Saint Mary's Catholic School – Richmond, VA

Big News: We're a Common Sense School!

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:59:12 GMT

A first for St. Mary's and Catholic Diocese of Richmond

Common Sense, the national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids and families thrive in a world of media and technology, has officially recognized St. Mary’s Catholic School as a Common Sense School for the 2025-2026 School Year.

St. Mary’s has demonstrated its commitment to taking a whole-community approach to preparing its students to think critically and use technology responsibly to learn, create, and participate while preparing them for the perils that exist in the online realm, such as plagiarism, loss of privacy, and cyberbullying.

"We applaud the faculty and staff of St. Mary’s for embracing digital citizenship as an important part of their students' education," said Merve Lapus, vice president of education outreach and national partnerships at Common Sense Education.

St. Mary’s recently adopted Common Sense Education's innovative and research-based digital citizenship resources, which were created in collaboration with researchers from Project Zero. The resources teach students, educators, and parents tangible skills related to internet safety, protecting online reputations and personal privacy, media balance, managing online relationships, and media literacy. The free K–12 curriculum is used in classrooms across all 50 states, in more than 80,000 schools by more than 1,00,000 educators.

"We're honored to be recognized as a Common Sense School," said Amanda Esparza, St. Mary’s principal. "By preparing our students to use technology safely and responsibly, we are building lifelong habits to help them focus on the life skills and relationships that matter most."

For more information about St. Mary’s Catholic School, go to www.saintmary.org .

To learn more about the criteria St. Mary’s met to become recognized as a Common Sense School, visit https://www.commonsense.org/education/recognition-schools .

Press contacts:

For inquiries related to St. Mary’s Catholic School:

Teresa Castle Hamm

Communications Coordinator

For inquiries related to Common Sense:

Christian Medina Beltz

Public Relations Manager

About Common Sense Education

Common Sense is the leading independent nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids thrive in a world of media and technology. Every day, Common Sense supports parents and caregivers, teachers, and policymakers with unbiased information, innovative tools, and trusted advice to support kids' digital well-being.

Digital Citizenship G1 Curriculum Preview

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:44:16 GMT

Starting Spring 2026!

Mrs. Valdepe ñ as, our Library Media Specialist, will be leading the charge to help St. Mary's Catholic School earn Common Sense Education recognition in 2026. Starting now, teachers and families will have FREE access to all of Common Sense's research based tools and activities geared toward raising safe, balanced and informed children.

Between now and Easter Break, students in grades 1, 3 and 5 will all receive instruction during three Library class periods. Previews of the First Grade lessons are linked below!

If you have questions or would like to learn more about our School-Family approach to Digital Citizenship at St. Mary's, please contact a member of our Digital Citizenship Team .

Honor Code Signing

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 20:11:15 GMT

Honor, Integrity, and Tradition

Every year in the Fall, our 6th graders gather for the signing of the Honor Code. It is not only a right of passage entering into middle school, but also a point of pride for our students. They are able to affirm their ethics and integrity by leaving their mark for the world to see. Our Monarchs take the Honor Code very seriously, and we could not be more proud of them!

October is the Month of the Rosary

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 17:58:48 GMT

Walking in Faith

Gearing Up for Fall

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:26:41 GMT

GOOD STUFF! Pink Out, Flag Football & Sports Jerseys

The weather is turning crisper by the day, so it's time to gear up, Monarch style!

First up, we have some fantastic new Pink Out TAG Day spirit wear that you can order online through October 5th. Click here to place your order now ! Pink Out TAG Day is next Friday, October 10th which is also an Early Release Day.

Next, our students will look like pros when they practice Flag Football this year thanks to a grant from the NFL's FLAG-in-school program which provided St. Mary's with 10 new footballs and 50 new flag belts, as well as access to a standards-based NFL FIS football curriculum for elementary and middle school students developed by SHAPE America.

Last but not least, Monarch athletes will be sporting new basketball and volleyball jerseys very soon! Check out the design in the graphic above.

Big Goal, Bigger Fun

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 19:35:39 GMT

$40,000 Raised, $5,000 To Go!

The fun-raising continues next week and students can still earn individual incentive prizes from Booster! If we raise just $5,000 more dollars for the Monarch Fund--that's just $20 per student-- ALL STUDENTS will unlock an epic inflatable obstacle course recess!!

Ready to donate now? Click here. Every dollar counts and we couldn't be more grateful!

Many thanks to ALL who have generously supported this community event. We are especially grateful to our Fun Run sponsors including The Sprosty Family, Short Pump Orthodontics, Dyer Immigration Law Group, Additions, Emerald Mushroom Farm, Lucky Road and Nature's Way Landscaping!

High School Information Fair

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:20:54 GMT

Figuring Out Your Next Steps

Deciding where to go for High School is a big decision, and figuring out what to do and when can be overwhelming!

Join us on Thursday, September 18th from 5:30-7:00 p.m. for our annual high School Fair. Representatives from high schools all across the Commonwealth will be on hand to answer questions and provide information so you can decide your next steps.

Kick Off Cook Out

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 23:53:29 GMT

Join us Friday, September 5th!

Join us from 5:30–7:00 PM for a fun evening with friends and families as we kick off the new school year! Dinner and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided by the PTO.

We’ll also have adult beverages, school merch, and Kona Ice available for purchase , with proceeds benefiting our school.

We can’t wait to see you there— please RSVP here!

Welcome New Faculty

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 22:21:09 GMT

Three wonderful additions to the Monarch Pride!

Middle School Science

Selen Beville became a science teacher after spending the first part of her career in management consulting in Turkey and The Netherlands. She has most recently served as a Middle School science teacher at St. Andrews United Methodist Day School in Edgewater, Maryland where she also organized an annual STEM Fair and coached the school's Girls on the Run chapter for third through fifth graders.

In addition to completing STEM focused training courses at the U.S. Naval Academy, University of Texas and Harvard University, Mrs. Beville holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration and an MBA from Yeditepe University in Instanbul. She is currently working toward another Bachelors Degree in Astronomical and Planetary Science from Arizona State University (expected in 2027).

Third Grade

Katy Moorefield is joining us after a career break from teaching at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School in Richmond to stay home with her young children who will also be students at SMCS. Mrs. Moorefield studied International Relations at James Madison University during her undergrad years and earned a Master of Arts degree in Teaching from Liberty University.

Her teaching career has spanned from Pre-K to High School and she has also enjoyed serving in leadership roles including policy outreach and student government advisory positions.

Exceptional Math Teacher

A’Leigh Hamner is a graduate of St. Gertrude High School and Mary Baldwin College where she studied Communications before pursuing her Masters in Elementary Education. She has taught in a variety of educational environments including private, public and parochial schools in Virginia and South Carolina.

Mrs. Hamner will be joining us from All Saints Catholic School where she taught First Grade. She and her family have been an active part of the Catholic Education landscape for many years as both students and educators.

2025 Annual Awards Ceremony

Wed, 21 May 2025 17:09:54 GMT

Citizenship, Academics, Sportsmanship & More!

In Colossians chapter 3 verse 12, St. Paul says that as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.

Congratulations to the following students:

Classroom Citizenship Awards

1B - Harper G.

1H - Charlotte B.
2AC - Avery M.

2CC - Ryan K.
3G - Henry S.

3T - Willa W.

4B - Preslee S.

4T - Elisabeth J.
5B - Ryan N.

5F - Lilly C.

G6 - Olivia C. & Will H.

G7 - Jack B., Olive M., & Megan N.

G8 - Emily B. & Hannah D.

Resource Citizenship Awards

Art - Mary A., Adrian B., Cora B., Mason F., Jack K. & Sristi M.

Library - Cece C., Sammy C., Isabella G., Ben H., Mila M., & Logan S.

PE - Kennedy H., Issac L., Gianna S., Max T., Mary Grace G. & Liam M.

Technology - Grace C., Landon D., Maja M., Nicholas P., Bella D. & Felix C.

Music - Izzy P., James W., Charlotte D., Sam M., Raegan M. & Riordan G.

World Language Citizenship Awards

French - Scarlett S., Stella C., Gigi H., Ben P., Jack R. & Hank E.

Spanish - Jayda D., Maricielo P., Meadow D., Emmett K., Isaac Y. & Easton R.

National French Exam Recognitions

G7 Honorable Mention - George B., Todd B., Ariel C., Laura Grace C., Eleri C., Gigi H., Henri L., Megan N. & Sophia R.

G8 Honorable Mention - Cole D., Michael G., Addison G. & Elliott H.

G7 Bronze Medal - Genevieve G., Valencia L., Trinity L. & Lolo R.

G8 Bronze Medal - Hank E.

G7 Silver Medal - Kinsley R., Emme S. & Charlie Wolfram

G8 Silver Medal - Lainey S.

G7 Gold Medal - Liam H. & Caroline N.

G8 Gold Medal - Reagan C.

G7 Platinum Medal & Perfect Score - Marley T.

National Spanish Exam Recognitions

G7 Honorable Mention - Jack B., James M., Lizzy C., Andy O., Alexander H., Logan, S., Henry K. & Chase W.

G8 Honorable Mention - Blake B., Ward H., Nicholas B., Dhruv P., Will E., Anna S., Mary Grace G., Owen S., Andrew G., Stephanie U. & Lucy H.

G7 Bronze - Giulana B., Winnie L., Elodie S. & Belen V.

G8 Bronze - Hannah D., Ben L., Bella D., Allison N., Giulia G., Julia P., Ella K. & Easton R.

G7 Silver - Emery C.a, Evie U. & Ana V.

G8 Silver - Ellie C., Raegan M., Meadow D., Mary-Catherine V., Anabelle G. & Leo W.

G7 Gold - Alex A.

G8 Gold - Sydney D., Brendan L. & Jonathan R.

Gold Medal & Perfect Score - Emily G. & Sarah L.

Dillard Scholarship Winners

Jack B. & Megan N.

Hazel Lewane Scholarship Winner

Evie U. (pictured above with Principal Esparza)

Fine Arts x Book Fair Details

Wed, 07 May 2025 16:59:46 GMT

Three Great Events; One Memorable Evening!

This year our Book Fair Family Shopping Event, Spring Sing performance and Art Show will take place on Thursday, May 15th.

We are excited to welcome you to what promises to be a very special evening together!

The Book Fair will open first at 4:00 p.m. and will close at 6:00 p.m., so that students performing in the Spring Sing can report to their classrooms. The Art Show will open at 6:00 p.m. and the Spring Sing will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Below are some items to keep in mind as you plan ahead for next week:

Scholastic Book Fair

In addition to the information available on our Book Fair homepage , we’ve compiled a list of everything you need to know below. Every Book Fair purchase helps us to buy new books for our students!

Dates: Monday, 5/12 through Friday, 5/16; Family Shopping Event 5/15, 4-6pm

Location: SMCS Library

Schedule: Class Shopping Schedule

Volunteers & Donations Needed

If you’re interested in volunteering, sign-up here .

We are still collecting used books if you would like to donate.

We are also collecting plastic and paper bags to use at checkout.

NEW! Summer Reading Preview @ Spring Book Fair

We’ve partnered with Scholastic to make it easier for you to stock up on these titles now for your rising 2nd through 8th graders!

Lollipop Pull

Students can purchase a tootsie pop for $1. If the pop they choose has a color on the bottom, they win either a prize or a poster.

Classroom Wish Lists & New Teacher Welcome Books Will Be On Display

Refreshing our classroom libraries regularly gives kids a reason to keep reading. Help welcome new teachers in the Fall by purchasing a book or two this Spring!

Some tips to consider before your student shops:

Set up an eWallet which gives students a secure, cash-free way to shop.
Get a jump-start on shopping through our Online Book Fair starting Monday, 5/12.
Please know that we are required to charge tax on every purchase, so please send your children enough money to cover tax in addition to their book cost total.
While some books have not yet been released, and won’t be at the Fair, you can still pre-purchase them during the Fair in order to benefit our school library.

Spring Sing Performers (Grades K, 2, 4, 6 & 8 ONLY)

Students should report to their homeroom or classroom teachers’ room at 6:00 p.m.
Drop off will be at the front entrance for all grades except K and 8.
Kindergarten should be dropped off at the ECDC doors.
Grade 8 students will meet in the Music Room. They may be dropped off at back music room doors (located near the back parking lot by the playground).
After student drop-off, families should continue to the church where they may enter through the front doors.
Church doors will be open to enter the sanctuary at 6:10 p.m. with the performance starting at 6:30 p.m.

Student Dress Code : Please keep in mind that this is a formal event in a church, so please ensure students are appropriately dressed. Feel free to add some color as it is a Spring performance!

Boys

May wear their uniform shorts or dress pants.
No ripped jeans or athletic wear.
Ties are optional, but encouraged, if wearing a dress shirt.
Short sleeve polos are also acceptable.
Sneakers are allowed but only if they are clean and in good condition.

Girls

May wear a dress, a skirt and top, or a pair of dress pants and a blouse.
Skirt length and sleeve length must adhere to TAG day dress code (which can be found in the Student/Parent Handbook).
Heels may be worn, but please keep them 2” or less. Students will be walking and climbing stairs/risers so they need to be safe in the footwear they choose.

If your child is unable to attend the concert portion of this event, please email Mrs. Moretti ASAP so that she can plan accordingly for your student’s absence at the performance.

Art Show & Sale

Open 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Church’s Upper Commons. Volunteer to lend a hand here!

Your child’s framed artwork can be purchased on-site with credit card, cash, Apple Pay or Venmo.
You may also pre-order frames HERE ( please note that you cannot preview your child’s artwork on this site ).
If you are purchasing multiple framed copies of your child’s artwork, please note the number of frames in parenthesis when prompted to provide your child’s name, grade and homeroom teacher. Make sure the quantity in your cart reflects the total number of frames you need before completing pre-payment online.
Please save your confirmation email and be ready to present it at the Show.

Curious Creators: A Hopeful Journey

Fri, 02 May 2025 18:01:09 GMT

Students Share Their Vision of Hope

Seven elementary students worked collaboratively over the course of six afternoons to create a large-scale mural with Curious Creators founder, Birdie Oleniacz.

Inspired by Pope Francis' call to renewal as "Pilgrims of Hope" during the 2025 Jubilee Year, students were invited to reflect on and depict their own visions of hope.

For the first few classes, students drew and painted what hope looked like to them as individuals.

Then, in later sessions, the group noticed similarities across their drawings. Many students chose similar images like clouds, the sun, flowers and rainbows; all symbols of God’s promise of protection.

In order to decide which images would make their way into the final mural design, they began sketching their vision using the recurring symbols and transcribing the sketch onto large plywood panels.

Students learned that the collaborative process isn’t always easy, but it was well worth it! Their mural grew to be both literally and figuratively larger than themselves.

In the spirit of service, the group decided to work with Birdie to give their completed artwork to Fonticello Food Forest, a community garden and food pantry located in Fonticello Park on Richmond's Southside.

Students and their families recently came together in the park to celebrate its installation and admire its natural surroundings!

Easter Message

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 16:26:46 GMT

A Reflection from Mrs. Esparza

Dear Monarch Families,

As we take time to reflect on the Lenten season we must remember the beauty that it brings with the promise of Easter.

At the heart of our Catholic faith are many traditions throughout the different liturgical seasons. At St. Mary’s Catholic School, we have many long standing traditions and began many new traditions this Lenten season to truly prepare our hearts, minds, and souls for the Resurrection of our Lord.

From celebrating the 25th anniversary of Shadow Stations of the Cross after breaking bread with friends and neighbors at our annual pasta dinner to outdoor Walking Stations of the Cross and a Lenten retreat for students with exposition of the blessed sacrament, we have reflected upon our relationship with Jesus and taken the opportunity to grow closer to Him.

Our hope for each and every student and their family is that they may grow deeper in the relationship with Jesus through the activities, teachings, and experiences we offer at St. Mary’s.

Easter also marks the beginning of a well deserved break for our faculty, staff and students. In the final weeks leading up to Holy Week, some of our students took World Language exams and Faith-based assessments to help us benchmark student performance in these areas and compare them with national averages.

I am pleased to report that our students are thriving as much academically as they are in the celebration of their faith and spiritual growth.

As we return to school after Easter Break, we will again seek the Lord’s guidance as we prepare to send our 8th graders off to high school! Approximately 50% of our graduates will continue to pursue a Catholic education at Benedictine, St. Gertrude and Blessed Sacrament. The remaining 50% of students have been accepted into several highly selective Specialty Center programs and private schools while others have opted to attend their zoned public schools.

I know you join me in praying for all of our students' continued success in every aspect of their lives!

Blessings,

Mrs. Amanda Esparza

Principal

This message will also be featured in the Easter weekend Mass bulletin.

High School Acceptance Trends & Scholarships

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 13:41:03 GMT

Trends Change, Success Continues

It feels appropriate in this Jubilee Year for Catholics that our newest batch of Monarch graduates are heading to Catholic high schools in larger numbers. In more recent years, St. Mary’s graduates were neatly split with a third to Catholic Schools, a third to Specialty Centers and the final third attending either zoned Public Schools or other local Private Schools.

This year 51% of graduates will continue their educational and faith journeys in a Catholic High School. The other half of the class of 2025 is fairly evenly split among Specialty, Public and other Private Schools.

Mrs. Bisese, our Admissions Director has seen fluctuations in trends before, but believes this trend may be triggered by several factors, not least of which is our student’s desire to continue to be surrounded by faith.

“The Benedictine Schools of Richmond have made a concerted effort to recruit our students by sending former SMCS graduates back for lunch and learn sessions that give 8th graders a sense of what it feels like to transition from the hallways of our International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IBMYP) to their campus in Goochland."

"Across the board," Bisese continued, "our students remain very competitive and successful in receiving scholarship awards. Even those who do not apply for scholarships are excellent candidates when it comes to Admissions. Time and time again, we hear that St. Mary’s students are well-prepared, flexible and kind. They are the type of student every school wants on their campus.”

Principal Esparza adds, “Our students reflect their faith values and the IB Learner Traits that have been instilled in them at St. Mary’s Catholic School. This foundation will stay with them forever.”

To date, we have been notified by schools about numerous students including Hannah D., Bella D., Dhruv P., Mary Grace G., Allison N., Mary-Catherine V., Sydney D., Ryan F., Brendan L. and Sarah L., who have all been awarded either full scholarships or partial merit scholarships to their secondary schools of choice including St. Gertrude High School, Benedictine College Preparatory, The Steward School and Trinity Episcopal High School.

We are incredibly proud of ALL of our soon-to-be graduates and we know that God has a wonderful plan for their future!

“They will follow the Lord; He will roar like a lion.” - -Hosea 11:10

HERC UPDATE: MARCH 2025

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 17:56:01 GMT

Click Here To Help HERC Team Meet Fundraising Goal

This month, members of Saint Mary's Human Exploration Rover Challenge (HERC) Team spent an amazing day at Middle Road Elementary School's STEM Day where they presented their remote control lunar rover along with HERC project goals and objectives.

HERC team members presented to numerous 4th and 5th grade classes and got a real feel for "a day in the life" of a STEM teacher. They did a great job and were really tired by the end of the day! We should all be very proud of them and the way they handled this aspect of their HERC mission.

Several teachers at our host elementary school remarked that they thought SMCS HERC team members were high school students given the manner in which they carried themselves and how well they presented and interacted with the younger students. The principal and everyone involved with STEM Day were so grateful for our visit and want us to return again in the future!

On March 27th the team participated in an Operational Readiness Review (ORR) presentation in front of the NASA HERC team. This consisted of a thirty minute presentation and a fifteen minute Q&A session. The team's next stop will be for the three-day HERC Competition at NASA's U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, near the agency’s Marshall Space Flight Center where St. Mary's students will compete against teams from all over the world !

FAITH IN ACTION: G8 COMMUNITY PROJECTS

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 14:48:55 GMT

Suds for Good, Social Media Awareness, CARITAS Collection + More!

Our 8th grade students are busy with IB Capstone projects that positively impact our community and our world! If you are looking to put your own faith into action this Lenten Season, please consider supporting one or more of the initiatives below.

CARITAS Collection - From April 7th to April 15th, a group of students will be collecting dry goods like rice and crackers as well as canned goods ranging from soup to beans, pasta with and without sauce, baby food, and baby formula for newborns.

Volleyball for Good - Several sporty 8th graders are busy recruiting staff and students to participate in a benefit match on the evening of Tuesday, April 8th to help raise funds for 30 new long sleeve Volleyball jerseys. Cost to play or attend will be $5; additional donations enthusiastically accepted. All proceeds will be used toward their $1,200 project goal.

Community Car Wash - Happening Friday, March 28th from 3:30 until 5pm in the front parking lot of the school. Proceeds will benefit the SMCS Library.

Stopping the Scroll - Two students presented to their Middle School peers on the mental health risks of social media and how to stay safe when using various platforms. You can learn more about state legislation set to take effect on 1/1/26 and discuss the topic with your own kids. Communication is key to keeping our kids safe and healthy!

Tissue Box Challenge Winners

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 18:00:43 GMT

Overall Winners, Category Champs & Honorable Mentions

Congratulations to the following students in each of our grade level competitions! Our teachers loved seeing the creativity and time put into every entry. Way to go, Monarch Readers!

JK-K

Overall Winner - Fiorella A. ( Little One, God Loves You ), pictured above

Graphic Novel - Ethan L.

Construction Paper - Hallie M.

Fiction - James D.

Paint & Creation - James F.

Honorable Mentions

Clark V.

Henry A.

Grace C.

Libbie M.

Brooklyn M.

Grades 1-2

Overall - Adrian B. ( Curious George )

Graphic Novel - Gabbi R.

Construction Paper - Gabriel V.

Historical Fiction - William D.

Everybody Book - Evelyn B.

Grades 3-5

Overall Winner - Zachary W. ( Star Wars )

Graphic Novel - Aislynn R.

Construction Paper - Stella P.

Classic Book - Nora T.

Everybody Book - Elena Y.

Middle School

Overall Winner - Rosemary W. ( Spy x Family )

Historical Fiction - Evan S.

Classic Book - Caroline B.

Everybody Book - Izzy B.

Pi Day Contest Winners

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 14:45:58 GMT

Congratulations to our Winners

Mrs. Olesen held our annual contest a day early this year and we are so proud of all participants who flexed their knowledge of this wonderful number.

Top Winners

5th Grader, Dani B. 412 digits

5th Grader, Julia H. 332 digits

3rd Grade

Nora P. 23 digits

Jackson W. 18 digits

4th Grade

Magdalene Z. 63 digits

Reese J. 37 digits

Middle School

Sydney C. 39 digits

Caroline B. 26 digits

SPRING FEST PIZZA + PARKING

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:04:10 GMT

Preorder your pizza pi(e) to celebrate Pi Day at Spring Fest!

Skip making dinner at home and pre-order cheese and veggie pizzas for your family's Lent-friendly dinner! Gluten Free pizza is also available. Click HERE to pre-order! Limited quantities will be available for purchase at the event.

The map above reflects where Spring Fest attendees may park. Please do not park in the spaces nearest the gym, so that parents can easily complete pick ups from our After School Care Program. Thank you!

School Spelling Bee

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 21:54:28 GMT

Congrats to our Classroom Winners & School Winner, sixth grader, Will H.!

The School Spelling Bee was held on Friday, January 17th and our winner was Will H., a sixth grader in our IB Middle Years Programme. Our runner-up was Leo W. who is in 8th grade.

We are so proud of the following students for winning their Classroom Spelling Bees in December and for participating in a very competitive School Spelling Bee.

G3 - Ixchel G. and Skylar P.

G4 - Jack R. and AJ S.

G5 - Noah M. and Dani B.

G6 - Gia C. and Will H.

G7 - Ryan D. and Emily G.

G8 - Will E. and Leo W.

Middle School Exam Prep

Sat, 09 Nov 2024 11:50:40 GMT

Tips & Strategies from Mrs. Slagle

With exams on the horizon, it is crucial for students to engage in consistent and effective study habits.

Success on exams often depends on the strategies employed during preparation. To aid in this process, Mrs. Slagle has complied the following strategies and tips for students.

Start Now

Interim Reports for the second marking period will be available via FACTS on Wednesday, November 20th.

Middle School Exams are Monday, December 9th through Wednesday, December 11th (with an extra day for make up exams on Thursday, December 12th).

Study Strategies

Create a Study Schedule: Develop a study schedule that allocates specific times for each subject. This helps in organizing study sessions and ensures coverage of all topics. Studying shouldn’t be saved for the last days before exams. Set a schedule and study for each exam daily. A great study strategy for time management and focus is featured in the image above. It is called the Pomodoro Technique or Tomato Timer .
Vary Your Study Methods: Create flashcards, take practice tests, write your own study guide, review your notes, explore Quizlet, make sure all homework is completed, study with a friend, ask questions in class about topics you’re unclear about.
Use Flashcards: Create flashcards for key terms, concepts, and formulas. This method is excellent for quick review and self-assessment.
Teach the Material: Explaining concepts to a peer or family member (or even stuffed animals or pets) is an effective way to reinforce understanding. Teaching the material solidifies your own knowledge.
Practice with Past Papers: If available, practice with previous exam papers or sample questions. This provides insight into the format and types of questions that may be asked on the exam.

Maintain Balance

Take Breaks and Treat Yourself: It’s okay to take breaks when studying and to reward yourself with a snack or something you enjoy.
Get Proper Sleep/Nutrition: Never underestimate the power of proper sleep and nutrition. Sleep has a huge effect on memory and food is fuel for your brain! Be sure to get a good night’s rest and eat healthy meals prior to exams.
Reduce Your Anxiety/Stress: Test anxiety is real and can have an extremely negative impact on success. Your smart focused plan should help remind you that you are prepared and ready to achieve success! Try going for a walk, praying, exercising, and doing things you love to reduce anxiety/stress.
Stay Positive: Believing in yourself, and having faith in your ability to do something, can often be the tipping point between success and failure. When it comes to exams, having that positive mindset before you go into the room will help you feel at ease and more able to approach questions productively.

Ask for Help

Remember, success is a journey, not a destination! If you have questions about exam preparation, please connect with Mrs. Slagle , our Instructional Resource Teacher for Middle School.

Election Day Resources & Reminders

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 18:24:21 GMT

Faithful Citizenship Resources

In anticipation of Election Day on November 5, the Virginia Catholic Conference has prepared voter education resources to help Catholics confidently vote with an informed conscience. Those resources can be found on the Catholic Diocese of Richmond's website .

School Day Reminders

This year, Election Day is a regular school day with a regular bell schedule at Saint Mary's Catholic School. In prior years, it has coincided with Parent-Teacher Conferences resulting in a day-off for students; however, that is not the case this school year.

Many of our students across all grade levels are aware of the importance of Election Day. We anticipate the days leading up to Election Day and those following it will provide topics of conversation that students may choose to engage in both inside and outside the classroom. If necessary, our teachers may offer age-appropriate explanations of the day's events and results.

As family members, we encourage you to guide your children as they navigate their thoughts and feelings over the coming weeks and months.

Pope Francis exhorts us to “genuine dialogue and openness to others,” by which we may “be frank and open about our beliefs, while continuing to discuss, to seek points of contact, and above all, to work and struggle together” (Fratelli Tutti, no. 203). This applies to the faithful both as voters and as candidates—we must consider not only candidates’ positions on these issues, but their character and integrity as well.

Source: https://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/upload/forming-consciences-for-faithful-citizenship.pdf

All Saints Day & All Souls Day at St. Mary's

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 17:37:41 GMT

Lessons in World Culture and Catholic Tradition

As an IB World School, our faculty aims to connect classroom learning with real world experiences. In the case of learning about El Día de los Muertos in World language classes, this creates an opportunity to link Spanish cultural traditions to our Catholic beliefs and practices related to the celebration of All Saints Day (November 1), a Holy Day of Obligation and All Souls Day (November 2).

Middle School students in both French and Spanish World Language classes created posters sharing information about the lives of French and Spanish Saints. These posters can be seen in the Middle School hallways and above, center right. All Middle School students will also create a "poster frame" to present in Theology class as part of our schoolwide celebration of All Saints Day on Thursday, October 31 and Friday, November 1.

In Señora Lee's Elementary World Language classes, 5th grade students created written remembrances of loved ones alongside hand detailed calavera designs (above center). Younger students decorated sugar skull cookies and "papel picado" out of colorful and delicate tissue paper to form festive banners that now adorn our elementary hallways as pictured above.

Middle School students in Señora Bordas' World Language Spanish class helped make a beautiful El Día de los Muertos altar of flowers and decorative ofrendas to honor departed souls (above left).

This week, construction of our first All Souls Day altar in the school's main entry hallway marks a new St. Mary's tradition that mirrors the altar display in our Parish Church. All students in all grades are invited to bring in framed photos of loved ones who have died as a way to remember them during this special time of year.

All Saints Day Prayer

Almighty ever-living God, by whose gift we venerate in one celebration the merits of all the Saints, bestow on us, we pray, through the prayers of so many intercessors, an abundance of the reconciliation with you for which we earnestly long.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.

All Souls Day Prayers

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Listen kindly to our prayers, O Lord, and, as our faith in your Son, raised from the dead, is deepened, so may our hope of resurrection for your departed servants also find new strength. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Day of Service

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 14:17:58 GMT

Middle School Students Prepare to Serve

One of the key focal areas of the IB Middle Years Programme is to help learners make real-world connections to what is taught in the classroom. This morning, our sixth, seventh and eighth graders were asked to connect their upcoming Day of Service activities to the Corporal Works of Mercy.

According to the USCCB, Corporal Works of Mercy respond to the basic needs of humanity as we journey together through this life.

These acts are found in the teachings of Jesus and give us a model for how we should treat others, as if they were Christ in disguise. They “are charitable actions by which we help our neighbors in their bodily needs."

Source: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Day of Service Partner Organizations

6th graders will be working in Richmond's Bryan Park helping to clear debris and assisting with grounds restoration projects in cooperation with Friends of Bryan Park . Current volunteer projects focus on four main areas of the park including keeping its ponds and streams free from debris, helping to maintain and improve the Azalea Gardens, expanding Native Plant Gardens and helping with a Habitat Restoration Program.

7th grade students will help with clean up and preservation efforts at Woodland Cemetery . A video interview with Marvin Harris, the Cemetary's Executive Director, outlines the incredible volume of volunteerism and community restoration efforts in the second video below.

Our 8th graders will be working with a third local organization, Shood , which makes gently used, high-quality shoes available to those in need through a personal, pop-up shopping experience, throughout Richmond. You can hear Shood's founder, Robin Telfian, speak about the organization's simple mission below.

Hurricane Response

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 17:02:24 GMT

Let's Give a Mighty Hand to Appalachian Flood Victims

St. Mary's Catholic School PTO is partnering with St. Mary's Catholic Church to conduct a rapid donation drive next week (Tuesday through Friday) to collect the following items:

paper towels
bottled water
diapers (all sizes)
soap
personal hygiene supplies

Donation bins will be available to collect items in several areas throughout the school.

Thank you to our PTO for answering the call to serve during this time of crisis!

MOON SHOT

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 16:53:27 GMT

Saint Mary's Team selected for 2025 HERC Challenge

From Moon Shot Idea to Design Challenge Reality

Mr. Tlusty received some very exciting news today! After many years of leading student teams through successful Cubes in Space missions, this school year Mr. Tlusty will lead the first St. Mary's team to compete in NASA's Human Exploration Rover Challenge (HERC).

Last month, Middle School students worked with Mr. Caulder and Mr. Tlusty to submit a comprehensive project proposal to compete in a division that is new to the HERC Challenge this year, the Remote Car (RC) Division.

NASA's HERC competition is open to U.S. and International Students in High Schools, Colleges and Universities. This year's competition has been expanded to also include Middle School students aged 11-14. Saint Mary's is one of only two Middle Schools in the world to be selected for this honor!

2025 Remote-Control Division Schools

Alabama A&M University; Normal, Alabama – College/University
Assumption College; Bangrak, Bangkok, Thailand – High School
ATLAS SkillTech University; Mumbai, Maharashtra, India – College/University
Blue Box; Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia – College/University
Campbell University; Buies Creek, North Carolina – College/University
Central Magnet School; Murfreesboro, Tennessee – High School
Colegio Santa Terezinha; Sao Goncalo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – High School
Enteskedu; Baku, Azerbaijan – High School
Erie High School; Erie, Colorado – High School
Instituto Salesiano Don Bosco; Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – High School
Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo; Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – College/University
International Hope School of Bangladesh; Uttara, Dhaka, Bangladesh – High School
Jesco von Puttkamer School; Leipzig, Germany – Middle School
Military Institute of Science and Technology; Mohammadpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh – High School
NPS International School; Singapore – High School
Preludio; Usaquen, Bogota, Colombia – High School
Princess Margaret Secondary School; Surrey, British Columbia, Canada – High School
Saint Mary Catholic School; Richmond, Virginia – Middle School
Southwestern Oklahoma State University; Weatherford, Oklahoma – College/University
Tecnologico de Monterrey – Campus Cuernavaca; Xochitepec, Morelos, Mexico – College/University
Union of Social and Cultural Organizations from Camacari; Camacari, Brazil – High School
Universidad Catolica Boliviana “San Pablo” Sede Cochabamba; Cochabamba, Bolivia – College/University
Universidad Nacional de Ingenieria; Lima, Peru – College/University
University of Central Missouri; Warrensburg, Missouri – College/University
Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart; Lake Forest, Illinois – High School

Background (Source: 2025 HERC Handbook)

Since its inception in 1994, the Human Exploration Rover Challenge (HERC) has been hailed as one of the most exciting student challenges taking place in Huntsville, AL, with support from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. Formally known as the Great Moonbuggy Race, the challenge was conceived in the spirit of NASA’s Apollo missions to the moon, and the Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) that carried the frst men in history across the lunar surface. Students created vehicles (dubbed “moon buggies”) to face challenges similar to those engineers at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center addressed in preparation for Apollo 15.

Today, humankind is returning to the moon through NASA’s Artemis Mission with the goal of landing the first woman, first person of color, and first international partner astronaut on the moon. The Artemis mission will explore the moon for scientific discovery, technology advancement, and to learn how humans can live and work on another world as we prepare to propel ourselves further into space, to Mars. The next humans to land on the moon will use innovative technologies to explore more of the lunar surface than ever before and inspire the next generation of explorers—the Artemis Generation.

Each year the NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge (HERC) features an engineering design challenge to engage students worldwide in the next phase of human space exploration. As an Artemis Student Challenge, HERC draws inspiration from both the Apollo and Artemis missions, emphasizing designing, constructing and testing technologies, as well as traversing unique environmental terrain.

During Apollo 15 astronauts utilized the first automotive vehicle on the moon, the Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV). With this rover, astronauts were able to collect more lunar samples than the previous two Moon-landing missions combined and spent twice the time on the Moon than Apollo 14.

NASA’s 21st century lunar exploration program is called Artemis. Artemis missions will turn science fiction into science fact as we make new discoveries, advance technologies, and learn to live and work on another world. The commercial partners have already been chosen to design and construct the next-generation rover, the Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV).

NASA’s goal with the Artemis mission is to send the first woman and first person of color for exploration at the Moon’s South Pole and to develop a sustained human presence on the Moon. On the Moon we will learn what resources are available and abundant enough that we don’t need to send them from Earth. Using resources, including water, found in space will help reduce our dependency on Earth as we move farther into the solar system.

With human exploration of Mars on the horizon, NASA is developing many of the technologies needed to send humans farther into the solar system today. Our work on the Moon under the Artemis program will prepare us for that next giant leap sending astronauts to Mars.

Lunar science on the surface of the Moon will be conducted with polar and non-polar landers and rovers which will explore areas not investigated during Apollo missions. This student design challenge encourages the next generation of scientists and engineers to engage in the design process by providing innovative concepts and unique perspectives. HERC also continues the Agency’s legacy of providing valuable experience to students who may be responsible for planning future space missions including crewed missions to other worlds.

This year, NASA will mark 31 years of engaging students in an engineering design challenge to design, build, and race human-powered vehicles over simulated lunar/Martian terrain. Just as space travel has evolved over the past 31 years and is now returning to its roots by revisiting the lunar surface, HERC has evolved and continues to re-align its core framework to NASA’s current mission directorates and commercial partners.

In 2014 the motivation changed to mimicking design challenges faced by engineers designing rovers for future exploration missions to a variety of celestial bodies. As technology advanced and materials used in the building of space travel vehicles became lighter and stronger, size restrictions on the rover were changed from fitting inside a 4-ft. (1.2 m) cube. Beginning in 2014, the rover constraint was changed to a 5-ft. (1.5 m) cube.

Since 2016, to advance the rigor and to better align with the NASA engineering design process, teams must design and fabricate their own non-pneumatic tires/wheels. Purchasing commercially available products are prohibited. As the Artemis mission became the forward face of NASA, in 2020, the challenge was again adapted, and a new rule that the rover riders must be one male and one female was put into effect. Now, with the success of Artemis I and the launch of Artemis II on the horizon, mankind is getting closer to setting foot on the moon once again. As in the past, HERC is evolving; with new goals and ideas, to continue to challenge the next generation of rover riders; the Artemis Generation.

This year we are proud to announce a new pathway to experience HERC. Teams will choose to participate in either the traditional Human-Powered (HP) or the new Remote-Controlled (RC) divisions. This change not only better aligns HERC with current NASA missions, it expands the reach of the program to include more STEM disciplines and grade levels.

More about HERC (Source: 2025 HERC Handbook)

The NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge (HERC) is a rigorous and continuously evolving activity which engages students in hands-on engineering design related to NASA’s missions. HERC aims to meet established educational objectives and provide continuous program improvement that satisfy the needs of its participants.

Through participating in HERC, students will develop a deeper understanding of content and enhance their communication, collaboration, inquiry, problem-solving, and flexibility skills that will benefit them throughout their academic and professional lives.

HERC aligns with the Next Generation Science Standards and Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) criteria outlined below:

Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) — Middle School (6–8)

MS-PS3-1 Energy MS-PS3-1 Construct and interpret graphical displays of data to describe the relationships of kinetic energy to the mass of an object and to the speed of an object.
MS-PS3-3 Energy MS-PS3-3 Apply scientifc principles to design, construct, and test a device that either minimizes or maximizes thermal energy transfer.
MS-ETS1-1 Engineering Design MS-ETS1-1 Defne the criteria and constraints of a design problem with suffcient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientifc principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.
MS-ETS1-2 Engineering Design MS-ETS1-2 Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
MS-ETS1-3 Engineering Design MS-ETS1-3 Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.
MS-ETS1-4 Engineering Design MS-ETS1-4 Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modifcation of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.

Photo Credit: NASA (Source: https://www.nasa.gov/nasa-brand-center/images-and-media/)

Photo Caption: This mini-panorama combines two photographs taken by Apollo 15 lunar module pilot Jim Irwin, from the Apollo Lunar Surface Experiments Package (ALSEP) site, at the end of the second Apollo 15 moonwalk on August 1, 1971. Mission commander David R. Scott is leaning to his right and is putting down the Apollo Lunar Surface drill.

Next Stop: High School

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 16:18:46 GMT

Reminders from Mrs. Slagle and Mrs. Bisese

Mrs. Slagle shared this presentation about the High School Application Process with our 8th graders earlier this year.

For those who attended our annual High School Information Fair, you probably talked about Open Houses with some of the representatives you spoke with over the course of the evening.

We have compiled a list with links to information regarding some local Open Houses below. Be sure to RSVP when required!

HCPS high school specialty centers, ACE centers, I.B. programs and regional high schools (start Sept. 30th)
CCPS Specialty Centers (start Oct. 1st)
Benedictine High Schools of Richmond (Oct. 9th)
The Steward School (Oct. 10th)
Trinity Episcopal School (Oct. 27th)

Still have questions about the process? Contact Mrs. Slagle or Mrs. Bisese via email.

Sacrament Preparation

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 16:43:19 GMT

Orientation is Oct. 26th & 27th

Have you been looking for information about First Reconciliation and First Communion 2025?

We are ready to begin preparation for these beautiful sacraments and we hope to see you there.

Are you eligible?

In the 2 ^nd grade or above
Enrolled in Religious Education* AND
Enrolled in Sacrament Prep

*Per the diocese, students must be registered for BOTH religious education in a Catholic school or parish program and sacrament preparation with the parish.

First Communion Masses will begin the first weekend of May, so let’s get started !

When you get to the registration page, choose “Attends Catholic School” as the program option.

If you have additional questions, please contact Mona Bausone the new Coordinator of Christian Formation at our Parish Church.

We’re so excited to walk with you.

Scholastic Book Fair: Read All About It

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 14:43:48 GMT

Get Ready to Read

Here’s everything you need to know about the Fall Book Fair...

Dates: Mon. September 30 - Fri. October 4
Location: Lower Commons
Family Shopping Event: Wednesday October 2, 2024 4:00PM-6:00 PM
Class Shopping Schedule
VIRTUS compliant Volunteer Sign Up

There’s even more info on our school’s Book Fair homepage.

