings of $15 per golfer. Golf includes greens fees and cart, 18-hole Captain’s Choice complete with scenic mountain views, goodie bag, multiple contests, prize drawings, continental breakfast, lunch, dinner and awards ceremony.

For families with 8^th grade students, the tournament will be on the Monday following Confirmation. If you have family members coming into town who like to golf, consider asking them to join you for the tournament on Monday!

• Promote Your Company Through Sponsorship
  With sponsorship opportunities available to fit any budget, the All Saints Golf Tournament provides an excellent marketing opportunity for local businesses. For more information about corporate sponsorship or golf, please call Janis DeVore at(703) 366-1645 or visit our golf website at www.allsaintsgolf.com.

4^th Quarter Lock-Down Drill

The 4^th Quarter Lock-Down Drill will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 16^th.  (Please note: This drill has been scheduled for several weeks and is not in response to any concerns specific to All Saints.  Rather, it is another exercise by which we maintain a state of preparedness should the need ever arise to secure the facility and safeguard the children.) 

Schedule Changes for 2012-2013 Academic Year

ø  Change the Official Start Time of the Day to 8:00 a.m. (10 minute gain).  Carpool will begin at 7:45 a.m. and conclude at 8:00 a.m.

ø  Change the Official End Time to 3:00 p.m. (5 minute gain)

ø  Reduce the Travel Time between Middle School Classes from 3 Minutes to 2 Minutes (6 minute gain)

ø  Reduce the Length of Middle School Lunch/Recess by 7 minutes providing students with a 38 minute combined period (7 minute gain)

7^th Annual Race for Education

Prize Cards have been distributed to students who met the criteria and may be redeemed according to the following schedule:

Thursday, May 10^th                                Designated Dress-Down Day

Tuesday, May 15^th                                 Designated Dress-Down Day

Wednesday, May 23^rd                            Designated Dress-Down Day

Wednesday, May 30^th                            Designated Dress-Down Day

Students may redeem pretzel and ice cream cards during the month of May on regularly scheduled purchase days.

Sharing our Story…Greatschools.org

The most effective marketing for a school occurs when current parents share their positive observations and experience with others they meet in the community.  In the 21^st Century, much of this now occurs on the web at sites such aswww.greatschools.org.  Periodically at All Saints We invite parents to post their sentiments on this website as it is frequently referenced by parents new to the area who are researching options for their children.  As our most recent posting is from February 2009, parents are encouraged to take a few minutes in the weeks ahead to post their comments.  Additionally, if you have a Google account, you may also wish to include a review on our Google Places page.  In advance, thank you for helping create a legacy ~ rigorous academic formation in the best tradition of our Catholic faith!

Tuition Assistance Program

The Tuition Assistance Committee will finalize decisions next week based upon the financial analysis provided by FACTS.  All families who have applied for tuition assistance for 2012-2013 should receive a letter of response by May 18^th.

Tuition Discount for Payment in Full

Parents who submit payment in full for the 2012-2013 academic year are eligible for a 5% discount if the payment is received in the office no later than 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 31^st.  For more information, please contact Mrs. Joyce D’Eugenio, administrative assistant, at 703-393-1490.

Spring Tuition Payments

As we approach the close of the school year, parents are reminded of the importance of making timely tuition payments.  With the final tuition payment due to the school during May, those families who have recently fallen behind schedule during this time of continued economic challenge are asked to use the first two weeks of June as an opportunity to pay any outstanding tuition or fees.  Please remember, prompt payment of tuition is essential for the school to remain financially strong and to be able to cover the continued expenses of utilities and salaries for our faculty and staff.

Points for Parents Program ~ Year End Totals

This week the office will issue individualized letters to each family, confirming the number of points reflected in the school database and a corresponding fee for unearned points.  Families are asked to submit payment for outstanding points by Wednesday, May 23rd.    

End of Year Calendar Confirmed

Thursday, May 31^st                Final Day of Pre-Kindergarten

Tuesday, June 5^th                   Field Day at Linton Hall School

Thursday, June 7^th                 Kindergarten Luau

Friday, June 8^th                      Kindergarten Graduation

Monday, June 11^th 8^th           Grade Graduation Day

Wednesday, June 13^th           Final Day for Students in Grades 1-7

Upcoming Events

Thursday, May 10^th                          Race for Education Dress Down Day Option

                 Enrollment Management Team Meeting (Art Room/7:00 p.m.)

