The Sentinel - Volume 8, Issue 38

Posted Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Last week the Manassas Journal Messenger featured a column entitled Best of Prince William ~ The Favorites. I am delighted to share with you that All Saints Catholic School was selected by readers as one of the three best private schools in Prince William County. I am very proud of the accomplishments of our faculty and students and deeply appreciate the commitment of parents and community members who provide such important support for our mission. Truly we are making a difference in the lives of the children… and that difference has become a story of success in our community!

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Over the course of the last two months the teachers have discussed the merits of a summer learning program. Recognizing that our curriculum during the school year is rigorous and that expectations are high for student learning, there is great value in the children having a respite during the months of summer. On the other hand, studies have shown that students lose ground during the long vacation if not provided an opportunity to keep their skills sharp. With these two perspectives in mind, the faculty has crafted a plan specific for our school. The details of the Summer Learning Program are included as a link to this week’s newsletter. I wish to thank Mrs. Fall and Mrs. Coyle for all of the time and energy they invested in designing the plan. The result is a grade specific outline of recommended reading as well as suggested activities to bolster math skills. Great efforts have been made to build the reading list around titles that are engaging and contemporary and to provide the students with choices related to follow up activities.

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On the financial side of things, in recent weeks several parents have inquired about the uniform and the requirement that shirts include the school logo as we begin the new year. Given the current economic environment, I’ve decided to extend the grandfather period of one year to two. Provided the shirts still appear neat and clean, shirts without the school logo will remain acceptable for one more year.

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On behalf of the faculty and staff, I wish to convey our gratitude for the privilege of having worked with your children this past year. They are precious gifts and we treasure the opportunity to have partnered with you on this journey over the course of the past ten months. I wish all of you a safe, relaxing and peaceful summer holiday and look forward to your return in August.