Prize Wheel - Cash Only!

Students may spin the wheel for a chance to win fun novelty items or even a book/poster. The cost is $1 per spin.

E-Wallet

Set up a Book Fair eWallet , the digital payment account that allows your child to shop for books at the Fair without cash. You can share your eWallet link so friends and extended family can add funds.

Classroom Wish Lists

These are titles that Mrs. V would like to add to our classroom libraries. Refreshing classroom libraries regularly gives kids a reason to keep reading!

Pre-Orders

Interested in Pre-ordering? Order through the book Fair and it will delivered to school.

Many of us still remember the rush of finding the perfect book at a Scholastic Book Fair. We hope you’ll join your child at our school’s Fair and share a reading experience they’ll remember forever.

Happy reading, Mighty Monarchs!

Cold & Flu Season Reminders

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 14:58:26 GMT

Reminders from our Student Wellness Team: Nurse Simpson & Nurse Jones

There are several viruses and other contagious illnesses traveling throughout our community and school right now. We are therefore asking students, staff, and parents to help minimize the spread of illness at school.

Here are some ways we can stop the spread:

Please keep your child at home if you think they have an illness that could spread to others.
Teach/remind your child to wash their hands frequently and to cover their nose or mouth with a tissue or elbow before a sneeze or cough.
Consider getting a Flu shot for you and your family members.
Consider getting a COVID vaccine or booster for you and your family members.

Reminders from pages 7 (Attendance) and p. 23 (Illness) of our Parent-Student Handbook:

Fever of 100.4 or greater: Students should stay home and may only return to school after being fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication.
Colds, coughs, runny noses and sore throats: These are common and do not require students to stay home from school if symptoms are mild. If cold symptoms include fever or persistent cough that is disruptive to learning or focusing in class, they should stay home.
Vomiting and/or diarrhea: Keep your child home until they are eating and drinking without vomiting or diarrhea for 24 hours. A doctors note stating when they can return to school can be obtained if you believe the symptoms are not due to a contagious illness.
FLU or COVID: Must be fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication AND feel well enough to participate and learn at school.

We understand that it can be a difficult decision to know when to send your child to school or keep them home. Every situation is individual and every child has different needs. Attendance is important, but it is essential that the students feel well enough to be able to learn and participate in school.

We will triage each clinic visit and help determine whether your student needs to go home or can stay at school. If you have specific questions about your child’s illness, we encourage you to call their healthcare provider for guidance.

As your school nurses, we do our best to keep everyone at school healthy as possible. Thank you for your assistance and cooperation!

Still have questions? Contact the Clinic via email or phone: 804.741.8790

School Picture Retakes

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 14:24:22 GMT

How to Request a Retake

School picture retakes for individual photos will be taken in the morning on Tuesday, September 24th. Unless your child was absent on School Picture Day (9/12), YOU MUST REQUEST A RETAKE in order for your child to be included on the photographer's schedule. All students requesting a retake must come to school "photo ready" wearing their formal uniform. Instructions for Retake Requests are detailed below.

FOCUS: Weekend Challenge Accepted

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 14:49:09 GMT

Our quest to raise $40,000 begins now

Students in grades JK through 5th also watched the first installment of a Quest video series that highlights the virtues required to attain a challenging goal. Today's featured quest required FOCUS!

This weekend presents an opportunity for you to help your student with their first Boosterthon Fun Run challenge. Accepting this challenge gets our school one step closer to reaching our goal while earning your child a bonus prize to be awarded at school on Monday!

High School: First Impressions

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 12:19:18 GMT

Our newest graduates are thriving in High School

We've checked in with five of our most recent graduates on how they are doing in their first month of high school. Here's what they had to say...

"I really like it. Not all of my teachers seem as warm as my St. Mary's teachers, but I feel prepared and I really like the content of my courses at the Specialty Center." - Fiona B., Freshman at Glen Allen High School's Center for Education and Human Development

"It's hard, but it's going well." - Timothy D., Freshman at Douglas Freeman's Center for Leadership, Government and Global Economics

"The Center is very cool. One of my favorite courses so far is a digital art class." - Becky S., Freshman at Deep Run High School's Center for Information Technology

"It's different being in an all boys school and academically I feel really good." - Remy M., Freshman at Benedictine College Prep

"It's going great. I am a JV Volleyball Captain." - Cadhla O., Freshman at Godwin High School

We would love to hear from other recent St. Mary's graduates (or their parents!) about how their first weeks of high school and college are going. Share your news with Mrs. Kirk via email.

Boosterthon FAQs

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 12:21:29 GMT

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register my student?

To register your child, click here .

When is the Fun Run and can I attend to cheer on my child? UPDATED 9/17!

Yes, parents are invited to cheer from the sidelines during the Fun Run on Friday, September 20th. RUN TIMES are as follows: JK @ 8:30am, K-2 @ 9:30am, 3-5 @ 12:30pm, 6-8 COLOR RUN @ 1:45pm.

Where will the Fun Run take place? What happens if it rains?

The run will be staged in the field between Pinchbeck Elementary School and our Church parking lot. In case of inclement weather, we will move the runs inside and they will become Student-Only events due to space constraints. The Fun Runs will be indoor Fun Runs and the Color Run for Middle School will become an indoor Glow Run.

When will Mrs. Esparza be slimed if we get donations from all 50 states? When will Mr. C, Mrs. V and Mr. Schaefer be "dunked" if we reach $40,000 by Fun Run Friday?

Mrs. Esparza will be slimed at 2:15pm on Fun Run Friday and our teachers will be "dunked" on a future date to be announced on Fun Run Friday!

Where should I park if I want to watch the Fun Run or Color Run?

Please refer to this map and only park in the green sections so that there is ample parking for Daily Mass attendees.

When will students receive their Fun Run T-shirts?

Students will receive their t-shirts at school on Tuesday, September 17th and should arrive at school wearing their Fun Run shirts and PE shorts on Sept 20th.

What distance is the run? Are children required to fundraise in order to participate?

Students can run or walk a few laps or the entire 35 lap maximum (which is equivalent to 10,000 steps). There is no required fundraising amount to participate in the Fun Run and all students will receive a Fun Run T-shirt!

How do pledges work if donors pledge funds per lap instead of a flat donation amount?

Pledges can be made per lap completed by the student (even if students don't run all 35, it will default to 35). So if a donor pledges $1 per lap, they will donate $35 total.

What is the difference between the JK-5 Fun Run and the Color Run for Middle School students?

Middle School students will get messy (and so might the spectators depending on wind)! Students may bring a change of clothes for after their race. It's a good idea to have them bring a bag to put their color run messy clothes in as well! The photo below is from a Color Run and shows the colored powder used.

Student Accident Insurance Program (24-25)

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 17:04:25 GMT

As featured in the Friday Flash on August 30, 2024

Dear Parent or Guardian:

Because we feel that accident coverage for your child(ren) is very important, we have secured a special

School Time Accident Policy for all students attending our school and participating in any school

sponsored and supervised aftercare program. The cost of the insurance is paid by the school.

The coverage is being offered through A-G Administrators. The insurance carrier is US Fire Insurance

Company.

The school time policy is excess coverage. This means that benefits will be paid that are not payable by

any other insurance policy or group service contract. If the student has no other insurance, the policy will

pay the full benefits for covered charges due to an accident up to the policy maximum.

If you have coverage through an HMO or (similar organization), you must comply with their requirements

or your claim will not be covered under this policy.

This insurance only applies if all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The accident results from a school sponsored and supervised activity;

(2) Initial treatment is rendered within 90 days from the date of the accident; and

(3) A completed claim form is mailed to A-G Administrators and postmarked within 30 days after the

date of the accident.

The claim form must be provided by the school. Other terms and restrictions may apply.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Sincerely,

Amanda Esparza, Principal

Saint Mary's Catholic School

Positivity to the power of Googleplex

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 13:39:27 GMT

More than a campaign, ROAR is a positive mindset.

Positivity's Ripple Effect

Positivity was a huge theme at Teacher Work Week as our faculty prepared to welcome back members of the Monarch Pride. In an effort to set the tone and spread positive vibes, math teacher Mrs. Olesen came up with a phrase, "Positivity to the power of Googleplex," to explain the exponential impact that positivity can have on the St. Mary's community.

In this spirit, we're sharing the following pledges to clearly set expectations for the new school year so that we can all ROAR together! This information is also featured in the Student Athletics section of our website.

The Importance of Positive Behavior & Participation

St. Mary's commitment to Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) extends beyond the classroom to all athletic, activity programs/clubs of Saint Mary’s Catholic School, as well as for the individuals who participate. People involved in all facets of athletic, club and activity programs are expected to demonstrate respect for others and display good sportsmanship. It is essential that student-participants, coaches, parents, student groups and fans in general are constantly reminded that Good Sports Are Winners!

Positive experiences do not occur by chance, rather they are a result of a consistent structure, the right perspective, the right leadership, and the true understanding of sportsmanship. ROAR--Respectful, On Task, Accountable and Responsible-- is not merely a campaign; it is the essence of what educational athletics, clubs, and activities are at St. Mary's!

Student/Athlete/Participant/Club Member Pledge

As a student, I pledge to:

Do my best to represent my school, my peers, and myself while striving to have the integrity to know and do what is right.
Respect my peers, my leadership, myself and the game/club/activity, including any officials.
Take r esponsibility by embracing opportunities to contribute.
Exemplify commitment by bringing my best to all practices and competitions.
Provide s ervant leadership to serve the common good while striving to be a personal and team leader.

Coach/Leader/Director Pledge

As a leader, I acknowledge that I am a role model. I know that the principles of good sportsmanship and positive behavior are integrity, fairness, and respect. While teaching the skills of the game or activity, I must also teach students how to win and lose graciously, and that sports, clubs and activities are meant to be educational and fun. I know the behavior expectations set by Saint Mary's Catholic School, and hereby accept my responsibility to be a model of ethical behavior, integrity, and servant leadership.

Parent’s Pledge

As a parent, I acknowledge that I am a role model. I will remember that school athletics, clubs and activities are an extension of the classroom, offering learning experiences for the students. I must show respect for all students, leaders, spectators, and support groups. I will participate in cheers that support, encourage, and uplift the participants involved. I understand the spirit of fair play and good sportsmanship expected by our school. I hereby accept my responsibility to be a model of good behavior that comes with being the parent of a student athlete/participant/club member.

Kick Off Cook Out

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 21:40:21 GMT

Join our PTO on Friday, 9/6 at 5:30pm to Kick Off the School Year!

Save the date and RSVP online today. You can also help lend a hand by clicking here and volunteering your time!

Enjoy a Friday evening of free food, non-alcoholic beverages and fellowship made possible by our PTO.

Summer Update No. 4 from Mrs. Esparza

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 21:44:59 GMT

Faculty & ASC: News to Know

Welcome to August! It's a time of finalizing important Summer projects that run the gamut of fresh paint and tree pruning to onboarding new faculty and finalizing bell schedules. It's a very exciting time indeed…

MEET OUR TEAM

On the Faculty side, we are thrilled to welcome Nell Nutaitis and Carrie Michalski as Instructional Assistants in our JK classrooms.

Nell is a familiar face with two children already enrolled at St. Mary’s. She has been a regular substitute teacher and is excited to join our ECDC team on a full time basis. Nell has a Masters degree in Educational Policy from the University of Pennsylvania and a strong background in both the Education and Nonprofit sectors.

Carrie and her four children are new to St. Mary's this year. With a nursing background and the experience of homeschooling her kids for the past four years, Carrie holds an undergraduate degree in Cognitive Science and Psychology from UVA and a Masters Degree in Nursing from VCU.

Tom Tucholka and Bailey Kamper are beloved and familiar faces who will be assuming new roles in ECDC as Instructional Assistants in 1st grade and Kindergarten, respectively. We are fortunate to have them assume these new roles and look forward to their continued contributions in the classroom.

Speaking of familiar faces, Mr. Caulder is stepping into our Middle School Science role as a Long Term Substitute. After several recruitment rounds, "Mr. C" is taking over the Science Lab; a place he feels passionate about given his years of involvement in Mr. T’s Rocket Club and related STEM activities at St. Mary's. Mr. Caulder has also taught Science in his previous roles in Henrico County Public Schools. We know he will bring enormous energy to our IB MYP hallway!

On the opposite end of the emotional spectrum, we are sad to bid farewell to longtime ECDC Instructional Assistant, Kathleen Tucholka. Kathleen's 13 years of love and dedication is nothing short of legendary. We will share details about an opportunity for our community to honor her service at a later date.

ASC UPDATE & FORM

As we complete our Back-to-School planning, we know that many of you are doing the same as you tackle Back-to-School to-do lists, schedules and logistics for your family. We recognize that ASC is an important puzzle piece providing much needed care and support of your children.

Please review the following updates and complete this form if your needs have changed .

FULL TIME ASC CARE

At present, we are able to accommodate all families who requested full time ASC enrollment. Priority for full time spots was indicated during the enrollment process and we are pleased to extend spots to all families who requested them.

PART TIME ASC CARE

While we are still in the process of interviewing candidates whose onboarding would facilitate the acceptance of part time registrations, at this time we cannot guarantee the availability of part time spots. I will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available and recognize the urgency you may feel without a guaranteed spot for your family. My advice to you would be to secure alternative care at least for the first quarter of school.

If you are unsure if you requested full or part time when you completed your online enrollment contract earlier this year, please reach out to us and we are happy to confirm with you.

Our entire Monarch Faculty and Staff joins me in looking forward to welcoming you back to campus soon!

Meet the Teacher Day for Parents & Students

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 19:01:49 GMT

Get Ready to Meet Your Teacher(s)!

We look forward to welcoming you beginning at 8:15am for New Families, JK & K Families and 9am for Returning Families. With this year's new, longer format, it's like Meet the Teacher and Back to School Night rolled into one!

Please remember this is NOT a drop-off or drop-in event. It IS a day to drop off supplies, meet faculty, learn more about schedules, policies, class content and more...

IMPORTANT NOTE: Middle School students should arrive with their schedule already printed from FACTS .

If you have questions about Homeroom Assignments, please contact Anne Leigh Bisese .

Summer Update No. 2 from Mrs. Esparza

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 18:49:13 GMT

Take note of all that's new at St. Mary's Catholic School!

A few wonderful weeks have elapsed since my first Summer Update.

Faculty Additions & Updates

We are thrilled to welcome additional Faculty members to our already incredible team of educators.

Mr. Travis McFaden joins our Middle School Faculty as our new History Teacher. He is a recent graduate of Christendom College and credits his grandfather, a retired AP History and Latin teacher, as his inspiration for pursuing a career in teaching. Travis is especially eager to become a part of the IB Middle Years team after spending a semester abroad in Rome, Italy where he studied Moral Theology, Medieval Philosophy, Art History and Architecture.

Mrs. Karen George is returning to St. Mary's as a Third Grade Teacher. Karen has served in this role previously both in Public Schools and at St. Mary's. She also served as a longterm Second Grade substitute at SMCS last school year, so she is very familiar with both our rising Third Grade students and the curriculum. Welcome back, Karen!

In other Faculty news, Mrs. Denise Reardon has accepted the role of Religion & New Teacher Mentor Coordinator. We know her focus on these areas will be a fantastic way to share her deep knowledge and love of our school.

Finally, we are still accepting applications for our Middle School Science Teacher , Instructional Assistant , and After School Care Assistant positions. Please reach out if you have a candidate you would like to share with us. Recommendations from our community often lead to great hires!

Popsicles on the Playground, 7/24

I cannot promise cooler weather, but I can promise you a cool treat and some socializing on the playground at the conclusion of Vacation Bible School on Wednesday, July 24th from noon until around 1pm. Bring your kids and your questions about the coming school year. This is an optional event open to all returning and new families with students of all ages!

New Parent Cocktail, 8/8 ( RSVP by 8/1)

Hosted by our PTO, new parents are invited to join us from 6:30 until 8pm on Thursday, August 8th in our School Gymnasium and Courtyard.

New Lunch Options

Mrs. Patricia Osborne, our awesome Lunch Coordinator, is working to make adjustments to our salad options and the addition of Quesadilla Thursdays! More details to follow.

New Website Coming Soon

We have partnered with LPi, the same company that produces our Weekend Mass bulletins. LPi also helped our Parish Church relaunch their website last year.

In addition to the sections and content you are familiar with, the refreshed site design also features a Spanish language option and is ADA compliant thanks to the installation of UserWay (the small blue circle icon in the upper righthand corner). This means it works with Screen Reader software, can display Dyslexia friendly content and much more.

We expect to officially launch the new site on or before August 1st.

'24-'25 FACULTY UPDATE

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 22:23:43 GMT

Summer Update No. 1

It’s Summer Break for students, but our Administrative Team has been busy with interviews and on-boarding of new faculty members! Check out the announcements below regarding new teachers as well as some familiar faces in new places.

Mrs. Angela Villa, previously an Instructional Aid in JK, has a accepted a position as a JK Teacher.

Ms. Silvia Matus, who served as an Instructional Aid in JK during the 2020-2021 school year, will join ECDC as a Kindergarten Teacher. More recently, Mrs. Matus worked at Three Chopt and Ridge Elementary Schools in Henrico County.

Mrs. Brigid Higgins and Mrs. Kelly Butrico have joined our ECDC team as 1st Grade Teachers. Mrs. Higgins previously worked at several private and public schools before joining the St. Mary’s community. She has recently served as a tutor in our ECDC and Elementary School. Mrs. Butrico began her career in Richmond Public Schools before transferring to Henrico County Public Schools where she most recently worked at Pinchbeck Elementary.

Mrs. Clair Carpenter and Mrs. Amanda Cosby (pictured above) will be moving from ECDC to Elementary School where they have both accepted roles as 2nd Grade Teachers.

In 4th Grade, Mr. Kaleb Bloomfield joins us from Tucson, Arizona where he taught 4th Grade at St. John the Evangelist Catholic School.

We look forward to making additional announcements as the Summer hiring process continues!

CiS: Lift Off & Surprise Award for Mr. T

Sat, 22 Jun 2024 12:11:00 GMT

What started out as a St. Mary’s 6th grade Science Lab experiment with yeast morphed into an idea for a Cubes in Space (CiS) proposal in Technology & Design class. After a great deal of work, the CiS project application was accepted.

Over the course of the 2023-2024 school year, Middle School students from St. Mary’s Catholic School and a team from Open High School worked on the experiment, collaborated with a team of scientists from Purdue University to build the experiment, and shipped it off to be integrated in the NASA Terrier Improved Orion Sounding rocket.

The launch would be part of CiS’s annual FlightFest, a very special multi-day event celebrating the suborbital science achievements of students culminating with the Sounding Rocket-10 (SR-10) mission on June 20th from NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility on Wallops Island, Virginia. Lift off was at 5:30 a.m. and it was a perfect launch witnessed by SMCS student Becky Smolka and Mr. Tlusty along with many other FlightFest attendees.

Becky Smolka (SMCS ’24) spearheaded the St. Mary’s CiS team and logged the most work among her Cubes in Space project collaborators. According to Mr. Tlusty, “She was fabulous at NASA Wallops this week during the Expo and student presentation segment.”

“It was a huge surprise when I was awarded the CiS 2024 Exceptional Educator Award by Becky and Lourdes Olivencia (SMCS ’23),” Tlusty continued, “I want to thank all of our fabulous St. Mary’s students for the role they played in this incredible learning opportunity.”

CLASS OF ’24: NEXT STOP, HIGH SCHOOL!

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:25:00 GMT

We’ve shared their baby photos and celebrated their many Monarch Milestones leading up to graduation from St. Mary’s on June 5th. Wondering what’s next for these 43 mighty students? Check out their high school selections below and join us in congratulating them for their hard work.

We are so proud of you, Class of 2024!

STEM UPDATE: ROCKETS, ROVERS AND YEAST

Fri, 31 May 2024 16:30:00 GMT

Mr. T is always excited about NASA related STEM projects, but lately, he has shared some truly out of this world news with Faculty, Rocket Club and Cubes in Space members that merits sharing with our broader community. There is so much to look forward to this summer and beyond if you are a Mighty Monarch interested in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math! Check out his recent updates below.

ADVENTURE LOG ENTRY #1: ARC FINALS

“I am always bragging about Catholic education and the things we do. I wear NASA shirts to work here, but I really do wear my St. Mary shirts when I am at NASA or other events!

I was off this past weekend to the national American Rocketry finals. I made great connections and was able to work alongside and learn from some fantastic teachers. We also got to hang out all day and were helped by astronaut, Woody Hoburg. He spent half of last year on the International Space Station and was a finalist in the American Rocketry Challenge when he was in high school. He actually broadcasted a message down from the ISS to the ARC finals last year!”

ENTRY #2: HUMAN EXPLORATION ROVER CHALLENGE EXTENDED

Mr. T could barely contain his glee earlier this month when he realized that NASA extended the HERC project guidelines to include middle school age students, which means that we can expect to see many IBMYP student designed Moon Rovers in the upcoming school year!

The primary objective of HERC is for teams of students to design, develop, build, and test human-powered rovers capable of traversing challenging terrain and a task tool for completion of various mission tasks.

Teams earn points by successful completion of design reviews, designing and assembling a moon rover that meets all challenge criteria, and successfully completing course obstacles and mission tasks. The team with the highest number of points accumulated throughout the project year in each category will be the winner of their respective division (high school and college/university).

Source: https://www.nasa.gov/learning-resources/nasa-human-exploration-rover-challenge/

ENTRY #3: CiS PARTNERS WITH PERDUE UNIVERSITY

“This week during Cubes in Space, students worked on an email to Purdue University scientists and professors whose idea we are mimicking in our cube experiments. After clicking send on this email, we almost immediately received a response.

They are excited for us to have our experiment go to space and to be using their idea. They have pledged their help so we are now partnering with Purdue University!

Students stayed after school yesterday to complete additional work on our dosimeters for our cube. Let’s go to space!”

NEW READS IN HONOR OF MRS. REARDON

Fri, 24 May 2024 16:41:00 GMT

Mrs. Valdepenas has curated this special list of titles that you can peruse and purchase for our School Library in honor of Mrs. Reardon’s retirement from full time teaching at St. Mary’s.

A label honoring Mrs. Reardon and featuring your family’s name will be displayed in each beautiful library bound hardback book donation. With your support, students will be able to read and enjoy selections from this special commemorative collection for years to come.

All purchases made through this campaign will ship directly to the School Library.

RECAP: 2024 ANNUAL AWARDS

Thu, 23 May 2024 00:47:00 GMT

Monarchs of the Month

This morning’s Awards began by recognizing all students who have been honored over the course of the year as a Monarch of the Month recipient. A full list of these students can be found here . Our final Monarch of the Month announcement for the month of May is planned for after School Mass on May 29th.

A full gallery of photos from today’s program can be viewed on our school Facebook page.

Citizenship Awards

Grade level Citizenship Award pins were awarded to the following students:

The following World Language students were also awarded Citizenship pins:

Finally, Resource teachers awarded Citizenship pins to the following students:

The following students were recognized for Foreign Language achievements:

National French Exam

Honorable Mention

7th grade – Lainie S.

8th grade – Avery B., Carter B., Frankie B., Grace C., Ella F. and Matthew V.

Bronze Medals

8th grade – Fiona B., Sophia N., Cadhla O., Sophia V., Kristofer V.

Silver Medals

7th grade – *Reagan C., Hank E.

8th grade – Remy M., Rennie Y.

Gold Medal

8th grade – *Anna H.

*Both Reagan and Anna scored 100% on a portion of the National Exam.

Spanish Language Achievement & National Spanish Exam Awards

Notable Improvement – James C., Landon C., Ty D., Piper P., Colton S., Bo T.

Honorable Mention

7th grade – Nicholas B., Jacob C., Mary G., Giulia G., Andy G., Lucy H., Ward H., Raegan M., Allison N., Easton R., Anna S., Owen S., Sydnee S., Stephanie U.

8th grade – Olivia B., Alejandro C., Matthew C., Savannah E., Luke P., Anna P., Caleb T.

Bronze Medals

7th grade – Blake B., Ellie C., Bella D., Will E., Ella K., Brendan L., Ben L., Leo W.

8th grade – East B., Leona B., Camilla C., Tomothy D., George F., Samuel G., Priya W.

Silver Medals

7th grade – Hanna D., Meadow D., Ryan F., Anabelle G., Julia P., Dhruv P., Jonathan R.

8th grade – Kate B., Becky S., Cian Y.

Gold Medals

7th grade – Sydney D., Mary Catherine V., *Sarah L.

*Sarah was also recognized for receiving a perfect score on the National Spanish Exam.

First & Second Honors Recognitions

Students were asked to stand if they had achieved First or Second Honors distinctions during one or multiple grading periods this school year. First Honors denotes a 93% or higher in all academic subjects and a B or higher in all resource classes. Second Honors denotes an 88% or higher in all academic subjects and a B or higher in all resource classes.

Spelling Bee Winner Recognitions

8th grade – Kristofer V., Caleb T.

7th grade – Reagan C., *Leo W.

6th grade – Sophia R., Emme S.

5th grade – Will H., Joseph B.

4th grade – Dylan T., Julia H.

3rd grade – Braeden L., AJ S.

*Leo W. was our school-wide winner who went on to represent our school at the Diocesan Spelling Bee.

Athletic Achievement

Our community is extremely proud of our students’ athletic achievements as well as parental support and volunteerism throughout the year. Click here to read our AD, Mr. Schaefer’s thoughtful recap and commentary on the 2023-2024 sports season!

Student Recognition for Service Hours

Middle School students were asked to stand if they completed 20 hours of community service. Many students exceeded this minimum requirement logging up to 50 hours over the course of the year! 8th graders were also recognized for having completed their capstone Community Service Projects.

Scholarship Awards

Dillard Memorial Scholarship Award – Henry K., Emily B.

Hazel Lewane Scholarship Award – Kiera W.

Faculty & Staff Acknowledgements

The entire community applauded SMCS Faculty and Staff members for their “dedication, creativity and boundless grace.” We also bid a collective thank you and farewell to faculty members who are either taking a break from their careers, moving on to new chapters or reaching long awaited milestones.

At the end of the ceremony, Mrs. Reardon was again honored for receiving the St. Mary’s 2024 Excellence in Catholic Education Award and applauded for her 18 years of service to our school community. She was presented with a framed watercolor print created by St. Mary’s alumni and local artist, Erin Buckley.

We look forward to celebrating her retirement from full time teaching and her future contributions in a part time capacity next school year!

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ANNA TURNER ’13

Wed, 22 May 2024 23:41:00 GMT

As the old saying goes, the apple doesn’t fall from the tree!

Our third grade teacher, Mrs. Amy Turner’s daughter, Anna (SMCS ’13), is a proud recipient of Richmond Public Schools’ Beginning Teacher of the Year Award. This award is specifically for teachers who have worked in the system for three years or less.

Anna is currently teaching 2nd grade at Oak Grove-Bellemeade Elementary, a school that serves 675 JK-5 students in the City of Richmond. Way to go, Mighty Monarch!

Know a Monarch grad who is doing amazing things that you would like to share with our community? Share their news via email with Mrs. Janus for publication in our Alumni newsletter.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ALICE JOSS ’19

Fri, 17 May 2024 13:15:00 GMT

Alice Joss , SMCS class of 2019, will be spending part of her summer as an intern at Saint Meinrad Archabbey and Monastery in Indiana. Alice (above left with sister, Megan SMCS ’23) recently completed her freshman year at JMU.

Thanks to mom, Jennifer Joss, who provided the feature photo for this news item and serves on the SMCS Advisory Board. Jennifer is a vocal advocate and volunteer in our parish who is dedicated to keeping youth involved in their faith and recently spearheaded St. Mary’s participation in the Diocesan Youth Conference.

Here’s more about Alice’s exciting summer plans:

My internship this summer is part of a program called CMIP, or College Ministerial Internship Program at Saint Meinrad Archabbey and Monastery. Saint Meinrad is a Benedictine Monastery, dedicated to the service and hospitality of others just like Saint Meinrad was. I will get the opportunity to take college level classes from catechists and a big part of the program is being an intern for the participants of the One Bread One Cup conference.

I have been a participant the past two summers in the Liturgical Music and Liturgical Arts sessions, and this summer I have the opportunity to be an intern for the Liturgical Formation Session(LFS) “Server, Sarctistan, Minister of Ceremonies.” I will be helping, while also learning about the way Mass is performed, helping as an altar server, and I will get the opportunity to help with special liturgies like adoration along with the Masses. I will also be serving as a guide for the high school participants who have chosen this LFS.

At the conference, the participants will get the opportunity to fully immerse themselves through new types of prayer, group activities, and special talks from guests. As an intern, I will also get to experience these events, while also helping teach the participants new things related to their LFS.

This story, contributed by Jennifer Janus, is an excerpt from the Spring 2024 edition of our forthcoming alumni newsletter, the Monarch Messenger and is an inspiring update to the “Fostering Faith” feature from the Spring 2023 edition.

Fostering Faith in Catholic Youth

As many as half of young adults drift away from their faith practice after high school, according to research that Drs. Kara Powell and Chap Clark cite in their 2011 book “Sticky Faith.” While that statistic isn’t denomination-specific, it’s not an encouraging number for Catholic parents and teachers who want their kids and the young people they teach to remain connected to the Catholic faith.

Jennifer Joss, a Saint Mary’s parent and parishioner who graduated from the University of Notre Dame, said what’s important is “not about dotting the Is and crossing the Ts. We just want our kids to have something to hold onto.”

Read the full feature by clicking here.

FROM THE AD’S DESK: SPRING SPORTS UPATE

Fri, 10 May 2024 15:54:00 GMT

Track

Three of our 8th graders Matthew C, Michael C. and Luke P. will be competing in the JV Championships next Friday, May 10th. All three athletes logged Top 5 all-time performances at the Saint Christopher’s Distance Meet last weekend. Matthew and Michael also broke the meet record in the 400 meter run.

Flag Football

Our 1st/2nd grade teams and 3rd/4th grade teams are wrapping up their regular season this weekend and have a one-day playoff tournament next Saturday, May 18th.

Middle School Girls, Soccer

Our girls’ middle school soccer team has advanced to the championship game after their 2-0 victory over Lourdes this past week. They will play next Wednesday against Saint Bridget for the league title with the time and location to be announced early next week.

ST. MARY’S ROCKS: TAW 2024

Fri, 10 May 2024 14:33:00 GMT

During Teacher Appreciation Week we are reminded of how important it is to recognize the tireless work of our Faculty & Staff members. Without question, the true magic of all thematic weeks lies in the ability of many hands to come together and “ juggle ” the tasks and to-do lists to create backdrops for days of memorable moments together!

Thank you to our PTO Board and parent volunteers who planned, purchased, donated, subbed, cooked and decorated to make our Teacher Appreciation Week so special. You are all VIPs worthy of backstage passes and more!

AWARDS PROGRAM & ART SHOW

Thu, 09 May 2024 15:24:00 GMT

We are honoring the full range of Mighty Monarch talents on Wednesday, May 22nd by recognizing outstanding students during our Annual Awards program in the morning and showcasing creative masterworks at our Spring Art Show in the afternoon.

SCHEDULE:

9:00am – School Mass

9:45am – Annual Awards Program in the Church following Mass

12 noon – Art Show Opens in the School Gymnasium; please enter via the side Gym door

5:00pm – Art Show Closes in the School Gymnasium

Awards Program

Students in all grades will be lauded for academic achievement, citizenship and scholarships during the Awards Program. We will also honor members of our Faculty & Staff who have achieved career milestones or who are starting new chapters as the year comes to a close.

Don’t forget to record a short tribute video in honor of Mrs. Reardon’s retirement from full time teaching!

Spring Art Show

Students will have the opportunity to visit the Art Show during the school day with their teacher as schedules permit. All pre-purchased artwork not picked up by parents and family members at the Show will be available for pick up at the front office later in the week.

Check out all the details and pre-purchase original artwork (or reproductions if you want multiple copies!) using the links provided below. All framed work is priced at $30. UPS Ground Shipping is available at an additional cost via the Artomé website during checkout.

Volunteer to assist at our Art Show.

Pre-purchase your student’s Artwork.

PROCLAMATION: It’s School Nurse Appreciation Day

Wed, 08 May 2024 15:26:00 GMT

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

School Nurse Appreciation Day

WHEREAS, families should feel confident that their children will be cared for and their physical and mental health needs are safely met while in the school setting; and

WHEREAS, students today face complex and life-threatening health problems requiring care in school; and

WHEREAS, school nurses address the home and community factors or social determinants that impact students’ health and have done so for more than 120 years; and

WHEREAS, school nurses act as a liaison to the school community, families, and healthcare

providers on behalf of children’s health by promoting wellness and improving health outcomes for the children of the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, school nurses are professional nurses that help advance the well-being, academic success, and life-long achievements of all students by serving on the frontlines and providing a critical safety net for Virginia’s children; and

WHEREAS, school nurses are members of school-based teams like school health services, 504/IEP, and disaster/emergency planning providing care coordination to address the school population; and

WHEREAS, school nurses understand the link between health and learning and can make a positive difference for children every day; and

WHEREAS, citizens of the Commonwealth are encouraged to acknowledge the contributions and accomplishments of school nurses and their efforts to meet the needs of students by improving the delivery of health care in our schools, helping students stay healthy and ready to learn, and making a positive difference in the lives of children every day;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize May 8, 2024, as SCHOOL NURSE APPRECIATION DAY in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.

MAY CROWNING HONORS & OFFERINGS

Thu, 02 May 2024 20:50:00 GMT

Each year, we eagerly await the announcement of the name of our 8th grade leader who is elected by their classmates to crown our Heavenly Mother on the day of our May Crowning ceremony. This moment is without a doubt among the day’s highlights. This year’s honor was bestowed upon Becky S.!

But who are the student leaders from each grade who bring baskets of flower offerings to the altar before Mass?

These students, usually one boy and one girl, are selected by their homeroom teacher for displaying the same traits as Mother Mary: godliness, strength, humility, purity and devotion, to name but a few.

Congratulations to the following students for being selected to represent their grade this year. You can see photos of student offerings on our school Facebook page.

MAY 3RD: ALL THE DETAILS!

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 15:27:00 GMT

Student Reminders

On Friday, May 3rd, all students should report to school as follows:

All students will be provided with water .

Schedule Overview

Please note that our annual Art Show & Awards Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, May 22nd. This is a change from previous years.

8:00am – Grandparents Day: Please RSVP!

Grandparents or other local family members are invited to join us for a very special morning that will include our annual May Crowning ceremony and our Spring Sing musical program.

All attendees will be welcomed starting at 8:00am in the Upper Commons of St. Mary’s Church. Please use the Church’s main entry doors.

Middle School students will escort grandparents to Classrooms beginning at 8:15am. Classroom visits will end promptly at 8:45am. Students (except those who are flower basket carriers) may accompany their Grandparents to Mass.

9am – School Mass & May Crowning

During School Mass, two representatives from each class will bring baskets filled with single flowers brought in by students as offerings to the Virgin Mary.

At the end of Mass, Father Mike will invite Mr. Schaefer to announce the 8th grader elected by their peers for embodying Mary’s holiest attributes. This student and their family (if present) will then process to the statue of Mary to bestow a floral crown atop the Queen of Heaven’s head as part of our school’s longtime tradition.

All students will be dismissed back to their classroom after the May Crowning ceremony.

10am – PTO Grandparent’s Day Reception

Grandparents will be hosted in the Upper Commons by our Pastor, Principal and PTO for a brief talk and social gathering between the end of Mass and the start of the Spring Sing concert. Students will begin to filter back into the church quietly with their classes between 10:20 and 10:30 in preparation for the concert.

Grandparents should remain in the Upper Commons or return to their seats in the church; however, please note that all students must sit with their classroom teacher during the Spring Sing.

10:40am – Spring Sing

The Spring Sing will be the finale of our May 3rd festivities starting at approximately 10:40 a.m. and concluding at approximately 11:20am.

Guests will be treated to performances by our student Choir members as well as music students in grades JK, K, 2, 4, & 6. Select 8th graders have also prepared a piece under the guidance of our Music Teacher, Mrs. Moretti.

At the conclusion of the performance you may sign out your child/grandchild with their teacher if you wish for them to be released directly to you instead of returning to their classroom before the planned 11:30am dismissal.

11:30am – Early Dismissal

If students remain with their class after the Spring Sing, they will be dismissed during our regular carpool procedure at 11:30.

Please remember to be patient and careful as you leave the parking lot!

PREVIEW: SPRING BOOK FAIR

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 15:18:00 GMT

The Reading Celebration continues next week with our school’s Spring Scholastic Book Fair! Please reference this shopping schedule to see when your student will visit the fair.

Students will have the opportunity to shop during their allotted class time, Wednesday evening with a family member, and Friday morning. Purchases can be made with cash, check, credit card or eWallets.

Prize Wheel – Cash Only!

Students may spin the wheel for a chance to win fun novelty items or even a book/poster. The cost is $1 per spin.

Used Book Sale

We will be selling bags of used books for $5 per bag. These books are mostly nonfiction.

Parent Volunteers & Donations

If you’re interested in volunteering, please sign up here . We are still collecting used books if you would like to donate. We are also collecting plastic and paper bags to use during the fair.

Wednesday is Family Shopping Night

Join us from 5pm to 7pm on Wednesday, April 24 for Family Shopping at the Book Fair. This is a great opportunity to stock up on some fun summer reading! Please enter/exit through the rear door nearest the library.

Classroom Wish Lists & New Teacher Welcome Books

These are titles that I’d like to add to our classroom libraries. Refreshing our classroom libraries regularly gives kids a reason to keep reading. Next year Saint Mary’s will be blessed with some new teachers. Help welcome them by purchasing a book or two!

Pre-Fair Pro-Tips

Finally, while some books have not yet been released and won’t be at the Fair, you can still purchase them as a pre-order during the Fair so that our school benefits from the purchase.

HEADING TO HARVARD

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 16:31:00 GMT

From St. Mary’s Rocket Club member to Ivy League scholar, Ana Reveles is heading to Harvard University in the fall!

Ana, a current senior at The Steward School, said she applied to Harvard thinking “I was not going to get in.” Now that she’s been accepted, she’s reflected on her application and thinks the biggest theme in her resume is her “ongoing devotion for community service and ingenuity.”

“I have always pushed myself to be an activist and have mirrored my passions with my extracurriculars,” she said.

Ana said she’s not sure what she wants to study, but she’s headed toward a STEM field – perhaps engineering or material design.

“My biggest advice is to always push yourself and not wait for someone to give you an opportunity,” Ana said.

Ana credits Saint Mary’s and Mr. Tlusty in particular with instilling in her a sense of confidence and curiosity.

What’s next for others in the graduating SMCS class of 2020?

We are collecting information to share in a future news update and Parish bulletin! If you have news to share or know a graduate from the class of 2020, please complete this online form .

Story credit: Jennifer Janus

PTO HOOPSMANIA WINNERS

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 15:34:00 GMT

Congratulations to these 34 lucky winners including two $500 winners! A total of $1,640 in prize money was awarded. Thank you to everyone who participated in this PTO fundraiser.

Doing God’s Work

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 15:30:00 GMT

This article was originally written by Jennifer Janus for our Alumni Newsletter, the Monarch Messenger.

Lori Haas was one of the first students to attend Saint Mary’s Catholic School. She started Saint Mary’s as a third-grade student in 1966 – Saint Mary’s inaugural year. She graduated eighth grade in 1972.

Lori remembers that her mom was on a uniform committee to help pick out the uniforms the school would use when it opened, and Lori got to help out by modeling sample uniforms. She also remembers having nuns as her teachers for several years: Sister Rose Regina for third grade, Sister Patricia for fourth grade, Sister Virginia for fifth.

“Sister Virginia was hysterical and fun,” Lori said. “She used to walk up and down between the aisles in the classroom and flick you on the back of the head if you were misbehaving.”

Lori comes from a big Catholic family – her five sisters and one brother all went to Saint Mary’s too. Their mom, Mary Chase Eck, was a founding member of Saint Mary’s Parish and School.

Lori and her husband Channing have three children: Emily, Wyatt and Townley. Before her children were born, Lori worked as a Realtor, but stopped that to become a stay-at-home mom when Emily was born in 1987.

She stayed at home for 10 years and she and Channing had just begun to serve as emergency foster parents – providing assistance for full-time foster parents who needed help because of extenuating circumstances – when something happened that changed the course of their lives.

Their daughter Emily was a sophomore at Virginia Tech on April 16, 2007, when a gunman chained the doors and opened fire on students in Norris Hall, killing 32 and wounding 17. Emily was one of the wounded, a bullet grazing the back of her head.

Lori’s plan – to be a foster parent and consider returning to school to get a degree in sociology – changed course. Lori became an outspoken advocate of gun violence prevention and in 2009 became the state director of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, and its sister organization, The Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence. Through an organizational merger, she is now advocacy manager for the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions.