Friday, May 11^th                       Band Trip to Busch Gardens (5:45 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.)

                 School Mass (8:30 a.m.)

                                 Noon Dismissal

Saturday, May 12^th                     First Communion – Group III (10:30 a.m.)

Monday, May 14^th                     4^th Quarter Interims distributed to students

Tuesday, May 15^th                     Principal for a Day (Congratulations, Kenneth Vande Linde, whose parents won this item at the Casino & Auction Night)

Wednesday, May 16^th                Kindergarten Field Trip to Farm (8:30 – 2:30)

                                Lock Down Drill (10:00 a.m.)

                 SCA Election Speeches (1:00 p.m.)

Thursday, May 17^th                   4^th Grade Mother’s Tea (8:30 Mass to be followed by presentation)

                                Confirmation Rehearsal (6:30 p.m.)

Friday, May 18^th                      Mass (8:30 a.m.)

                 4^th Grade Field Trip to Mount Vernon (8:30-2:30)

Saturday, May 19^th                   Confirmation (2:00 p.m.)

Proceeds from our 2012 tournament will support youth-centered programs at All Saints, including spiritual retreats for area teens, sacramental preparation activities, and facility renovations in our parish gym and school.

***Early Bird Special***
Register for golf by May 15th and you’ll pay $150, a savings of $15 per golfer.

Day of golf includes:

• Greens fees and cart
• 18-hole Captain’s Choice complete with scenic mountain views
• Prizes for 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place teams
• Premium giveaways and goodie bag
• Fun contests throughout the event, including a $10,000 Hole-in-One Contest
• Prize drawings
• Silent auction for exclusive sports collectibles
• Continental breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Awards ceremony

Promote Your Company Through Sponsorship
With sponsorship opportunities available to fit any budget, the All Saints Golf Tournament provides an excellent marketing opportunity for local businesses.

For more information about corporate sponsorship or golf, please call Janis DeVore at (703) 366-1645 or visit our golf website at www.allsaintsgolf.com.

Principal’s Message

Tomorrow all of the students at All Saints will participate in the 7th Annual Race for Education.  As the largest fundraiser for the school community, the Race provides important financial support for initiatives that would otherwise be beyond our reach.

The following is a list of important reminders for all students and parents regarding the event.

1)       All students in grades K-8 are asked to wear their P.E. uniforms to school on Thursday.  Students enrolled in the Pre-K are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing appropriate for running.  As the forecast is for warmer than normal temperatures, students are reminded of the importance of wearing sunscreen.

2)       While all students will be participating in the Race for Education activities, only those students who brought in sponsor names or a flat donation will be eligible for prizes.

3)       Students need not bring water bottles to the Race for Education.  Two water stations will be available to students throughout the race.

4)       Students who are absent on Thursday will be able to run a later date.

5)       Lunch will be served in the cafeteria at the regularly scheduled time.

Parents, relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend the event as a sign of support for all of our student runners.  We hope that many of you will be able to join us for a wonderful day of fun and fellowship!

The following is the schedule for this special event:

Grades Pre-K, K, 1 & 2                         8:45a.m. – 9:45 a.m.

Grades 3-5                                             10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Grades Pre-K3 & 6-8                             1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Prize Cards have been distributed to students who met the criteria and may be redeemed according to the following schedule:

Tuesday, May 8^th                                   Designated Dress-Down Day

Thursday, May 10^th                                Designated Dress-Down Day

Tuesday, May 15^th                                 Designated Dress-Down Day

Wednesday, May 23^rd                            Designated Dress-Down Day

Wednesday, May 30^th                            Designated Dress-Down Day

Students may redeem pretzel and ice cream cards during the month of May on regularly scheduled purchase days.

As of today, the counting team has already processed close to $13,000 in donations and more contributions continue to arrive in the school office each day!

Race for Education –Volunteers

Volunteers are still welcom for each of the race times. Volunteer to help track the children’s laps, pass out water, and monitor the students as they run. The race takes place tomorrow, Thursday, May 3rd!

The race times are:

PreK1, PreK2, K1, K2, 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B                 8:45 to 9:45 a.m.

3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B                                          10:15 to 11:15 a.m.