For 15+ years, Lori has been a driving force behind gun violence prevention legislation in Virginia and across the U.S. How has her Catholic upbringing and her foundation at Saint Mary’s influenced her work?

“I think our faith informs what we do and how we do it – what level of fortitude you may or may not have,” Lori said. “My boss is Jewish. I recall one time on a Holy Thursday and we were working on a project that was crucial and critical — time sensitive — and it happened to be a year when the Catholic and Jewish calendars coincided. At five o’clock I said: ‘You should be in temple and I should be in church!’ and he said to me: ‘We are doing God’s work.’

“I just remember that – it has helped to fuel me and fill me up,” Lori said.

Lori was nominated – and is one of eight chosen – as a YWCA Richmond’s Outstanding Women of the Year Honoree. The winners will be honored on May 8 at a Leadership Forum and award ceremony at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

Words her supporters use to describe Lori in her nomination for the award include “tireless,” “unwavering,” “passionate,” “focused,” “relentless,” “determined,” “persistent,” “inspiring” and “courageous.”

What motivates Lori to persevere with such tenacity even in the face of opposition and disappointment?

“What underpins my work is the moral obligation to save lives,” Lori said.

“I can recall in the days and weeks after the shooting being more grateful than words can ever ever ever describe that Emily lived when so many other children and staff were shot dead,” she said. “That, and the pain I saw – I just said to myself: ‘If I can save one family that pain, I don’t care how much work it’ll take.’

“It still drives me,” she said. “Firearms are the number one killer of children in the U.S. and in Virginia. It’s morally incomprehensible. Gun violence is preventable.”

Right now the focus of her work is on educating public safety officials about the value of using risk orders, commonly known as red flags, to separate a person in crisis temporarily from his/her firearm.

Lori’s perseverance influences not only lawmakers and citizens – it’s evident in her children. In addition to Emily and younger son Wyatt, Lori and her husband are mom to retired Olympic swimmer Townley Haas. Townley specialized in freestyle events and won gold in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro as part of the United States’ 4 x 200m freestyle relay team.

Parenting Townley toward and through his Olympic journey has been humbling, thrilling and fun, Lori said.

“It’s a true joy to watch your child grow and learn and set a goal, commit to the hard work to reach that goal, and set another goal – and commit to the hard work and reach that goal and continue,” she said.

She’s honored and humbled to receive the Outstanding Women of the Year Award.

“I feel as if I’m the face and the mouthpiece for so many who work on this issue,” she said. “I’m honored to represent my colleagues and coworkers and the other volunteers who work on this.”

When asked what advice she’d give to Saint Mary’s students and recent graduates, she thought back to advice she gave her own children: “Be smart,” she said. “Use your brain and think things through.”

She also said: “Assess your opportunities based on the path and the direction of the people whom you admire.”

Talk to them, she said: a favorite uncle, an older friend, a coach or mentor. What’d they do? How’d they get there?

“In a social media world, the spoken word is perhaps lost,” Lori said. “Conversations are always a good thing.”

Finally, when asked what her greatest achievement has been, Lori was quick to answer: “My family is my greatest achievement,” she said. “I am a mother first.”

GAME REMINDERS: LET’S GO NUTZ!

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 20:28:00 GMT

A few game night reminders for all families attending the Community Reading Night Game on Wednesday, April 10th:

READ ACROSS AMERICA WEEK

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 18:59:00 GMT

What better way to celebrate being back from Easter Break than with another super week of fun?! From Monday, April 15th through Friday, April 19th, we invite all students to join in daily thematic celebrations, trivia and a week-long used book drive as we revel in our shared love for reading! Read below for more details or print this flyer .

Monday – Reading Rainbow

Students should wear their favorite color shirt with their uniform to help create a beautiful reading rainbow in every classroom.

Tuesday – Literary Character TAG Day & Parade

TAG Day rules apply, but costumes can be as simple or elaborate as you wish! We cannot wait to see our students strut their stuff during the Character Parade. Parents are welcome to attend in the back parking lot at 8:15am.

Wednesday – D.E.A.R. & Treat

Students should bring their favorite book and a towel for a quick reading break outside while eating a special treat!

Thursday – Poetry Walk & $3 TAG Day

$3 “Class Colors“ Tag Day benefiting the G8 graduation fund plus a fun Poetry StoryWalk on campus. This is a full TAG Day (TAG Day rules apply). Please wear the colors indicated below by grade!

Friday – Celebrate Reading about Sports!

Students may wear a favorite sports jersey or shirt with their uniform.

GALLERY & REMINDERS: CLASS OF ’24

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 14:55:00 GMT

In the coming weeks and months we have some fun, spiritual, and special events planned for our soon-to-be graduates. We are especially grateful to our 8th grade parent committee for their hard work fundraising and coordination efforts leading up to their big day. This page will be updated, so please bookmark it for future reference!

To begin, if you have not done so already, please complete this survey to share important information related to your student’s graduation and their planned participation in the events below.

Photo Gallery: Sara Cristin Photography

Upcoming Key Dates

Event Details

Graduation Photos: We have scheduled a photographer to come and take your child’s photo in his/her graduation gown as well as the option to take his/her picture in his/her “Sunday best”. The photos will take place on Wednesday, April 24 during the school day. Fundraising efforts will cover a portion of the cost. The cost of the photos for families will be $10/student. Many thanks to Sara Cristin Photography for the beautiful gallery images!

Baby Photos: Our baby photo to grad slideshow will be shown during the post-Graduation Reception, but you can catch a sneak peek here .

Spring Sing : On Friday, May 3 during Spring Sing (10:40 a.m.), 8th grade students who have been working with Mrs. Moretti on a showcase piece will perform at that time.

Graduation Rehearsal : We will have rehearsal on Wednesday, May 29 after exams. The students will have rehearsal and lunch (provided). Pick up will be 1:30 p.m.

Spiritual Retreat & Fun Day:

The eighth grade class will have a retreat and fun day on Friday, May 31 . They will attend a spiritual retreat first; this portion of the day is mandatory for all 8th grade students.

Afterwards, they will go to Kings Dominion. The cost of the ticket is being covered by the 8th grade fundraising that has taken place this year. However, if any families are season ticket holders, there is an opportunity in the survey for you to indicate if your child does not need a ticket, as well as, if you can volunteer to drive and chaperone at Kings Dominion.

Field Day: All Middle School students will assist with elementary field day on Monday, June 3 then have their field day on Tuesday, June 4 .

Final Mass: All eighth grade students are expected to attend the final school Mass on Wednesday, June 5 at 9:00 a.m.

Graduation Ceremony: Our eighth grade graduation ceremony will take place on Wednesday, June 5 at 3:00 p.m. in the church sanctuary. All graduates should arrive by 2:30 p.m. to put on gowns and line up for the ceremony.

Graduation Attire Expectations:

Young men – Long pants, a white long sleeve dress shirt, non-athletic shoes and a tie (long or bow tie are both appropriate).

Young ladies – White or light colored dress, skirt and top, or pants and dressy top. Dress or top sleeves must cover the entire shoulder. Cardigans are permitted. Dresses and skirts should be no shorter than three inches above the middle of the knee. Shoes should be comfortable and must not make noise while walking on hard floors. Heels are not allowed, however, wedges are permitted; wedge height should not exceed two inches.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to the School Administration if you have any questions.

REFLECTION: HOLY WEEK AT ST. MARY’S

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 15:53:00 GMT

This week’s reflection is from our Principal, Mrs. Esparza.

After nearly 40 days of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, we enter one of the most sacred weeks of the liturgical year.

Holy week is a journey through the heart of the Catholic faith; a reminder of the dramatic events that took place leading up to Jesus’s resurrection.

As we retrace the footsteps of Christ, we are encouraged to pray and reflect on Jesus’s sacrifice and victory over death. From palms, to the Passion, to the Paschal candle, this week has many visual reminders of His sacrificial love.

My prayer for all of us this Holy Week is that we are reminded of God’s boundless love and mercy and that we experience the joyous hope of His resurrection, together.

Wednesday – March 27

9:00 a.m. – School Mass

6:00 p.m. – Soup Supper

7:00 p.m. – Taizé Prayer followed by the Triduum Presentation by Fr. Michael Renninger

Holy Thursday – March 28

7:00 p.m. – Mass of the Lord’s Supper

8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Adoration

11:30 p.m. – Night Prayer

Good Friday – March 29

12:00 p.m. – Noon Prayer

7:00 p.m. – Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion with Veneration of the Cross

Holy Saturday – March 30

8:00 p.m. – Easter Vigil

Easter Sunday – March 31

9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Note: On Easter Sunday, Masses will be celebrated in both the Church and Parish Hall .

FOLLOW FLAT MONTY!

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 12:30:00 GMT

With just a few days to go before the start of Easter Break, Faculty & Staff have added a new item to their packing list: FLAT MONTY! If you want to follow his travels, all you have to do is follow @saintmarysrva on Facebook and Instagram. We’ll post photos of his adventures alongside your favorite SMCS teachers and staff members.

So far, we know he has quite the itinerary:

Where else will Flat Monty go? We can’t wait to see!

Dr. Riley named Superintendent

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 18:49:00 GMT

Bishop appoints Dr. Michael Riley as new leader of Schools

Dear Priests, Deacons, Seminarians, Principals, Campus Ministers, and Business Managers of the Diocese,

I am pleased to share with you the appointment of Dr. Michael Riley to Superintendent of Schools for the Catholic Diocese of Richmond. His appointment comes after an extensive national search to replace the current Interim Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jennifer Bigelow, who will end her position on June 30, 2024.

Dr. Riley currently serves as Associate Superintendent of School Operations for the diocese, a role he has held since 2022. He previously served as Principal for Charlottesville Catholic School from 2012-2022. Mike brings 25 years of educational leadership experience in Catholic schools, to include both administrative and teaching roles. He graduated from Barton College with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, and from The College of William and Mary with both a Master of Education and a Doctor of Education in Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership. Dr. Riley will begin his new role on July 1, 2024.

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Riley on his new role with the diocese.

Sincerely in Our Lord,

Very Reverend Michael G. Boehling, V.G.

Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia

Catholic Diocese of Richmond

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: BEN WALLS (’15) ON THE AIR

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 13:28:00 GMT

Natural talent, nurtured well, has landed this SMCS grad making news

Saint Mary’s class of 2015 graduate Ben Walls finished his undergraduate degree at Virginia Tech in May 2023, and since June has been working as an on-air reporter for Eyewitness News WEHT/WTVW (the ABC and CW television network affiliates) in Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois.

He shared some time with the Monarch Messenger recently.

First: please tell me what your life is like now — what’s your week look like on a given week, work wise? I am sure it varies, but tell me/the reader a little bit about what you do from day to day.

I live in Evansville, Indiana and report the news for the ABC and CW affiliates Eyewitness News WEHT/WTVW here. WEHT is ABC, and WTVW is CW. I’m a multimedia journalist there since June 2023. Though the news is always changing and happening quickly, I’m happy there’s some routine for the day on weekdays.

On a workday, I will at least produce a 2-minute story every day that will air on our stations, and I have to publish an online article that goes along with it. Among the best advice I have received in the business is that the best broadcast news stories are the ones that plenty of people are talking about. In the mornings around 9:30 I pitch the stories about what people are talking about and what’s happening in Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky that we can realistically produce in a day. I may give a call to the public information officer at the Evansville Police Department about their investigations or give the University of Evansville or the University of Southern Indiana a call and see what they have going on too. People around the area have given me and the newsroom their concerns, and I may give the mayor’s office a call to take those concerns to city hall and make a news story about that.

My day really gets started around 10:30 when my news director and assignment editor give me an “OK” for a story. Then it’s a matter of gathering interviews from both the officials and sometimes asking people out in the community about their thoughts and opinions. Fortunately for me, the people here are nice and usually have no problem talking with me on camera.

Among my responsibilities, it’s pretty standard in a work day for us reporters to do either a pretend live shot out in the field (better known as a look-live or an as-live), to go live out in the field for a broadcast or to go live in the studio previewing our stories. More often than not, I am asked by management to do a pretend live shot out in the field. I may find what the lead is for my story and stand next to it explaining why it’s so newsworthy. Or I may stand next to it and say why x, y and z is a problem for the city.

I like to get back to the newsroom to edit my stories no later than 2:30, but I try to shoot for 1:30 any time I can. In the afternoons, I edit my sound, video and interviews for a 45-second story for the 4 o’clock newscast, a two-minute story for the 5 o’clock newscast and another 45-second story for the 6 o’clock newscast.

Around 5:00 it’s time to publish my online article and video for our website, so I can be done at 5:30. I do normally come in earlier than 9:30 and stay later than 5:30 though, so I can figure out stories for the upcoming days.

I work on Saturdays and Sundays, and those days are a lot more low-key since there aren’t many people in the newsroom. The routine is about the same on weekends though.

Your bio says you were the news editor for the Virginia Tech campus newspaper. When did you know that you wanted to pursue journalism/communications? What were some of your influences or how did you figure out your direction?

Since I was little, I always loved to write. Back at SMCS, I always looked forward to Mr. Maddock and Mr. Schaefer’s English classes since we had time to write creatively and share our writings with the class. I always have appreciated them for encouraging us to step outside our comfort zone and say out loud what we wrote. Among the highlights of my day would be sharing my writings with the class. I graduated from SMCS in 2015.

Going to Benedictine after graduating from SMCS, I really didn’t write much in my freshman year, but journalism was offered as an elective as a sophomore. I liked the sound of having the opportunity to write again and learn a new skill. Mr. Mike Forster at Benedictine gave me incredibly thorough and enjoyable lessons at BCP. He taught us what questions are important for journalists to answer, how to write in the Inverted Pyramid and how to respectfully approach a newsmaker for interviews — all of which I use daily at Eyewitness News.

I spent my sophomore year writing short updates on the Cadets teams for BCP “This Week in Sports,” and I enjoyed taking what I learned from classes and putting them into action. My sophomore year was the first time I had to ask people I didn’t necessarily know well if they would offer a comment about the past or upcoming games. Talking to unfamiliar people and asking if they would be willing to talk to us for a newscast are responsibilities I have every day. I am thankful for my sophomore year for giving me that first taste into news reporting.

Though being a junior at Benedictine and writing for The New Chevron newspaper, I didn’t realize I could make a career in the news until one day our newspaper class met with Mr. and Mrs. Forster, and they made us a cake after meeting a newspaper deadline. Mrs. Forster asked “is anyone interested in majoring in journalism,” and it helped me realize that making a career in news was more doable than I thought if I could get a journalism degree! I already enjoyed my sophomore year writing, and was currently enjoying my junior year writing for the newspaper. Why not make a career in news reporting? It’s something I thought about more and more as a junior. Beginning in my senior year, I was set on applying to colleges and declaring my major as journalism. Mr. Forster and I talked about it more too, and I appreciate him taking the time to talk me through what a day-to-day looks like for a professional journalist. As I was saying earlier, though, I felt I had a head on my shoulders and understanding what it takes to be a journalist because of Mr. Forster’s journalism classes and the journalism projects he would assign.

As a senior and editor-in-chief of The New Chevron , my love for writing, helping create a layout for the newspaper and helping to declare what was newsworthy only made my decision to major in journalism in college easier. I would have a much different thought process — and I may have entered a different career — if Mr. Forster wasn’t there to guide me and offer the best possible advice on news reporting. I am forever grateful for that.

I enjoyed my professors at Virginia Tech, but Mr. Forster’s teachings and advice on the news business were incomparable. Though I am thankful for my Virginia Tech journalism professors, I felt like Mr. Forster shaped me as a journalist more so than my journalism professors.

What are some of the things you’ve most liked about your job and/or about journalism?

There is always something new to learn, and I enjoy that. One day I’m expected to report on wastewater issues in Sturgis, Kentucky and the next day I’m expected to report on a shooting in Evansville the next — all true stories from me. It’s not always sad news though. One day I’m reporting about what people are doing on a warm Christmas Eve , and the next day I’m reporting on someone earning a new A/C and furnace for the holiday season — all true stories again.

I also like how journalism offers the opportunity for me to learn about what issues are important to Illinoiseans, Hoosiers and Kentuckians. Everyone has a story. It’s just a matter of asking from there. I have the privilege to learn about some people’s aspirations for Congress and to meet a couple Evansville Plato’s Closet workers gaining massive attention on Instagram.

Switching gears to education, what are some of your best memories of your days at Saint Mary’s?

Our 8th grade IB projects come to mind first, and I appreciate how Mrs. Clopton motivated us to build and present the best projects possible. I had lots of creative freedom there, and I am thankful for that. With plenty of help from school staff and my mom, we aired a movie night in the lower commons and raised a couple hundred dollars for Sportable.

We still had time for fun too! I had plenty of days at After School Care where my friends and I would play basketball, football, wall ball and frisbee after school, and I really enjoyed that! Fall and spring afternoons on Saint Mary’s playground and blacktop are among my best memories that still make me smile as I grow older.

I remember school dances as fun times too! I also played SMCS basketball in 5th grade, and I eventually picked it up again in 8th grade. I’m happy my classmates were welcoming when I came back to play basketball.

I enjoyed Mrs. Trout’s science classes in 4th grade. We did plenty of creative projects that made the class a lot more fun than just doing exercises out of a book.

Math was never my strongest subject, but I will always remember Mr. Twilley and Mrs. Koehler working with me multiple times a week to help me understand math. My grades were a little better thanks to them!

How do you think getting your educational and spiritual foundation at Saint Mary’s impacted your successes since?

Meeting tight deadlines are among the toughest parts of my job, and I have to remind myself that God is in control. No matter what happens, God is with me and guiding me to do the best I can. Saint Mary’s helped me remember that.

How did Saint Mary’s prepare you to be someone who’s achieved what you have achieved so far?

Saint Mary’s taught me how to stay disciplined and taught me how to advocate for myself. I think about Mr. Maddock and Mr.Schaefer again for always encouraging us to speak up in class, and it’s something I’ll always be grateful for.

My time at Saint Mary’s has helped me realize too that I need help sometimes in order to reach a goal. To have better grades in math, I needed help from Mr. Twilley and Mrs. Koehler. To make my 8th grade IB project the best possible, I needed help from Mrs. Clopton. To become a better public speaker and writer, I needed help from Mr. Maddock and Mr. Schaefer. I’m so happy to call them my teachers growing up.

In news, I bounce ideas off my co-workers every day, so we can air the best product every day. I am thankful for Saint Mary’s for helping me realize I can reach out for help sometimes.

Tell me about some of the most interesting people or stories you’ve reported on.

I love this question! Just a couple weeks ago, it was a treat and a privilege to interview Aiden Fullenwider — a 13-year-old fighting a brain tumor from Daviess County, Kentucky. For his 13th birthday, Make-A-Wish granted him a trip to Super Bowl 58, and it was awesome to hear about his family’s trip to the NFL Honors, meeting some NFL greats like Barry Sanders and eventually making it to the big game…where his favorite team — the Chiefs — won in overtime!

Over the summer, I interviewed Linda Yearby — a professional basketball player and coach from Indiana who was reunited with a time capsule 70 years after it was buried. I felt like I was around a living legend! Listening to Linda’s stories about being among the first women to play professional basketball was a true honor.

How has the faith-life part of your schooling at SMCS and BCP affected how you live/work and how you encounter people and stories?

From lessons at SMCS and BCP and as Catholics, we’re supposed to live for others and serve others beyond ourselves. I like to think I’m placing myself in new, unfamiliar situations every day, so the community is informed. I have a great privilege to be among the voices sharing the message of what’s happening in Evansville, Indiana every day. I give others a voice through our news channel, and sometimes these stories are good news — like Linda Yearby’s story and Marty Stocker receiving a new A/C and furnace.

What about your job keeps it exciting?

There’s never any down time at work, and there’s never a time where I am bored at work. It’s both a blessing and a curse because I like to stay busy and report the best stories, but I’m in the newsroom most days from 8:30 a.m. until 6:30 p.m.

Every day there’s a new opportunity to learn more and more about local government, economy, public safety, infrastructure and the issues that are important to Illinoiseans, Hoosiers and Kentuckians.

What do you like to do in your free time? How do you like Indiana/Kentucky/Illinois so far?

I love going on walks and hikes in my free time. I like playing the guitar too when I can.

The tri-state is much different than Richmond! It’s weirdly flat here. It’s really weird and different to look out and see grain and farms as far as the eye can see. It’s not uncommon to see tractors and other farming vehicles on the road at any time too.

I like living here though. My neighborhood reminds me of The Fan, but Evansville is just much smaller. We have the same big-name stores and restaurants like Target, Wal-Mart, Starbucks, Chipotle, Chick-fil-A, etc., but driving 10 minutes in any direction and seeing huge farms and silos as far as the eye can see is really strange.

Though I like living here, I want to place my roots somewhere back in Virginia.

Finally: what advice would you give Saint Mary’s middle schoolers about life, school after Saint Mary’s, and work in the world?

Don’t ever, ever sell yourself short. It’s something I continue to struggle with today, but my advice to Saint Mary’s students is to realize that you are important, you have talents and you can use your talents to make the world better. Figure out what you love and find a way to use it every day.

Don’t ever forget to have fun and don’t be afraid to try new things. Some day, you might turn 23 and wish you had done x, y and z while at SMCS, in high school and in college. These days are limited. Use them. You’ll never know if you do or don’t like something if you don’t try. In high school, I decided to play tennis for the first time as a senior, and I loved it. I hope SMCS students will find something in high school and in college that they haven’t tried before and just go out and see if they like it.

Story submitted by Jennifer Janus for SMCS, Photo source Tristatehomepage.com

ALUMNA SPOTLIGHT: Nancy Trout (’18)

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 14:35:00 GMT

Nancy Trout, daughter of fourth-grade teacher Susan Trout and SMCS graduate from the class of 2018, is spending her spring semester all over the world via a program called Semester at Sea.

Nancy says she learned about it during middle school via YouTube videos, but was reintroduced to the program by her study-abroad advisor at Elon College, where she is a sophomore.

Nancy and her mom and dad went together in January to Thailand, which was Nancy’s first port where she boarded the ship, and she’s been traveling since then. She’s visited Malaysia, India, Kenya, Mozambique, South Africa, Ghana, Morocco and will go to Portugal and Germany.

Nancy said during the program she takes college classes when she’s on the boat – she’s studying international marketing and environmental science – and when the boat is in port she is able to travel without having class.

“Our classes have field classes in one of the ten ports,” she said. “We are able to learn from locals about the topic we are studying. For my environmental science class we are going to a fishery in Ghana to learn about fish population and fishing culture. The courses transfer directly to my Elon requirements.”

The program offers a wide array of classes, so it’s easy for any student to participate, Nancy said. There are about 500 students on board her boat from all over the world, but the majority are from universities in the U.S.

Nancy said her middle school experience at Saint Mary’s as part of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme influenced her to want to learn more about different cultures. She also said her parents have encouraged her curiousity and desire to see the world.

Nancy said she can’t pick a favorite country or stop; all the ports have been amazing.

“Thailand and Malaysia were both beautiful and had such interesting cultures that were nothing like I had ever seen,” she said. “India was also amazing – I got to travel to the Taj Mahal and it was breathtaking.”

After India, Nancy traveled to Kenya, where mom Susan was able to join her.

“Being able to experience my first safari with her was a great experience,” she said.

After Kenya the ship traveled to Mozambique, which had the most beautiful beaches she’d seen, and then to South Africa, where she got to surf, hike, visit local markets, go sand boarding and even sky diving.

While Nancy’s at sea, she’s earning 16 credits. The program does not focus on a foreign language, though Nancy said she’s picked up phrases in each country.

Nancy recommends Semester at Sea to anyone interested.

“I have learned a lot more about different cultures,” she said. “Being able to have experiences and talking with different people about the world has definitely changed my view of the world. I study environmental science and marketing and being able to see the different types of pollution in these areas has been eye-opening.”

Article by Jennifer Janus; photo from Susan Trout.

CLASS OF ’24: HIGH SCHOOL ACCEPTANCE DATA

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 14:04:00 GMT

Students have received acceptances to the following specialty centers, including:

Deep Run IT – 3

Freeman Leadership – 3

Glen Allen Human Development – 3

Godwin Medical Sciences – 1

Highland Springs Engineering – 1

Tucker IB – 1

Tucker Spanish Immersion & Global Citizenship – 1

Maggie Walker Governor’s School – 1

Students were also accepted at the following private schools:

Benedictine College Prep – 8

Collegiate School – 1

Saint Gertrude High School – 12

Steward School – 5

St. Catherine’s School – 1

St. Christopher’s School – 1

Trinity Episcopal School – 6

We look forward to sharing a complete list of where our Mighty Monarchs decide to attend as we draw closer to graduation. Please continue to pray for them as they discern this exciting step in their academic lives.

PI DAY DIGIT CONTEST: Winners by Grade

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 13:11:00 GMT

Overall Top Winners

Dani B., 348 digits

Mila M., 215 digits

Grade 3:

Julia M., 41 digits

Magdalene Z., 41 digits

Ethan C., 40 digits

Grade 4:

Dani B., 348 digits

Julia H., 145 digits

Lucy O., 145 digits

Grade 5:

Mila M., 215 digits

Thomas C., 159 digits

Grades 6-8:

Emily G., 110 digits

Virginia D., 79 digits

NEWS UPDATE: HOOPSMANIA REACHES FEVER PITCH!

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 17:50:00 GMT

BUY YOUR CARDS NOW ONLINE

Less than $500 to go to hit our first sales goal by midnight

Have you seen the forecast for later this week? Thursday and Friday call for warm temperatures with chances of pie throwing on Thursday and a FREE student TAG Day on Friday if we raise $3k by midnight tomorrow night!

If we raise $1,500 by midnight tonight…

Two lucky students will get to “pie” Mr. Schaefer on Pi(e) Day, Thursday, March 14th. All families who purchase a game card will be entered into a drawing for a chance to “pie throw” on Pi Day!

If we raise $3,000 by midnight tomorrow…

Students will get a FREE St. Patrick’s Day themed TAG Day this Friday, March 15th.

If we raise a $5,000 by 9am on 3/14…

One lucky student will get to “pie” Mrs. Esparza, this Thursday, March 14th. All families who purchase a game card will be entered into a drawing for a chance to “pie throw” on Pi Day!

BREAKING NEWS: March Madness at St. Mary’s

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 16:16:00 GMT

New HoopsMania Game Card Sales Goals and Incentives!

Mrs. Esparza and Mr. Schaefer have teamed up with our PTO to raise the stakes in our March Madness HoopsMania game card sales efforts. Buy your cards online now–you don’t need to follow the March Madness Basketball tournament to win; a member of our PTO Board will let you know if your card is a winner!

BUY YOUR CARDS NOW ONLINE

If we raise $3,000 by midnight on 3/12…

Students will get a FREE St. Patrick’s Day themed TAG Day on Friday, March 15th.

If we raise a $5,000 by 9am on 3/14…

Mrs. Esparza and Mr. Schaefer will get “pied” in the face on Pi Day, Thursday, March 14th. All families who purchase a game card will be entered into a drawing for one of three chances to “pie throw” on Pi Day!

Follow @saintmarysrva on social media for updates as we inch closer to our fundraising goals!

CLINIC CORNER: EATING DISORDERS & SCOLIOSIS

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 14:34:00 GMT

Eating Disorders & Scoliosis

In 2013, Virginia passed a law requiring every school system to provide educational information to parents annually about eating disorders and scoliosis. This information is provided every year for parents of current students in fifth through eighth grades.

Both scoliosis and eating disorders are serious health problems that usually start in childhood or adolescence. The earlier they are diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome.

Please take the time to read the information linked below. After reviewing the information attached, if you think your child may be showing signs of either disorder, please contact your primary health care provider or the Saint Mary’s Catholic School Clinic Nursing Team at (804) 741-8790 for additional information and support.

Eating Disorder Fact Sheet

Scoliosis Fact Sheet

CSW ART CONTEST WINNERS

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 15:41:00 GMT

Mrs. Schwartzkopf recruited a small community panel of judges to assist her in selecting this year’s winners of the Catholic School’s Week Art Contest. Per Diocesan rules, five submissions were chosen and will represent St. Mary’s as part of a CSW Art Collection at Commonwealth Catholic Charity’s Richmond Art Gallery.

The winning pieces, all created by students in our elementary grades, can be seen below. Congrats to Maggie (G5), Julia (G4), Gianna (G3), Donnie (G3) and Elena (G2)!

PRE-PARTY: Get Ready for #CSW24

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 15:06:00 GMT

While many have this weekend’s Gala on their mind (mobile bidding is LIVE!), we wanted to remind everyone that the party doesn’t actually end on Saturday because we are just getting started…The fun will continue all week long with Catholic Schools Week celebrations.

Below is a primer to help make sure you and your students are ready for all of the Mighty Monarch activities that are headed your way! Want a printable schedule? Click here .

SATURDAY/CSW SUNDAY:

Wear your school uniform to mass and be on the lookout for a double page CSW @ SMCS spread in this weekend’s Church Bulletin.

MONDAY: CELEBRATING OUR COMMUNITY

SCHOOLWIDE SERVICE PROJECT IN SUPPORT OF COMMONWEALTH CATHOLIC CHARITIES

Commonwealth Catholic Charities provides quality, compassionate human services to all people, especially the most vulnerable, regardless of faith. They have 11 offices that deliver 30 distinct programs across the state of Virginia.

During Catholic Schools Week, schools in the Richmond Region have been asked to support CCC’s Homeless Services and Food Pantry programs through the collection of the following three items:

CCC STUDENT ARTWORK CONTEST

Ms. Schwartzkopf will select up to five student artworks for display at Richmond’s CCC Art Gallery this spring!

All artwork submissions should reflect the theme of Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community . Students may work on artwork at home if they are not working on a submission in art class.

TUESDAY: CELEBRATING STUDENTS AND PARENTS

Blue and White treats for students.

Thank you notes for parents from students.

WEDNESDAY: CELEBRATING OUR NATION

Whole School Mass featuring a Patriotic Song.

THURSDAY: CELEBRATING VOCATIONS

Students will create thank you cards for St. Mary’s Church Parish Staff members.

Middle School students will welcome a special guest who will give a talk about vocations at 8:15am.

FRIDAY: CELEBRATING FACULTY, STAFF & VOLUNTEERS

Dress Like a Teacher Contest & First Friday Whole School Morning Meeting.

FRIDAY BONUS FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: PTO CHILI COOK-OFF, 6PM – 8PM

HALFWAY POINT REMINDERS

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 16:37:00 GMT

Dear Monarch Families,

I want to begin the second semester by expressing my sincere gratitude for your partnership in making the first half of the school year so rewarding and successful for our students.

Below are some gentle reminders regarding several items that remain important as we embark on the second half of the school year together.

UNIFORMS: PTO USED UNIFORM SALE IS SATURDAY (1/20) FROM 9AM UNTIL 2PM AT SCHOOL (GLASS MEETING ROOM)

Our students have grown academically, spiritually and physically since August which means it is time to consider alterations or additions to your child’s uniform. We appreciate the investment you make in these items as they help contribute to a consistent learning environment and help our students look and feel ready to take on academic challenges.

If purchasing new uniform items presents a hardship for your family, please contact me.

ARRIVAL & ATTENDANCE

FOOD & DRINK

Thank you again for your ongoing support and commitment to creating a school environment where all students may thrive.

I hope to see many of you later this month at the Virtual State of the School meeting and the PTO Gala!

Blessings,

Amanda S. Esparza

Principal

ALBUM: School Spelling Bee

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 16:31:00 GMT

Grade level winners for Classroom Bees took part in today’s School Spelling Bee. The morning started after quick a pep talk for all participants from Mr. Schaefer, who served as the announcer of the event.

Mrs. Valdepenas welcomed the audience and reminded all students about competition rules before kicking off the practice round. Once the official competition began, audience members clapped and cheered at the end of each round as the number of students competing drew ever smaller and words became more challenging.

Congratulations to 7th grader Leo W. who will represent St. Mary’s at next month’s Diocesan Spelling Bee! Special thanks to teachers Mrs. Hartgrove, Mrs. Funk and Ms. Schwartzkopf who served as judges and all parents who were attendance.

WELCOME, MRS. KIRK!

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 13:48:00 GMT

We are pleased to announce that Kerry Kirk will be joining our staff as Development Coordinator. Kerry has a background in education, business and health and has been a substitute teacher at the school since 2021.

Kerry and her husband Christian Pederson, who serves on the School Advisory Board, have two daughters who attend Saint Mary’s School. Together, they are regular attendees and volunteers at PTO events and vocal advocates of the St. Mary’s community.

Kerry will work with the Director of Finance and Development to manage the school’s annual fund, endowment development, alumni, legacy giving and grant programs. She will also collaborate with school/parish staff and volunteers to support fundraising and sponsorship efforts.

Please help us congratulate Kerry on her new role at Saint Mary’s!

FAITH IN ACTION: Serving at School Mass

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 17:13:00 GMT

From serving as younger students’ Mass Buddies to greeting members of the parish as they arrive, there are a multitude of ways for students to engage in the liturgy each week.

Many students like those pictured below have been prepared by school faculty and trained by Mrs. Heishman, St. Mary’s Director of Liturgical Ministry to serve in their chosen capacity.

And it’s not just students who serve our community during mass. Several members of our faculty and administrative team serve as Eucharistic Ministers and of course, Mrs. Moretti always plays a key role in training and assisting our cantor volunteers.

ALBUM: OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 16:24:00 GMT

Led in prayer and song by Deacon Peter J. McCourt, students in first through eighth grades participated in a vibrant bilingual prayer service on December 12th to honor the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Video and photo excerpts can be seen below!

ALBUM: Christmas Concert & Nativity Program

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:52:00 GMT

A packed audience was treated to beautiful songs performed by members of the school choir as well as students in grades 1, 3, 5 and 7. Our 7th graders also dazzled in their roles in the annual Nativity Program. Enjoy the images and videos below from this week’s rehearsal and show to help you relive a bit of the magic created by our in-house maestros, music teacher Mrs. Danielle Moretti and accompanist Mr. Joe Lenich.

DECEMBER LIBRARY UPDATES

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 15:38:00 GMT

BATTLE OF THE BOOKS

Our next meeting will be after school next Thursday, December 7 from 2:45-3:30. Pick up will be in the back of the school at the library door. There is still time to sign up if your student in grades 3-5 or 6-8 is interested in joining a “Family Feud-style” team, contact Mrs. Valdepenas ASAP. We could really use a few more Middle School participants! All teams will be required to read a total of 28 books between now and March.

STUDENT BOOK CLUB

Our Lunchtime Book Club Series is off to a great start! Check out the details and sign up links for our next two meet ups below.

Tuesday, December 5th

The Lemonade Wars by Jacqueline Davies

This book is geared for 3-5! Sign-Up Here

December 13, 2023

How to Catch Santa by Jean Reagan

Recommended grades: 1-3! Sign Up Here

PARENT LIBRARY VOLUNTEERS

We would love to have volunteers help re-shelve and process books in the library on Mondays and Tuesdays; VIRTUS training is required. Sign- Up Here

School Wide Reading Incentive Program

This year, students may participate in a school-wide reading incentive program! The goal is to instill a love of reading, and expose students to new genres. Each section of the school will participate in a different challenge as outlined below. Middle School Program details will be shared soon!

JK-2nd Tales for Treats

3rd-5th Reading Passport
Our Students in grades 3-5 received a genre passport, which will stay in the library. As they travel through the genre world, students can fill in their passports and earn prizes.

SEEKING HOLIDAY HARDBACK BOOK DONATIONS

Yes, the library can accept gently used books in accordance with our selection policy .

We are currently seeking some gently used holiday hardback and hardback graphic novels.

Donated paperback books will be used as reading prizes, and/or sold at the Book Fair.

FAITH TRADITIONS OLD & NEW

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 16:23:00 GMT

This week our guest blog was contributed by Mrs. Esparza.

The Advent and Christmas season offers many ways to celebrate and share our Catholic faith with others. As a school community we are taking the opportunity to celebrate a few feast days over the coming weeks. By sharing our plans with you in advance, we hope to inspire family conversations and maybe even some new family celebrations for you to consider adopting in the weeks ahead!

New this year, on December 6, we will celebrate the feast of St. Nicholas . On December 5, students will leave out “shoes” made in anticipation of his visit. Students of all ages enjoyed learning about this tradition in art class with Ms. Schwarzkopf this week!

The following week on December 12, we will celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe . Students will participate in a schoolwide prayer service honoring the Patroness of the Americas. This is a longtime St. Mary’s tradition supported by our Segura Program Coordinator, Mrs. Villa.

Finally we will end the Christmas season with an Epiphany blessing on January 5. This Catholic tradition was adopted in January of this year at Saint Mary’s and is a blessing of the home. It commemorates the arrival of the three wise men to Bethlehem after Jesus’s birth. We look forward to blessing our school and classroom thresholds again shortly after school resumes following Christmas Break!

ALBUM: KINDERGARTEN THANKSGIVING PROGRAM

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:41:00 GMT

We clearly have the cutest bilingual turkeys in town! Both Kindergarten classes delighted their parents, grandparents and 6th grade mass buddies who were in attendance for today’s special musical presentation that included song, dance and even a little seasonal poetry–in French, of course. Many thanks to all of our wonderful faculty members and parent volunteers who helped make this morning’s event possible.

ALBUM: COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 21:55:00 GMT

Another beautiful day brought about an exciting Monarch Milestone for our fifth grade students and parent chaperones who took a field trip to Colonial Williamsburg. The living history on display provided for a true immersive experience (that included a stop by the candy shoppe!) as our students’ showcased their knowledge and learned new things throughout the visit.

ALBUM: CLEVER TURKEYS

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 01:29:00 GMT

It was a good week to be a turkey in Kindergarten…but we may need to update this post at a later date. Hopefully these cleverly designed disguises keep them safe from Thanksgiving dinner plates!

RECAP: KINDNESS WEEK

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 01:19:00 GMT

Ms. Anna helped our Mighty Monarchs celebrate National Kindness Week which turned out to be a fantastic way to prepare our hearts for a gratitude-filled Thanksgiving Break next week! Some snippets and photo highlights are below.

ALBUM: VETERANS DAY SALUTES

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 16:15:00 GMT

VETERAN’S DAY PROGRAM

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 15:59:00 GMT

Today we celebrated Veterans Day with an all-school assembly that featured patriotic prayer, poetry, song and a special presentation by Mr. Geoff Gasperini on his experience serving in the United States Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Mr. Gasperini touched on many aspects of service and how they intersect with the Catholic faith.

Thank you, Mr. Daley, for coordinating today’s event and to everyone, especially Mr. Gasperini, who made our gathering such a moving experience for all in attendance!

ALBUM: IDENTICALS TAG DAY

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 17:53:00 GMT

CELEBRATING DAY OF THE DEAD

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 15:30:00 GMT

Today’s Día de los Muertos celebration is a mash-up of pre-Hispanic religious rites and Christian feasts. It takes place on November 1 and 2— All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on the Catholic calendar —around the time of the fall maize harvest. (Source: National Geographic website )

Our fifth graders prepared for this celebration with Señora Lee in Spanish class and with Mrs. Valdepenas in Library class by creating ofrendas and beautifully decorated calaveras (pictured below) that were dedicated to a departed person close their hearts. In addition to conducting interviews with a family member, students also wrote about and read their dedications in audio recordings to be shared with their parents.

Sixth graders marked Día de los Muertos by a special celebration in Middle School Spanish class with Señora Bordas!

ALBUM: SAINTS PARADE

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 15:45:00 GMT

The weather was cold and misty, but the marching saints warmed our hearts as they paraded past parents, grandparents and neighbors at St. Mary’s Woods.

ALBUM: TRUNK, TREAT OR WALK THE PLANK

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 01:05:00 GMT

“So come with me, where dreams are born, and time is never planned. Just think of happy things, and your heart will fly on wings, forever, in Never Never Land!” –J.M. Barrie, Peter Pan

The back parking lot was transformed into a spooktacular wonderland for 90 magical minutes during this year’s PTO Trunk or Treat event. Thank you to everyone who made it such a wonderful experience for the entire St. Mary’s community!

BASKETBALL SEASON: REGISTER NOW!

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 16:48:00 GMT

Basketball Registration is now open and can be accessed here: https://stmaryva.ejoinme.org/basketball2023

Registration closes Friday, November 3rd at 11:59 pm.

PRELIMINARY PRACTICE & GAME SCHEDULE INFORMATION

For grades 5-8 games will start after Thanksgiving. Most teams practice once per week based on the coach’s availability.

SKILLS EVALUATIONS

7th/8th grade girls

There will be a skills evaluation and the girls will be divided into 2 or 3 teams based on ability. The top 8 or so players will play in the varsity division. We have the opportunity to play in 3 different divisions Varsity, JV, and C. C games are generally on a weeknight and sometimes varsity as well. JV mainly plays on Saturday afternoon or night.