PreK3, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B                             1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Additional volunteers are needed to help with the counting of proceeds in the weeks ahead.  For more information or if you are available to volunteer, please contact Marjorie Collins at 703-365-9686 or marjorie@ocfmail.com.

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As Mrs. Honkus’ due date draws near, I wish to provide to you an update regarding the plans for the fifth grade classroom.  I am pleased to announce that Mrs. Debbie Woolfrey will serve as long-term substitute teacher beginning approximately Friday, May 11^th through the close of the year.  Many of you know Mrs. Woolfrey as her daughters attend All Saints and she has been an on-call substitute for a number of grade levels this past year.

Mrs. Woolfrey earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology with a minor in Elementary Education from Randolph-Macon College and a Master of Arts Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University.  For seven years she taught fifth grade in the Hanover County Public School system where she was nominated to receive an Award for Teaching Excellence.  With particular expertise and experience in the teaching of science, she will be a wonderful substitute for Mrs. Honkus who has served as science teacher for both fifth grade classes.

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This past weekend the Virginia State Squires and Squire Roses, the officially sponsored youth organization of the Knights of Columbus, held their 5^th Annual State Convention in the Virginia Beach area.  As part of the Convention, the State Squires Circles celebrated the top accomplishments of the Squires and their Circles in six categories.  This year our Circle won top honors in two of the six categories.  Additionally, Sean Gaynord (7^th grade) was selected as the Virginia State Squire of the Year in recognition of his leadership within the organization and his service to the parish and surrounding community. Congratulations, Sean!

Prayer of the Month ~ Peace Prayer

Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.

Lord, let me help sad people be happy.

Let me forgive those who hurt me.

And let me bring your love to all.

Amen

Virtue of the Month ~ Peacemaking

To foster the virtue of peacemaking, we will encourage the students to adopt the following practices:

1. Be kind to all you meet today.
2. Make peace with others at the end of the school day.
3. Stay calm no matter what happens to you today.
4. Say part of St. Francis’ Peace Prayer to yourself today.
5. Apologize the minute you know that you have offended someone.
6. Do an extra act of kindness for your family tonight.
7. Take care of your family pet without complaining.
8. Make peace with family members before going to sleep.
9. Be a peacemaker.  Calm your friends while playing games.
10. Greet your neighbor politely.
11. Say a prayer for peace throughout the world.

All Saints Golf Tournament

All Saints will be sponsoring its 12^th Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, May 21^st at Evergreen Country Club in Haymarket, VA. Proceeds from our 2012 tournament will support youth-centered programs at All Saints, including spiritual retreats for area teens, sacramental preparation activities, and facility renovations in our parish gym and school.

• Early Bird Special!

Register for golf by April 30^th and you’ll pay $150, a savings of $15 per golfer. Golf includes greens fees and cart, 18-hole Captain’s Choice complete with scenic mountain views, goodie bag, multiple contests, prize drawings, continental breakfast, lunch, dinner and awards ceremony.

For families with 8^th grade students, the tournament will be on the Monday following Confirmation. If you have family members coming into town who like to golf, consider asking them to join you for the tournament on Monday!

• Promote Your Company Through Sponsorship

With sponsorship opportunities available to fit any budget, the All Saints Golf Tournament provides an excellent marketing opportunity for local businesses. For more information about corporate sponsorship or golf, please call Janis DeVore at(703) 366-1645 or visit our golf website at www.allsaintsgolf.com.

5^th Grade Parent Letter ~ Message from the Superintendent & Virginia Department of Heath

Every year the Virginia Department of Health distributes information regarding the HPV (vaccine) to rising 6^th grade girls.  This relates to state legislation and our diocese cooperates by distributing this letter.  However, we also distribute a statement from the two Bishops of Virginia as included in a letter from the Virginia Catholic Education Association signed by the superintendents of Arlington and Richmond.  Tomorrow parents of rising 6^th grade girls will receive a copy of the official letter from the Virginia Department of  Health as well as the letter from the Virginia Catholic Education Association.  The letters will be sent home in sealed envelopes with each of the 5^th grade girls.  After reviewing the correspondence, should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the office for more information.

Tuition Assistance Program

The Tuition Assistance Committee will finalize decisions next week based upon the financial analysis provided by FACTS.  All families who have applied for tuition assistance for 2012-2013 should receive a letter of response by May 18^th.

Tuition Discount for Payment in Full

Parents who submit payment in full for the 2012-2013 academic year are eligible for a 5% discount if the payment is received in the office no later than 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 31^st.  For more information, please contact Mrs. Joyce D’Eugenio, administrative assistant, at 703-393-1490.

2^nd Annual Running with the Saints 5K – Help Wanted

Help wanted for the 2nd annual All Saints Running with the Saints 5K.  The race committee is looking for a volunteer willing to help solicit sponsors for the race.  We plan to target health related businesses, such as sporting good stores, gyms, and medical offices with a wellness or sport related specialty.  We need help compiling and updating a sponsorship database and to send out letters and follow up as needed.  Consider lending your talent to this effort!  Please contact Eddie Collins atecollins@ocfmail.com if you are interested or have any questions.  Thanks!!

Spring Tuition Payments

As we approach the close of the school year, parents are reminded of the importance of making timely tuition payments.  With the final tuition payment due to the school during May, those families who have recently fallen behind schedule during this time of continued economic challenge are asked to use the first two weeks of June as an opportunity to pay any outstanding tuition or fees.  Please remember, prompt payment of tuition is essential for the school to remain financially strong and to be able to cover the continued expenses of utilities and salaries for our faculty and staff.

Grocery Receipts Program Update

Thank you for your continued support of local grocery receipt programs.  The following is a summary of proceeds received this year through your participation.

GIANT                    $2051.62

Harris Teeter          $847.76

Safeway escrip      $341.96

Bloom stores will be converted to the Food Lion banner.  Our school was automatically enrolled in the Food Lion MVP Classroom rewards program. The website is http://www.foodlion.com/CommunityOutreach/MVPRewards .  If you scroll down to Register your MVP Card and enter your card number, All Saints will earn 50 points for each card linked to the program by May 31, 2012.

Senator Colgan Featured Speaker at CBN Meeting

State Senator Charles J. Colgan will be the guest speaker at the May 18^th meeting of the Catholic Business Network of Nova-PW Chapter.  Senator Colgan will be discussing the importance of Catholic education and how faith has impacted his life journey through business and politics.

The Catholic Business Network of Nova-PW Chapter

Date: Friday, May 18th

Speaker: State Senator Charles J. Colgan                                                                    

Time: 7:15 a.m. – 9 a.m. Networking- Breakfast @ 8am-Guest Speaker

Place: Mimi’s Café, Wellington Road, Gainesville VA

Breakfast $15.00 – RSVP suggested. 

RSVP at 703-396-8205 ext. 101 or princewilliam@cbnnova.org

For more information about CBNNova at www.cbnnova.org.

Schedule Changes for 2012-2013 Academic Year

ø  Change the Official Start Time of the Day to 8:00 a.m. (10 minute gain).  Carpool will begin at 7:45 a.m. and conclude at 8:00 a.m.

ø  Change the Official End Time to 3:00 p.m. (5 minute gain)

ø  Reduce the Travel Time between Middle School Classes from 3 Minutes to 2 Minutes (6 minute gain)

ø  Reduce the Length of Middle School Lunch/Recess by 7 minutes providing students with a 38 minute combined period (7 minute gain)

Sharing our Story…Greatschools.org

The most effective marketing for a school occurs when current parents share their positive observations and experience with others they meet in the community.  In the 21^st Century, much of this now occurs on the web at sites such aswww.greatschools.org.  Periodically at All Saints We invite parents to post their sentiments on this website as it is frequently referenced by parents new to the area who are researching options for their children.  As our most recent posting is from February 2009, parents are encouraged to take a few minutes in the weeks ahead to post their comments.  Additionally, if you have a Google account, you may also wish to include a review on our Google Places page.  In advance, thank you for helping create a legacy ~ rigorous academic formation in the best tradition of our Catholic faith!

Carpool Reminders

Right Turns Only: Parents are reminded of the importance of making only right turns when entering and exiting the property at the time of dismissal.  This practice will help to keep the flow of traffic moving on Stonewall Road and subsequently foster positive public relations with surrounding businesses and residents.

Parking: In recent weeks an increased number of parents have been parking in front of the church and walking their children from the dismissal area to their cars.  In the interest of student and parent safety and in consideration that all parents are expected to participate in the organized dismissal system, all parents are reminded to park only in those areas reserved for afternoon dismissal, i.e. Bays 1, 2 & 3 in the front lot and Bays 4 & 5 in the rear lot.