7th/8th grade boys

There will be a skills evaluation and the girls will be divided into 2 based on ability. The top 8 or so players will play in the varsity division. We have the opportunity to play in 2 different divisions Varsity and JV. Varsity games are sometimes on weeknights, but often on Saturday nights. JV mainly plays on Saturday late afternoon or night.

Questions? Contact our Athletic Director, Scott Schaefer .

ROCKET CLUB: LAUNCH DAY

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 16:30:00 GMT

Members of Saint Mary’s Rocket Club had a great launch day yesterday in the back parking lot. Check out the photos of our teams below as they prep for take off. From countdown to ignition, Mr. Tlusty served as Head of Mission Control. We are so grateful for our resident Rocket Man!

Photo & Video Credit: Mr. Caulder & Mrs. Lenich, SMCS

Clinic Reminders: Flu, Halloween Safety & Hand Hygiene

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 13:05:00 GMT

Flu season is here

Protect yourself and your family this season with an annual flu vaccine for everyone in your family who is six months or older. The flu can vary from season to season and while the vaccine cannot prevent you from getting the flu, it can reduce the severity of illness significantly.

*Check with your local pharmacy, primary care or pediatric office about flu shot clinics, walk-ins, or appointments or use the link below to help find a flu-shot near you*

https://www.vaccines.gov/find-vaccines/

Tips for Halloween Safety

H – Have a parent or adult trick or treat with you

A – Always carry a flashlight or glowstick

L – Look both ways before crossing the street

L – Listen for traffic & walk on the sidewalk when possible

O – Only wear costumes that fit well and are flame resistant

W – Wear masks that you can clearly see out of

E – Enter only the homes of friends or family

E – Examine treats and candy before eating N Never eat treats that are not sealed or wrapped well

N – Never eat treats that are not sealed or wrapped well

Hand Hygiene & Staying Home When Sick

Please remind your child about the importance of good hand hygiene, covering their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and staying home when sick!

As a reminder, all students should stay home from school until they are 24-hours free of fever, vomiting, and/or diarrhea without the use of fever reducing medication.

CARPOOL SAFETY UPDATES & REMINDERS

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 21:04:00 GMT

As we close out the first quarter of instruction, it is important that we share the following reminders and clarifications regarding morning and afternoon carpool to ensure the safety of all students, staff and family members.

GENERAL CARPOOL GUIDELINES:

FRONT CARPOOL REMINDERS:

Drop off starts at 7:30am and ends at 7:55am. Arrivals after 8am must check in at the front office with a parent or guardian. Afternoon pick up starts at 2:45pm.

BACK CARPOOL REMINDERS:

Drop off starts at 7:30am and ends at 7:55am. Arrivals after 7:55am should check in at the front office with a parent or guardian. Afternoon pick up starts at 2:30pm for JK and K (no siblings); 2:45 for all other ECDC and Middle School students. The back parking lot will be opened by staff once it has been cleared of all class or recess activity.

Thank you for keeping our campus safe!

ALBUM: NIGHT OF NATIONS

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 12:56:00 GMT

Our school gymnasium was awash in color, music and vibrant chatter as Saint Mary’s hosted a multicultural celebration of its students’ international heritage. Many thanks to Mrs. Villa, our Segura Program advocate, and all of the participants and volunteers who helped to make it a fun and delicious affair!

ALBUM: HALLOWEEN HOEDOWN & FRIENDLY GHOSTS

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:20:00 GMT

We’re featuring two classroom drop-in visits this week: Mrs. Moretti with first graders and Miss Anna with third graders as they start to prepare for the spooky season with fun stories, songs and kindness crafts!

PTO: OCTOBER HAPPENINGS

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 13:26:00 GMT

FALL PHOTO SESSIONS RETURN
$125 mini-bookings include a selection of professionally edited photos from the incredibly talented, Agata Schoenborn. Sessions will take place on the St. Mary’s playground and adjacent areas on the following dates:

Please arrive on time for your 10-minute time slot. A payment link will be sent prior to your session.

SPIRIT NIGHT 10/24
Make your dinner plans a breeze while supporting our school. Join us at Casa Italiana from 3pm to 9pm.

TRUNK OR TREAT IS 10/27
Trunk spaces and candy/allergy friendly treat donation sign ups are below:

The Boy Scouts will be on site offering a quick and easy dinner option. We will send out order ahead details to minimize wait time. Who else is wondering what Father Mike’s trunk will be?

TINY SAINTS – Shop online now!

These adorable charms, rosaries, board books and lanyards make great gifts and 20% of all sales will benefit Saint Mary’s Catholic School during the month of October.

ALBUM: BSoR Day of Service

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 12:53:00 GMT

Look who dropped into ECDC and Elementary classrooms this week: Our friends (and in some cases, former students) from Benedictine Schools of Richmond came to lend a hand in the classroom, lunchroom and even on the playground!

We love seeing their service in action and appreciate them for serving as role models to our younger Monarchs.

ALBUM: CONSITUTION DAY

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:40:00 GMT

This week, we gathered as a community to celebrate the 236th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. Enjoy the highlights below!

CELEBRATING NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH AT SAINT MARY’S

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 15:38:00 GMT

From September 15 through October 15, Saint Mary’s Catholic School will join the Richmond Diocese in celebrating this special month dedicated to recognizing the impact of Hispanic Americans on our country and our faith community.

Throughout the month-long celebration, the Richmond Diocese will feature a saint with a particular devotion within the Hispanic Catholic community each week on Instagram.

In addition to amplifying the weekly saint campaign on social media, Saint Mary’s will make regular PA announcements for students and will host two special community events over the course of the month. These events will be supported by our Segura Coordinator, Angela Villa, with assistance from students, faculty, staff and community volunteers.

The first event will be a bilingual mass celebrated on Wednesday, October 4th at 9am, that will include specially selected songs, bilingual readings and reflections from multilingual members of our school and parish.

The second event is the Night of Nations on Saturday, October 14th at 6:30pm in the Parish Hall/gymnasium. Sign up now to be a part of this beloved celebration of Monarch pride and multicultural heritage including food, music and dance from around the globe!

CELEBRANDO EL MES DE LA HERENCIA HISPANA EN SAINT MARY’S

Del 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre, la Escuela Católica Saint Mary’s se unirá a la Diócesis de Richmond para celebrar este mes especial dedicado a reconocer el impacto de los hispanoamericanos en nuestro país y nuestra comunidad de fe.

A lo largo de la celebración que durará un mes, la Diócesis de Richmond presentará cada semana en Instagram a un santo con una devoción particular dentro de la comunidad católica hispana.

Además de ampliar la campaña semanal de los santos en las redes sociales, Saint Mary’s organizará dos eventos especiales a lo largo del mes. Estos eventos contarán con el apoyo de nuestra Coordinadora de Segura, Ángela Villa, con la asistencia de estudiantes, profesores, personal y voluntarios de la comunidad.

El primer evento será una misa bilingüe celebrada el miércoles 4 de octubre a las 9 am, que incluirá canciones especialmente seleccionadas, lecturas bilingües y reflexiones de miembros multilingües de nuestra escuela y parroquia.

El segundo evento es la Noche de las Naciones el sábado 14 de octubre a las 6:30 p. m. en el salón parroquial/gimnasio. ¡ Regístrese ahora para ser parte de esta querida celebración del orgullo Monarca y el patrimonio multicultural que incluye comida, música y danza de todo el mundo!

NOTICE: School-paid Student Accident Insurance

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 15:05:00 GMT

Dear Parents & Guardians:

Because we feel that accident coverage is very important, we have secured a special School Time Accident Policy for all students attending our school and participating in any school sponsored and supervised aftercare program.

The cost of the insurance ($15.50 per student) is paid by the school. This coverage is being offered through A-G Administrators. The insurance carrier is US Fire Insurance Company.

In insurance terms, this School Time policy is classified as excess coverage. This means that benefits will be paid that are not payable by any other insurance policy or group service contract. If the student has no other insurance, the policy will pay the full benefits for covered charges due to an accident up to the policy maximum.

If you have coverage through an HMO or (similar organization), you must comply with their requirements or your claim will not be covered under this policy.

This insurance only applies if all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The accident results from a school sponsored and supervised activity;
(2) Initial treatment is rendered within 90 days from the date of the accident; and
(3) A completed claim form is mailed to A-G Administrators and postmarked within 30 days after the date of the accident. The claim form must be provided by the school.

Other terms and restrictions may apply.

If you have any questions regarding this notification, please reach out to me directly.

Sincerely,

Amanda Esparza, Principal

St. Mary’s Catholic School

ALBUM: HONOR CODE SIGNING

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 15:38:00 GMT

Middle School students in our IB Middle Years Program gathered on September 1st to mark an important Monarch Milestone: Signing the Monarch Honor Code and Pledge.

ROARingly Well Behaved

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 15:48:00 GMT

At Saint Mary’s Catholic School, we encourage all members of our community to “walk the talk” and be representatives of Christ’s teachings. In order to model the type of behavior we want to see in our student body, we have implemented a PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention Support) framework called ROAR which stands for Respectful, On Task, Accountable and Responsible.

Each JK-8 classroom has a reminder of these expectations posted in their classrooms for consistency. In our elementary grades, teachers are in the process of working with students to help co-create visual reminders of this all important acronym. In ECDC postings are more visual for students who are not yet able to read without assistance.

This week at our first Prayer Service of the year, Mrs. Esparza reminded students that classroom expectations carry over into the church as we celebrate school mass together with family and members of our parish community. After the service students participated in a short Question and Answer session about how to reverently enter and exit the church and also practiced how to receive communion or a blessing during the celebration of the eucharist.

ALBUM: FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 17:58:00 GMT

Mild weather paired with lots of preparation made for smooth sailing this morning. Our Mighty Monarchs arrived safely in their classrooms, were greeted by eager Faculty and Staff and led in prayer by Mrs. Esparza before embarking on their learning journeys together!

CUBES IN SPACE UPDATES: WAITING FOR LIFT OFF

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 14:22:00 GMT

EVENING UPDATE FROM MR. TLUSTY: MON. AUG. 14, 2023

Tomorrow morning’s launch is scrubbed for weather delays. NASA has scheduled a weather update tomorrow afternoon to determine a go for launch Wednesday. They did say the weather for Wednesday also does not look good, but they like Thursday’s forecast. I will keep folks updated!

MORNING UPDATE FROM MR. TLUSTY: WED. AUG. 16, 2023

Launch scrubbed again. The first rocket went off, but had a problem, mission failure. They need to figure out the problem before launching our rocket. These are pictures from this morning. I am heading to NASA’s Visitors Center now as our kids have some project materials on display.

AFTERNOON UPDATE FROM MR. TLUSTY: WED. AUG. 16, 2023

One of the two rockets launched today, but there was a problem with the first rocket’s second stage, so they decided not to launch rocket two, which is our rocket. However, I just heard that NASA has decided that we are a go for launch tomorrow morning, 06:00. (That’s in the morning) since our rocket has a different second stage.

Our student Cubes in Space Expo posters are now exhibited at the NASA Wallops Visitor Center. Saint Mary’s is represented by three different displays! I had the privilege of being on-site today talking to visitors about our wonderful students, their experiments and our school’s participation in the Cubes in Space program.

UPDATE FROM MR. TLUSTY: THURS. AUG. 17, 2023

It took a while and many attempts, but we finally made it to space today !

There were not a lot of people around today for the launch. I will let everyone know when we get the experiment back as I was not able to get it today after splashdown.

UPDATE FROM MR. TLUSTY: FRI. AUG. 18, 2023

Yesterday’s rocket launch reached an altitude of over 100 miles which is really high for this rocket!

The rocket splashes down about 50 miles or so off shore in the Atlantic. NASA contracts a crab boat to go out to collect the rocket and bring it back to shore. Check out the video below from the dock.

ALBUM: TEACHER WORK WEEK

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 11:06:00 GMT

From planning and team building to board games and popsicles, Teacher Work Week has set the tone for an incredible school year filled with love and learning! Many thanks to everyone who helped contribute to such a faith-filled and fun week together.

We cannot wait to see our students and families next week as we officially kick off the new academic year at Saint Mary’s Catholic School!

MEET OUR NEW FACULTY

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 21:21:00 GMT

We kicked off Teacher Work Week by welcoming eight new Faculty and Staff members to the Mighty Monarch family. We’ve shared a bit about each of them below in the order they appear in the photo above. Please take a moment in the coming weeks to say hello as you encounter them on and around campus!

MIDDLE SCHOOL THEOLOGY

Louis “Louie” Stewart (far left, above) will be teaching Middle School Theology and serve as Religion Coordinator. He may look familiar to some as three of his four children already attend Saint Mary’s. Louie has a Masters in Divinity and Bachelor in Education. He previously worked in youth ministry in Richmond and Tennessee. He has been teaching RCIA for teens at Saint Mary’s parish for the past several years and always aims “to see knowledge grow [and] move on from the head to the heart.”

FIRST GRADE INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT

We are blessed to have Anne Carol Wood join our Early Childhood Development Center team. A graduate of Longwood and University of Virginia, Anne Carol worked as an elementary and gifted education teacher in Henrico County for over 30 years. Over the course of her teaching career she has received several professional accolades including the REB Award for Teaching Excellence. Taylor Newsome and Kaki Patterson are excited to welcome her to their First grade team!

SECOND GRADE

Katie Ramsey comes to us from St. Elizabeth School in Bethesda, Maryland where she served as a second grade teacher. In her early years, Katie was also a student at St. Elizabeth’s! In reference to her calling to teach, she says, “Teaching at a Catholic school is a lot of work, but it has never once felt like a job.” Katie is a graduate of York College of Pennsylvania and has completed additional course work at Pepperdine University.

VISUAL ARTS

Lindsey Schwartzkopf is a recent VCU Art Education graduate who has worked with children at several local organizations including the VMFA, the YMCA and the Visual Arts Center of Richmond. She grew up in Saint Mary’s parish and now attends Saint Michael’s church. Lindsey is excited to share her love for the Catholic faith and art in the classroom, noting her goal to always help her students in “creating art with personal meaning.”

JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN

With more than two decades in Early Childhood development, Caroline Koskinen most recently served as lead teacher at Reveille Weekday School’s Pre-K program. Prior to working there, she served in a few other school settings as a special education teacher. In addition to a Bachelor of Arts degree from Salem College in North Carolina, Caroline holds a Masters of Education and a Reading Specialist endorsement from University of Virginia. She describes herself as someone who enjoys all aspects of teaching ranging from playtime and direct instruction to data-driven planning for individual learning needs.

LIBRARY MEDIA SPECIALIST

We are happy to welcome Lori Valdepenas back to Saint Mary’s as our Library Media Specialist. Lori previously taught in our Elementary School as well as in our Middle School before working at Saint Bridget Catholic School where she served as their school Librarian. While Saint Mary’s is a nut-free campus, students will immediately note her love for all things Peanuts (the Charles Schulz variety) when visiting the library this year! Lori also has two sons joining Saint Mary’s in ECDC.

CLINIC NURSE

Carli Simpson (far right, above) is a Registered Nurse who has served in various roles with Henrico Doctors, Bon Secours and the Virginia Department of Health. With more than a decade of nursing experience in specializations including labor and delivery, newborn screening, hospice and home health, she most recently served as a Nurse Substitute for Henrico County Public Schools. For Carli, accepting the Clinic Nurse role at Saint Mary’s feels like coming home since she is a SMCS alumna herself! Her daughter will also start at Saint Mary’s this fall as a student in our Elementary School.

IB MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE

Kim Graham (pictured below) is a multi-talented educator and proud mother of three children; two of whom are recent Saint Mary’s grads! We are fortunate to have her join our faculty as the new long-term substitute for Middle School Science. Kim has previously served as a long-term sub at Saint Mary’s and holds a Middle School Science endorsement in addition to a Bachelor of Arts from Mary Baldwin College and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Towson University in Baltimore.

New Administrators Named

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 21:46:00 GMT

In a selection process marked by prayer and professionalism, two candidates rose to the top for their experience, faith and hands-on leadership of teachers and students alike.

Esparza Named Principal

“I am excited to announce the hire of Amanda Esparza as Principal of Saint Mary’s Catholic School,” shared Father Michael Renninger, Pastor. “She was recommended to me and Kelly Lazzara of the Office of Catholic Schools without reservation by the Principal Search Committee. She is ready to hit the ground running to ensure continued progress in key areas such as academics, staff development and school safety,” he continued.

Prepared to Lead

Mrs. Esparza is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame’s Mary-Ann Remick Leadership Program in Alliance for Catholic Education. Prior to joining Saint Mary’s leadership last school year, she served as Academic Dean at the Benedictine Schools of Richmond after many years in the classroom.

Guided by the Spirit

Outside of her formal job role, Esparza has worked with colleagues to create a Sunshine Committee to support faculty and staff experiencing unexpected hardship. She also serves as Coach of Saint Mary’s Cheerleading team.

Mrs. Esparza is especially grateful to take the leadership reins after working with current Faculty and Staff to select the 2023-2024 school year Spiritual Theme inspired by 1 Corinthians 16:14, “Let all that you do be done in love.”

“Love and prayer have been the foundations of my leadership journey. I am certain that Christ’s love will guide us through a wonderful school year together” said Esparza.

Dahl Named Assistant Principal

Most recently, our new Assistant Principal served in the same capacity at Saint Gregory the Great, a JK-8 Catholic School in Virginia Beach. In addition to her numerous administrative functions, she also enjoyed being the faculty advisor of Student Government and Robotics.

A Return to Richmond

Having started her teaching career in Chesterfield County, Mrs. Dahl also served as a faculty member at our Lady of Lourdes in Henrico before moving to Virginia Beach. She is looking forward to coming back to Richmond.

Faith filled and Focused

Mrs. Dahl holds a BA in English Literature from the University of Connecticut, Teaching Certification from Trinity International University and a MS in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education. In 2020, she received the St. John Bosco Award from the Diocese of Richmond for service.

What’s Next

Faculty and Staff will return to campus for Teacher Work Week on Monday, August 14th at which time they will have the opportunity to officially congratulate Mrs. Esparza on her promotion and to welcome Mrs. Dahl to the Monarch family.

WE’RE HIRING: IB MIDDLE YEARS FACULTY OPENINGS

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 18:54:00 GMT

Rise above the ordinary and join Richmond’s only Catholic IB Middle School Faculty at Saint Mary’s!

Full-time positions in Science and Theology are open for the coming school year.

Learn more and apply online now >> www.saintmary.org/employment

Our teachers guide students in spiritual growth, moral development and academic achievement all in a nurturing Christ-centered community!

Diocese of Richmond Catholic Schools

TUNE IN ALERT: CUBES IN SPACE LAUNCH!

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 13:29:00 GMT

Our amazing students are doing it again! One Saint Mary’s Cubes in Space experiment will be among 80 student projects on a NASA sounding rocket that will be launched into space on Thursday, June 22nd from Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

A livestream will begin 15 minutes before the planned 5:30 a.m. launch time on the Wallops YouTube channel . The Wallops Visitor Center will be open for launch viewing at 4:30 a.m.

Our Rocket Club & Cubes in Space members have been working hard the past several weeks preparing for Rocketfest 2023 at NASA Wallops Island Flight Facility. Students have created displays for the expo and have worked on slide presentations where they will be sharing about their current and prior experiments to an audience of over 300 including NASA executives and engineers and other aerospace professionals.

Join us in wishing a safe trip to Mr. Tlusty and six Saint Mary’s families making the week-long trip to Wallops Island!

More information about this initiative is also featured on NASA’s website .

ALBUM: KINDERGARTEN GRADUATION

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 15:55:00 GMT

This morning, our Parish Hall was abuzz with families eager to see our tiny Monarchs become Kindergarten graduates. Upon arrival for their big moment, our soon-to-be 1st graders did not disappoint with an array of precious songs and of course, the receipt of their diplomas!

It was a wonderful morning in community made possible by our amazing faculty, supportive families and tireless volunteers. Thank you to everyone who was able to join us!

ALBUM: G5-G8 FIELD DAY

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 18:04:00 GMT

Our older Monarchs even had some tiny Monarchs cheer them on to victory! Many thanks to our faculty, staff and volunteers for providing images of this great day together.

ALBUM: JK-G4 FIELD DAY, FUN DAY

Fri, 26 May 2023 15:24:00 GMT

The best volunteers, the best teachers and students combined with the best weather…Today was a REALLY GREAT DAY to be a Monarch! Thanks to everyone who helped to make our first Field Day of 2023 a huge success.

ALBUM: 2023 AWARDS PROGRAM

Wed, 24 May 2023 18:04:00 GMT

Once a year, our community celebrates outstanding student achievements and the 2023 edition of our Annual Awards Program did not disappoint! We were grateful to have so many families in attendance as we shared a special morning together. Enjoy the highlights below!

BUDDY BENCH: MORE THAN A SPOT IN THE SHADE

Tue, 23 May 2023 18:35:00 GMT

Members of Girl Scout Cadette Troop 5163 worked together to achieve their silver award, which they completed in 2022. Part of their work on the silver award was around the idea of being a friend and making new friends. To facilitate that within the Saint Mary’s community, the girls put together a new Buddy Bench for the Saint Mary’s playground.

The Buddy Bench idea came about in 2013 as a way to combat loneliness and isolation at schools. These benches are usually placed on school playgrounds as a place for students to sit to signal to others that they are feeling lonely and would like a friend to play with or someone to talk to.

Because of the recent renovation work at Saint Mary’s, it took a little while for the troop to be able to place the bench, but as these cadettes ready for their bridging ceremony from cadettes to senior scouts, and as they also prepare to graduate from Saint Mary’s, they are happy to see the bench set up and ready for action.

The Saint Mary’s cadettes pictured above are: (standing from left to right) Bailey L., Julia J. and (seated from left to right) Emma B. and Megan J.. Former troop member Bella S. also worked on the bench, as did two other members of the troop who do not attend Saint Mary’s.

The troop hopes the bench will remind everyone to befriend – and be a friend – to everyone.

ABOVE: First grade boys relax on the new buddy bench. (Photo: T. Newsome)

BELOW: Mrs. Benton and fifth grade girls appreciate a moment on the newly installed buddy bench. (Photo: S. DiFazio)

CLASS OF 2015: COLLEGE GRADS

Tue, 23 May 2023 16:06:00 GMT

We’ve been in touch with several members of the Saint Mary’s Class of 2015 and a few have shared photos of their graduation celebrations. We’re so proud of all of our alumni and look forward to hearing about the impact they will make on the world. Congratulations, Mighty Monarchs!

ROW ONE (FROM LEFT TO RIGHT)

Julianna Thompson graduated from University of Richmond with degree in business administration with concentrations in management consuting and business analytics and a minor in health studies. She will start working full time as an associate consultant for Mastercard’s data and services division in the DC area.

Marian Parong graduated Summa cum Laude from Virginia Tech with a BS in biology/biomed option. She is headed to VCU to start the Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Caroline Bisese graduated from University of Richmond. She is starting a dual degree master’s program at London School of Economics for an M.Sc. Degree in global media and communications and a second year at University of Southern California for an MA in global communication.

ROW TWO (FROM LEFT TO RIGHT)

Zach Clopton graduated from Virginia Tech where he studied Ocean Engineering with minor in Naval Architecture.

Marshall Trout graduated from Furman University.

ROW THREE (FROM LEFT TO RIGHT)

Harper Mugford graduated from Virginia Tech.

Shannon Benton graduated from Randolph Macon. She is heading to Saint Andrews University in Scotland to pursue her master’s degree in early modern history

Nicholas Jean graduated from University of Michigan completing his one-year Master of Management degree at the Ross School of Business. Nicholas completed two degrees in four years (he earned a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from the University of California – Berkeley in three years before attending Michigan), and is now returning to Virginia where he will join the Marriott Corporation in their Management Development Program.

If you would like to share any additional Monarch Alumni updates or graduation photos, please reach out to Jennifer Janus .

EXAM SCHEDULES & PARENT SURVEYS: SPRING 2023

Mon, 22 May 2023 12:33:00 GMT

8th grade exam details (emailed 5/22) PARENTS: Please fill in the following survey, to let us know if your child will remain in school after exams. Students who stay will have […]

ALBUM: G4 VISITS JAMESTOWN

Sat, 20 May 2023 12:42:00 GMT

Fourth graders visited Jamestown Settlement last week to see firsthand how Powhatan Indian, English and West Central African cultures converged in early Virginia. Outdoors, they discovered daily life in 17th-century re-creations of a Paspahegh town, aboard three ships – Susan Constant , Godspeed and Discovery , and in a re-created fort in the Jamestown colony.

ALBUM: SPORTS DAY TAG DAY

Thu, 18 May 2023 18:45:00 GMT

ALBUM: G8 PERFORMANCE

Wed, 17 May 2023 23:08:00 GMT

Dear Class of 2023,

Because we know you, we have been changed for good. As Mrs. Moretti so aptly shared, we will be forever grateful for the resilience, heart and love you have shown to us and one another.

This week’s 8th grade performance is yet another reminder of the gaping hole you will leave in our hearts and our school, but we know you are ready to soar into high school!

Love, Your Monarch Family

Slide Show & “For Good” Performance

Backstage Pre-Show with Special Guest, Mr. Woodburn

5th Grade Memory of Mr. Woodburn and Zoom Learning

Mr. Birkland Impersonation – “Starbucks Coffee Scene”

“Old Timers Remember” – 6th Grade Capture the Flag Reinactment

Mrs. Slifka Impersonation Scene

Mary Did You Know? Sheep & Shepherd (G7 Nativity Memory Encore)

Class of 2023 – High School Plans Parade

Waiters Ready to Serve Guests

MAKING MUSIC WITH KID PAN ALLEY

Tue, 16 May 2023 15:04:00 GMT

During late April and early May, our three fifth-grade classes met virtually with Paul and Cheryl Reisler, founding musicians of the Kid Pan Alley organization. During these special sessions, each class composed a song and their songs were performed during a Zoom concert on Thursday, May 11 at 7 p.m. All students and their families were invited to watch and participate as Paul and Cheryl performed the student-composed songs.

This is the third time since 2016 that Saint Mary’s students have been able to work with Kid Pan Alley thanks to grants from the Virginia Commission for the Arts. Each opportunity has given students a chance to be an active participant in the songwriting process — exposing them to what that looks and sounds like.

“The Kid Pan Alley songwriting workshop was a wonderful experience with fifth grade classes each writing their own unique songs,” said SMCS Music Teacher Mrs. Moretti. “The songs ranged in topic from love to growing older to summer plans at the beach. We are so blessed to be at a school that embraces creativity in our children.”

Kid Pan Alley ‘s mission is to inspire creativity, build confidence and foster community among children of all ages through the group songwriting process. KPA’s vision is to help children develop their skills of creativity and collaboration so they can build the future that they hope to see.

ALBUM: G7 IN WASHINGTON D.C.

Tue, 16 May 2023 14:54:00 GMT

IB MYP Individuals & Societies Humanities Teacher, Mr. Daley, led our 7th grade students and parent chaperones on an incredible visit to our nation’s capital. The visit began with a photo opportunity at the Washington Monument overlooking the National Mall.

From there, our group entered the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture. After this, groups enjoyed lunch followed by visits to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Some groups made time to visit the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum and other landmarks on or near the National Mall.

Many thanks to parent chaperones for providing selected photos below!

ALBUM: 2ND COMMUNION

Thu, 11 May 2023 14:31:00 GMT

As the collection basket made its way around the church on Wednesday morning, Father Mike called everyone’s attention to our 2nd graders as they prepared to take their “Second Holy Communion” having already received their First Holy Communion over the weekend.

Wearing First Communion vestments to school mass the week after First Holy Communion is a longtime Monarch tradition. Many thanks to all of the parents and teachers who worked extra hard on Wednesday morning to make our students look so special!

SMCS ’19: What’s Next?

Tue, 09 May 2023 13:13:00 GMT

As we continue to celebrate our 8th grade graduates and their next step to high school, we’ve also been following graduates from the SMCS class of 2019 – now high school seniors – to see what their plans are after graduation, too.

So far, here’s what we know:

Congratulations to all of our graduates! We are so proud of our Mighty Monarch alumni.

Many thanks to Mrs. Janus for compiling the above information. To report an update to this list, please email her prior to June 8th.

MAY CROWNING 2023

Fri, 05 May 2023 16:54:00 GMT

Father Mike’s beautiful homily reminded us of two co-existing images of Mother Mary’s holiness: Mary as the Queen of Heaven and Mary as a devoted and hard working Mother of God.

Congratulations to Megan J., this year’s 8th grader elected by her peers for embodying Mary’s holy attributes. Megan participated in the procession at the end of School Mass to crown Mary with flower offerings presented by student representatives from every grade.

Many thanks to everyone who contributed to the celebration of this long time Saint Mary’s tradition, especially Mrs. Slifka, our students, faculty, staff and of course the many parents and grandparents who made time to spend their morning with us honoring our Holy Queen!

ALBUM: ART SHOW & SPRING SING 2023

Fri, 05 May 2023 16:28:00 GMT

So much love, creativity and extremely hard work goes into planning and executing these annual favorites! Thank you to Ms. Dunham and Mrs. Moretti for leading our students in sharing their incredible gifts from God. More Spring Sing videos will be added –Come back soon to listen to edited snippets from your favorite performances!

WHAT’S NEXT FOR 2023 MONARCHS?

Fri, 05 May 2023 01:33:00 GMT

The days are long but the years are short, as the saying goes. This rings particularly true for our graduating eighth graders and their families. Some of these students have been at Saint Mary’s since preschool!

The good news is that there are still several fun activities planned for this group as they prepare to graduate and move on toward high school as Saint Mary’s alumni. The bad news? We already miss them like crazy.

Here’s where our eighth grade graduating class members are headed next:

Many thanks to Jennifer Janus for compiling this information (with the help of Mrs. Bisese and Mr. Schaefer) and guest writing this week’s blog.

ALBUM: TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK 2023

Fri, 05 May 2023 00:33:00 GMT

This week at Saint Mary’s Catholic School was a CIRCUS. Literally!

Once again, our PTO rolled out the red carpet and transformed our school in such spectacular fashion, it can only be compared to the Greatest Show on Earth…

GRANDPARENTS’ DAY: MAY 5TH

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 15:13:00 GMT

Don’t forget–Friday May 5th is an early dismissal day at 11:30am!

Who: Parents and Grandparents (or Special Friends if Grandparents are not local)

Where: Saint Mary’s Catholic School. Please park in the back parking lot and enter through the Middle School doors.

When: 8:15am – 11:20am

What: An opportunity for Grandparents to come to campus and learn more about our school community. Art Show purchases must be made in advance here by Tuesday, May 2nd.

As part of the May Crowning ceremony, we request that all students bring cut flowers as an offering to place in front of the statue of Mary. Flowers may be store bought or from your home garden. It is helpful to wrap the ends in a damp paper towel covered in aluminum foil, if possible.

SCHEDULE:

8:15 am: Art Show in Parish Hall/Gymnasium; All guests must enter through rear Middle School doors near ramp.

9:00 am: Mass & May Crowning in Church

10:00-10:35 am: Art Show / PTO Reception / Classroom Visits

10:40-11:20 am: Spring Sing Concert in Church (JK, K, G2, G4, G6 perform; seating chart ); Students must be signed out with their homeroom teacher if they want to leave immediately following Spring Sing.

11:30 am: Student Dismissal / Carpool

ALBUM: ECDC PREPS FOR EASTER

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:10:00 GMT

These small, but mighty Monarch students in our Early Childhood Development Center are ready for Easter Break! Check out the many ways they prepared their hearts and minds during Holy Week at Saint Mary’s Catholic School.

Happy Easter / Joyeuses Pâques!

ALBUM: GO TELL THE WORLD ABOUT HIM!

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 13:39:00 GMT

Under the loving direction of their teachers, Mrs. Trout, Mrs. Carleton and Mrs. Moretti, our fourth grade students worked hard to prepare, practice and deliver two moving performances of the Shadow Stations of the Cross last week.

This Holy Week, we are sharing some photos from the performances (below) as well as a musical excerpt (above) to help send our community prayerfully into Easter Break.

Go tell the world about Him!

The Commission

See my hands and look at my feet
It’s okay if it’s hard to believe
I have faith you will do greater things
It’s my time to go but before I leave

Go tell the world about me
I was dead but now I live
I’ve gotta go now for a little while
But goodbye is not the end

Don’t forget the things that I taught you
I’ve conquered death and I hold the keys
Where I go you will go too, someday
But there’s much to do here before you leave

Go tell the world about me
I was dead but now I live
I’ve gotta go now for a little while
But goodbye is not the

End of the journey, the end of the road
My spirit is with you wherever you go
You have a purpose and I have a plan
I’ll make you this promise
I’ll come back again but until then

Go tell the world about me
I was dead but now I live
I’ve gotta go now for a little while
But goodbye is not the end

go tell them about me
(Go tell the world) I’ve gotta go
(Go tell the world) for a little while
But goodbye is not the end

Song by Cain, performed by SMCS 4th Grade, piano accompaniment by Mrs. Moretti.

ALBUM: GOD IS WITH US

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 13:29:00 GMT

This week was a hard week as we watched our brothers and sisters in Nashville experience the unthinkable. But this week was also one filled with God’s goodness as evidenced in the photos below.

As we near the end of our Lenten journey, we remain grateful for the numerous reminders that God is always with us.

He is with us when we experience fear and joy. He is with us when we learn. He is with us when we create and when we venture out into the world together.

Hallelujah!

SCHOOL SAFETY AT SAINT MARY’S

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 16:22:00 GMT

This week, the Office of Catholic Schools issued a letter to all families following Monday’s tragedy in Nashville.

As School Safety continues to dominate the headlines, we are providing the following information to remind members of the Saint Mary’s community about the leadership structures and processes that exist to keep our students and parish members as safe as possible.

We are committed to the constant review and improvement of our School Safety and Crisis Management Plan. Anyone wishing to share feedback or support is encouraged to contact Amanda Esparza .

SMCS Crisis Management Team [Updated October 2023]

Partnerships, Professional Training & Safety Drills

Our School and Parish are blessed with a strong relationship with members of the Henrico Police Department and the University of Richmond Campus Police who have participated in the audit and design of current School Safety Plans and ongoing Professional Training sessions for faculty and staff members.

School Safety drills are conducted on a regular basis in accordance with diocesan and state requirements. Teachers are provided with resources and required to lead age-appropriate classroom conversations about safety drills and expectations. Families have also been provided with optional discussion resources (in English and Spanish ) and are notified when Safety Drills are conducted on campus.

This evening, we are conducting a Self-Defense Workshop for students in Grades 4-8 and will continue to develop safety themed community programming in accordance with demand and resources.

ALBUM: TALENT SHOW 2023

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 13:48:00 GMT

Eighth grader Sarah H. worked diligently with music teacher, Mrs. Morretti, to produce the 2023 edition of the Monarch Talent Show. Many thanks to our Monarch parents, performers and enthusiastic audience members for helping to make this year’s show–the first on our Parish Hall’s new stage–a huge success!

Below is a list of student performers followed by a selection of photos and video from Monday’s Dress Rehearsal and Thursday’s Show.

EVERYTHING IS AWESOME

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 15:54:00 GMT

Saint Mary’s eighth graders James O’Leary and Noah Thoene will be heading to Australia this summer to be one of the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) LEGO Robotics teams representing the United States at the FLL Asia Pacific Open Championships (APOC). The team they comprise, Bob’s Bricks, was the first-place overall champion at the Virginia/DC FLL State Championship last December .

Bob’s Bricks has been an FLL team since 2018, when James and Noah were in fourth grade. They started with seven members, and as the individual members got busier with other activities and the FLL competitions became more time consuming, other members dropped away. James has been involved with FLL since he was in kindergarten; Noah started participating in fourth grade when the Bob’s Bricks team got started.

James’s parents, Ellen and Kevin O’Leary, are seasoned FLL coaches who coach Bob’s Bricks as well as their SMCS fifth-grade daughter Caroline’s team, LEGO My Eggo Cows. Noah’s younger sister Marley, another SMCS fifth-grader, is also part of the Cows team.

James said that at the beginning of the season, in August, he and Noah were spending between four to six hours a week together each week building, coding and practicing.

The competitions are about more than just the robot, though; there are four components: innovation project, which is centered around a yearly theme – this year’s being energy and power; robot design; robot performance; and core values (or how well the team adheres to the six core values of FLL).

James said that in the robot competition there are many tasks to complete, and each task garners points for being executed correctly. The goal is to get as many points as possible in 150 seconds. He said that he and Noah prepare by doing robot runs through a replica game board, practicing the mission, or “skit,” they’ll encounter at competition.

For their innovation project, Noah and James researched and developed a product that they hope will help reduce the number of power outages caused by squirrels.

Squirrels damage electrical distribution facilities by tunneling, by chewing through electrical insulation, or by simultaneously coming into contact with two conductors at different electrical potentials (most times electrocuting the squirrel involved). Squirrels also like to nest in power substations, which causes further damage. James said that in 2022 alone there were more than 15,000 power outages in the United States caused by squirrels.

For their project, the boys looked at the problem, researched to determine what squirrels are attracted to and not attracted to, and used that information to develop a decoy, which they’ve named the Nylacorn. The Nylacorn is impregnated with the organic compound indole, which is present in orange blossoms and is known to attract squirrels.

They tested the Nylacorn in their backyards and it seemed to work, drawing the squirrels away from power lines and toward the Nylacorn. Now North Carolina Power is testing the decoy. The boys are in the process of applying for a patent for their innovation. Their current model is 3D printed, but they’re looking at potential for a molded product.

James and Noah won both their regional and state-level competitions, and thus will be representing the U.S. in Australia this summer.

“The state competition was very stressful,” Noah said. “We definitely didn’t think we were going to win but the dynamic duo Bob’s Bricks won!”

Noah’s mom, Laura Thoene, said: “The (state-level) win was wild: down to the last award, they had received great feedback, but we were still worried they might finish without anything. It was exhilarating to hear their name called. It was great to see all their hard work this season and previous years rewarded.”

“We are very proud,” Ellen said. “You have to work really hard – design and refine, refine, refine. You have to think out of the box and come up with innovative solutions to real-life problems in the world, as well as problems related to your robot. Several times they encountered frustrations and they could have easily given up, but they chose not to walk away.”

Right now the boys get together once a week for two hours to work together in preparation for the championship, but once school’s out they’ll probably get together more like five or six hours each week to get ready, James said.

Outside of the competition, Ellen said they’re looking forward to snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef and to visiting Uluru – a sacred site in Aboriginal culture that she teaches her students about during third grade.

Laura said: “Noah and Marley’s first trip abroad will be halfway around the world! We are excited to share this experience with them. Immersing oneself in other cultures is part of realizing that we are part of something bigger than ourselves. Of course, experiencing a multicultural, international competition will be icing on the cake!”

Meanwhile, the LEGO My Eggo Cows – with Caroline, Marley and seven other Saint Mary’s fifth graders – are blazing their own trail. They won their division’s first-place innovation project award at the state championship for a project that involves a bird-safe retrofit for wind turbines that should reduce the number of turbine-related bird fatalities. Their project includes a visual component using color to repel birds, a sonar component that uses noise to deter them, and a scent component that also acts as a bird repellent.

When they were at Saint Mary’s, Maggie and Grace O’Leary’s team completed a project that involved scrapping metal to raise funds that paid for the water-bottle filter/fillers that are now installed at Saint Mary’s and reducing the use of single-use plastics.

Now Maggie and Grace (as well as other Saint Mary’s alumni Kiran Sabharwal and Noah Lohr) are getting ready for an April district competition with their FRC team at Deep Run, 1086 Blue Cheese. Maggie is the team captain, Noah and Grace are on the build subteam, and Kiran is the advocacy subteam lead. Their level of competition has a robot component and an outreach component, the latter meant to get new students interested in robotics and exposed to STEM just like how Dr. Kamau Bobb aims to make STEM more accessible and appealing to a wider range of students, ultimately contributing to a more diverse and vibrant STEM community..

Ellen said FLL is “such a good organization – it’s good for IB because it makes students think about things in a different way.”

While both the Bob’s Bricks and LEGO My Eggo Cows teams are made up of Saint Mary’s students, Ellen said they’re not school-sponsored teams per se. While she and Kevin can’t take on coaching or mentoring another team, they are happy to act as a sounding board to other parents at Saint Mary’s looking to create a team, and to pass along what they’ve learned in their 10 years of involvement.

Laura said “FLL teaches kids life skills that are necessary to be successful. Of course, the kids would say that playing with LEGOs is a plus!”

This blog post was contributed by Jennifer Janus and will appear in the next issue of the St. Mary’s Catholic School Alumni Newsletter.

ALBUM: GOING GREEN

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 14:01:00 GMT

The shenanigans began yesterday evening at the PTO’s St. Paddy’s Day Party and the fun hasn’t stopped since! Check out these great shots of our community celebrating together.

PREVIEW: FIELD DAY 2023, VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 17:52:00 GMT

SMCS Field Day 2023 is on the horizon with planning well underway! This year, we are offering volunteer T-shirts to VIRTUS trained adult volunteers who are able to help on either day.

You will be asked to indicate your preferred shirt size as part of the Volunteer Sign-Up process. Not able to volunteer, but still want to lend a hand? We also welcome nut-free snack donations to keep our students hydrated and well-fueled for Field Day fun in the sun!

SIGN UPS ARE NOW CLOSED >> FRIDAY, MAY 26TH FIELD DAY FOR JK THROUGH GRADE 4

SIGN UPS ARE NOW CLOSED >> FRIDAY, JUNE 2ND FIELD DAY FOR GRADES 5 THROUGH 8

Please note both Field Days are on half-days with 11:30am dismissals.

PI DAY WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 16:18:00 GMT

Congratulations to ALL students who visited Mrs. Olesen’s classroom on Tuesday (and even Wednesday morning!) to recite as many digits of Pi as possible.

In the end, we had 10 winners, but it was our youngest Monarchs who reigned supreme– Dani B. and Julia H.–both in 3rd grade , memorized just over 200 digits and took home this year’s highest honors plus the right to a Chick-fil-A lunch with Mrs. O!

Our Winners by Grade

Grade 3: Dani B., Julia H. and Lucy O.

Grade 4: Thomas C. and Andrew C.

Grade 5: Emily G. and Trinity L.

Middle School (IB MYP): Libby S., Virginia D. and Ella K.

JOIN US MARCH 30TH FOR WELLBEING WORKSHOPS

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 15:26:00 GMT

Please register online by Friday, March 24.

Dr. Kris Day and Dr. Jessica Zdinak are often seen at Saint Mary’s sharing their Monarch love in the form of volunteering at events and in their respective students’ classrooms. This month, we’re grateful that they have teamed up with our School Counselor, Ms. Anna Borrelli and Sergeant Renee Walcott from the University of Richmond Police Department to address two important topics: Adolescent Mental Health & Self-Defense for Kids.

Dr. Day is the Assistant Director of Clinical Services for the Counseling Center at UR. She also has a private practice and is a consultant on the Henrico County Hostage Negotiations team.

Dr. Zdinak is a research psychologist who specializes in behavior change, and applying psychological phenomenon and principles to improving the lives of others.

Join them Thursday, March 30th at 6pm to learn how you can better support your child’s mental and emotional wellbeing. While parents learn, students in grades 4-8 can take part in a self-defense workshop led by Sergeant Walcott.

Both events are FREE; however, a suggested donation of $10 to benefit Special Olympics Virginia will be collected at the door.

ALBUM: WAX MUSEUM 2023

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 18:29:00 GMT

This year’s edition of the 4th Grade Wax Museum was as impressive as ever thanks to careful curation carried out by Museum Directors, Mrs. Carleton and Mrs. Trout. Critical research assistance was overseen by Mrs. Lavallee. In addition to the beautifully costumed wax figures on display, there was impressive array of artifacts that could be perused by all Museum goers. Somehow, those clever Museum folks even figured out how to program the Milton Hershey display to distribute Hershey’s kisses chocolate treats to all attendees!

We invite you to listen to a sample of one wax figure below and enjoy browsing through the photo album of historical artists, astronauts, aviators, adventurers, authors, athletes, aristocrats and more…

GALA ’23: Know Before You Go!

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 18:22:00 GMT

Below you will find important information regarding our March 11th Gala & Auction. Thank you for supporting your Saint Mary’s PTO and the Built on Faith campaign.

Mobile Bidding

We are excited to share our 2023 Silent & Live Auction items with you via mobile bidding this year! You will receive an email with a link to preview all auction items and to be able to start bidding! Mobile bidding to open on Thursday, March 9th at 12pm.

Where to Go?

The John Marshall Ballrooms are located at 101 N 5th Street Richmond, VA 23219. When you arrive that evening, you will enter the main doors of the lobby and proceed up the stairs.

Check-In

Upon arriving at The John Marshall Ballrooms, please be prepared to confirm your registration information with our volunteers & have a credit card ready to place on file, if you didn’t have one already. You must register a credit card to bid on items and to purchase alcoholic beverages. You will receive your Gala program, bid card, table assignment and beverage wristbands/blinky rings, if purchased.

If you did not pre-purchase wristbands or rings, you may do so here or at check-in. For more details about the beverage wristband, please see below.

Schedule for the Evening

5:30 pm: Cocktails & Hors d’oeuvres/Silent Auction Opens

7:00 pm: Silent Auction Baskets & Class Baskets Close

7:30 pm: Class Art Projects & Teacher Experiences Close

8:00 pm: Welcome & Blessing / Seated Dinner

9:00 pm: Live Auction

9:45 pm: Silent & Live Auction Checkout Opens

10:00 pm-11:00 pm: Dancing & Fun

Parking

There are many pay parking lots located around The John Marshall Ballrooms as well as street parking.

Beverage Purchases

Our bars will operate by bid card numbers. No cash nor credit cards will be accepted at the bars. Beverage wristbands may also be purchased here or upon arrival at The John Marshall Ballrooms. Beverage wristbands are $35 for unlimited alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages and gain you access to the “Fast Track” Bar. The “Fast Track” Bar will remain open all evening and will be located in the ballrooms in which we will be throughout the night. Beverage wristbands are non-transferable. If you have pre-purchased a beverage wristband, you will receive this at check-in.

If you chose not to purchase a wrist band, you may purchase individual drinks at the bar located in the lobby of The John Marshall Ballrooms. Beer & wine may be purchased a la carte throughout the evening for $6 per drink & liquor for $9 per drink, using bid card numbers.

Sunday Pick-Up Window

If you purchase any items that you are unable to transport home on Saturday evening, the John Marshall Ballrooms will be accessible on Sunday, March 12th. When you enter the lobby, please check in with the security guard at the desk and he or she will be able to retrieve your items from a locked room.

We look forward to seeing you Saturday!

Thank you for supporting SMCS!

Liz Singleton

President, Saint Mary’s PTO

ALBUM: CHARACTERS ON PARADE

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 16:32:00 GMT

We ended this amazing week in style with a RAAW23 Pep Rally and indoor Character Parade. Many thanks to all of the family members who joined us!

ALBUM: RAAW23

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 01:35:00 GMT

To say this week was a “wild rumpus” might be an understatement!

On Monday, the students arrived to a magical wonderland thanks to countless creative hours by Mrs. Camilla Alipanah and months of hard work by our incredible Read Across America Week committee members and volunteers. But that was just the start–once the school day began, we were joined by a veritable army of Community Helper Mystery Readers including:

The rest of the week was full of fun ranging from buddy reading and green eggs and ham to CFA lunches and crazy attire. Enjoy a glimpse at just some of the moments we shared below!

FAITH: HOW DO WE MAKE IT STICK?

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 21:35:00 GMT

The 2011 book “Sticky Faith” by Drs. Kara Powell and Chap Clark cites research that estimates that after high school, as many as half of young adults drift away from their faith practice.

While that statistic isn’t denomination-specific, it’s not an encouraging number for Catholic parents and teachers who want their kids and their students to remain connected to their faith.

In this blog post, Jennifer Janus highlights what some Monarch Alumni have to say on the matter and what they are personally doing to help make faith “stick.”

Creating connections

Saint Mary’s alumna Danielle Zuccaro (class of ’08) is working to help Catholic high school students buck the trend by helping them establish a network of faithful friends before they set foot on their college campuses for freshman year.

Zuccaro wants young people to see their faith as a beautiful treasure they want to nurture, protect and share. She wants to help them form friendships with other students who want to stay connected to their faith so that they are supported from the beginning of college and don’t feel alone.

For Danny Pellei, a Saint Mary’s class of 2016 who is now a junior at the University of Virginia, plugging in to the campus Catholic community has been a source of friendship and faith-building.

Danny is involved with Catholic campus ministry at U.Va. and has participated in a number of Catholic service camps and Catholic college conferences where he’s met hundreds of other faith- and spirit-filled young people.

“My faith has given me a purpose and identity in a world that loves artificial experiences and images,” Danny said. “My faith has given me peace during times when I’m struggling physically and emotionally.”

Higher ground

Michael Zuccaro, Danielle’s brother, is also an SMCS class of 2016 grad. Michael is a junior at Ohio State University and is involved with campus ministry there, as well as attending Sunday Mass and daily Mass a few times a week.

“It is virtually impossible to get through college without having a personal relationship with God,” Michael said. “There are too many vices, distractions and too much stress that is constantly overstimulating. Having faith in God keeps me grounded in the things that matter.”

Alicia Hudalla is a 2010 Saint Mary’s grad who played basketball at University of Richmond. She is now completing physician assistant school at James Madison University. Alicia said: “There is no greater teacher than adversity.” She cited her faith, friends and family as integral supports that have helped her get through times of “loneliness, confusion, frustration and anger” during her life, and who continue to help her now.

“My friends and my family have been an amazing support system, but there have been moments where I have … not wanted to put my own adversity on someone else,” she said. “That is where I leaned on my faith and relied on greater understanding.”

“By releasing those feelings to God, I was able to feel a little bit lighter and was able to keep moving forward,” shared Hudalla.

Surrounded by faith

Jack Harenchar is a Saint Mary’s class of 2018 grad who is now a freshman at the University of Notre Dame. Jack said: “Faith is important for me because it serves as a rock in a tumultuous world. When things are stressful or may be going wrong, I can always find solace in prayer and community in fellow Catholics and the church. To me, my faith means support, security and comfort.”

As Notre Dame is a university founded and run by the Congregation of the Holy Cross, the faith opportunities there are – as Jack said – “boundless.” Students are able to attend Mass each weekend in every dorm or in the main basilica. Going to Mass there can be as easy as walking downstairs from your dorm room, even in pajamas.

Jack said the University of Notre Dame student population is 82% Catholic – and while it in no way discriminates against students who aren’t Catholic, it helps those who are Catholic strengthen their faith because they’re surrounded by others who share their same faith practice.

“Faith is a big aspect of the Notre Dame experience,” Jack said. Students are required to take two theology classes during their time at school, and the campus ministry is one of the biggest groups at the University.

Tumultuous time

Alice Joss, an SMCS class of 2019 grad – now a Godwin senior — who will be heading to college in the fall, said that she thinks some of her peers may have drifted away because young peoples’ lives are busier and more stressful in high school than they were in elementary and middle school, and because there are faith-centric fewer activities for teens available.

Staś Schoenborn is a Saint Mary’s 2018 grad who’s now a freshman at William & Mary. He said he thinks sometimes his peers drift away because they “were either forced to follow what the family preached,” or “never had a solid foundation.”

Some who may have had some religious affiliation go to college and “bombarded with multiple ideas and persuasions, … pick whatever fit their needs.” Staś attends Mass and finds prayer and the daily practice of thanking God for “small good things” help him “find truth.” But he thinks more liveliness and agency at Mass might encourage deeper connection among his peers.

Alice has chosen to stay involved during high school by participating in and volunteering to help with Youth Faith Formation at Saint Mary’s on Sunday afternoons. She also attended the One Bread One Cup conference at St. Meinrad Archabbey in Indiana last summer, an experience she said was life-changing for her.

“Practicing my faith is very important to me,” Alice said. “When I pray daily, and practice my faith, I feel calmer and less anxious. I one hundred percent want my faith to be a part of my college life.”

Five faith-filled adults

Laura Muller Stapleton graduated from Saint Mary’s in 2005. She’s now coordinator of Christian formation at St. Mary’s Parish. Laura believes adults can help.

“If a teen has five faith-filled adults, beyond his parents, who know him, love him and are invested in him, he is more likely to hang on to his faith,” she said.

For Laura, a niche within the church community as part of church choir and music ministry has been key to her continued connection. She was in St. Mary’s choir during her first two years of college, while she worked and earned her associates degree while living at home.

She got involved with music ministry as well with the church attached to her college at Longwood. And when she returned to the Richmond area, she found a home in music ministry at St. Michael’s parish, as well as through cantoring at St. Mary’s.

“My gifts were welcomed and encouraged,” she said. “From that firm footing, everything else sprang.”

Call them by name

Laura said that families, teachers and other caring adults can encourage young peoples’ faith by showing interest in and support for them.

“Ask them frequently: ‘How can I pray for you today?’ she said. “Ask them about their highs and lows, or what’s something good that happened, or what’s something they are looking forward to.

“Remember what’s important to them,” Laura said. “Ask them about their stuff. Call them by name.”

Showing the way

Jackie Lee Deinhammer is a 2019 graduate of Christopher Newport University who majored in philosophy and theology with a minor in pre-seminary studies. She’s the daughter of Saint Mary’s Elementary French and Spanish teacher Kathy Lee and has volunteered time as a confirmation sponsor and helped with confirmation classes at St. Mary’s.

“I think it is vital for young people to remain connected to their faith as it is the most important relationship in their life,” Jackie said.

She challenges mothers, fathers, teachers, and everyone connected to young adults to live their faith in a way that models for young people how to be.

“If the faith isn’t something real and lived in a way that extends past Sunday and praying before meals, then how are young people ever supposed to get the impression – let alone a deeper understanding – that this faith matters, that it is unique and wonderful and practical, and life-giving?” Jackie said.

“We have to show the young people that … we care about the faith that we’re telling them to care about,” she said. “If you show them what a prayer life looks like, then when you ask them to have one, that doesn’t seem foreign. What we fill ourselves with, we are more likely to pass on.”

Facilitate faith

Jackie talked about how she thinks the drift issue starts long before young adults get to high school. What are additional ways to help?

Involving young people and getting involved with them, challenging them to do hard things, treating them with respect at all times and praying for them are some suggestions from Jackie.

Jack Harenchar reiterated the importance of what The Associates of St. John Bosco is trying to do. “If a teen can find a group of people to go to Mass with, they will be more likely to go because they’ll recognize that they’re not alone,” he said. “If parents can help connect children to others with whom they can share their faith, it will help.”

Try to make it easy

Jennifer Joss, a Saint Mary’s parent and parishioner who graduated from the University of Notre Dame, thinks college Catholic parishes and campus ministries should do all they can to make students feel welcome immediately. She also thinks parents can help their kids stay close to their faith after high school in a couple of simple ways.

“Parents can help their kids find other Catholics on campus – help them to find the church and the campus ministry building and connect them with the people around campus who want to support them,” Jennifer said.

Teach them different ways to pray, she said. Make sure they have a Bible with them so they can read scripture. Make sure they have a rosary.

“I think faith should be easily accessible,” Jennifer said. “The easier it is for our kids to access it, the easier it will be for them to follow through.”

FAITH: A CLOSER LOOK

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 15:29:00 GMT

This week at Ash Wednesday mass , Father Mike likened the season of Lent to a magnifying mirror. If we choose to do so, we can use Lent as a time to slow down and focus on three ancient and holy practices: prayer, fasting and almsgiving. During Lent, these three pillars come together to form a strong spiritual mirror that helps us to see our lives more honestly and love each other in the way that Jesus teaches us to love.

Simply stated, by consuming less and praying more, we have more to share with others.

As we embark on our Lenten journey together, may we be inspired by the prayerful paths our students and teachers have walked in the days and weeks leading up to Lent. Below we have highlighted just a few of the events that have taken place in our school and church community.

Diocesan Youth Conference & College Campus Ministry Summit

The theme of this year’s Conference and Summit was, “From the Rising of the Sun to its Setting” a metaphor for God’s constant presence in our busy lives. As seen in the photos below, may Saint Mary’s students and alumni were present at the concurrent events. You can read more about their activities in a feature article in this week’s edition of The Catholic Virginian.

Faculty Faith Formation, Part I

Last Thursday afternoon, as students departed for an early release, our teachers gathered to share an afternoon of prayer and reflection with Father Mike. In addition to group activities, teachers were paired with prayer partners for more in-depth discussions. We were blessed with beautiful weather which also allowed for some outdoor time together.

Although last week was the first of a two-part formation, it wasn’t the first Faith journey offered this school year. Many teachers also participated in a 33-day Consecration to Mary prayer journey last fall.

Faculty Faith Formation, Part II

During this year of Eucharistic Revival, the bishops of the United States have asked all parish communities to undertake a variety of efforts to renew and deepen our experience of the Presence of Christ in the gift of the Eucharist.

Next month on March 9th, our teachers will join an audience of parish leaders, clergy, educators and staff members from across the Diocese to learn from guest speaker, Father Paul Shelton, who will share a spiritual and theological message designed to energize us during this Eucharistic Revival.

Fr. Paul Shelton, S.J., is one of 50 priests from around the United States who has been chosen by the USCCB to be an official Eucharistic Preacher during the National Eucharistic Revival. Fr. Shelton is the provincial assistant for vocations for the Midwest Jesuits.

In addition to his work in vocations, Fr. Shelton serves as the provincial delegate for World Youth Day Magis 2023 in Portugal. Before his current assignments, Fr. Shelton worked in secondary education at Saint Ignatius High School in Cleveland from 2015-2020. Fr. Shelton holds 3 master’s degrees (organizational behavior, theology, and philosophy) and a licentiate in sacred theology with an emphasis in moral theology from Boston College.

HOW DOES SHE DO IT?

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 18:10:00 GMT

Beth Murray is a force. That force has a name. That force is LOVE. Last week, Beth’s colleagues loved her back by selecting her as the SMCS honoree to represent Saint Mary’s at the Diocesan Excellence in Catholic Education Awards in late April.

If you know Mrs. Murray you will not be surprised that she spent Valentine’s Day at Saint Mary’s rocking a glittery red heart headband bopper as she roamed the hallways popping in and out of classrooms, pausing to give hugs along the way. That’s just how Mrs. Murray rolls. She does things 200 percent or not at all. And most importantly, she does them with love.

No matter your age, when you walk away from an interaction with Mrs. Murray, you feel like you have just been given a gold star for merely existing. If you’re a student, you might even walk away with an inspirational sticker to help you remember just how loved you are.

Which brings us back to our initial question — How does Beth Murray sustain such incredible levels of love, passion and energy in her life’s work? Read on for some insight below!

Q: You recently attended the SAIS (South Association of Independent Schools) Conference in Nashville. What inspired you to attend and why was it so important that you not attend alone?

A: Our colleagues at St. Bridget attended the SAIS Conference last year and invited one of the keynote speakers to Richmond last Fall for a joint professional development session. It was such a powerful experience that I knew I wanted Saint Mary’s to attend this year. I’m always adamant about not being the sole keeper of information, so I was really intentional about having Mrs. Newsome attend with me. It was an incredible learning opportunity for both of us.

Q: Can you give a brief overview of the conference and its theme?

A: The topics all tied back to the importance of supporting all students in developing their Executive Functioning Skills. I especially enjoyed sessions led by Peggy Campbell-Rush ; so much so that I have booked her to come to Saint Mary’s on October 9th of this year to address our community. The way she explains basic neuroscience and the need for students from JK through grade 12 to explicitly learn how to advocate for their needs so that they can learn and thrive is so practical and engaging. As a support to both students and teachers, I am eager to bring greater awareness to executive function and how it impacts our students throughout their schooling and into their adult lives.

Q: Aside from your trip to Nashville, what else has “filled your cup” lately and made you so enthusiastic about the work you do at Saint Mary’s?

A: I’m really excited about everything that we have planned for Read Across America Week (February 27 – March 3). I’ve had so much fun being a part of the committee and working on some WILD surprises for our students and families in ECDC, Elementary and Middle School. I’m passionate about reading and growing students who love to read!

MONARCH CHEER: THEN & NOW

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Once a St. Mary’s Cheerleader herself, Jessica Webber is a proud mom to three current students–Logan, James and Bryn. This school year, Mrs. Webber took a trip down memory lane as she signed up her youngest, Bryn, to join the newly formed Cheerleading Team.

Now a weekly helper at practices and games with the squad’s littlest members, Coach Webber continues to cheer for her beloved Monarchs from the very same sidelines she graced in the early 1990’s!

Over Christmas break, Mrs. Webber managed to track down some of her old Cheer photos to share with team members and coaches. Check out some of her snaps below along with portraits of some of this year’s participants who have helped inspire crowd participation and pride throughout a very successful Monarch Basketball season.

THEN: A TIME HOP TO THE EARLY 90’S

NOW: MRS. WEBBER WITH DAUGHTER, BRYN

SELECT SMILES FROM THIS YEAR’S 40 MEMBER SQUAD

ALBUM: TIME FLIES

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 15:21:00 GMT

We have had 100 days of fun at Saint Mary’s marked by our annual parade of centenarian Kindergarteners–some of whom paused for a few photos with their “younger” siblings in our elementary and middle schools!

ALBUM: #CSW23 IN REVIEW

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 14:53:00 GMT

We’re feeling full of gratitude to everyone who helped to make the 2023 edition of Catholic Schools Week at Saint Mary’s a wonderful experience for all. In addition to CSW theme days, we also had a great Chili Cook-Off event, hosted a well-attended Open House for prospective students and celebrated play-off wins in Basketball. The photos below are just a glimpse into the merriment and learning we shared!

ALBUM: DRESS LIKE A TEACHER 2023

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 22:56:00 GMT

It’s Catholic Schools Week at Saint Mary’s and we kicked off the school week with a perennial favorite–Dress Like A Teacher TAG Day! Day One at Saint Mary’s was dedicated to recognizing our amazing Faculty, Staff and Volunteers. This meant that in addition to dress-up antics, our teachers were treated to a delicious luncheon provided by parent volunteers and served up by our PTO Officers.

Why SMCS? Open House this Sunday!

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 21:46:00 GMT

If you read the news, you know that teachers have been leaving schools in record numbers; however, across the nation Catholic Schools have remained strong and even thrived despite the drop in professionals choosing teaching as their life’s calling.

At Saint Mary’s we know that a strong faculty has always been central to delivering on our mission to grow students’ faith, wisdom and knowledge in a challenging academic environment, so in the days leading up to our JK-8th Grade Open House and the official start of Catholic Schools Week, we asked our teachers why they chose to make Saint Mary’s their work home–and for some of them, SMCS is also where they chose to educate their own children.

Check out their insightful, heartwarming and sometimes surprising answers below!

WHAT’S NEXT? CSW 2023

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 15:06:00 GMT

If you are new to Catholic Schools, get ready for a week full of Monarch Pride, Community Service and Celebration!

This flyer is a great resource that outlines major activities day-by-day. Grade level teachers, PTO Room Parents and Weekly Reminder emails will keep you informed on other happenings as festivities approach.

Throughout the Catholic Schools Week we will conduct a charitable service campaign and classroom doors will be decorated to reflect the nationwide CSW theme, “Faith. Excellence. Service.” Additional highlights are below:

Congrats to this year’s CSW Door Décor Winners!

UPDATE: WHOLE SCHOOL COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT SELECTED!

We will again support our friends at CARITAS by helping to assemble Clean Home Buckets for their rapid rehousing programs. Each grade will help up to 30 families in need by contributing the following items:

ALBUM: Christmas in the Air

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 17:51:00 GMT

From themed class parties and a special School Mass to goat visits and an Advent Prayer Service, this week was full of SMCS traditions old and new signaling Christmas is almost here!

CLASSROOM SPELLING BEE WINNERS

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 16:15:00 GMT

4th-8th grade classroom winners will go on to the school-wide Spelling Bee on Friday, January 20th.

THIRD GRADE WINNERS

3-O: Katie R., Julia H., Lucas C. and Dani B.

3-T: Victoria V., Bella G., Lilly C. and Camilla V.

FOURTH GRADE WINNERS

4-C: Grace R.

4-T: Isabelle H.

FIFTH GRADE WINNERS

5-B: Caroline M.

5-D: Guiliana B.

5-M: Gigi H. and Ariel C.

SIXTH GRADE WINNERS

6-1: Blake B.

6-2: Leo W.

SEVENTH GRADE WINNERS

7-1: George F.

7-2: Matthew V.

EIGHTH GRADE WINNERS

8-1: James O.

8-2: Luke L.

ALBUM: VOICES OF CHRISTMAS

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 22:30:00 GMT

ALBUM: HIP HOP HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 20:23:00 GMT

Mr. Hess joked that our Kindergarten Thanksgiving Program was as popular as Taylor Swift tickets and he had good reason…Mrs. Carpenter and Mrs. Southworth really prepared their students to deliver a memorable show!

It was a packed house and the performers delighted their audience with wiggles, gobbles and even some hip hop groovy moves! In addition to some traditional favorites, the students also performed several songs in French thanks to lots of hard work with Madame Lee.

Happy Thanksgiving, Mighty Monarchs! We hope you have a restful break surrounded by family, friends and turkey.

A Monarch in Maynooth

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 16:20:00 GMT

Last month, Mrs. Janus caught up with Hannah Lyons (SMCS ’18) who shared the following update from her college experience at Maynooth University in Ireland.

I made fast friends with two of the girls I am living with! They share my adventurous spirit –both doing their full degree away from home just like I am)– and we took a little day long train trip to Sligo the weekend before our classes started.

It was a wonderfully Irish town with cobble streets, crumbling churches, craggy beaches, and live music. It was so ridiculously easy to travel from one coast to the other: only a cheap, three-hour train ride! I knew it was going to be easy to travel around over here, but this little trip gave me so much inspiration for all the places I can go this year.

A trip to Scotland may or may not be in the works for next month!

I have completed two full weeks of classes now. They could not have gone better. My first class is English 101 at noon on Monday. It was in the largest lecture theatre on campus seating around 500 people! One might think one would feel lost in the sea of people, but I was invigorated by being surrounded by that many like-minded people. For those large classes I, as an arts degree student, have weekly or bi-weekly tutorials that meet in much smaller groups of 15 to 20 to discuss the lectures and material for the week.

I am also taking a history course discussing different empires’ effects on globalization, a geography 101 course, and another history course covering how historians practice history in different ways. My double history courses technically make me a history major, which has been a blast. This does mean that between English and history, each week I have several dozen pages of readings to do, which has been quite the task in and of itself. However, my school day lends perfectly to a quiet morning of reading because I do not have any classes before 12 noon.

I could not be more excited!

>> Read Hannah’s letter to St. Mary’s in its entirety in the Fall 2022 edition of the Monarch Messenger Alumni newsletter.

CHRISTMAS PROGRAM DETAILS

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 14:17:00 GMT

The Saint Mary’s Catholic School 2022 Christmas Program will take place on Thursday evening, December 1st. Students in our school choir along with students in grades JK, 1, 3, 5 and 7 will be performing songs of the season alongside a reenactment of the Nativity Story.

If you have any questions about this event, please contact our Music teacher, Danielle Moretti .

Performance Arrival & Timing

Please plan to drop your student off at 6:30pm in the front entrance so they may go to their classrooms and line up. Please take all jackets and belongings with you into the church so that the students do not need to worry about carrying them.

The program begins at 7:00pm and should be about one hour long.

Student Dress Code

General Dress: Please, no blinking lights or silly hats as the evening’s performance is of a more serious nature.

Girls : Dresses, skirts or slacks and a nice top in the following colors: red, green, white, black, silver or gold.

Dress and skirt length must be appropriate for tag day dress code; tights are recommended.

Please no jeans and no leggings as pants (underneath a dress or skirt is OK). Shoe heels may not be higher than 1 inch.

Boys : Long formal pants must be worn (uniform pants are fine). Please no jeans or shorts. Boys should wear the same color scheme on top as girls (red, green, white, black, silver or gold) such as a button-up dress shirt or collared shirt with a nice sweater. Ties are optional.

Uniform sneakers are fine as long as they are clean and in good shape. Other more formal footwear is preferred, if possible.

ALBUM: Saints Day Parade

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 18:50:00 GMT

The Saints Day Tradition returned in all its glory this week as students in JK through 8th grade paraded through the school and out into the back parking lot where they were met by family and members of the parish community — some of whom joined the parade as it made its way to our neighbors at Saint Mary’s Woods!

ALBUM: GO FORTH! 5K & FUN RUN

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 15:52:00 GMT

Many thanks to Agata Schoenborn for these beautiful shots of the weekend’s 5K & Kids’ Fun Run at Deep Run Park. We are so grateful to all participants, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s edition one to remember for the entire Saint Mary’s community!

Congrats to our Division Winners:

Kids Fun Run

K & Younger: 1st place – Mary A. & Leo F.

Elementary: 1st place – Patrick C. & Maddie M.

Go Forth! 5K

Elementary: 1st place – Grace A. & Liam H.

Middle School: 1st place – Ryan B. & Michael C.

High School: 1st place – Alex C.

Open Division: 1st place – Lindsay A. & Patrick L.

Stroller Division: 1st place – Nick & Sam A.

ALBUM: Pumpkin Book Reports

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 17:22:00 GMT

This year’s second graders yielded a bumper crop! Enjoy the photos below that reflect students’ favorite characters and a mighty dose of Monarch creativity. Bravo, young book lovers!

ALBUM: Golden Ticket

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 13:48:00 GMT

Everyone who attended this year’s Trunk or Treat would agree: It was The Golden Ticket Event of the Spooky Season! And best of all, it was FREE thanks to our PTO. No Golden Ticket required, but those sweet treats sure were tasty…

Many thanks to all who volunteered, donated and attended this beloved annual Saint Mary’s tradition.

ALBUM: Spooky Season Blessings

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 16:12:00 GMT

Making Jack O’ Lanterns, Spooky Math, sharing Saints Projects, Middle School Student Service at School Mass, adding to the Great Gratitude Pumpkin Patch, Singing Spooky Songs, creating Dia de los Muertos ofrendas and gathering at events like Trunk or Treat and this weekend’s Go Forth! 5K…There are so many blessings to be counted during the Spooky Season here at Saint Mary’s Catholic School!

HOUSING, HEALING & HOPE

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 15:55:00 GMT

Beginning next week, students in all classrooms will be invited to bring in donations to support Liberation Veteran Services , a local charity serving homeless Veterans in the greater Richmond region

As we approach Veterans Day, teachers will also work with students to write messages of hope and support on custom postcards that will be distributed along with donated items.

Many thanks to Mrs. Lee and Mr. Tlusty for spearheading this new school-wide service project.

Liberation Veteran Services “Wish List” for St. Mary’s Catholic School

Paper Products:
Paper Towels
Toilet Tissue
Paper Plates/Napkins/ Plastic forks, knives, spoons
Facial Tissues

Personal Hygiene Supplies:
Men’s Deodorant
Razors – double bladed
Shampoo
Body Wash, Bar Soap
Q-Tips
Toothpaste/Toothbrushes

Cleaning Supplies:
Dishwasher detergent
Laundry Detergent
Bleach
Dish Detergent
Sponges
Disposable Cleaning Cloths
Liquid Hand Soap
Spray Cleansers with Bleach
Anti-bacteria wipes
Mop Heads
Pine Sol

Misc:
55 Gallon Trash Bags (Heavy Duty)
Pillowcases, Bed Pillows

Monarchs Shine in Fall Sports

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 12:40:00 GMT

FROM THE AD’S DESK

Fall sports have been fantastic! We had almost 90 children playing soccer in JK-4th grade. Our 7th-8th grade flag football teams were runners-up in the fall league. Our 5th-6th grade flag football team improved each week and lost in the playoffs, but played their best game.

In cross country, Lee Lee H. has been undefeated in all her races. Matthew and Michael C. have been consistently in the top 5 in our races while Peyton L. won an elementary race at Our Lady of Lourdes.

Middle School Girls’ volleyball has only lost one match all year and won a nail-biter last night in three sets against Steward School.

Boys’ 5th-8th soccer team will play Saint Bridget for the Catholic Schools Championship on Wednesday at River City Sports Complex at 4:30.

Way to go, Mighty Monarchs!

ALBUM: Spirited!

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 21:27:00 GMT

Students witnessed two different types of Monarch milestones this week. Some were of the Spooky Season variety: First Grade’s annual trip to the pumpkin patch and Kindergarten’s Fall Festival.

The second type was a “hard hat” tour of our nearly complete Parish Hall made possible through the Built On Faith capital campaign. Once complete, the renovated structure will serve as gymnasium, cafeteria and worship space. This incredible milestone represents nearly $2 million dollars invested by Saint Mary’s community in our shared future together.

Whatever spirit moves you–spirits of the season, Monarch spirit or the Holy Spirit–we hope you are full of joy as you envision the Monarch milestones still to come this school year!

PTO: Tiny Saints Fundraiser

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 10:38:00 GMT

Tiny Saints company is hosting a huge fundraiser for schools during the month of October! With more than 200 saint charms and keychains at just $5.00 each, Tiny Saints offers simple, affordable gifts and collectibles that are guaranteed to bring a smile. Supporters can enjoy shopping for their favorite saints, patron saints, and even learn about others for the first time while browsing. This could be a fun resource for Saint projects!

Choose from charms, keychains, lanyards, rosaries and more while supporting our school.

From October 1-31, 2022, all shoppers at www.tinysaints.com will have the option to select Saint Mary’s Catholic School from a dropdown menu during checkout to support our fundraiser.

ALBUM: PINK OUT 2022

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 22:48:00 GMT

Mrs. Gilley’s JK students started the day with some quiet time on the carpet listening to stories about Thelma the Pink Unicorn. While there were no pink unicorn sightings elsewhere in the school, support for the PTO’s charitable beneficiary, Reach Out for Life, was on full display among students, faculty and staff alike!

REFLECTION: BILINGUAL PRAYER SERVICE

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 22:25:00 GMT

Below is a transcript of the reflection offered by our IB Middle Years Programme Spanish teacher, Señora Bordas.

Today, as a school community, we are honoring Hispanic Heritage Month with a bilingual prayer service. Some of you may ask, Why are we having a prayer service in Spanish? What is the importance of honoring Hispanic heritage outside of what we study in Spanish class?

However, as a Catholic School it is an important part of our faith and appropriate for us to pause and reflect on the history of our larger faith community. I would like to read pieces of an article written by Father Anthony Marques, rector at The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in downtown Richmond.

By Father Anthony Marques

September 7, 2020

It may come as a surprise that the origins of Christianity in Virginia are Catholic and Spanish-speaking, not Protestant and English-speaking. The first permanent English settlement in North America was founded at Jamestown in 1607. But 37 years earlier, Spanish Jesuits had already come to the same land. Their missionary expedition, launched over 450 years ago, brought the Catholic faith to the territory that became Virginia.

At the time of the Jesuits’ arrival, the European colonization of what became the continental United States was up for grabs. Spain, France, and England vied to establish profitable colonies in North America and to spread their religion (Catholic or Protestant). Spain arrived first, calling that territory La Florida because it was discovered during the “flowering” of Easter (in Spanish: pascua florida ).

Spanish colonists established various settlements along the east coast of North America, including the first permanent European one at St. Augustine, Florida. Around this time, the Huguenots (French Protestants) sought, unsuccessfully, to plant colonies for themselves in the same territory and occasionally clashed with the Spanish there.

After the Huguenot colonists abandoned their settlement at Charlesfort (1562–1563), located on present-day Parris Island, South Carolina, the Spanish founded Santa Elena (St. Helena) on the same site. Spain then became interested in settling the land north of Santa Elena. This territory eventually became Virginia and was inhabited by indigenous inhabitants called “Ajacán”. The Jesuit expedition to Ajacán left Santa Elena in 1570.

There were nine missionaries. The two priests were Father Juan Baptista de Segura and Father Luis Francisco de Quirós. Father Segura insisted there would be no military component to the expedition which was contrary to Spanish practice. Father Segura did not want soldiers to accompany the missionaries.

The Jesuits’ guide was a member of the Chiskiack tribe of Ajacán: Don Luis de Velasco. Although he belonged to a ruling family, he had willingly joined a Spanish fleet a decade earlier. Don Luis then crossed the Atlantic to Spain, where he was educated and met King Philip II. He returned to North America and eventually guided the Jesuit missionaries to his homeland.

In September 1570, Don Luis and the Jesuits disembarked near present-day Williamsburg. The missionaries built a shelter farther inland, and for the next five months, they struggled to subsist—the area was gripped by famine—while trying to convert the local inhabitants. There is one recorded baptism: that of Don Luis’s younger brother.

Spain gave up trying to settle Ajacán, and in the following decades, it abandoned most of North America. Spain chose to focus instead on Central and South America. England then began its advance upon North America, beginning with the failed settlement of Roanoke Island off the coast of present-day North Carolina and then successfully at Jamestown.

Clues about the earlier Spanish presence lingered in the territory England called “Virginia” and circulated among the Jamestown colonists. There is plausible speculation that Don Luis was the same person as Opechancanough, a tribal chief and the brother or cousin of Powhatan, another tribal chief whose daughter, Pocahontas, married John Rolfe of Jamestown. Opechancanough led two attacks against the Jamestown settlers before they captured and killed him.

The memory of the eight Jesuit martyrs of Virginia has endured to the present day. In 2002, Walter F. Sullivan, the eleventh bishop of Richmond, initiated the cause of their canonization. This cause was later transferred to the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee, which is seeking the canonization of all the martyrs of La Florida .”

I hope this brief history on the Catholic faith reaching Virginia has helped you have a greater understanding of the rich Hispanic Heritage that has shaped our faith.

ALBUM: Students Honor Hispanic Heritage

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 22:08:00 GMT

Whether through dance, prayer, song or food, our Mighty Monarchs shared many special moments this week honoring Hispanic Heritage in our community and nation. We’ve highlighted some of our favorite festivities below!

Above: Third grader, Karisia M. and her mother (above left) attended a celebration of National Hispanic Heritage month with Governor Youngkin at the Governor’s Mansion on Tuesday. She and her fellow dancers from the Latin Ballet of Virginia performed a Flamenco Dance.

Below: Students participate in a Bilingual Prayer Service on Wednesday morning. The closing song was an upbeat hymn the students had practiced in advance with Mrs. Moretti in music class.

Above: On Monday, volunteer families and faculty members prepared an incredible Hispanic Heritage Month Luncheon for faculty and staff who attended a full day of professional development training.

Below: On Thursday, students in all grades were treated to traditional Hispanic desserts prepared and donated by families in our school community. Students in Mr. Caulder’s JK class also made maracas before feasting on churro snacks!

ALBUM: Inquirers Crowned

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 14:34:00 GMT

Advice from an IB Grad: Try Everything!

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 13:21:00 GMT

Alumni Spotlight: Lauren Puchalski, SMCS ’09

One could say that Saint Mary’s alumni are everywhere, but here’s a new point to consider: Saint Mary’s 2009 graduate Lauren Puchalski might be 45,000 feet above you right now.

Lauren is a charter pilot, and she’s thriving in a career she’d at one time never even considered. Her path has been a study in self awareness, bravery and versatility – traits she must tap into as she adjusts to situations she encounters on the fly – and that will benefit her wherever she lands.

Lauren attended Saint Mary’s from first through eighth grades. She went on to Saint Gertrude for high school and then to Virginia Tech. Her college career started with a plan to be a dentist, and as such Lauren majored in human nutrition, foods and exercise.

IB Learning Never Stops

As a good International Baccalaureate Programme learner, Lauren was open-minded, curious and risk-taking. After working for almost seven years in a pharmacy during and prior to college and observing interactions between insurance companies and health care providers, she decided that she wanted to reconsider her career path.

However, the idea of the financial cost of switching gears and starting flight school created a lot of stress, Lauren said. She had come so far in her education thinking dentistry was her goal that changing course was an extremely difficult decision.

“The only thing I’d ever done with my life was go to school,” Lauren said, “so the gravity of this decision was huge!”

Risk Taking

As the end of senior year approached, Lauren decided to apply for a job to be a flight attendant. Then she had an epiphany: Why don’t I just fly the plane?

“I went to the Blacksburg airport – I just showed up – and asked if there were any opportunities for me to take a flying lesson,” she said. “There was an instructor willing to take me up that afternoon, so I went flying that day when I finished up classes.

“I’m big into hiking and backpacking, and as we were flying that first time we saw the Appalachian Trail on the ridgeline below us,” Lauren said. “I knew a lot of the landmarks we were seeing.”

The instructor offered to keep flying if Lauren would continue to point out landmarks so he could learn them from the air, so she got to fly with him for more than two hours.

“I thought: This is the best office ever!” she said. “I was completely obsessed.”

She graduated from Virginia Tech and went straight to ATP flight school at the Richmond Airport. She got certifications to be a private pilot as well as a flight instructor, and then taught as a flight instructor at ATP and at the Chesterfield airport for two years.

Charting Her Future

Today Lauren is a charter pilot for a company called Martinair, based in Richmond. Martinair flies private charters and med-evac flights. Lauren pilots their Learjet and Beechjet aircrafts.

Lauren said the type of flying she does is different from being a pilot for an airline. Every day and every week are different.

She has to be within an hour’s reach of the airport unless she’s on vacation. Some weeks she might fly 30 hours, some weeks she’ll fly fewer. She’s director of training for her company so some weeks she’s allowed more time at her desk to administer that role, making sure all the company’s pilots are up to date on their training.