Note:  This expectation does not apply to those parents who have served as volunteers during the afternoon hours and have parked in front of the church.  Additionally, families encountering particular challenges related to the dismissal system are invited to contact the school office to discuss the possibility of a parking pass and exemption.

Thank you parents for your support of our system which is designed to ensure a safe and efficient dismissal.

Kindergarten Screening ~ No Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten on Monday, May 7^th

The Early Prevention of School Failure Screening for Kindergarten applicants will take place on Monday, May 7^th. In order that the teachers may be available to administer the assessment, there will be no Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten classes on these two days.

Points for Parents Program ~ Year End Totals

One of the hallmarks of our school community is the high level of parent involvement that has helped the school achieve many goals in recent years.  As in the past, each family at All Saints has been asked to earn 60 volunteer points over the course of the current school year.  Those who are unable to do so are asked to submit a check at the conclusion of the year for any outstanding points that remain.  (1 point = $3.00)  As we begin the fourth quarter, parents are reminded to update their “points total” so that the database accurately reflects their contributions over the course of the entire year.

At the beginning of May, the office will issue individualized letters to each family, confirming the number of points reflected in the school database. For this reason, we ask that those families who have not recently updated the database via our school website do so by Friday, May 4^th.  Those families who have not earned the required 60 points will be assessed a corresponding fee at a rate of $3.00 per point and asked to submit payment by the close of May.

Within the next week the office will issue individualized letters to each family, confirming the number of points reflected in the school database and a corresponding fee for unearned points.  Families are asked to submit payment for outstanding points by Wednesday, May 23rd.    

End of Year Calendar Confirmed

Thursday, May 31^st                Final Day of Pre-Kindergarten

Tuesday, June 5^th                   Field Day at Linton Hall School

Thursday, June 7^th                 Kindergarten Luau

Friday, June 8^th                      Kindergarten Graduation

Monday, June 11^th                 8^th Grade Graduation Day

Wednesday, June 13^th           Final Day for Students in Grades 1-7

Spring Handcraft Show Hosted by Father Juan Puigbó

Fr. Juan will host a Handcraft Show on Thursday, May 3rd from 2pm to 4pm and from 6pm to 8pm at the entrance of the school gym. A number of items will be on display and available for purchase, including beautiful wooden pieces handcrafted by Fr. Juan.  This will be a good opportunity to buy your seasonal gifts!  For more information, please see the flyer linked to this week’s newsletter.

Upcoming Events

Thursday, May 3^rd                      7th Annual Race for Education (see schedule above)

                  Fr. Juan’s Handcraft Show (gym entrance/2:00-4:00 & 6:00-8:00 p.m.)

Friday, May 4^th                          School Mass & May Crowning Ceremony (8:30 a.m.)

First Communion & Graduation Photos (following May Crowning in the courtyard)

Virtue of the Month Ceremony (gym/2:30 p.m.)

                                  Points for Parents Updates due (submit electronically via website)

Saturday, May 5^th                       First Communion – Group I (10:30 a.m.)

Monday, May 7^th                        EPSF Kindergarten Screening – No Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten classes             

                                                                  Battle of Books Practice Meet (9:30-10:30 a.m.)

Tuesday, May 8^th                        8^th Grade Foreign Language Exemption Exam

                  Race for Education Dress Down Day Option

                                  Band Concert for Senior’s Luncheon (12:30 p.m.)

                                  First Communion – Group III Rehearsal (6:00 p.m.)

                              &nbs

Seek Christ in one another; welcome Him into your heart

Principal’s Message

This year the Arlington Diocese has revised the calendar/schedule policy to coincide with the state-wide requirement for schools to provide six hours of instructional time per day.  Subsequently, the daily schedule at All Saints will reflect an increase from the previously required five and one-half hours to six hours of instruction effective with the start of the 2012-2013 academic year.  Additionally, the diocese will now require that travel time between classes must be incorporated in the schedule outside of the time allocated for instruction.

The impact of this policy change on our daily life at All Saints will be minimal since we presently exceed the requirement for 5.5 hours of instruction each day.  In fact, our current schedule is only 10 minutes short of the 6 hour requirement for instructional time.  However, in order to account for travel time between classes in the middle school program, we need to account for an additional 18 minutes per day to achieve full compliance with the new policy.