During one memorable job she flew clients to Montana and got to hang out there for five days till she flew them back to Richmond. Some days she flies from Richmond to Charlottesville to Dulles in D.C. to Philadelphia, all in one day.

She’s enjoyed flying over the Hudson River corridor in New York, turning around the Statue of Liberty. She’s also liked flying to the First Flight airport in Kitty Hawk, N.C., where the Wright Brothers made their historic flight. When she has clients who need to land there she can sometimes spend a day at the nearby beach till it’s time to return to Richmond.

How does one muster the bravery to seek a career that requires defying gravity on a daily basis?

Lauren said she doesn’t consider herself instinctively brave – though she’s always been an adventure seeker. She credits her parents with rearing her around lots of different vehicles: ATVs, boats and jet skis – so that she’s comfortable maneuvering machines.

She also said that flight school – and flying – are mentally and physically challenging.

“There’s so much training,” she said. “It’s intimidating. You think: can I do this? There are a lot of people who flunk out of flight school because they can’t do it, but I was always pretty good at school. This is what set me up to be so successful as a pilot.”

We weren’t born with wings so to learn to be a pilot, our brains have to tap into something we’ve never exercised before, Lauren said. Studying and preparing are how I overcame every hurdle.

Foundational Learning at SMCS

Lauren said that Saint Mary’s gave her a great foundation of study skills, community, confidence and integrity.

“I definitely think Saint Mary’s Catholic School set me up for success,” she said. “I graduated eighth grade with 35 kids who are still like my brothers and sisters. I really feel like I know exactly who I am and I am confident in my decision making. That comes a lot from the Saint Mary’s community.”

Lauren cited her teachers as being integral to her success, as well as the traditions set forth at Saint Mary’s. Mrs. Gigi Dyer, who retired in 2021, taught Lauren math at Saint Mary’s, and helped ensure that Lauren was well prepared – there’s a lot of math involved in aviation, Lauren said.

Likewise, Lauren credited Father Renninger and her SMCS teachers – particularly Mrs. Nan Laux – for teaching her valuable life lessons and to lead with integrity.

In her free time, Lauren loves to be outside – backpacking, camping, snowboarding. She played a lot of recreational sports growing up and still likes to be active. She loves music and general aviation, and really enjoyed her time as a flight instructor, she said.

What advice does Lauren have for the Saint Mary’s students of today?

“Work hard,” she said. “You’re setting yourself up for your future. I’ve never been mad at myself for investing time in my studies and in my career.

NOTE: This blog post was written and submitted by SMCS staff member, Jennifer Janus.

FAITH FORMATION REGISTRATION

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 16:05:00 GMT

Requirements

Baptized children in second grade and above are invited to prepare for and celebrate the sacrament of Reconciliation, followed by First Eucharist. Our Bishop requires children preparing for sacraments to participate in both systematic faith formation (Catholic school religion class) and specific sacrament preparation provided by the parish.

Action Item

If you haven’t already done so, please register online for this preparation here . NOTE: When prompted, please select “Attends Catholic School” in the Elementary Program choice, then answer “YES” for sacrament prep.

Save the Dates

Parent Orientation for First Eucharist and Reconciliation is offered on two dates (choose one):

Books, materials, and expectations will be shared during that time for no more than an hour. Children are not expected to attend. You need only attend one orientation.

A series of five family Saturday workshops are held from January through April at two timeframes. You and your child are expected to attend all five. Dates for the workshops and reconciliation and first communion are listed on the parish website .

Questions?

Contact Laura Stapleton (Elementary Coordinator) , especially if your family is registered at another parish and plan to prepare for and receive sacraments at St. Mary’s.

FEAST OF THE ARCHANGELS (09.29.22)

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:20:00 GMT

Heavenly King, you have given us archangels to assist us during our pilgrimage on earth.

Saint Michael is our protector; we ask him to come to our aid, fight for all our loved ones, and protect us from danger.

Saint Gabriel is a messenger of the Good News; we ask him to help us clearly hear your voice and to teach us the truth.

Saint Raphael is the healing angel; we ask him to take our need for healing and that of everyone we know, lift it up to your throne of grace, and deliver back to us the gift of recovery.

Help us, O Lord, to realize more fully the reality of the archangels and their desire to serve us.

Holy angels, pray for us.

Amen

HH MONTH: CELEBRATE WITH US

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 16:39:00 GMT

Mapping our Community’s Hispanic Heritage

From now until October 15th, in addition to the activities outlined below, we want to add family names to the large map in our Middle School hallway to visually represent the Hispanic diaspora present in our Saint Mary’s community. Please share your family’s countries of origin here.

Week of October 10th Activities

Monday: Staff Luncheon (Student Holiday) – We will need help from our entire community to host a themed luncheon for our faculty and staff during their Professional Development Training Day. Sign up here to volunteer your time, donate décor, prepare a traditional meal and more!

Tuesday: Bilingual Prayer Service – Mrs. Moretti will work with students to sing Spanish songs while IB Middle Years students and teachers will share readings, intentions and reflections in both Spanish and English.

Thursday: Desserts for Students – Students in Señora Bordas’ & Señora Lee’s Spanish classes will learn about traditional food this week. All students will get a chance to taste an assortment of donated snacks and treats during lunch time! Sign up here to assist.

Friday: Family Movie Night @ Saint Mary’s Church – CANCELLED

Celebrating the Segura Initiative at Saint Mary’s Catholic School

The Segura Initiative for Children was begun by Bishop DiLorenzo in 2010. Its purpose is to increase enrollment of Latino students in Catholic schools of the Diocese of Richmond by providing tuition assistance to Hispanic families who have demonstrated financial need. In addition, this Initiative is committed to providing professional development for Catholic school communities of the Diocese to ensure that they provide innovative instructional programs that foster a comfortable, bi-lingual, Christ-centered environment for all students.

The Segura Coordinator for Saint Mary’s Catholic School is Mrs. Angela Villa .

Source: https://richmonddiocese.org/office/segura/

Hispanic Contributions & Leadership in the Catholic Church

In preparation for, and during the [USCCB’s] V Encuentro process, significant demographic research was conducted and aggregated on the presence of Latinos in the Church and in U.S. society. Some of the findings include the fact that from 1990 to 2016, the U.S. Hispanic/Latino Catholic population increased by about 13.7 million, while the overall U.S. Catholic population only increased by about 3.6 million.

This demonstrates that Hispanics have been a major driving force behind the growth of the Catholic Church in the United States over the last three decades. An additional finding was that the percentage of U.S. Hispanics/Latinos who were Catholic in 2016 was 52%, and just over half of the Catholics under age 50 were Hispanic/Latino.

Source: https://www.usccb.org/news/2020/us-bishops-chairman-hispanic-affairs-reflects-hispanic-contributions-and-leadership

History of National Hispanic Heritage Month

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.

Source: https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/about/

Dress Code Policy

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 14:53:00 GMT

As stated in the 2022-2023 Student & Parent Handbook :

The goal of the uniform policy is consistency and uniformity; therefore, all uniform pieces must be purchased from Flynn O’Hara.

It is imperative to positively represent Saint Mary’s while in uniform in public and on social media.

The administration reserves the right to make individual judgments as to the appropriateness of dress and grooming in addition to the stipulations below:

General Appearance & Uniform Guide

Students are expected to appear well kept, with shirts tucked in and shoes tied. The fit and length of shorts, skorts, kilts and jumpers should be generously sized and no more than 3 inches above the middle of the knee.

Students shall dress in an appropriate school uniform for the day’s activities.

Students shall refrain from the use of unnatural hair dye, acrylic nails, nail polish, press on tattoos or writing on hands and arms. Students shall refrain from the use of makeup.

Students shall observe the following regulations regarding jewelry: stud earrings (one per ear), watch and/or bracelet, religious necklace and a ring. Boys are not permitted to wear earrings.

Students’ hair shall be groomed and neat. Boys’ hair should not exceed the top of their eyebrows and the collar of their shirt. Boys’ hair should not exceed 1 ½ inches in height. No facial hair is permitted. Mohawks are not permitted.

Elementary

Middle School

ALBUM: Research, Design, Create & Collaborate

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 13:20:00 GMT

Students in Mrs. Morris’ fifth grade class researched, painted and wrote about planets and moon phases in their science class this month in preparation for projects they later presented in class. Already these students are preparing to successfully bridge into our IB program as sixth graders next school year.

Eighth graders in Mr. Tlusty’s technology class worked on hydroponic growing system blueprints for seeds that were recently sent to near space on a high altitude balloon from the NASA Scientific Balloon Flight Facility in Ft. Sumner, New Mexico thanks to our school’s affiliation with the Cubes in Space Program!

Our three cubes have made the journey from Richmond, to NASA Langley, to New Mexico, to space, back to Langley and back home to Richmond this week where students will conduct their grow experiments with the newly returned seeds. 3D plastics will be sent to an external lab for testing.

ALBUM: It’s Fall Y’all!

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 15:41:00 GMT

This week Father Mike’s homily started with a story about recess, we hosted a world renowned outdoor adventurer and welcomed the first day of Fall so we are feeling inspired by being outside and dreaming of some new adventures!

We also welcomed alumni and volunteers from Benedictine and Saint Gertrude who spent their annual Day of Service with us in ECDC and Elementary classrooms assisting with reading and math.

In Middle School, our IB MYP Science students flew paper airplanes with Mrs. Oliver and conducted “inquiry” themed labs on Experimental Design and Ozone Depletion with Mrs. Forkey.

IB MYP SPOTLIGHT: Trench Warfare with Socks

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 17:13:00 GMT

History literally came to life in Mr. Daley’s 7th grade classes this week. In addition to the students experiencing a tiny sliver of the intense emotion, leadership and communication required by soldiers in the first World War, they also displayed many IB Learner Traits along the way.

This month our IB students will strive to be INQUIRERS.

Inquirers develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning, and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.

ANNUAL STUDENT FEE DUE OCT. 1

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 15:25:00 GMT

Student Fees:

Families will be billed a $25 Student Fee for each child at the start of the school year through FACTS . Due October 1st of each school year, fees help to cover the following:

If there is a financial reason that prevents your family from paying this fee, please contact Mr. Hess directly via email at bhess@saintmary.org.

ALBUM: Constitution Day

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 14:41:00 GMT

Patience, unity and a willingness to seek improvement. These words were echoed in Mr. Daley’s reflection on our forefathers’ vision for our country, but also in our students’ physical efforts at forming a living flag this morning. Student leaders’ vision of a giant flag made up of our school community came together and it was a sight to behold.

Many thanks to everyone who attended our Constitution Day program as well as to all parents and family members who made sure students were dressed in red, white and blue to celebrate this special day together!

ALBUM: Happy Birthday, Blessed Mother!

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 22:04:00 GMT

How does one adequately prepare for and celebrate the birth of the Queen of Heaven?

Thankfully this week during School Mass on Wednesday, Father Mike reminded us how important it is to have confidence in what we do know as opposed to what we do not know. This reflection helped prepare us for how we would celebrate the Nativity of the Virgin Mother the very next day.

We would celebrate Her with virtuous actions, joy and bright smiles. We would celebrate Her with songs and by moving our healthy bodies outside. And finally, at the end of the day, we would honor Her in collective prayer.

That’s how we celebrate the Holy Mother at Saint Mary’s Catholic School. Today, tomorrow and always!

Note: As we celebrate the birth of the Queen of Heaven, we also solemnly acknowledge the passing of an earthly queen. Shortly after the UK announced the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II yesterday, Pope Francis sent a telegram to offer his condolences to King Charles III for the death of his mother, the UK’s longest-serving monarch.

NEW FACES & PLACES FOR 2022 – 2023

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 17:25:00 GMT

We are so excited to finally help you match some official new photos to the names of several new Faculty members and our Assistant Principal! We’ve provided a quote from each of them below to help you get to know them and why they chose to be a part of our Mighty Monarch community.

Amanda Esparza, Assistant Principal (Named Principal in July 2023)

Mrs. Esparza is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame’s Mary-Ann Remick Leadership Program in Alliance for Catholic Education. She most recently served as Academic Dean at the Benedictine Schools of Richmond. In her own words: “I was surprised by the number of faculty and staff who have children who are SMCS students and alumni. It is a great testament to how wonderful our school is!”

Dawn Slagle, Instructional Resource Teacher (Grades 5-8)

Most recent work history: For the past seven years, Mrs. Slagle served as a Student Success Teacher at Manchester High School. She worked in Chesterfield County for a total of 15 years after five years in Hanover County at the start of her career. In her own words: “I feel so blessed to be a part of the Saint Mary’s family! God has truly called me to the perfect place!”

Will Caulder, JK Teacher (veteran Monarch, new role)

Mr. Caulder served last year as the 1st Grade Instructional Assistant. He is known for his infectiously “sunny” attitude and a deep love for flaming hot Cheetos! In his own words: “Everyone has been so supportive and helpful. We have a very kind and generous staff.”

Amanda Cosby, Instructional Assistant for Kindergarten (returning Monarch)

In her own words: “I worked at Saint Mary’s from 2007-2009 as a first grade aide, and I am THRILLED to be back!” Last year Mrs. Cosby worked with exceptional education students in Powhatan County after working five years as a Dispatcher.

Nancy Hartgrove, Instructional Assistant for 1st Grade / IB MYP French Language Teacher

Mrs. Hartgrove and her family have been in Richmond for about a year. Prior to working at Saint Mary’s she homeschooled her children for 5 years. Before that, she was a music educator in both public and private schools, including Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School in Birmingham, Alabama. In her own words: “I can’t wait to see the finished construction!”

Trisha Potter, Instructional Assistant for 4th & 5th Grades

In her own words: Ms. Potter most looks forward to attending “School Mass as a community.” Prior to joining Saint Mary’s, she worked at Richmond Montessori School.

Sarah DiFazio, 5th Grade Teacher (veteran Monarch, new role)

In her own words: “I am really looking forward to getting to experience all of the joys of the Saint Mary’s community with my own class such as the Christmas Show, May Crowning and Field Day.” Last year, Mrs. DiFazio was an Instructional Assistant in 4th and 5th Grades.

Karinna Bordas, IB MYP Spanish Language Teacher

In her own words: “Everybody is kind and helpful. I love that more than one teacher has thanked me for being here. I also appreciate that Mr. Hess checks in on my classroom and asks how I am doing. Mrs. Esparza is always there too. Mr. Schaefer and Mrs. Forkey are already excellent and helpful colleagues. I am grateful to be part of a great team.” Mrs. Bordas most recently worked at Loudoun Country Day School in Leesburg as a Preschool through 5th grade Spanish Teacher.

Vicky Oliver, IB MYP Math & Science Teacher (returning Monarch)

Having previously taught at Saint Mary’s from 2012 through 2018, Mrs. Oliver returns to us as a Middle School Math and Science Teacher. She also helps coordinate aspects of school wide digital learning. She most recently taught 4th and 5th Grades at Echo Lake Elementary in Henrico County. Before her career in teaching, she was a systems engineer developing software. In her own words: “I am excited to return to Saint Mary’s and look forward to sharing my knowledge of technology to provide interactive and engaging instruction.”

Chrisopher Birkland, IB MYP Math Teacher

In his own words: “So far I have really appreciated the atmosphere and overall supportiveness of the school community.” Mr. Birkland worked in Chesterfield County prior to joining Saint Mary’s IB Middle Years Programme Faculty.

Michael Hicks, IB MYP Language Arts Teacher

Mr. Hicks comes to us from Rome, Italy, where he served as assistant principal and English Teacher at an IB, Catholic, pre-K to Grade 12 international school. He and his wife are both Virginia natives who returned stateside to be closer to family after teaching internationally for eight years. Mr. Hicks looks forward to sharing his experiences abroad as well as his faith with our community at Saint Mary’s.

ALBUM: Blazing into September

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 01:02:00 GMT

This week our students showcased their readiness to blaze into September with a clear sense of honor and purpose! In middle school they even spent some time expanding on what it means when a Monarch is ready to ROAR:

R = Respectful

O = On-Task

A = Accountable

R = Responsible

PRAYER: Honor Code Signing

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 00:19:00 GMT

Prayer by Mrs. Slifka, IB MYP Individuals & Societies Religion Teacher

Lord, I ask You to bless us with wisdom, love, and understanding for each other and give us hearts that continue to love each other and open up our minds to accepting what You want for us.

I Pray that we may increase our trust in God’s goodness and mercy. May we honor each other this year in what and how we speak to each other, as much as what we choose not to say to each other. Help us hold comments that are not loving or good.

We ask Saint Therese of Lisieux to help us pray. She said that she would spend her time in heaven doing good on earth. Please pray for us that God might help us spread goodness throughout our school.

Saint Therese, Pray for us that we, like you, may have great confidence in the loving promises of our God. Pray that we may live our lives in union with God’s plan for us, and one day see the Face of God.

Saint Therese, you were faithful to God even unto the moment of your death. Pray for us that we may be faithful to our loving God. May our lives bring peace and love to the world through faithful endurance in love for God our savior.

Loving God, you blessed St. Therese with a capacity for great love. Help us to believe in your unconditional love for each of your children. Help us share that love with each other.

I love you, Lord. Help us to love you more through actions of honor. Honor for our teachers, our parents, each other, and even ourselves!

Glory be to the Father, to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end.

Amen.

SPECIAL GUEST: Jennifer Pharr Davis

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 15:11:00 GMT

What trail will you blaze? Finding God’s purpose for your life.

It’s not everyday that a world-renowned athlete, author and speaker visits our campus, so SAVE THE DATE: Wednesday, September 21st at 6:30pm for an evening you will not soon forget!

This event is FREE for anyone in the community to attend. We simply request the courtesy of an RSVP to ensure there are enough seats for everyone to witness 14,000 miles of adventure, stories and insight.

This gathering will also serve as the Race Packet Pick-Up for Early Bird Registrants of the Go Forth! 5K presented by the Abbate Agency and Short Pump Orthodontics.

Read more about our special guest below and be sure to watch her YouTube speaker reel!

In 2011, Jennifer Pharr Davis became the overall record holder on the Appalachian Trail. By hiking 2,181 miles in 46 days – an average of 47 miles per day – she became the first female to ever set that mark.

But her journey was about more than just records or numbers; it was about endurance and faith, and most of all love. The most amazing part of this story is not found at the finish, but is discovered through the many challenges, lessons and relationships that present themselves along the trail.

Download the event flyer here .

ALBUM: Back to School 2022

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 16:44:00 GMT

PRAYER FOR STUDENTS

Lord our God,
in your wisdom and love
you surround us with the mysteries of the universe.

Send your Spirit upon these students
and fill them with your wisdom and blessings.
Grant that they may
devote themselves to their studies
and draw ever closer to you,
the source of all knowledge.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.

REFLECTION: John 2:1-12

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 14:05:00 GMT

Guest Blog by Mr. Hicks, IB MYP Language Arts Teacher

Good Morning,

Let’s take a moment to think about some of the characters in that Gospel story we just read. There’s a big wedding happening, it is a tremendous celebration. Only there was a problem for the characters in that story, wasn’t there? The hosts of the wedding ran out of things to serve to their guests. Jesus solves this problem by performing one of his very first miracles, the transformation of water into wine. But the character we’re invited to think about is not just Jesus, but Mary, his mother. Mary has just a few lines in that story: she says to Jesus “they don’t have enough wine” and then she tells the waiters “do whatever He tells you.” Meaning, follow Jesus’ instructions, and don’t worry.

Mary is a wonderful person to think about as we start a new school year. It is a new year, and I’m a new person, so I would like to introduce myself to you. My name is Mr. Hicks, and I am teaching in the Middle School this year. I’m new to this school this year, and if you have ever been new to a school, you know that it can be a bit scary. Speaking to all of you right now is a little bit scary for me, even though I’m a teacher.

And I think everyone knows what that feeling is like. You’ve all been new to something before. We’ve all worried, like the hosts of the wedding, if everything is going to work out alright. Maybe this year is your first year at St. Mary’s, like it is mine. Maybe it’s your first time in first grade, or your first days of Middle School. If you’re a teacher, maybe you’re teaching something new that you didn’t teach last year. For every student at least, the grade you have just entered is new to you.

Keep thinking about that: that all of us are about to do something new.

And as you think about that, I want to tell you another very short story about a place where I used to live, very far away, in Rome. When you think of Rome, you might think of the Colosseum, or the Vatican, or gladiators, or Julius Caesar, but I want to tell you about another place that is very special to me, and about the first time I ever went there. In Rome, there is a huge church that was built over one thousand years ago. It is called “Santa Maria Maggiore,” which in English means “Saint Mary, the Greatest.”

The very first time I lived in Rome, I wanted to go and visit this church that I had heard about. But I didn’t speak the language there. I didn’t know how the buses or the trains worked. I didn’t know anybody. Remember how I told you to think about being new to something, and what that can feel like? I was very nervous. But I wanted to visit this church. After getting lost a few times, I finally found it, in the very middle of the city. The church was huge! The floors are made of solid marble, with green, red, and white colors. The walls are made of wood and gold, and the ceiling is a huge, flat rectangle. It’s 302 feet long – that’s the length of a football field.

And in the front of the church, Santa Maria Maggiore, “Saint Mary the Greatest,” right next to the altar, your eye is drawn immediately to a golden box in a glass display case. And thankfully I could read the sign in front of it, because this was written in English. “This is the relic of the holy crib.”

Now let’s think about this – the church is named after Mary, we know a crib is a place where a baby or infant sleeps, and it’s described as holy. Think to yourself: do you have an idea of who this crib might belong to?

Well, inside this golden box is what remains today of the crib of the infant Jesus. There’s only one in the world. And it’s in his mother’s church, Santa Maria Maggiore, “Saint Mary, the Greatest.”

And when I saw this, a thought occurred to me that I had never had before, and it helped me not to be worried anymore even in this new place. The thought was: “Even Jesus was new to something, at some point.” And if he can be new to something, I can be new to something too.

Jesus was doing something new in today’s Gospel story, wasn’t he? In fact, when Mary comes to him and says, “they have no wine,” he says, “What do you want with me? My hour has not yet come.” That is surprising, isn’t it? Even Jesus is saying: “is it really time for me to start this new thing? Are you sure?”

So it’s not just Jesus who saves the day in this story, it’s Mary too.

Mary is always there for us at the beginnings of things. Mary is always there when we are in doubt. Even Jesus, who is God, gets his reassurance from Mary: as an infant, yes, but also at the beginning of his work.

Keep Mary close to your heart if you are worried this year. And here’s something that helps me:

We have that very special prayer that connects us to Mary. “Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death.”

You can ask Mary at any time: “Pray for me now.” That prayer is like whispering into her ear. In a crisis, it can even be like pulling a fire alarm.

Even Jesus in the Gospel does a version of this. He asks for Mary’s help when he says: “are you sure? Are you sure my hour has come?”

But here’s the real secret to praying that special prayer to Mary. The prayer doesn’t end after you say “Amen.”

Think about it: when you speak to someone, like a teacher or family member, they usually say something back, right? So when you whisper that prayer into Mary’s ear, after “Amen,” take a second to listen. You will hear her say something back. Not in your ears, but in your heart. What does she usually say? Well, what I usually hear in my heart is something like “you should really forgive that person,” or “just do your best,” or “be patient,” or “that person in your life needs some help, don’t they?”

These are all of the things that Jesus tells his disciples in the Gospel, they aren’t new to us. Really, everything I’ve ever heard from Mary is some version of what she says in today’s Gospel: “do whatever he says.”

So keep that special prayer in your pocket this year. Keep it especially when you are about to start something new, or you need to be brave.

And don’t forget to listen!

You will say to Mary, “pray for me now,” and she will say to you: “it’s okay, this is your time. Your hour has come… do whatever He says.”

ROARING INTO ’22-’23

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 12:14:00 GMT

If our PTO’s first community event–Pops on the Playground–is a sign of things to come, we are in for an amazing new school year!

And speaking of signs, we have you covered for Meet the Teacher Day photo opportunities and First Day of School signs. Our giant Monty cut-out and two fun Instagram frames will be available on Monday during our Orientation and Meet the Teacher events. You can download First Day of School signs to print at home here.

We even had some of your favorite Monarchs take these sign designs for a test drive this week…Check them out below!

PHOTO CREDITS: K. Botha (SMCS STAFF) & C. Carro (SMCS PTO)

UPDATED COVID GUIDANCE

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 19:00:00 GMT

DIOCESAN SCHOOL COVID GUIDANCE

Effective July 19, 2022

Ode to Summer in Photos

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Did your kids relax by the pool this summer or maybe your family hit the road? We would love to hear from you and feature photos of SMCS families in our Ode to Summer online album which we will share in our first Friday Flash e-newsletter.

Send your best shots and a short note via email to Katie Botha . Submissions may be edited for brevity and clarity. We can’t wait to see what our Mighty Monarchs have been doing with their summer break!

Check out these early submissions from recent graduate, Ella W. and rising 8th grader, Emma B.

A note from Ella & Priya’s Dad: “Ella (Class of ’22) recently completed the north ridge of Mount Baker in the north cascades of Washington state. Her summit of the north ridge of Mt. Baker (10,700 feet) took 15 hours from tent to tent and required two nights sleeping on the mountain side. Prior to her climb in the North Cascades, Ella has done some rock climbing in Seneca Rocks, WV and summited Mount Washington in New Hampshire in February 2020 at age 11. That particular endeavor took 11 hours in conditions that were below freezing with winds up to 40 mph (summit picture below). As some of you know, Ella will attend the Maggie L Walker Governor’s school this fall and will continue to focus her extra curricular activities on art and tennis. Thank you for permitting a proud father to share his daughter’s success with you. I give credit to the SMCS community for helping shape Ella and Priya (her younger sister) into responsible, diligent young women!”

Note from Emma’s Dad: “In late July, Emma was asked to interview Dr. Barkin as part of a fun introduction video for Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. She did such a great job, they have promised to reach out to our ‘news anchor in the making’ again soon! You can check out the YouTube video of the interview below.”

Liftoff! SR-8 Mission Update

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 11:25:00 GMT

Check out this stellar 06/24/22 update from Saint Mary’s own Technology Teacher & NASA Solar System Ambassador , Mr. Peter Tlusty!

At 5:35 AM this morning, our Cubes in Space team watched as two of their experiments traveled to space! The cubes were on board a NASA sounding rocket flying out of NASA Wallops Island. The rocket will be recovered in the Atlantic Ocean and experiments will be returned to students for post-flight study around noon today.

Thank you to Lourdes O. (rising 8th grader), Ana R. (SMCS ’21), East B. (rising 7th grader) and their families who have made the trip to Wallops to help with the experiments and view the launch in person.

Ana and Lourdes will share their experience on Monday, June 27th at 9 AM on CBS 6’s Virginia This Morning during the show’s “Something to Smile About” segment. Click here to view the segment.

Congratulations to all of our middle school students who took part in this project!

Welcome, Mrs. Esparza!

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 11:52:00 GMT

Saint Mary’s Catholic School looks forward to welcoming its newly named Assistant Principal, Amanda Esparza. Mrs. Esparza is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame’s Mary-Ann Remick Leadership Program in Alliance for Catholic Education. She most recently served as Academic Dean at the Benedictine Schools of Richmond.

“We are thrilled to have Mrs. Esparza arrive at such an exciting time,” said Saint Mary’s Principal, Brandon J. Hess. “She will join us next month as we begin work on our school’s new Strategic Plan,” he continued. “In addition to her leadership experience in academic instruction, the Selection Committee was impressed with her prior experience in spearheading service opportunities and student leadership initiatives; areas that are critical in delivering on our mission.”

In her own words, Mrs. Esparza is committed to the creation of “vibrant, attractive, and effective learning environments deeply rooted in Catholic teachings for all the faculty, staff, and students.” Her start date will be July 15, 2022.

Those wishing to share words of welcome are encouraged to do so via email .

ALBUM: 8th Grade Graduation

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 20:53:00 GMT

ALBUM: LAST WEEK OF SCHOOL

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 16:42:00 GMT

What do we say? Inspired by Father Mike’s homily, we say, “Thank you and we love you!”. What a wonderful week (and year!) we have had with our entire Mighty Monarch community.

WELCOME TO THE SMCS FAMILY

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 15:17:00 GMT

As we bid farewell to familiar faces, we also look forward to welcoming new Faculty members to our community for the upcoming school year. Get to know them a bit in advance by reading their short bios below!

Sarah DiFazio will be one of our new fifth grade teachers (fifth grade will be a bubble class in the fall, with three sections instead of two). Sarah was an instructional assistant at Saint Mary’s during the 2021-22 school year, working with fourth- and fifth-grade students. She’s been happy to teach at Saint Mary’s where she can help her students grow spiritually as well as academically. She’s eager to continue her relationships with students and staff at Saint Mary’s, now as a lead teacher. Sarah received her B.A. from Randolph-Macon College, where she was also a member of the Women’s Lacrosse Team.

Michael Hicks joins our staff as Middle School Language Arts teacher. Mr. Hicks comes to us from Rome, Italy, where he’s been serving as assistant principal and English instructor at an IB, Catholic, pre-K to twelfth-grade international school. He and his wife are both Virginia natives and are moving stateside to be closer to family after teaching internationally for eight years. He looks forward to sharing his experiences abroad as well as his faith with our community at Saint Mary’s. Mr. Hicks received his B.A. and Master of Teaching degrees from the University of Virginia.

Mary Morris will be teaching fifth grade. She comes to us from Blessed Sacrament School in Alexandria, Va., where she has been teaching fifth grade for the past six years. Ms. Morris looks forward to creating a comfortable and welcoming classroom and to collaborating with students, staff and parents to help students reach their full potential. Ms. Morris received her B.A. in English and her Masters in Secondary Education from the University of Mary Washington.

Vicky Oliver will be returning to Saint Mary’s as a Middle School math and science teacher, and will also be helping coordinate schoolwide aspects of digital learning. Ms. Oliver comes to us from Echo Lake Elementary, where she’s taught fourth and fifth grades. Ms. Oliver previously taught at Saint Mary’s from 2012 to 2018. Before her career in teaching, she was a systems engineer developing software. Ms. Oliver is excited to return to Saint Mary’s and looks forward to sharing her knowledge of technology to provide interactive and engaging instruction. She received her B.S. in business management from Virginia Tech, her B.S. in computer science from Arkansas State University, and her post-graduate teacher licensure from Mary Baldwin College.

Dawn Slagle will be Saint Mary’s new Middle School instructional resource teacher. She comes to us from Manchester High School in Chesterfield, where she worked as Success Teacher to at-risk youth. Her faith is important to her and she’s thrilled to have this opportunity to work in a Christ-centered school environment. Ms. Slagle believes in cultivating and sustaining positive relationships with students, staff, parents and the community, and looks forward to being a Monarch. She’s also a personal trainer! Ms. Slagle received a B.A. in elementary education and psychology from Elmira College in Elmira, N.Y.

ALBUM: KINDERGARTEN CAP & GOWN

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 19:05:00 GMT

These cuties have made such strides with Mrs. Carpenter and Mrs. Southworth this year–Way to go, Mighty Mini-Monarchs! We know you are ready to rock First Grade with your signature joy and enthusiasm.

ALBUM: FACULTY FAREWELL / RETIREE ROAST & TOAST

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 17:33:00 GMT

School Faculty and Staff members were joined by Parish Staff to share some laughs and say farewell to our three retiring teachers and several other faculty members who are leaving the Saint Mary’s School family. We wish them all the very best in their next chapters!

ALBUM: JK-G4 FIELD DAY

Fri, 27 May 2022 15:45:00 GMT

Many thanks to Faculty, Staff and Volunteers for helping make our JK-G4 Field Day a success! We appreciate everyone’s flexibility with today’s Early Release and PM Carpool despite the wet weather. Have a wonderful long weekend, Mighty Monarchs!

SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR AD

Fri, 27 May 2022 14:46:00 GMT

David Woodburn: A Lasting Impact

Wed, 25 May 2022 15:11:00 GMT

Mr. David Woodburn is known at Saint Mary’s for taking his students places – without leaving the classroom. One example is how his students often have pen pals with fifth graders in other places such as Barrow, Alaska.

Barrow is the northernmost point of all territories in the United States. Native Alaskans there legally hunt whales as a supplement to their sustenance, and they don’t waste any part of the whale. To show his students in Virginia how important whale blubber is for their pen pals in frigid Alaska, Mr. Woodburn made a “blubber mitt” using Crisco as blubber – students felt the striking difference between putting their hands in ice water with and without the blubber mitt.

In addition to writing their Alaskan pen pals, at the end of one school year Mr. Woodburn worked out a FaceTime session with the classroom in Alaska – the Saint Mary’s students could see snow on the ground outside the window of the classroom in Barrow, and the Alaskan students could see the bright, sunny day in Virginia.

This year, after 19 years, Mr. Woodburn will be retiring from teaching at Saint Mary’s. Since he started in 2003, he’s taught both third and fifth grades.

Logan Harvey graduated from Saint Mary’s in 2011 and said he was “lucky enough” to have Mr. Woodburn twice, for both third and fifth.

“When I was young, my parents were big on me watching TV that was ‘educational,’ so I loved the History Channel and the Discovery Channel,” Logan remembered. “I can still remember that Mr. Woodburn would be presenting a lesson and I would ask a question based on something I had watched from either of those channels. A bit of a shocked/curious/impressed smile would start to creep across his face and he would ask: ‘How did you know that?’

“When it came time for final report cards and the departure notes teachers would write, he signed off his note with ‘Keep watching the History Channel.’ – and to this day I still watch some of the programs, whether on YouTube or wherever they may be streamed.

Another Mr. Woodburn memory that’s stuck with many of his former students is his stretch breaks. Saint Mary’s 2018 graduate Jordan Green had Mr. Woodburn for fifth grade. She remembers being grateful for the opportunity during class to stand up, stretch, and get the wiggles out before sitting back down to focus again on classwork.

Like most teachers at Saint Mary’s, Woodburn encourages his students to read. He has a collection of biographies in the classroom that includes individuals such as Nelson Mandela, Amelia Earhart, Mother Theresa, Barack Obama and Mohammad Ali.

Each year fifth-grade students read a book called Number the Stars by Lois Lowry about the escape of a family of Jews from Copenhagen, Denmark during World War II. In concert with that book and its discussion, for several years Mr. Woodburn helped facilitate a visit from a local Holocaust survivor who would come and share his powerful story with the fifth-grade students.

Woodburn came to teaching as a third career. His first job was as a deputy sheriff in Henrico County – a job he held for one year. After that, he worked in the insurance industry for 15 years. When he was laid off at age 40, he recognized that sitting behind a desk every day was something he didn’t want to do anymore. After considering nursing, teaching or a construction business, Woodburn decided to get a master’s degree in teaching, and did so from Mary Baldwin College.

His first teaching job was at Luther Memorial School near the Diamond in Richmond. The school doesn’t exist anymore, but Mr. Woodburn taught second grade there in 2001-2002 until a job became available at Saint Mary’s and he was hired to teach third grade.

It is important to Mr. Woodburn to be able to teach at Saint Mary’s, where he can share his Catholic faith. He said his faith has helped carry him through difficult times; he cherishes being able to share that with his students.

During his first teaching assignment at Luther Memorial, which was Lutheran, the 9/11 tragedy took place.

“Being at a Christian school, we gathered at a time which certainly called for prayer,” Mr. Woodburn said. “What comfort every child, teacher and staff member experienced when we regularly came as one to pray together.

Mr. Woodburn encourages his students to pray daily and gives students the opportunity each day to offer up prayers for special intentions. He lights incense: “The smoke rises to heaven like your prayers do,” he says – and offers his own intentions so students understand what to do. At first, students often keep their prayer intentions to themselves, but usually end the year openly praying aloud.

Patti Benton (pictured above with David) has taught alongside Mr. Woodburn as a fifth-grade teacher for six years.

“Teaching alongside David has been an adventure,” Benton said. “His love for knowledge and his students is always present. David has so many stories to share and usually some pictures to go with them! David loves and respects his colleagues and is generous and kind-hearted. His is the quiet giver.”

Lara Seavey is a Saint Mary’s mom who teaches at Fox Elementary in Richmond; her two daughters (now alumnae) and two sons had Mr. Woodburn.

“I always respected, loved and trusted Mr. Woodburn with my children,” Seavey said. “He wanted the best for all the children and had a sense of humor that we appreciated.”

After retiring, Mr. Woodburn plans to play more tennis, as he meets regularly with a group of doubles players at Rockwood Park in Chesterfield County. He’s an avid gardener and may begin to volunteer at a community garden near his home. He hopes to see more of his daughter and son, who both live in Richmond, and his granddaughter Alice, who is one.

Woodburn’s mom lives in Richmond at an assisted living facility, so he’ll visit more with her too.

And of course Mr. Woodburn has travel plans! His wife, Margaret, has never been to Paris, France, so a trip there is on the horizon sometime soon, he says. In addition, he hopes to go back to Iceland to hike, and to visit his sister and her family in New Zealand. He might try to learn Spanish as a second language. And he’ll practice his guitar.

“In the end I can only hope my presence has made a positive impact on all of the many students I was blessed to teach these many years,” he said. He will miss his students and being at Saint Mary’s every day.

Next Stop: College!

Mon, 23 May 2022 15:37:00 GMT

We’ve heard from many of our Monarchs from the Class of 2018 and we are so excited to see them progress to the next step in their academic careers. Below is a list of where our graduates are enrolled to attend college this fall. Want to share your news? Contact Mrs. Janus via email.

SMCS-CLASS-OF-2018-COLLEGES

Download

ALBUM: G5-G8 FIELD DAY 2022

Fri, 20 May 2022 18:20:00 GMT

ALBUM: NIGHT OF NATIONS & IB SHOWCASE

Fri, 20 May 2022 02:47:00 GMT

A message from our Night of Nations Co-Sponsor, Mrs. Angela Villa:

Muchas gracias a todas las familias, estudiantes y profesores de Saint Mary por su apoyo y colaboracion en el evento de la noche de las naciones. Fue una experiencia maravillosa ver tanta diversidad y cultura en nuestra escuela. Un corto pero sustancioso viaje a traves de diferentes continentes con mucho sabor y cultura que nos llevo a conocer un poco mas de nuestras familias de Saint Mary. No existen palabras para expresar lo agradecidos que estamos con todos ustedes.

Many thanks to all the families, students and teachers of Saint Mary’s for their support and collaboration in the event of the night of the nations. It was a wonderful experience to see so much diversity and culture in our school. A short and substantial trip through different continents with a lot of flavor and culture that led us to know a little more about our Saint Mary families. There are no words to express how grateful we are to all of you.

ALBUM: 2022 G1-G8 AWARDS ASSEMBLY

Thu, 19 May 2022 19:44:00 GMT

Leeann Klein: Living her Faith

Thu, 19 May 2022 18:08:00 GMT

Leeann Klein has been teaching – nationally and internationally – for 20 years, and 14 of those she’s spent teaching and living her faith at Saint Mary’s. She’s retiring at the end of this school year.

Leeann grew up in Brooklyn, N.Y. Her father was a fireman. She grew up going to Catholic school and had an undiagnosed reading problem as a child. She said that once it was identified and she received help, her whole world was so much easier.

“My reading issue and the people who helped me definitely lead me to teaching,” she said.

Leeann went to college at Marymount University for two years, and finished college at Mary Baldwin University. She met her husband, Mike, through her brother, Eddie; Mike and Eddie were friends who both attended Westpoint. Eddie was in a car accident, and Mike would pick Leeann up and give her a ride to visit Eddie in the hospital. They were married in 1985 at Westpoint.

After graduating Westpoint Mike was in the Army, and throughout their time in the military, Leeann and Mike and their family moved 13 times, twice living in Europe. Leeann began her career in Charlottesville while they lived there, teaching kindergarten at Jackson Via Elementary.

When she and her family lived in Germany, Leeann was a substitute in Department of Defense schools. She took some years off when her children were little – she and Mike have five children, the youngest of whom are twin girls (who are now 23). She taught middle school science, and later taught second grade at a school in Burke, Virginia.

Their family moved to Richmond in 2006, and Leeann started teaching at Saint Mary’s in 2008 – first teaching kindergarten, then first grade, then second. The first year she was here, Susan Trout (now a fourth-grade teacher at SMCS) and Heather Heishman (now director of liturgical ministry at St. Mary Catholic Church) were her aides.

“Leeann is the definition of the mission at St. Mary’s School. Her strong moral compass and life rooted in faith is an example to all who know her. Her faithfulness, dedication to academics, and caring approach to teaching make her a beloved teacher among the students. She loves and guides with an honest and straight forward approach. She always has time to catch up with colleagues and pitch in to help out,” notes Susan. “We will all miss her morning greeting in the hallways, ‘Have a happy day!’.”

Through their work together, Heather and Leeann became good friends and remain close. Heather said: “Leeann is a child’s best advocate. She is willing to share hard things with parents because she knows it’s the best thing for the child. She’s very giving but doesn’t need to be recognized for her giving. She’s always about doing the right thing, no matter how hard it is.”