In considering the possibilities for implementing schedule changes, I have given priority to two basic assumptions: 1) Changes to the length of the school day, to the extent possible, should be minimally disruptive to existing faculty & family schedules and 2) In recognition of the importance of time for free play and socialization, all students should continue to enjoy a daily combined period of lunch & recess.

Given these parameters, the following is an overview of the changes in the daily schedule that will be implemented with the start of the new year.

Schedule Changes for 2012-2013 Academic Year

ø  Change the Official Start Time of the Day to 8:00 a.m. (10 minute gain).  Carpool will begin at 7:45 a.m. and conclude at 8:00 a.m.

ø  Change the Official End Time to 3:00 p.m. (5 minute gain)

ø  Reduce the Travel Time between Middle School Classes from 3 Minutes to 2 Minutes (6 minute gain)

ø  Reduce the Length of Middle School Lunch/Recess by 7 minutes providing students with a 38 minute combined period (7 minute gain)

Although the impact on the entire schedule is rather insignificant, I wanted to communicate this change to you now so that you can plan accordingly for the year ahead.  Bottom line, next year we’ll be operating on an 8:00 a.m. -3:00 p.m. schedule with a few adjustments inside the school day.  Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to let me know.

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Last Thursday our school hosted the first annual “Catholic Cup”, an academic competition built around knowledge of our faith. Identified as a strategy in support of faith formation in our strategic five year plan, the event provided an opportunity to showcase the depth of knowledge that our students have acquired in their faith during their years at All Saints.  I want to thank Mr. Tessier and Mrs. Bill, event co-chairs, who designed the entire competition, including all of the rules and questions.  We are hopeful that the event will become another exciting tradition for our school and potentially become an initiative embraced by our other schools, perhaps resulting in a diocesan level competition.

Congratulations to Chiera I. (6A) on winning First Place in the event and to Stan D. (7B) on winning Runner-up.  The excitement in the Parish Activities Center rose to a fever pitch as they answered question after question during the final round competition!

Congratulations to the following students who won first place in the classroom rounds and represented their grade level in the school-wide event.

7^th Annual Race for Education

Thanks to the students and parents of All Saints, our school mailed more than 5,200 letters requesting financial support for the7^th Annual Race for Education.  Prize Cards are now being distributed to students who met the criteria and may be redeemed according to the following schedule:

Tuesday, May 8^th                                   Designated Dress-Down Day

Thursday, May 10^th                                Designated Dress-Down Day

Tuesday, May 15^th                                 Designated Dress-Down Day

Wednesday, May 23^rd                            Designated Dress-Down Day

Wednesday, May 30^th                            Designated Dress-Down Day

Students may redeem pretzel and ice cream cards during the month of May on regularly scheduled purchase days.

The  7^th Annual Race for Education is now only one week away.  On Thursday, May 3rd the entire school will participate in this event, which has been designed to raise funds for instructional technology and other essential educational needs.  Additionally, as is our tradition, 15% of all proceeds will be donated to St. Jude Childrens’ Research Hospital.

By way of this letter we wish to extend an invitation for you to come out and watch your child(ren) walk or jog on Thursday, May 3^rd.  The following is the schedule for this special event:

Grades Pre-K, K, 1 & 2                         8:45a.m. to 9:45 a.m.

Grades 3-5                                             10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

Grades Pre-K3 & 6-8                             1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The students will be eating lunch at their regularly scheduled times in the cafeteria.

We hope that many of you will be able to join us for a wonderful day of fun and fellowship!

Sharing our Story…Greatschools.org

The most effective marketing for a school occurs when current parents share their positive observations and experiences with others they meet in the community.  In the 21^st Century, much of this now occurs on the web at sites such aswww.greatschools.org.  Periodically at All Saints we invite parents to post their sentiments on this website as it is frequently referenced by parents new to the area who are researching options for their children.  As our most recent posting is from February 2009, parents are encouraged to take a few minutes in the weeks ahead to post their comments.  Additionally, if you have a Google account, you may also wish to include a review on our Google Places page.  In advance, thank you for helping create a legacy ~ rigorous academic formation in the best tradition of our Catholic faith!