Shortly after starting to teach at Saint Mary’s, Leeann began coordinating the school-wide Veteran’s Day assembly and celebration. Each year she’s collected pictures and tributes to students’ and teachers’ family members and friends who serve or have served in the military, and she displays them in the hall. She coordinates a speaker each year to talk about military service.

“Saint Mary’s has benefitted from Leeann’s thoughtful care in recognizing the veterans in the community and within our families,” said Bethany Gasperini, a Saint Mary’s parent of five. “Every year our kids enjoy seeing family loved ones in the Veteran’s Day tributes posted along the halls, all made possible through Leeann’s hard work. Both my husband, Geoff, and father-in-law, Richard, have so enjoyed working with her as Veteran’s Day speakers. Her love of country is evident in how she teaches and leads—she goes above and beyond to help instill that patriotism in the community around her.”

Another thing Leeann is known for at Saint Mary’s is her yearly batch of fuzzy chicks – she gets fertilized eggs from a local farm and keeps them in an incubator in her classroom till they hatch, so that her students can follow the journey from egg to chick.

“The chicks keep me coming back to visit Mrs. Klein’s classroom every year,” said Julia Janus (pictured below), a Saint Mary’s seventh grader who had Mrs. Klein as her second-grade teacher. “I keep an eye out every year for hatching time. Mrs. Klein is always happy to let me check on the chicks.”

Leeann says she’s loved being part of students’ faith journeys, as Catholic students traditionally experience first reconciliation and their first Holy Communion during second grade. After receiving their first Eucharist, students become full participants in the Mass and it “changes how they look at Mass,” she said.

One of the things she’s loved most about teaching at Saint Mary’s is the feeling of community that exists here. “I get to see and keep in touch with my students and I get to know their families,” she said.

Jordan Green is one of the students with whom Leeann formed a special connection. Jordan graduated from Saint Mary’s in 2018 and is a senior at St. Margaret’s School in Tappahannock, Va. Mrs. Klein was Jordan’s teacher in both kindergarten and first grade. In later grades, Jordan was struggling academically, and Leeann offered to help. Leeann supported Jordan throughout her time at Saint Mary’s, and still keeps in touch with her now.

Jordan is heading to Pace University in the fall and plans to major in film and screen studies; she wants to tell stories through movies.

“Mrs. Klein’s assistance to me was really helpful when I was at Saint Mary’s,” Jordan said. “She continues to help me today. She sends me cards and is always reaching out to ask me how I am. She motivates me. Because she wants me to do well, I want to do well.”

After retiring, Leeann and Mike plan to travel. They have a house in South Carolina, and want to spend part of the fall there, with Mike working from home. They have one grandchild, James, and another due to arrive in June – so they look forward to more time with their children and grandchildren.

While retirement has lots of attractions, it won’t be easy to leave. “I’m going to miss Saint Mary’s a lot,” she said.

Next Stop: High School

Thu, 19 May 2022 15:08:00 GMT

Congratulations to every member of Saint Mary’s Class of 2022. Monarchs forever you will be.

Two weeks ago we were staring at their baby photos and now in the blink of an eye they are ready for high school. We’ve compiled some stats below regarding our graduating students’ applications vs. their final enrollment commitments.

Our graduating class applied for admission to a total of 18 different high schools, but where did they decide to enroll?

Out of 48 graduating 8th graders, 80% have enrolled in 12 different parochial, private and specialty schools:

The remaining 10 students, representing 20% of the graduating class, have chosen to attend their locally zoned public high schools:

We are so very proud of all of our Monarch grads and know they will continue to shine in their high schools of choice!

A Sad Day for Generations of Monarchs

Thu, 19 May 2022 14:37:00 GMT

UPDATE: Funeral arrangements are detailed in Mrs. Peebles’ online obituary . Saint Mary’s Catholic School will dismiss all students at 11:30am on Tuesday, May 24th so that they may attend the service with their families if they so wish. ASC will be available for regular attendees only.

The following message was shared with all current Monarch families via email. This post will be updated with f uneral information as soon as it becomes available. To read last year’s feature article about Mrs. Peeble’s long career at Saint Mary’s prior to her retirement in 2021, please click here.

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Dear Monarch Community,

It is with great sadness and yet with faith in our Lord’s death and Resurrection that we share the passing of Pam Peebles.

Just a few weeks ago, Pam was creating joyful chaos in our hallways with her simple presence. There is no doubt that she topped our students’ list of favorite substitutes after spending more than four decades as a member of Saint Mary’s ECDC and Elementary School Faculty teaching Kindergarten, First and Third grades.

It goes without saying that Mrs. Peebles left an indelible mark on our lives. By leaving far too soon she leaves us scrambling for the right words and wishing we had her gentle smile and steady way to guide us through our grief.

If your child/children knew and loved Mrs. Peebles, we trust that you will share news of her death in a way that feels right for your family.

Our school counselor, Ms. Cinnamon will be on-site and available for students. Information regarding funeral arrangements will be shared once it becomes available. In the meantime, I know you all will join me in praying for Pam, her loving family and all those she leaves behind to mourn her passing.

Eternal rest grant unto Pam, O’Lord.

With Sorrow,
Brandon J. Hess

Principal, Saint Mary’s Catholic School

TRIBUTE VIDEOS DUE 05/20!

Tue, 17 May 2022 00:26:00 GMT

Consider it your last homework assignment from three of our most beloved teachers before they retire at the end of the school year!

To submit a short clip to be included in their video montage, simply click on the personalized buttons below. Final videos will be presented to them at our last Faculty Meeting on May 31st, so please submit all tribute videos by Friday, May 20th.

Videos can be from individuals (of any age!) or from families–don’t be shy!

PRO TIP: Be sure to hold your phone horizontally when recording your tribute video.

Señora Thompson Honored

Wed, 04 May 2022 17:28:00 GMT

Excellence in Catholic Education Nomination reflects long-time commitment to students and lifelong faith in action

The Catholic Diocese of Richmond annually recognizes excellence in teaching by honoring one representative from each school in the diocese. Saint Mary’s Principal Brandon Hess requested that faculty and staff nominate up to two candidates for this honor. This year, Señora Mercy Thompson was nominated by her peers to represent Saint Mary’s at an event held last week by the Diocese.

Thompson began teaching at Saint Mary’s in 1998 and has taught at our school for 24 years. She started as a preschool teacher, but was shortly recruited by principal, Hazel Lewane, who asked Thompson if she would help establish the first Spanish language program at Saint Mary’s. She agreed, and the result is that hundreds of students have since benefited from her gifts and her hard work.

After researching Spanish-language programs at other schools in Richmond and beyond, Thompson began with two classes in the elementary school. She and French teacher Robin Rooks worked together, offering students French one year and Spanish the next until the elementary classes had all had some Spanish. They then established Spanish for the middle school students, who could then prepare for high school language by having three consecutive years of either Spanish or French.

Her instruction, as well as that of Elementary French and Spanish teacher Kathy Lee, and French teacher Jessica Healy, actually helps students improve not only in those languages, but in their English classes, too.

“One of the wonderful aspects of being part of our IB team is finding the overlaps in our classes across the curriculum to make interdisciplinary connections,” said Scott Schaefer, middle school Language and Literature teacher and the first winner of the of the Excellence in Education award for our region in 2018. “Years ago, I thought about how we learn our native language differently than how we learn our foreign languages in school.

Múltiples beneficios

“Our students know pronouns in English from being immersed in the language,” he said. “To learn conjugating verbs in their foreign language they have to use the same charts we do in our pronoun unit for grammar class, so every year when we learn pronouns and fill in the charts we do it in English, French, and Spanish. This leads to all sorts of other fantastic class dialogue each year.”

When she learned she’d received the Saint Mary’s nomination for the Excellence in Education award this year, Thompson said it was overwhelming and humbling.

“I think everyone’s really good,” she said.

Muy buena profesora

The Excellence in Education award honors educators who exhibit a strong commitment to education and to the Catholic faith. Thompson’s colleagues, who nominated her for the award, said things like:

“Mercy exemplifies excellence in her caring demeanor and her quiet strength…Her example both in the school and in the church are as a faithful follower of Jesus and a kind person who consistently looks out for others among her colleagues and students.”

Another said: “Mercy is thoughtful, faithful and dedicated to her profession — it’s not only what she teaches, but how she teaches it. She is thoughtful and insightful and always looking to find creative ways to engage her students.”

Another nomination read: “Mercy’s life, since I’ve known her, has been dedicated to her family at home and to her family at school. She is steadfast, smart, kind, helpful and compassionate. She is accessible to colleagues and students alike and embodies the kindness Jesus calls us to.”

Her dedication to her family influenced Thompson’s decision to retire at the end of this school year. In addition to wanting to spend more time with her daughters and three grandchildren, Thompson and her husband Tiger help take care of Thompson’s mother, who lives with them.

“I am going to miss the kids a lot,” she said. “Their stories are the stories I tell at my dinner table. I am going to miss the families – I love the people here. Saint Mary’s has always been my home away from home. My coworkers are like my family and the families here hold a special place in my heart.”

FEATURE WRITTEN BY JENNIFER JANUS, SMCS FOR THE MONARCH MESSENGER, SPRING 2022 EDITION

FEATURED PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY BRANDON J. HESS, SMCS

MONARCHS NOW & FOREVER

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 13:15:00 GMT

Days Hours Minutes Seconds The Countdown to Graduation is on and the 2022 Graduation Committee has compiled the following information for all families of current 8th grade students. Please check […]

IT ALL HAPPENS ON APRIL 29TH

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 13:50:00 GMT

And don’t forget–Friday April 29th is also an early dismissal day at 11:30am!

Who: All students are invited to welcome up to 4 Grandparents or Special Friends to campus.

Where: St. Mary’s Catholic Church & Saint Mary’s Catholic School

When: All guests should arrive at the church between 8am and 9am to check-in and visit the Art Show before mass. Please take time to view and purchase items from the Art Show in advance here .

What: An opportunity for Grandparents or Special Friends to come to campus and learn more about our school community. Activities will include the aforementioned Art Show plus School Mass, May Crowning, our Spring Sing concert and the opportunity to visit classrooms.

As part of the May Crowning ceremony, we request that all students bring cut flowers or a small potted plant as an offering to place in front of the statue of Mary.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE:

8:00 am: Art Show viewing in Upper Commons of church

9:00 am: Mass & May Crowning

10:00-10:35 am: Art show pick-up / PTO reception in Upper Commons / Classroom visits

10:40-11:20 am: Spring Sing Concert in church (JK, K, G2, G4, G6 perform; all other grades in audience)

11:30 am: Student Dismissal / Carpool

Rocket Club Update

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 12:28:00 GMT

The following is a report submitted by SMCS Te chnology Teacher and Rocket Club Sponsor, Mr. Tlusty.

Our rocket team, The Stellar Stars , participated in the The American Rocketry Challenge which is the world’s largest rocket contest with nearly 5,000 students nationwide competing each year. This year’s challenge was to design and build a rocket that would carry two raw eggs to an altitude of 835 feet and return the eggs safely back to earth undamaged. The flight duration has to be between 41 and 44 seconds.

Our best qualification flight went 846 feet high and flight duration was 34 seconds. Pretty good, but it will not get us into the finals. The past several weeks we were testing along side two teams from Powhatan High School and launched qualification flights with Collegiate School’s High School rocket team this past Saturday.

Powhatan HS had one rocket qualify a bit better than ours (difference of 9 points). Our student’s rockets out shined the rest! All of our test and qualification flights took place at Tucker Park in Goochland. We thank them for allowing us the use of the park. Thanks also to our parents for their time and support.

Stellar Stars Team members include Alexa B., Sophia D., Stella G., Bailey L., Liam M., Lourdes O. and Bella S.

Can you pick out the Saint Mary’s alum who is on the Collegiate team below?

A LITTLE BIT MAGIC

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 13:06:00 GMT

Similar to a favorite storybook character–Ms. Frizzle of Magic School Bus fame–Mrs. Lavallee has her own brand of magic up her sleeve! This week, which just happened to be National Library Week, Mrs. Lavallee brought some baby bunnies to help engage students in story time activities. As you can imagine, her special furry guests were an instant hit with Monarchs of all ages!

ALBUM: SPRING HAS SPRUNG

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 14:06:00 GMT

We’ve had a nice dose of Spring weather to ready us for Easter and of course, Spring Break! From cloud-watching and lambs to crosses and story quilts, the artwork in our hallways is reflective of creative learning and signs of renewal as we collectively emerge from the Winter months.

DIOCESAN STATEMENT RE: CONSECRATION THIS FRIDAY

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 16:57:00 GMT

Statement on Pope Francis’ Consecration of Russia and Ukraine

to the Immaculate Heart of Mary

By Janna Reynolds / March 21, 2022 (Source: https://catholicvirginian.org )

On the Solemnity of the Annunciation, March 25, Bishop Knestout, will join the Holy Father, Pope Francis, as he consecrates Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The consecration by the Holy Father will take place at 5:00 p.m. (Rome time) during the Celebration of Penance in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Bishop Knestout will preside at the Noon Mass (EST) at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Richmond, which serves as the Mother Church of the Diocese of Richmond.

Bishop Knestout’s Noon Mass will be livestreamed on the diocesan YouTube Channel for anyone unable to attend. The diocese will also provide the livestream link to Pope Francis’ consecration once links from the Vatican are received.

Pope Francis is inviting all priests around the world to join him in the consecration. The faithful are invited and encouraged to participate whether by attending Mass or spending time in prayer.

Bishop Knestout is inviting all priests and parishes to participate and join him in person or through the livestream. A Prayer of Consecration will be read after Bishop Knestout’s livestream Mass. All priests are asked to pray the Prayer of Consecration after the daily parish Mass on Mar. 25.

In the days ahead, further information will be provided to pastors, campus ministers and Catholic school principals, and the faithful regarding ways to participate. Please return to this webpage for more updates in the coming days.

###

ALBUM: A POP OF COLOR

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 12:46:00 GMT

Art Teacher, Mrs. Dunham, worked with students in 3-T to create these vibrant works of modern art inspired by American artist Alma Thomas. In addition to being known for her use of color dabs, Thomas was an artist who achieved many firsts in the art world after a long career as an Art Teacher in Washington DC. She was the first African American woman to have a solo exhibition at New York’s Whitney Museum of American Art , and she exhibited her paintings at the White House three times. For these reasons Thomas is considered an important role model for women, African Americans, and older artists. And we love our budding artists’ use of her Expressionist paint style!

You can learn more about Alma Thomas on the National Museum of Women in the Arts website .

ALBUM: SLáINTE & TOP O’ THE MORNIN’

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 15:56:00 GMT

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day our Parish Hall and classrooms were overrun with leprechauns of all ages. Yesterday evening our PTO put on a festive party for parents and parishioners while this morning our students were greener than the Emerald Isle itself. Enjoy some of the highlights below! Many thanks to our teachers and PTO Board Members for providing photos.

ALBUM: 2022 WAX MUSEUM

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 15:19:00 GMT

What a wonderful year to have a Grand Re-Opening! And with three classes of fourth graders, it must have also been one of our largest Wax Museums in SMCS history. Speaking of history, enjoy the photos below of famous artists, movie stars, heads of state, sports heroes, authors, political figures, entrepreneurs and more!

ALBUM: EASY AS PI(E)

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 15:37:00 GMT

Monday, March 14 — otherwise known as 3.14 or Pi Day — was a day of celebration for both our Math students and families attending the PTO Pi(e) Night pizza fundraiser!

Congratulations to all students who participated in yesterday’s Pi Day Math Contest. We are especially proud of our two overall winners, Chance G. who memorized 215 digits & Libby S. who memorized 196 digits as well as these grade level winners:

Grade 3: Thomas C. and Mila M.

Grade 4: James M. and Lucy C.

Grade 5: Raegan M. and Mary Catherine V.

Grade 6: Savannah E. and Addie L.

Grade 7: Libby S. and Chance G.

Grade 8: Emeka I. and Josie L.

Honorable Mention: Grade 2 Dani B. (125 digits)

Attendees of the PTO event got to see how our math students learned about Pi and even got to try their hand at making some math-themed music with Mrs. Olesen! Many thanks to our PTO for organizing Pi(e) Night and to members of our PTO Board for capturing the photos in the album below.

NEW ATHLETICS LOGO REVEALED

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 18:08:00 GMT

Above: Design rendering of our new basketball court featuring Monty 2.0! Artwork by BK+CO STUDIO.

Our School Mascot, Monty, has received a regal makeover just in time for this Summer’s Built on Faith Project renovations. “It will be so exciting to host home basketball and volleyball games in this new space,” remarked Mr. Hess. “We are fortunate to work with Quinn Evans–the same team of architects who helped us to complete our Elementary and Administrative Wing renovations,” he added.

More detailed information about this multipurpose gathering space will be available after both masses this weekend (March 12 & 13) in the Upper Commons. Parishioners will receive brochures and pledge envelopes outlining how they can support our BUILT ON FAITH campaign goal of $2.5 million dollars to fully fund this round of facility improvements. Once complete, renovations will result in the modernization of three key areas:

Ready to make your pledge of support?

Click here or contact Jennifer Janus to request a meeting.

NEW SPORT OFFERINGS: CHEER & GIRLS LACROSSE

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 13:49:00 GMT

Please take a moment to complete one or both of the interest surveys below to help us plan for some new athletics programs at SMCS.

Co-Ed Sideline Cheer / Spirit Team (JK-G8)

Girls Lacrosse Interest Survey (JK-G3)

Depending on interest, Lacrosse would be geared toward students in JK-G3 starting in May of this school year while Cheer would begin practicing this Fall to prepare for support of select Home Basketball Games in our newly renovated gymnasium!

FLOWERS FOR FOX: PLANTING YOUR SEEDS

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 16:33:00 GMT

If you purchased a beautifully decorated envelope of marigold seeds to support Fox Elementary School, maybe you need some guidance on what to do next. Mrs. Janus, our Garden Club Sponsor, has kindly shared the following instructions:

Note: You may want to wait to plant your seeds until early to mid-April. Marigolds can also be started early indoors under grow lights for transplanting outdoors about six to eight weeks before the last frost date.

If you did not have a chance to purchase seeds (we had a limited supply!) but would still like to support Mrs. Seavey’s Exceptional Education Classroom, please click here to view her wish list or click here to join our Parish in assisting Fox Elementary’s school-wide supply drive.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Victoria LaCivita, ’12

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 13:15:00 GMT

Victoria LaCivita, Communications Director for Virginia’s Attorney General
SMCS helped set a foundation for this grad to launch into public service

Even in elementary school at Saint Mary’s, Victoria LaCivita, SMCS class of 2012, had a feeling that she might end up in politics. History and English were always her favorite classes, and her dad works in politics, so she said it was a natural path for her to follow.

“Additionally, I’m a very competitive person, and that definitely showed during my time on the Saint Mary’s basketball team,” Victoria said. “Competition and drive are very important for working in politics.”

After Saint Mary’s, Victoria attended Saint Gertrude High School. She participated in Model General Assembly and volunteered for local political campaigns. She studied government and media at the University of Virginia and completed internships at a political consulting firm and the White House while in college.

After graduation from U.Va., she moved to Phoenix, Az., where she worked as a press assistant for Senator Martha McSally.

“Working on a political campaign is a very unique job,” Victoria said. “You work 24/7 and it all ends on one day – election day. Every day is different, and I learned an incredible amount in a short period of time. It’s a bit like drinking from a firehouse, and you can only learn from doing. I’d encourage anyone with an interest in government or politics to spend a summer working on a campaign!”

After the 2020 election, she moved back to Richmond to get involved in the Virginia campaigns. While 2021 is considered an off year for political campaigns, Virginia is one of only two states that has its statewide elections the year after a presidential election.

Victoria moved to Virginia Beach to become the Communications Director for the Republican nominee for attorney general, then Delegate Jason Miyares. In that role, she was in charge of all communications for the campaign: writing press releases and official statements and communications to the press; booking, preparing and staffing the candidate for interviews; and running the social media accounts.

“We ran a statewide campaign with only four staffers, which is unheard of in a state as large as Virginia,” Victoria said. “A lot of long days and hard work, but it was worth it.”

After election day, then Attorney General-elect Miyares asked Victoria to stay on and remain his communications director in the Office of the Attorney General.

Did Saint Mary’s International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme help direct Victoria in her path?

Absolutely, she said.

“Saint Mary’s IB programme really helped me learn how to think critically,” she said. “The IB programme makes you connect different ways of thought into different subjects, and while I didn’t always understand it when I was a student, it definitely helped shape the way I tackle and approach different situations.

“Additionally, the IB programme required a lot of public speaking and class presentations,” Victoria said. “When I started at Saint Mary’s, I was incredibly shy and rarely spoke in class. The IB programme, along with my teachers, played a critical role in helping me get out of my comfort zone and find confidence speaking publicly.

“Saint Gertrude was also great about making us comfortable with public speaking,” she said. “It’s pretty crazy to think that when I was 10, I was scared to read a passage aloud in English class and now I’m the spokeswoman for a statewide elected official. Saint Mary’s and the IB programme played a big role in my growth.”

The fact that Saint Mary’s and Saint Gertrude are Catholic schools also influenced Victoria positively, she said.

“Catholic schools are great about encouraging public service, volunteer work and the general attitude of putting others before yourself,” Victoria said. “Saint Mary’s and Saint Gertrude really emphasized giving back to your community and shaped me into being someone who cares about my community and my impact on others. I’m blessed to now work in a job with a team that’s dedicated to fighting for Virginians, every day.”

Victoria keeps in touch with several of her Saint Mary’s classmates, and in fact lives within a block of three of them.

“Catholic schools are great for making lifelong friends,” she said.

She holds fond memories of Mr. Maddock’s English class and attributes her interest in communications and her confidence in her writing abilities largely to him.

She also remembers her team winning the basketball league championships twice during her time at Saint Mary’s. “I’ll never forget how the entire class – and staff – came to cheer us on,” she said.

She ended with a quip that might have been a sign of her future as an influencer: “I’d be remiss if I didn’t also mention the One Direction obsession that I spread throughout the class when we were in eighth grade.”

ALBUM: MARDI GRAS

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 19:11:00 GMT

From parades, pancake flipping and cake eating to mask-making, music making and beads for reads, Fat Tuesday was a great day to be a Monarch! Many thanks to Mrs. Carpenter, Mr. Woodburn, Mrs. Moretti and Mrs. Thompson for sharing these photos and videos.

ALBUM: HENRICUS PARK

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 18:52:00 GMT

On March 1st, our fourth grade students took a Field Trip to experience history on location at beautiful Henricus Historical Park. Many thanks to Mrs. Trout for providing photos from the day!

ALBUM: READ ACROSS AMERICA WEEK

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 18:20:00 GMT

It’s Read Across America Week and our students got things started by dressing up as their favorite storybook character while Thing One and Thing Two got into a bit of mischief…They must know our friends the Christmas Elves!

FAQ: PTO GALA

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 16:00:00 GMT

Don’t miss out on THE event of the year! If you still have questions about what to purchase, wear or expect from this year’s PTO Gala & Silent Auction event, check out this handy FAQ.

How do I purchase tickets?

LAST DAY TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS IS FRIDAY, MARCH 4!

You can purchase tickets, blinky rings, tag week, etc. here: https://stmaryva.ejoinme.org/2022ptogala

What are blinky rings ?

Blinky rings are purchased to play the game heads or tails before the live auction. Each ring allows you one “life” in the game. You play the game heads or tails by standing up, auctioneer flips a coin and you have to chose to put you hands on your head or your tail. If it lands on heads and you chose head, you are safe. If not, you are out. If you purchased more than one ring, you used up one of your life’s and can keep going!

What is Tuesday Tag Day?

A well loved SMCS tradition is tag week, sold every year at Gala. This year, it’s with a twist! We are doing Tuesday Tag Days! We will have 4 tag days, on Tuesdays, post gala that students can dress in tag day attire and get a break from their uniform! Even if you do not plan on attending gala, this is worth checking out to purchase for your kiddos: https://stmaryva.ejoinme.org/2022ptogala

Do I need to wear formal dress?

No! We want you to come and enjoy! Yes, will some people be in tuxedo & long gowns, yes. But you’ll see just as many people in cocktail dresses and suits! The point is to come and have fun with our SMCS community!

What should I expect?

First of all, you should expect a good time! Fun, music, food, many auction items to bid upon, dancing, laughing and more! You will enter and enjoy the silent auction, move the seated dinner and live auction portion and end the night dancing away! It will be a wonderful evening full of fun!

What is the Beverage Wristband?

We know that when you get the gala, you just want to enjoy and relax and have fun. No one likes to remember cash or have to keep pulling out their credit card for the bar so, we created the beverage wristband. This wristband allows you unlimited non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages and also provides you with access to a fast track bar.

What if I don’t want to purchase a wristband?

Totally fine! We also have a bar for those who prefer to pay via credit card. Either way, you will be taken care of!

Can I invite my friends?

YES PLEASE–Everyone and anyone is invited! They do not need to be parents or parishioners; the event is open to all. The more the merrier!

How can I/my company sponsor the gala?

Thank you so much for your generosity! You can find sponsorships and packages here: https://stmaryva.ejoinme.org/2022ptogala

This post originally appeared in the PTO’s SMCS Community Facebook Group. Click above to request to join this private group moderated by members of the PTO. Many thanks to Elizabeth Singleton, PTO Vice President, for creating the content.

ALBUM: “TWOS”DAY, 2/22/22

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 13:41:00 GMT

Tuesday was all about tutus, 2’s and twin pops. And did we mention a hallway dance party to the Kid Bop version of Taylor Swift’s song, Twenty-Two at exactly 2:22pm? Many thanks to all who helped make 2/22/22 a day to remember!

ALBUM: 100TH DAY OF SCHOOL

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 17:09:00 GMT

Students in our Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC) celebrated the 100th day of school on Tuesday, February 8th by celebrating the many ways they have grown 100 days smarter since starting school in August!

ALBUM: STUDENT SHOUT-OUTS

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 15:18:00 GMT

All week, our teachers have shared shout-outs during morning announcements to let our students know how valued they are as part of the Mighty Monarch Family. Check out their heart-felt words below!

ALBUM: DRESS LIKE A TEACHER

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 11:24:00 GMT

Mutual admiration was on full display as students dressed up as their favorite teacher and teachers dressed up like students. What a beautiful and fun way to kick off Catholic Schools Week 2022–May God bless all of our amazing teachers!

WARM HEARTS & BELLIES

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 19:12:00 GMT

This year’s Chili Cook-Off featured a series of “firsts” and one very important “last.” For the last time, the Chili Cook-Off was held in our existing Parish Hall. Next year, after summer-long “Built on Faith” renovations are complete, we will be celebrating in a fresh new space alongside a beautiful new kitchen and indoor/outdoor courtyard!

And now for the firsts…

It was our first Chili Cook-Off since the COVID-19 pandemic cancelled last year’s event. It was also the first time in recent history that we crowned a Chili-Queen–Congrats, Mrs. Heller (past winners have been Kings!).

Finally, it was the first time we asked our attendees to help us warm something more than their bellies–Each attendee was encouraged to bring a donated item for our Catholic Schools Week charitable partner, Commonwealth Catholic Charities. In turn, CCC will help keep our region’s homeless citizens warm during this cold winter snap and beyond.

Throughout Catholic Schools Week, we will continue to accept donations as part of our school-wide service project. Items collected at the Chili Cook-Off were just a start! We’ll continue to post updates throughout the week on social media and in Friday’s Flash email to parents and grandparents.

Many thanks to all who have already contributed to this effort.

Based on feedback from student helpers at the Cook-Off, we anticipate our gymnasium will soon be overflowing with items for CCC to distribute to our neighbors in need. When asked if he could help carry and organize some donations, 3rd grade student Dev S. (pictured below left) shared that he was “all about doing something that will help the homeless!”.

Throughout Catholic Schools Week (January 29-February 4), members of our school community can donate anything from the following list of most urgently needed *new* items. Donation bins have been placed in each classroom for transfer to the parish hall by the end of the week.

Most Needed Items:

Other Needed Items

Food (perishable & non-perishable)

PTO Volunteer, Mrs. Joss, leads the way

PTO Event Chair, Jennifer Joss (pictured above with her family members) spearheaded the Chili Cook-Off and still managed to lead the charge on charitable donations as well by sourcing large boxes of HotHands handwarmers for Commonwealth Catholic Charities.

ALBUM: CSW DOOR CONTEST

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 16:41:00 GMT

In the weeks leading up to Catholic Schools Week, students worked with their homeroom teachers to create a unique door decoration based on the the week’s theme: Faith. Excellence. Service. The colorful doors helped to serve as a warm welcome for the more than 50 prospective families who toured the school on Open House Sunday (January 30th).

Congrats to our Best Overall winner, Mrs. Harrod’s 4th grade class and to our “Best of” category winners Mrs. Mugford’s 1st graders (Best ECDC), Mrs. Benton’s 5th graders (Best Elementary) and Mrs. Forkey’s 7th graders (Best Middle School)!

Enjoy the gallery below of all of the inspiring designs that earned this 5-star review from our Principal, Mr. Hess:

CSW PARENT’S GUIDE WITH Q&A

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 18:54:00 GMT

Q&A with SMCS parent, Mandy Core

As we count the final days before we kick Catholic Schools Week off with a Chili Cook-Off bang, we sat down with CSW Planning Committee member and past PTO president, Amanda Core , to learn what parents should expect and how they can lend a hand.

What is Catholic Schools Week?

Since 1974, CSW is an annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It officially begins the last Sunday in January and runs for an entire week. The theme for 2021-2024 is “Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence. Service.”

Students and teachers are creatively preparing by decorating their doors to reflect the week’s theme. Students will then vote on their favorite doors. Be on the lookout for sneak peeks at the door décor contest entries on school social media channels!

How is Saint Mary’s Celebrating? Can you give us day-by-day highlights?

Each day, the students will be celebrating a different part of our faith community.

How can I help as a parent?

If you would like to lend a hand, please consider some the action items below. Your help is always appreciated!

What might parents not know about CSW?

CSW events and activities are planned by PTO volunteers and our fabulous Saint Mary’s faculty. It’s going to be fun!

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me regarding this week-long celebration, as I am acting as the parent contact for how all families can participate.

Any last thoughts to share?

I am so proud to be part of the Catholic Schools Community, especially Saint Mary’s!

Thank you once again to all the faculty and parent volunteers for organizing and supporting this annual effort. Special thanks to my fellow CSW Committee Members: Jeanne Slifka, Spring Lavallee, Mary Jordan, Peter Tlusty, Ellen O’Leary, Scott Schaefer and Taylor Mugford.

ALUMNI AMBASSADOR UPDATE

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 17:12:00 GMT

We’re excited to share these exciting snippets from two of our newest Alum Ambassadors! Story excerpts provided by SMCS’ Jennifer Janus. You can read Kate and Hannah’s full features in the next issue of our Alumni Newsletter to be published this spring.

KATE LOMAKA HOGUE

She started at Saint Mary’s in Junior Kindergarten, and stayed through fourth grade. Kate is one of a set of quadruplets, and also has another sister and brother, so their family transitioned to public school when she started fifth grade because tuition for six children was challenging.

Kate went to Jackson Davis for fifth grade, and Byrd Middle School for sixth through eighth, then to Godwin High School. In college at Virginia Tech, she majored in human nutrition, foods and exercise; there she decided to become a physical therapist and was accepted into VCU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, which she completed in 2019.

Now Kate works full time at an inpatient rehabilitation facility called the Sheltering Arms Institute. Sheltering Arms is a special place for PT because patients there have been sent to a rehab hospital because they are healthy enough to leave acute care but not well enough to return home, Kate said.

“These patients have already undergone a lot of hardship, but once they get to rehab it is amazing how positive and motivated people are to reach their most independent level of function,” she said. “It is special that I get to be a part of many success stories!”

HANNAH LYONS

Hannah and her family visited Ireland in October of 2021 and looked at colleges then; Maynooth University was the first one they looked at. Hannah said she had a gut feeling pretty early on that Maynooth University was where she would end up. The town of Maynooth, where the university is located, is about 40 minutes from Dublin, and is easily walkable – both selling points along with the school’s friendly staff and students and strong student support systems.

“The organizational skills, project planning, and knowledge of how I learn have been major components in my ability to figure out how to learn in a different country,” she said. “I still use what I learned at SMCS every day! With the IB Programme I developed a thirst for knowledge and new experiences and gained the confidence to pursue those desires.

“I strongly encourage anyone and everyone to look outside of their comfort zone for college,” Hannah said. “It seemed like such a daunting task at the beginning — applying for something I had absolutely no idea about was incredibly nerve-wracking — but as I learned more and spoke with more and more people who were there to help me along the way, it ended up being just as straightforward as applying anywhere in the USA.”

ALBUM: BEST.DAY.EVER.

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 16:45:00 GMT

It’s not just the weather that’s super cool…Our students, staff and faculty brought their Jersey Day A-Game! And the day only got better for those who indulged in Chick-fil-A Lunch Day delights…Thanks to everyone for their support of the PTO who continue to be a driving force behind our awesome Monarch Community!

COMPASSION, COMMUNITY & COURAGE

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 15:58:00 GMT

Most people are familiar with the 3 C’s of effective communication–clear, concise and consistent. As we prepare for Catholic School’s Week at Saint Mary’s, we are focusing on a different set of 3 C’s that we seek to nurture in all of our students: compassion, community and courage.

Given this shared focus, it should come as no surprise that we have chosen Commonwealth Catholic Charities (another triple C!) as our charitable partner for this year’s Catholic Schools Week celebrations.

Scroll below to see a list of items that will assist CCC in helping some of our community’s most vulnerable citizens .

COMPASSION

We are inspired by stories like that of Andrew , a beneficiary of CCC’s local Outreach Programs, who went from experiencing homelessness to volunteering with CCC to help others in crisis. Throughout Catholic Schools Week (January 29 – February 4) we will ask students and families to donate items for Commonwealth Catholic Charities’ Richmond-based programs.

Please note that Commonwealth Catholic Charities can only accept NEW items at this time.

Most Needed Items:

HotHands hand warmers

Gloves

Baby wipes

Shampoo/conditioner

Body soap

Other Needed Items

New clothing (Newborn – 3T)

Toiletries (no mouthwash)

Diapers (Newborn – 6)

School supplies

New blankets

New socks

New undershirts

New cleaning products

Housewares

New twin & full bed linens

Food (perishable & non-perishable)

Canned vegetables, fruit, soups or stews

Canned meat (tuna, chicken, SPAM, etc.)

Dry soups (ramen, cup of noodles, etc.), Pasta noodles, Spaghetti sauce

Peanut butter

Beans (canned or dry)

Rice (small bags or boxes)

Macaroni & cheese

Cereal (bagged or boxed)

Hot Cereal (oatmeal, grits, etc.)

Bottled water

Snack Items (crackers, granola bars, cookies)

COMMUNITY

Nobody does community better than the Saint Mary’s School & Parish! Thanks to the tireless work of our incredible PTO, we have had multiple opportunities to come together this year to make memories, celebrate milestones and connect with one another during a period of time where human connection has been challenged by circumstances beyond our control. Shared faith, familiar traditions and new members of our community have combined to make us stronger as continue our journey together.

As noted recently by one of our young Saint Mary’s Alumni Ambassadors, the connections we make during our time at SMCS last far beyond our years as students and parents. The lessons we learn together and the memories we share will last a lifetime!

COURAGE

Through God’s grace and our continued commitment to learning, we develop the courage to act. Compassion and Community without action would mean falling short of our stated goal “to instill within the child and the community a life-long love of learning rooted in Catholic values and the conviction to follow them.” It is a gift to witness our students develop their curiosity, discover their individual passions and then grow in their chosen direction upon graduation.

IB MYP: JITTERS & JUBILATION

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 15:31:00 GMT

Looking ahead to next week’s IB MYP Question & Answer Session for parents of rising 6th graders, we asked a few 5th graders what they were most looking forward to in Middle School. Spoiler Alert: They are all really excited about having a locker!

ALBUM: STUDENT ARTWORK

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 15:30:00 GMT

With Mrs. Dunham’s creative guidance, our sixth graders have worked hard on so many stunning projects, we just had to share a sampling in the gallery below.

From quiet watercolor forest scenes to paper lanterns, students have explored using various media (including light!) in addition to transforming 2-D materials into 3-D forms. The exquisite Madonna & Child creations will be featured in our Annual Art Show scheduled for April 29th, so mark your calendars and prepare to be inspired!

ALBUM: MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCE

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 13:53:00 GMT

SPELLING BEE WINNERS

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 13:36:00 GMT

Congratulations to Annie K. (G7) and Christopher B. (G8), our 2022 Schoolwide winners of the Spelling Bee!

Classroom Bees for grades 3-8 took place during Library class this month. Below are a list of classroom winners. Winners in grades 5-8 will advance to the school-wide Spelling Bee held virtually the week of January 10th. Schoolwide winners were revealed during Morning Announcements on Friday, January 14th. Well done to all who participated this year!

8 – 1:

Emeka I.

Mallory B.

Grace O.

8 – 2:

Christopher B.

8 – 3:

Mieszko S.

7 – 1:

Ava S.

7 – 2:

Annie K.

7 – 3:

James O.

6 – 1:

George F.

6 – 2:

Caleb T.

6 – 3:

East B.

5 – B:

Sarah L.

5 – W:

Brendan L.

Heidi H.

4 – C:

Emme S.

4 – H:

Liam H.

4 – T:

Elodie S.

3 – O:

Caleb C.

Luke G.

Will H.

Jack K.

3 – T:

Everett D.

Grace R.

Logan W.

Julia Y.

BORN READY: BRING ON CHRISTMAS!

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 01:11:00 GMT

We had elves in the clinic, students dressed as elves, teachers dressed like Christmas trees, Classroom Christmas parties, a Middle School Christmas Dance, a JK Christmas program, Christmas Cookies & Coffee for teachers and staff and a beautiful Advent Prayer service…

No matter what gifts may show up under our Christmas trees, we are especially grateful for God’s gifts to us in the form of a whole range of talents as evidenced by creative projects and artwork that adorn our hallways this season. Enjoy the sampling below!

ALBUM: VOICES OF CHRISTMAS (evening) PLUS BONUS PERFORMANCES

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 14:06:00 GMT

The evening Christmas program was steeped in moments of laughter, happy tears and joyful pride as the Saint Mary’s community delighted in our students’ singing and acting talents. In addition to beautiful song and the story of the nativity, the audience was also treated to special “bonus” performances by the SMCS Band, Sarah H. on tenor recorder (accompanied by Mrs. Moretti on piano) and the SMCS Choir.

“Jesus is here.” We are sure of it!

ALBUM: VOICES OF CHRISTMAS (afternoon)

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 19:57:00 GMT

Below we captured some highlights of Thursday’s dress rehearsal performance of Voices of Christmas, this year’s Christmas Program, featuring students in grades 1, 3, 5 and 7.

“Let Him In!”

THIS WEEK: 12 JOYFUL MOMENTS

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 17:02:00 GMT

“A joyful life is made up of joyful moments gracefully strung together by trust, gratitude, inspiration, and faith.” — Brené Brown

ELVES GONE GOOD?!

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 15:01:00 GMT

We’ll admit that it seems a *little* hard to believe, but we have quite a bit of evidence to show our naughty Elementary School elves have been impacted by our students’ good behavior. Apparently, while the elves have been watching and listening to report back to St. Nick, they’ve also learned a thing or two about the Season of Advent.

Based on the video and photos below, dare we say that they have turned over a new leaf in an effort to bring attention to our annual Children Helping Children Toy Drive ?

Tis the Season for Christmas Miracles! Please consider rewarding the elves’ good(ish) behavior by sending a new, unwrapped toy for your child any time next week.

Donation bins are in every classroom through next Friday, December 10th and will be delivered to Sherbourne UMC by members of St. Mary’s Church Human Concerns Ministry and SMCS Middle School students in Girls Scouts Cadette Troop 5163.

Community members who receive vouchers to “shop” for donated gifts are also recipients of Sherbourne’s Food Pantry Ministry and are in great need of our support to make their Chrismas merry. We hope you will join us in praying for these families and encourage your students or grandchildren to be part of this annual effort!

The above photos were found uploaded on our Instagram account this morning…Yes, they took over our Instagram without Mr. Hess’ permission, but since it was for a good cause, we decided to let them share their story with you!

“We heard that there was another batch of beloved stuffies spending the night in the library again, so we tiptoed downstairs to tell them all about the Children Helping Children Toy Drive. What better way to spread the word than by enlisting an army of toys who belong to our awesome students?”

— Peppermint the Elf

“Ok, yes, we did climb on Big Bear to make our big announcement during story time, but really, Big Bear didn’t mind!”

— Skittles the Elf

“We posed for a picture in front of the Christmas Tree with a few of our new stuffy friends to celebrate them accepting our request that they help us promote the Children Helping Children Toy Drive. What a relief!! Sometimes toys think we elves are bossy, but these stuffies have big hearts and were very excited to be a part of this important project.”