Carpool Reminders

Right Turns Only: Parents are reminded of the importance of making only right turns when entering and exiting the property at the time of dismissal.  This practice will help to keep the flow of traffic moving on Stonewall Road and subsequently foster positive public relations with surrounding businesses and residents.

Parking: In recent weeks an increased number of parents have been parking in front of the church and walking their children from the dismissal area to their cars.  In the interest of student and parent safety and in consideration that all parents are expected to participate in the organized dismissal system, all parents are reminded to park only in those areas reserved for afternoon dismissal, i.e. Bays 1, 2 & 3 in the front lot and Bays 4 & 5 in the rear lot.

Note:  This expectation does not apply to those parents who have served as volunteers during the afternoon hours and have parked in front of the church.  Additionally, families encountering particular challenges related to the dismissal system are invited to contact the school office to discuss the possibility of a parking pass and exemption.

Thank you parents for your support of our system which is designed to ensure a safe and efficient dismissal.

Kindergarten Screening ~ No Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten on Monday, April 30^th & May 7^th

The Early Prevention of School Failure Screening for Kindergarten applicants will take place on Monday, April 30^th& Monday, May 7^th.  In order that the teachers may be available to administer the assessment, there will be no Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten classes on these two days.

Points for Parents Program ~ Year End Totals

One of the hallmarks of our school community is the high level of parent involvement that has helped the school achieve many goals in recent years.  As in the past, each family at All Saints has been asked to earn 60 volunteer points over the course of the current school year.  Those who are unable to do so are asked to submit a check at the conclusion of the year for any outstanding points that remain.  (1 point = $3.00)  As we begin the fourth quarter, parents are reminded to update their “points total” so that the database accurately reflects their contributions over the course of the entire year.

At the beginning of May, the office will issue individualized letters to each family, confirming the number of points reflected in the school database. For this reason, we ask that those families who have not recently updated the database via our school website do so by Friday, May 4^th.  Those families who have not earned the required 60 points will be assessed a corresponding fee at a rate of $3.00 per point and asked to submit payment by the close of May.

All Saints Golf Tournament

All Saints will be sponsoring its 12^th Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, May 21^st at Evergreen Country Club in Haymarket, VA. Proceeds from our 2012 tournament will support youth-centered programs at All Saints, including spiritual retreats for area teens, sacramental preparation activities, and facility renovations in our parish gym and school.

• Early Bird Special!

Register for golf by April 30^th and you’ll pay $150, a savings of $15 per golfer. Golf includes greens fees and cart, 18-hole Captain’s Choice complete with scenic mountain views, goodie bag, multiple contests, prize drawings, continental breakfast, lunch, dinner and awards ceremony.

For families with 8^th grade students, the tournament will be on the Monday following Confirmation. If you have family members coming into town who like to golf, consider asking them to join you for the tournament on Monday!

• Promote Your Company Through Sponsorship

With sponsorship opportunities available to fit any budget, the All Saints Golf Tournament provides an excellent marketing opportunity for local businesses. For more information about corporate sponsorship or golf, please call Janis DeVore at(703) 366-1645 or visit our golf website at www.allsaintsgolf.com.

Spring Handcraft Show Hosted by Father Juan Puigbó

Fr. Juan will host a Handcraft Show on Thursday, May 3rd from 2pm to 4pm and from 6pm to 8pm at the entrance of the school gym. A number of items will be on display and available for purchase, including beautiful wooden pieces handcrafted by Fr. Juan.  This will be a good opportunity to buy your seasonal gifts!  For more information, please see the flyer linked to this week’s newsletter.

Parish Festival Cake Walk Reminder

Please remember to bring your cakes for the Cake Walk this weekend!  We have not met our goal of 10 cakes per class…so we need more cakes. You may send their cake to school with your child on Thursday if you would like or bring it with you to the festival.

Race for Education - CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!!!

We are one week away from the race and need volunteers for each of the race times. Volunteers will help track the children’s laps, pass out water, and monitor the students as they run. All of these can be done while you are cheering your child on. The race takes place next Thursday, May 3rd!

The race times are:

PreK1, PreK2, K1, K2, 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B                 8:45 to 9:45 a.m.

3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B                                          10:15 to 11:15 a.m.

PreK3, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B                             1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Volunteers are also needed to help with the counting of proceeds in the weeks ahead.  For more information or if you are available to volunteer, please contact Marjorie Collins at 703-365-9686 or marjorie@ocfmail.com.

PVI News

• Preview to High School for 6^th and 7^th graders and their families.  This event for 6^th & 7^th graders will take place at Paul VI Catholic High School on May 3^rd at 7:00 p.m. and is a wonderful opportunity for the students and their families to begin to think about the different choices for high school. All those in attendance will be entered in a drawing for a new IPAD.
• Paul VI Girls Summer Lacrosse Camp- July 16-19.  Camp is for rising 2nd through rising 9th graders. 9-1pm at PVI High School Track field.  Early bird discounts available.  Registration form at: http://www.paulvi.net/document.doc?id=718 ,For more info email: CConques@paulvi.net

End of Year Calendar Confirmed

Thursday, May 31^st                Final Day of Pre-Kindergarten

Tuesday, June 5^th                   Field Day at Linton Hall School

Thursday, June 7^th                 Kindergarten Luau

Friday, June 8^th                      Kindergarten Graduation

Monday, June 11^th 8^th           Grade Graduation Day

Wednesday, June 13^th           Final Day for Students in Grades 1-7

Upcoming Events

Thursday, April 26^th                   8^th Grade Class Trip to Annapolis, Maryland (7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.)

Friday, April 27^th                        Holiday: Parish Festival Prep Day

Saturday, April 28^th                   Parish Festival (see flyer for details)

Monday, April 30^th                     EPSF Screening: No Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten classes

PTO General Assembly Meeting: Presentation on the Terra Nova Standardized Testing

Program (PAC/7:30 p.m.)

Tuesday, May 1^st                      SCA sponsored Earth Day Dress Down Day

First Communion – Group I Practice (6:00 p.m.)

                                  VIRTUS Update Training (Art Room/7:00 p.m.)

                                  PTO Executive Board Meeting – rescheduled for May 8^th (7:00 p.m.)

Thursday, May 3^rd                    7th Annual Race for Education

                  Fr. Juan’s Handcraft Show (gym entrance/2:00-4:00 & 6:00-8:00 p.m.)

Friday, May 4^th                         School Mass & May Crowning Ceremony

First Communion & Graduation Photos (following May Crowning in the courtyard)

Virtue of the Month Ceremony (gym/2:30 p.m.)

                                  Points for Parents Updates due (submit electronically via website)

Saturday, May 5^th                     First Communion – Group I (10:30 a.m.)

Links                                      

• NJHS Mother’s Day and/or Father’s Day Gift Flyer ~ http://www.allsaintsvaschool.org/index/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2012/04/Mothers-Day-Gift.pdf
• Golf Tournament Brochure ~ http://www.allsaintsvaschool.org/index/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2012/04/all-saints-golf.pdf
• Spring Craft Show ~ http://www.allsaintsvaschool.org/index/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2012/04/Spring_Handcraft_Show-_2012.pdf
• Parish Old West Festival Flyer ~ http://www.allsaintsvaschool.org/index/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2012/04/OLD_WEST_FESTIVAL3.pdf
• Yearbook Order Form ~ http://www.allsaintsvaschool.org/index/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2012/01/YearbookOrderForm2012.pdf

Selected as having the best project in the area of Behavioral and Social Science was seventh grader, Daniel Jorquera, whose project “I, 2, 3, Zumba” focused on the connection between physical exercise and right brain development. Eighth grader, Brett Goerl, merited second place for his environmental science study, “Solar Amplication,” looking at increasing the output of photovoltaic solar cells by using mirrors and a coolant. Fellow eighth grader, Will Perez, not only earned a third place award in Engineering, but also special recognition from the Institute of Industrial Engineers for his project “Raining Golf Balls, “ which used mathematics to determine the landing point for projectiles shot from trebuchets and catapults. Eighth grader, Christopher Falls, and seventh grader, Vivienne Penders, both scored Honorable Mention awards for their studies. Christopher tested the effect of heat on the output of chemiluminescent glow sticks in his work entitled “Cool Lights,” while in “Insulation: Volume vs. Density” Vivienne explored factors affecting the properties of insulators.

Additional members of the Science Fair team included Julianna LaRose, Grade 8, and seventh graders Sean Gaynord, Carolyn Karcher, Aidan Tamke, and Marie Tessier whose projects also garnered high scores to help the team capture the second place school trophy. Congratulations, students!