— Nutmeg the Elf

“Um, yes, we then had a sword fight with candy canes and built a crazy cool blanket fort…I’m not sure how that was helpful in any way, but it was sure was fun!”

— Jack the Elf

“We knew it was almost time for bed so we played a few games and then raced the rolling chairs across the floor (please ignore the small crash) before we tucked our new friends in tightly under the tree to wait for their students to arrive in the morning. We are sure the stuffies will help our students to purchase a new gift for local children in need of toys to love this Christmas!”

— Nugget the Elf

PTO PICS: CAROLS & COCOA

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 18:45:00 GMT

A new Saint Mary’s tradition celebrated by 400+ members of our community.

Special thanks to our PTO and all who volunteered or supported this event by attending. We hope to see you all again this Sunday, December 5th for the PTO Advent Brunch and Grand Opening of the Christmas Shop!

PHOTO ALBUM: OUT & ABOUT OR COZY INDOORS

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 19:04:00 GMT

Whether out and about on Field Trips or staying cozy inside at school, our Mighty Monarchs love being together.

And we love these photos of Saint Mary’s students representing our community on field trips, promoting acts of service and just being adorable (we’re looking at you, Kindergarteners!).

Stuffed Animal Sleepover 2021 – K-C

Download

STUDENT REPORTS: TURKEYS IN DISGUISE

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 21:07:00 GMT

Watch the video testimonials below of three Kindergarten students in ECDC who helped save some very lucky turkeys from their Thanksgiving Dinner fate!

PHOTO ALBUM: BLESSINGS ABOUND @ SMCS

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 19:38:00 GMT

From leaf art and field trips to turkey bowling and taquito eating, this week was full of blessings and fun for all students at Saint Mary’s Catholic School! Thursday’s return of the Kindergarten Program was a clear fan favorite, but many other grades joined in the celebratory spirit in their own unique ways as seen in the photos below.

Thanks to all students, teachers, parents, PTO volunteers, school and parish staff and every member of our incredible school community for making this week so special. We hope that everyone enjoys their Thanksgiving Break. Please know that we are so grateful for our entire Mighty Monarch family!

Below: Photo contributors include Ms. Boehling, Mrs. Deane/Mrs. Villa, Mrs. Burgess, Mrs. Trout, Mrs. Benton, Mrs. D’Antonio and Mrs. Vehorn. Artwork/Costumes created by students in JK, K, grade 1 and grade 3.

PHOTO ALBUM: BLUE & WHITE TAG DAY

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 18:38:00 GMT

Even Pete the Cat (disguised as a turkey) was wearing blue! Students and Faculty from ECDC, Elementary and Middle School all showcased their Monarch Pride on Tuesday by wearing school colors and spirit gear while helping the PTO to raise funds in support of our faculty and staff appreciation efforts. Many thanks to all who participated!

Want to stock up on some Saint Mary’s spirit gear before the New Year?

Order your picks online before the shop closes on Monday, November 22!

NEW! SMTV WELCOMES FIRST STUDENT REPORTER

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 15:30:00 GMT

Check out this student report filed this week from our IB MYP French classroom. For those of you wondering what our near future holds…the answer is a week long Thanksgiving Break!

And speaking of Thanksgiving, we will have some additional student reports from Early Childhood Development Center next week. Rumor has it that there are some turkeys hiding from a farmer in the ECDC hallway. So stay tuned!

SPORTS REPORT: FALL WRAP-UP

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 14:02:00 GMT

Boys’ Middle School Soccer

Our G5-8 team had a fantastic season and were the top of 3 teams in our Catholic schools division. They lost a close one, 2-1, in the championship game.

Elementary School Co-ed Soccer

This was the first time offering this sport for 1st/2nd grade and 3rd/4th grade. We had a total of nearly 70 students participate! We played against teams from St. Edward-Epiphany, Our Lady of Lourdes, St. Joseph’s, and St. Benedict.

Girls’ Middle School Volleyball

Our 6th/7th grade players were almost all new to the sport but still won 2 matches including their last match of the season while our 8th grade team had the best record in the league! They worked really hard and I expect many of them to continue to play in high school.

Cross Country

Our largest team ever with 30 runners! We finished 2nd in both boys’ and girls’ divisions for the Catholic schools championship. One our stand-out runners, Virginia H., was the champion of that meet and finished second at the middle school championship at Collegiate featuring many schools from across the Richmond area. Another Mighty Monarch runner, Lee Lee H., was the runner up in the Catholic schools championship.

Flag Football

Our 5th/6th grade team were the number 1 team for the regular season and won the championship with convincing wins in the tournament. Our 7th/8th grade team wasn’t the highest seed entering the playoffs, but steamrolled their way to a championship win!

CALLED TO SERVE

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 18:23:00 GMT

Almost every hand was raised by our students, not just once–but twice–during our Veteran’s Day assembly on Thursday, November 11. The first time, our guest speaker, USN Captain Jessica O’Brien asked Saint Mary’s Catholic School students to raise their hand if they had a friend or family member who has served in the U.S. military. The second time was after she finished her short presentation and asked if anyone wanted to ask her any questions.

It’s not everyday that you get to ask questions to a person who drives Naval ships for a living! Currently based in Washington D.C., Captain O’Brien serves under the Chief of Naval Operations. During her visit she shared that while she loves being close to her family in Virginia (she is the aunt of SMCS student Julia J.), she is looking forward to her next posting in Seal Beach, California where she will be the base’s Commanding Officer.

After explaining the history of Veteran’s Day, Captain O’Brien’s talk focused on two main themes: Heeding God’s call to serve and embracing the opportunity to fail. Yes, this self-described over-achiever invited her audience to stretch themselves by not staying in their comfort zone. In fact, she shared that one of her favorite bits of professional advice was “to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.” Fitting perhaps for someone who has spent the majority of her adult life on ships.

During the Q&A session, Captain O’Brien candidly illustrated how her faith, instilled in her as a Catholic School Girl (and Girl Scout!) from a small town in Mississippi, along with her will to succeed led her down a path to the US Naval Academy. While there she majored in Oceanography before earning her Masters Degree in Military Studies from the US Marine War College in Quantico, Virginia. Initially, she had wanted to be a pilot, but imperfect eyesight meant she had to consider something else. Clearly God had a plan that would eventually lead her to Captain ships and experience opportunities that the once small-town girl could never have dreamed possible.

Were there storms to weather? Yes, both literally and figuratively. She laughed when she said, “Any Naval officer who claims they have never been seasick is not being 100% truthful.” And then matter-of-factly acknowledged that she too had experienced rough seas, taken momentarily ill and then returned to her duties driving the boat. “On a ship,” she shared, “sometimes the sea is so rough they can’t even serve normal meals so we have to eat grilled cheese sandwiches. But I like grilled cheese so it’s not so bad,” she added with a grin.

With every answer to the multitude of queries, Captain O’Brien remained on theme reminding students that everyone has something to contribute if they stay focused on serving others.

Our middle school religion teacher, Mrs. Slifka, might call the Captain’s message a “God wink” given that this week is also National Vocation Awareness Week, celebrated November 7-13, 2021, by the Catholic Church in the United States. Indeed Captain O’Brien ended her speech by encouraging her young audience to figure out how to weave service into their future whether it be by choosing a career in the military, studying medicine, becoming a teacher or considering religious life.

Thank you, Captain O’Brien, for visiting Saint Mary’s Catholic School. We are so grateful to benefit from your time, service and wisdom!

To view her full presentation on YouTube, please click on the video below. Special thanks to Mrs. Klein for organizing today’s program and to Mrs. Oleson for recording the video.

FALL BOOK FAIR: EWALLET & FAMILY NIGHT INFO

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 14:40:00 GMT

Be sure to load funds on your student’s eWallet so that they may purchase their selection(s) during class time this week or when you visit as a family on Wednesday evening (11/10) in the library from 6pm-8pm. We hope to see you there!

FAMILY MINI-SESSION PHOTO TIPS

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 18:26:00 GMT

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…”

This line from Charles Dickens’ classic, A Tale of Two Cities might also describe your families’ various mental states before, during and after a family photo session. But lucky for you, this year’s mini sessions are with our very own Agata Schoenborn , so we are sure they are going to be spectacular!

The other good news is that these sessions are truly mini–just 15 minutes. Long enough to capture some great moments of your family, but not so long that they can legitimately complain about the process taking too long!

Still not sure where to start? First, try to relax and do some planning before the day of your shoot so as to minimize any last minute pandemonium (no judgement if it happens anyway). Below are a few throw-back tips from last year’s mini-session prep feature. So read on if you’re looking for inspiration on what to wear:

Proceeds from all mini-sessions will benefit Saint Mary’s Catholic School’s Annual Fund.

REPLAY: Saints Day Parade Videos (Elementary & Middle)

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 17:24:00 GMT

PHOTO ALBUM: Saints Parade 2021

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 16:12:00 GMT

PHOTO ALBUM: PTO Trunk or Treat

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 15:50:00 GMT

PHOTO ALBUM: Pumpkin Patchin’

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 13:06:00 GMT

On Thursday, October 28, Grade 1 students went on their first Field Trip of the 2021-2022 School Year to the Pumpkin Patch! Many thanks to SMCS faculty (Ms. Mugford), staff (Mrs. Jones) and volunteers (Mrs. Vehorn & Mrs. Rodriguez) who submitted these photos.

NOV. 1 ACTIVITIES @ SMCS

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 17:43:00 GMT

No amount of rain could dampen our excitement for the celebration of the Feast of All Saints Day on Monday, November 1–especially with the return of Mass Buddies! Monday’s “buddy system” will be a test run. We will debrief with our students afterward to determine ways to improve the system and hope to be able to replicate it again in the future.

Classes will be paired as follows: 1st graders with 8th graders, 2nd graders with 7th graders and 3rd graders with 6th graders. 4th and 5th graders will sit unaccompanied by buddies at mass but will then be paired with K and JK respectively for age appropriate after mass activities.

During buddies’ time together after mass, they will play “getting to know you” games as well as a host of other optional activities ranging from saint themed bingo to praying decades of the rosary together.

Upon returning to their classrooms, students will be asked to think about some of the personal qualities that define a saint. They will also reflect on their own classroom values and then work together to select a Patron Saint of their homeroom. Going forward, students will be reminded of the opportunity to add saints to their morning prayers and ask for their intercessions.

Related: A reminder to parents that afternoon dismissal will begin at 1:30pm on Monday, November 1 (ASC until 6pm) and there is NO SCHOOL on Tuesday, November 2. Parent Teacher Conferences will take place by appointment only from 3pm – 6pm on Monday and 8:30am until 12 noon on Tuesday. Please see Mr. Hess’ email (sent 10/25) regarding the process and time windows for requesting a conference for Elementary & Middle School students if your child’s teacher has not already reached out to you via email. Please note that both in-person and virtual options are available.

ANNOUNCEMENT: OCTOBER MONARCHS

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 17:18:00 GMT

CLASS DOJO: EXPLAINER VIDEO

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 14:06:00 GMT

This week’s Digital Learning feature is a one minute explainer video from Mrs. Carpenter on how she uses the ClassDojo app to communicate with her Kindergarten students’ parents every week. Designed as a tool to help teachers document, manage and boost behavior, it is also an easy way for teachers to communicate with parents and give them a regular “view” inside their student’s school day.

According to our Digital Learning Specialist, Mrs. Healy, “As an educator and parent of a student in ECDC, I really love this tool. When the green monster icon pops up on my screen, I know I’m going to have a happy moment seeing what my son is doing in class.”

Mrs. Carpenter agrees, “I’m also a parent of a student in ECDC so I know how it feels to have a window on my daughter’s learning. As a teacher, it’s nice to be able to share items with just one parent or the whole class to celebrate milestones and ‘WOW’ days!”.

A WINDOW TO THE WORLD

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 15:08:00 GMT

“The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.” – Sydney J. Harris

The emblem on our students’ uniforms is so much more than a rendering of an architectural element of our church. It’s also a metaphor for the way we shape our students and the way they in turn see the world. Our philosophical approach to teaching includes the phrase, “As builders of the faith community of Saint Mary’s Catholic School, we believe learning is the process of acquiring and applying knowledge, thinking critically to solve problems, and stimulating curiosity through inquiry and discovery.”

According to Mr. Schaefer, the window logo has been on student uniforms for at least sixteen years, maybe longer, adding “I’ve never really thought about it before, but a window is quite different from symbols chosen by other schools to put on their uniforms.” In literature and in popular culture, Mr. Schaefer notes that windows and natural light can be interpreted as symbols of future advancement and success.

There’s no better place to observe the future outcomes of a Mighty Monarch education than by reading alumni updates in the quarterly Monarch Messenger publication. No matter how you measure forward progress or what decade you draw from, our former students’ trajectories share common foundations of love, support and discipline that have served them well years after they graduated from Saint Mary’s.

Since our founding in 1967, several alums have later returned to St. Mary’s to serve as faculty members thereby affording our students an even more unique perspective through their “double paned” Monarch experience. Currently, grade 4 teacher, Mrs. Carleton (SMCS ’89) and grade 1 teacher, Ms. Mugford (SMCS ’09), are great examples of twice crowned Monarchy.

Beyond the classroom, staff members, parishioners and school families also serve as windows through which others may peer into our faith community. For many, their first glimpse of Saint Mary’s Catholic School comes from Mrs. Anne Leigh Bisese, our longtime Admissions Director who is also the proud parent of two Mighty Monarch alumna, Caroline (SMCS ’15) and Ellie (SMCS ’12).

On Wednesday evening, Mrs. Bisese was joined by faculty members, PTO volunteers and five middle school students who helped welcome 25 prospective families to our Fall Open House. Our guests were treated to school tours and time to chat one on one with the many SMCS representatives in attendance.

At the end of the evening, I asked four of the middle school students if they thought their window on the world was any different than peers who do not attend Saint Mary’s.

Their response? Yes.

All four agreed that their Catholic faith was a lens that made them view the world a bit differently. Three of the four specifically credited their teachers with encouraging them to consider multiple viewpoints and thinking more deeply before forming opinions. And finally one offered a rather profound way to describe the view afforded by a Monarch education:

“It’s like other people see through regular window panes and we see through stained glass. It’s just a little more beautiful.”

Amen.

CROSS COUNTRY HIGHLIGHTS FROM ROSLYN

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 16:23:00 GMT

PO ST MEET SPORTS REPORT FROM MR. SCHAEFER

On Wednesday, October 13th, the Saint Mary’s cross country team competed at the Roslyn Retreat Center. The course is 2.25 miles of hilly terrain that serves as a tough test for any runner.

Congrats to Virginia H. (7th grade) for running the 12th best time ever on the Roslyn course! Lee Lee H.(6th) is not far behind the top times. Lee Lee had an impressive come from behind victory in her race making up 20 seconds on the leader on the final lap.

Overall in the girls’ division Virginia placed 2nd and Lee Lee placed 3rd out of almost 80 runners.

On the boys’ side we had 3 finishers in the top 20 which is fantastic when you consider that over 100 runners ran yesterday. Christopher B. (8th Grade) led the way for our team followed by Alex C. (8th) and Leo S. (6th).

As a team we finished 5th overall in both the boys and girls divisions. Well done, Mighty Monarchs!

WHO’S NUDGING YOU?

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 16:13:00 GMT

If you attended Wednesday’s Prayer Service planned by our incredible Middle School students, you heard Mr. Jenkins’ reflections on the well-known story of Jesus and the wedding at Cana. During his talk he openly pondered whether Jesus needed his mother Mary’s prodding to perform his first public miracle.

Mr. Jenkins acknowledged that Jesus was 100% divine but also 100% human. Hence his wondering whether Mary sensed in him a greatness that Jesus was not yet fully aware of before he turned water into wine.

Similarly, Mr. Jenkins asked our students if maybe God uses those around us to gently nudge us to share our gifts with the world. In his talk, he spoke of mothers’ intuition and got many nods from prayer service attendees. But what he didn’t say is that he, himself is a sort of official “nudger” in our parish.

As one of two Youth Ministers at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Mr. Jenkins along with Mrs. Stapleton, is charged with coordinating activities and faith formation for students in grades 6-12. He joked that he wears many hats — but it’s true– as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is also trained in Art & Design, the scope of his work can be wide. One day he’s coordinating nature hikes and movie nights. The next day he might be planning Confirmation formation before corralling paint brushes and art students to complete a parking lot mural that needs completion (proof below!).

In addition, he’s also the parent of two young girls; one of whom is a Kindergartener at St. Mary’s Catholic School. Through his lens as both parent and minister to youth, he sees the multitude of gifts our students have to share with the parish and the wider community. Those gifts were certainly on display Wednesday during our student led prayer service.

For those of you reading who weren’t in attendance on Wednesday, fear not: We have the privilege to witness more glorious gifts unfold throughout the year thanks to a school and parish community full of expert nudgers!

RELATED: Be sure to check out this weekend’s Church Bulletin for information on an upcoming four-part virtual Parent Discussion session developed by Mr. Jenkins for parish and school families. The first topic will focus on the Fuller Institute’s podcast, “Faith in an Anxious World.” If interested, please email Chris at cjenkins@stmarysrichmond.org before October 31.

NEWEST ALUMNI AMBASSADORS NAMED

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 18:45:00 GMT

Natalie Maurer

Natalie Maurer, SMCS class of 2015, is currently a junior at Duke University majoring in visual media studies with a concentration in cinematic arts, and minoring in psychology. She’s also getting a certificate in markets and management.

Natalie is involved with the arts on campus and is a DJ at Duke’s radio station, WXDU. Last summer she participated in a program called Duke Ace – where both Stanford and Duke student athletes can apply and in a non-pandemic year the students accepted travel to the selected country of the program. She would have traveled to South Africa, but because of COVID, she got to experience Ace in Place and worked with Global Vision International to combat malnutrition in South Africa via Zoom. Next summer she’ll be participating in an internship in New York City with the Royal Bank of Canada, and she hopes to be studying abroad in Glasgow in the fall.

Natalie says Saint Mary’s prepared her for high school and college through the hard-work mindset its teachers instilled in her.

“What I cherish most about Saint Mary’s are the amazing people and the environment they created,” she said. “Saint Mary’s felt like home because I got to grow up with these people. I vividly remember each teacher and class because they made such a positive impact on me.”

Jordan Bendura

Jordan, SMCS class of 2016, is now a sophomore and Cross-Country runner at University of Richmond.

The lessons that were taught to me at Saint Mary’s helped me to learn to balance having different classes and homework. I feel like I have been well prepared because of the experiences I had in the IB Programme during middle school and through my classes in technology, art and music.

Saint Mary’s helped me to succeed in high school and played a big part in helping me get to where I am today.

HALLOWED BE THY NAME

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 22:03:00 GMT

On Wednesday morning, Deacon Frank Baskind’s Gospel reflection was a great reminder for us to also summon the Holy Spirit in October. Together, he quietly invited all present to listen […]

BEHIND THE SCENES VIDEO: PART 2 – ABBATE AGENCY SUPPORT

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 20:12:00 GMT

BEHIND THE SCENES VIDEO: PART 1 – SCHOLASTIC BOOK ROOM

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 20:10:00 GMT

VIDEO: 8TH GRADE SERVICE PROJECT

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 14:10:00 GMT

To read all the details, please visit this week’s blog feature here .

VIDEO: IB MATHS CONCEPTS

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 14:03:00 GMT

ANNOUNCEMENT: SEPTEMBER MONARCHS

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 13:59:00 GMT

LIGHT + JOY = PEACE

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 13:38:00 GMT

interest forms: boys’ & girls’ basketball grades 5-8

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 18:50:00 GMT

Please complete an interest survey (linked below by grade) if your student is interested in playing Basketball for Saint Mary’s this school year.

5th grade boys- https://forms.gle/ei1AWTaswQ3bjtuR7

5th grade girls- https://forms.gle/5i2pCDLDSW349XpJ7

6th grade boys- https://forms.gle/J18NeaRs8toEZcxs6

6th grade girls- https://forms.gle/BDCwgbQVu7DGmWns6

7th/8th grade boys- https://forms.gle/uuwk5wEzaUXgPWDT9

7th/8th grade girls- https://forms.gle/avKm7z1oj4K5HfZF9

SERVICE PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS ALL OF GOD’S CREATION

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 14:57:00 GMT

To See

When you hear the phrase, “to see and be seen,” you might think about dressing up for a big social event, priming yourself for some serious people watching and taking selfies to prove you were there. But if we take this phrase at face-value it becomes much more profound, requiring us to shift our thoughts from selfies to acts of selflessness. In this spirit, 8th grade students at Saint Mary’s Catholic School have developed a campaign inspired by the life and work of St. Francis of Assisi. Their project, centered on Catholic social teaching, has two distinct goals:

To see all of God’s creations as valuable, precious gifts. From people to pets, they will be raising awareness and collecting donations for the St. Francis Home and for animals in need in greater Richmond.

To Be Seen

To allow the residents and employees of the St. Francis Home in Richmond to be seen by members of our Saint Mary’s School and Parish community. Although St. Francis Home was founded as a social ministry by the Catholic Diocese of Richmond in 1973, many people are not aware of its mission or the people it serves.

Throughout the week of October 4th, our school will be celebrating the Feast Day of St. Francis and highlighting the work our students have completed in religion class. Be sure to follow along on social media and in the Friday Flash!

Ways to Support our Students’ Work

(SEE RESULTS IN UPDATE SECTION BELOW!)

Students, families and members of the St. Mary’s parish community are invited to attend the annual Blessing of the Pets event at St. Mary’s Church on Sunday, October 3 at 2pm where 8th graders will be collecting donated items on behalf of local animal welfare organizations. Needed items include pet store gift cards, canned dog/cat/kitten food, Hill’s adult cat or kitten food, dog/cat treats, clean towels, bleach, paper towels, clay cat litter and scoops, handheld brooms/dustpans, 13 or 33 gallons trash bags and quart-sized or gallon-sized plastic storage bags.

Can’t make it to the event on Sunday? No problem! On Monday, October 4, you can make a donation to St. Mary’s fundraising page in support of the St. Francis Home’s Day of Giving. Students can also continue to bring in pet food/supplies throughout the week (Oct. 4 – Oct. 8).

UPDATE: 15 GENEROUS DONORS HELPED SAINT MARY’S EXCEED OUR $500 GOAL BY RAISING $685 TOWARDS A TOTAL OF $84,521 RAISED IN SUPPORT OF SAINT FRANCIS HOME IN RICHMOND. THANK YOU!

To learn more about our student’s social justice project, please contact our Middle School Religion Teacher, Mrs. Slifka or Assistant Principal, Mary Jordan .

For information on the St. Francis Home and it’s October 4th Giving Day, please continue reading below or contact their Director of Development, Christy Heinen, at (804) 237-5602 or cheinen@SaintFrancisHome.org .

Can I make a monetary gift by mail or phone?

Yes. However, due to the tight period of Giving Day, only gifts made online, by phone, or in response to Giving Day mailings count toward overall totals and competitions. If you would like to make a monetary gift to the St. Francis Home by phone on October 4, please call (804) 237-5602.

Is my Giving Day contribution tax deductible?

Yes, your monetary gift to St. Francis Home is entirely tax deductible. For donations made online, you will receive an email confirmation that may serve as your receipt for tax purposes.

GETTING OFF THE SIDELINES

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 12:39:00 GMT

Go Forth! 5k

PHOTOS: GO FORTH! 5K

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 14:17:00 GMT

PHOTOS: HONOR CODE SIGNING CEREMONY

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 17:29:00 GMT

All photos by Katie Botha, SMCS

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 16:42:00 GMT

Rain or shine, the 5k and kids’ fun run will Go Forth Saturday, September 18 at Deep Run Park (9900 Ridgefield Parkway, Henrico, VA). The current forecast is partly cloudy with a low of 66 and a high of 86. Beware that there will be dew on the grass in the field, so be prepared to have damp shoes. If you’re going somewhere after the race, you might want to bring a pair of dry socks and shoes for changing after.

If you have children at Saint Mary’s Catholic School, your race packet *should* come home on Friday. Our t-shirt vendor is not sure what time she’ll get the shirts to us tomorrow, though, so we will say a prayer and do what we can — it takes a couple of hours to sort and put together the packets and distribute them. If you registered recently, your packet may or may not have shirts in it. To avoid over purchasing, we didn’t order extra t-shirts. If your shirt isn’t in your race packet, know that we plan to make a second order of t-shirts after the race. Thank you for understanding.

If you don’t have children at Saint Mary’s Catholic School (or potentially if we can’t get all the packets distributed tomorrow), you can pick up your packet on race day. We’ll begin race-day packet pickup at 7:30 a.m. Please plan to arrive by no later than 7:30 a.m. Saturday if you need to pick up your packet, so you’ll have plenty of time to park and find your way to the start area.

Arrival Time:

Saint Mary’s student Mercy Grapes will sing the National Anthem starting at approximately 7:55 a.m., there will be a prayer to bless the participants and the event, and the kids’ fun run will start at 8 a.m . The 5k will begin at 8:30 a.m.

Parking:

The races start and finish in the clearing across from the lake at Deep Run. The best parking spot is in the second parking lot on the right once you enter Deep Run Park; the second-best parking spot is at the Deep Run Recreation Center parking lot, which is across the street from where our races will begin.

Kids’ Fun Run:

The kids’ run is not quite a mile – it’ll be two loops around the lake at Deep Run. This event is about fun, not competition. If your child feels better just finishing one loop, or you want to walk/jog along with your child, that’s ok with us!

5k Run:

The 5k is a bit more competitive. If you plan to walk or to run with a jog stroller, please position yourself toward the back of the pack at the race start. The 5k course is rolling, and about half on paved trail and half on gravel. The course will be marked with flour the night before the race. We’ll have several course marshals helping to direct you where to go. Most of the course is on pedestrian paths or trails within the park; however, a short portion of the course, which you’ll encounter once on your way out and once on the way back, runs on the primary road into and out of Deep Run – we’ll have cones marking this section. Please stay to the side and exercise caution.

The 5k course starts in the clearing beside the lake at Deep Run, and has runners and walkers first do a big loop of the lake, then do a loop of half the lake before heading out into the woods. The first part can be a little confusing, but you’ll be fine if you eyeball it beforehand and watch for course marshals to help you. The course map is attached to this email (thanks to Jill Porter). It’s an out-and-back course through the woods, around the perimeter of the soccer fields at the back of the park, behind the new cricket cage, and then back the way you came. Start and finish are in the same spot. Because it’s an out-and-back course, there are times during which runners heading “back” may encounter runners or walkers who are heading “out.” Please be courteous and run safe as you pass other participants.

Also, please be aware that the park is open to the public on the morning of the race, so you may encounter runners, bikers or walkers who are not associated with our event.

Please leave your dog, unless he/she is a service dog, at home for this race. Thank you!

There will be one water stop, about halfway along the course. Thanks to the Botha family for supporting this water stop, and again to Diamond Springs for providing the water!

There will be a time clock at the finish line, and will use an app to help us clock finish times, but there is no chip timing. Feel free to wear a watch and clock yourself if you’d like! The Pellei family will be clocking finishers, with the help of Mrs. Klein. Thank you to these, and to all helpers!

Photos:

Parent and professional photographer Agata Schoenborn will be providing photography during the events. After the race, Agata will send us a link to the photos, and you will have a week to download any of them that you’d like to save.

Post-race:

Bagels, fruit and water will be available for participants after the 5k. Thank you to Shana Branch, Jill Porter and all other volunteers for helping, to Morrissey’s Catering for donating our fruit and to Diamond Springs for providing our water.

Kids’ stuff:

There will also be face painting (thanks to Theresa, Tracy and Tatiana Headen) and some sports equipment for play in the grass (thanks to Mrs. Robinson). Feel free to bring a jump rope, a hula hoop, a ball, or whatever outdoor fun stuff you’d like!

Sponsors:

The Go Forth 5k and kids’ fun run is a successful fundraiser for Saint Mary’s, thanks to your participation. This year’s proceeds will benefit Saint Mary’s 2021-22 Annual Fund. The Go Forth 5k wouldn’t be nearly so successful without the support of our sponsors. Please take time to tell them how much you appreciate them, and please shop with them when you can.

Tremendous thanks to our Title Sponsors: Short Pump Orthodontics , The Abbate Agency and Top Line HR . Dr. Erika Sachno and her staff at Short Pump Orthodontics have sponsored the Go Forth 5k every year. Nick Abbate and his family are school parents and repeat sponsors. Tom Corbitt is managing principal with Top Line HR; the Corbitts, too, are a school family.

Many thanks to our Gold Sponsors: Shana Branch, Realtor with Rashkind Saunders & Co . and Drs. Ally and Corby Talton at Teeth by Talton .

More thanks to our Silver Sponsors: RedRidge Pet Market (the Dan family); Dyer Immigration Law Group (the Dyer family); James River Irrigation (alumni family); North American Partners in Anesthesia (Osborne and Janus families); and Westwood Pharmacy (Oley and Dowdy families).

Thanks to our Bronze Sponsors: Karen Cole Dameron DDS (Dameron family); The Brewer Family ; Benchmark Mortgage (D’Antonio family); Morrissey’s Catering (Morrissey family); Fleet Feet Sports of Richmond (another sponsor who’s been with us every year); Diamond Springs Water (who’s provided water for us every year); Wash Your Way RVA (the Koehler family); Elegant Cuizines (the Headen family); Cake Charles (the School family); NUUN ; and Swig Life .

Some of our sponsors will have a presence at the race, so please be sure to visit with them and thank them for supporting Saint Mary’s!

After the events, awards will be given for:

KIDS RUN

K and below: First female finisher & First male finisher

Elementary Division: First female finisher & First male finisher

5k RUN

Elementary Division: First female finisher & First male finisher

Middle School Division: First female finisher & First male finisher

Open Division (high school and above): First female finisher & First male finisher

Stroller Division: Overall finisher

Race-day registration FYI:

Race-day registration will be available, but registrants should be prepared with exact change; cash or checks will be accepted, or participants can Venmo Jennifer Janus, who will reimburse Saint Mary’s. 5k participants are $25 and fun run participants are $15.

Still have questions? Please contact our Race Director, Jennifer Janus .

BOYS & GIRLS SCOUTING INFO

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 15:35:00 GMT

For those students in grades K, 1, 2 or 4 interested in joining Girl Scouts, there will be a meeting on Wednesday, October 13 at 6:00pm in the lower commons of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Pizza and drinks will be provided.

There will be fun activities for the girls while parents discuss plans for the upcoming year. We will be joined by Theresa Henderson, Community Engagement Manager for the local Girl Scout Council.

So that we may order the right amount of pizza, please RSVP and send any questions you might have to David Kupstas via email at dkupstas2@hotmail.com . David and his wife are longtime leaders of Girl Scout Troop 642 since their daughter (SMCS ’17) was in Kindergarten here at Saint Mary’s Catholic School.

Similarly, girls in grades 6-8 are also invited to contact Tricia Blair via email to learn about activities with Girl Scout Cadette Troop 5163 .

Parents from Cub Scout Pack 737 will distribute flyers during ECDC and Elementary School Morning Carpool next Wednesday, weather permitting. All interested families are invited to join the Pack for their in-person information session to be held at Saint Mary’s Catholic School on September 13. Details are provided below. Additional questions may be shared with Chris Carter via email .

NEW FACES & NEW PLACES ON CAMPUS

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 16:30:00 GMT

At the end of the last school year, we said farewell to staff retirees, Mrs. Peebles, Mrs. Tuskey and Mrs. Mazur. Staff departures from last year include Middle School Teacher, Lori Valdepenas (now Library Media Specialist at St. Bridget’s), After School Director, Ms. Willoughby (now working in Athletic Training), and JK Teacher, Mrs. Ann Woods Byrne (now spending time at home with her young family).

These staffing changes plus strong enrollment have brought about a little bit of internal movement as well as the addition of several new faces to our Monarch family! We are thrilled to welcome the following faculty and staff members to these new roles and look forward to their professional contributions to our school community.

Mary Jordan – [top row, far left] Mrs. Jordan officially joined Saint Mary’s in mid-July as our new Assistant Principal. Her administrative oversight will span several key areas including our Middle School IB Middle Years Programme, Athletics, Safety, PTO and Service.

Jackie Boehling – [top row, 2nd photo] Ms. Boehling has moved from teaching 1st grade to teaching our littlest Monarchs in JK.

Clair Carpenter – [top row, 3rd photo] Mrs. Carpenter is our new Kindergarten Teacher having come to Saint Mary’s after teaching in Richmond Public Schools.

Cinnamon Langley – [top row, far right] Ms. Langley is our new School Counselor from Commonwealth Catholic Charities. She will work with students at Saint Mary’s from Wednesday – Friday each week.

Allison Krause – [2nd row, far left] Mrs. Krause is our new After School Care (ASC) Director. She and her husband recently relocated to Virginia from New York.

Zach Flint – [2nd row, 2nd photo] Mr. Flint is a familiar face at Saint Mary’s and will continue to serve as an Instructional & Facilities Assistant in addition to his new role as ASC Coordinator.

Denise Heaton – [2nd row, 3rd photo] Mrs. Heaton has joined the ASC team as an After School Care Aide.

Kaki Patterson – [2nd row, far right] Ms. Patterson is our new First Grade teacher. She comes to us from her previous teaching post in North Carolina.

Tylar Harrod – [bottom row, far left] Mrs. Harrod joins our Elementary School Faculty as a Fourth Grade teacher. We have three Fourth Grade classes this year; a strong indicator for the continued growth of our Middle School IB Programme.

Sarah Difazio – [bottom row, 2nd photo] Ms. Difazio joins us as a new Instructional Assistant for Fourth and Fifth Grades. Mrs. Jessica Funk remains our Instructional Assistant for Second and Third Grades.

Paul Daley – [bottom row, 3rd photo] Mr. Daley joins our Middle School Faculty as a History Teacher. He previously worked at St. Bridget’s as a Middle School Math Teacher and is excited to focus on his area of study.

Elana Patrizia – [bottom row, far right] Mrs. Patrizia is a new Math & Science Teacher in our Middle School. She joins us from Richmond Public Schools.

CHESS CLUB RETURNS

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 19:11:00 GMT

Note: For Chess Club to meet, we need at least 10 players registered no later than September 19th!

Chess Club members will learn to be better players while having fun with their peers. Playing chess helps kids think more clearly and improves math and reading skills. Classes provided by Chess RVA include both instruction and supervised play.

Chess RVA Staff and Methods

Chess RVA instructors use a complete curriculum introducing chess skills to beginners incrementally and improving players’ skills and strategies in the opening, middle and endgame.

Contact Information: Brian Garbera at 804-921-2410 or CoachBrian@ChessRVA.com

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT DRIVE

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 16:01:00 GMT

The PTO is helping refresh the playground equipment available to SMCS students during recess! Please use this SignUpGenius to sign up to donate new or gently used equipment.

Deadline: All equipment will be collected NEXT FRIDAY, September 3rd at all morning drop-off locations!

GET INVOLVED WITH OUR PTO!

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 14:59:00 GMT

Volunteer Committee Sign-Ups (2021 – 2022)

Looking to volunteer at Saint Mary’s? Our PTO has many opportunities for you to get involved!

We are looking for volunteers to serve on numerous committees throughout the school year. Volunteering is a great way to not only help out our school community, but to also get to know other SMCS parents.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Some volunteer roles at Saint Mary’s require VIRTUS training. The Diocesan required screening and training process can often take a number of weeks to complete. Please plan ahead to ensure compliance before engaging in volunteer activities.

Click on the committees of your choice below to learn more and sign up today!

Carpool Volunteers

Kick-Off Cook-Out Committee

Fall Tailgate Committee

Trunk or Treat Committee

Carols & Cocoa Committee

Polar Express Committee

Advent Brunch Committee

Chili Cook-Off Committee

Gala Committee

Pi/Pie Night Committee

St. Patrick’s Day Party Committee

Saint Mary’s Community Cookbook Committee

BAND OPPORTUNITIES & MUSIC LESSONS

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 14:20:00 GMT

Detailed information on all programs including tuition, fees and instrument rental can be found on the GRSM @ Saint Mary’s webpage .

Starting in mid-September, the Greater Richmond School of Music (GRSM) will provide music instruction through private, semi-private and group lessons for students of all ages at Saint Mary’s Catholic School for the 2021-2022 school year, as well as through the GRSM Band Program for students in grades 4-8.

Registration forms are due ASAP for Lessons (scheduling this week!) and Monday, August 30th for Band programs.

The GRSM Band Program is a year long program which begins the second (full) week of September and culminates with the Spring Concert in May. There are a minimum of 30 teaching sessions provided during the academic year, consisting of lessons, rehearsals, school performances and concerts.

Sectional lessons for Beginning and Concert Band students will be held during the school day in 30-minute blocks in a rotating schedule (different time each week of the month as registration numbers allow), unless otherwise requested by your school administration. For 2021-2022, the Symphonic Band students will meet after the Concert & Symphonic rehearsal, in order to avoid missing academic classes during the day .

Thursdays 3:00-4:00pm Concert & Symphonic Bands rehearsal

Thursdays 4:00-4:30pm Symphonic Band only

Music Lessons for students K-8 are currently available. Instruments include keyboard, piano, guitar, ukulele, banjo, violin, cello, brass, woodwinds and band percussion as listed below. Recitals (and for Band students, concerts) are included in GRSM tuition rates and will be held at the end of each semester for all registered students who are interested. Lesson schedules will be emailed the week before each student’s first lesson.

Mondays – 3:00-4:00 pm from Sept 13– Jan 24: Keyboard Musician A (grades 1-4)

Mondays – 4:00-6:00 pm (possibly earlier): Piano, Guitar, Ukulele, Banjo, Violin, Cello with Nathan Aldhizer

Wednesdays – 3:00-6:00 pm: Piano, Guitar, Ukulele with Robert Rosenbrook

Thursdays – 4:30-6:00 pm: Brass, Woodwinds, Band Percussion with Bob Ellithorpe

Questions? Please contact Charlene Hartley at GRSM (804-442-6158 or info@grsm.net ) for more information.

NOW AVAILABLE: UPDATED COVID19 MITIGATION PLAN

Sat, 21 Aug 2021 13:00:00 GMT

Our new 2021-2022 school-wide mitigation plan incorporates some minor updates to last year’s plan including this VDH guidance on quarantine measures, When it’s Safe to be Around Others: Ending Isolation in Non-Healthcare Settings .

Still have questions? Please contact Principal Brandon Hess or our Clinic Staff .

Nut Free Campus Reminder

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 19:07:00 GMT

FARE website

Clinic Staff

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL PRINTABLE SIGNS

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 14:13:00 GMT

You’ve got your uniforms and school supplies ready for next week, but have you downloaded and printed your First Day of School photo props? We have three designs to choose from (great if you have multiple children!), each with three background color options:

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL 2021-2022

I AM A MIGHTY MONARCH

HERE I AM, LORD

We cannot wait to see your family’s Monarch Pride on social media. Please consider tagging us @saintmarysrva on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter and use hashtags #wearesaintmarys #mightymonarchs if you would like for us to share your photos in our stories feeds!

If you would like to include a “crown” themed Bible verse to accompany your photos, here are a few samples below:

“You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the L ORD .” (Isaiah 62:3)

“For the L ORD takes delight in his people, and he crowns the humble with salvation.” (Psalm 149:4)

“Who knows, perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time as this.” (Esther 4:14)

Important Upcoming Dates & Information

Sat, 14 Aug 2021 18:51:00 GMT

Please remember that masks are now required at all of these events, regardless of immunization status.

Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten Orientation, Thursday, August 19th – This is parents only event where the teachers will give you specific information about their class.

Junior Kindergarten: Thursday, August 19th, 6 pm – 6:30 pm in the Bishop Sullivan Room.

Kindergarten: Thursday, August 19th, 6:45 pm – 7:15 pm in the Bishop Sullivan Room.

Meet the Teacher Day is Monday August 23rd – This day is for parents and students to bring their school supplies to the homeroom and meet their teacher. Students do not need to wear uniforms on this day. Times vary by grade level as indicated below.

Grades JK – 5: Parents will receive an email with instructions for signing up for a time window to go to the classroom. The times will be between 8:30 am and 12:00 pm.

6th grade Student and Parent Orientation: 9 am – 12 pm in the Parish Hall.

New 7th & New 8th grade Student and Parent Orientation: Join the 6th grade Student and Parent Orientation Program from 11 am – 12 pm in the Parish Hall.

Congrats, Grads!

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 15:18:00 GMT

Saint Mary’s Catholic School celebrated its 2021 Graduating Class on Thursday, June 3 at 3pm. To view a recording of the event, please visit our Parish YouTube channel . We invite you to also view the event program which includes a full listing of graduates, First and Second Honors as well as students’ high school selections. A list of all scholarships, honors and awards announced during the ceremony can be found below.

Select photos from graduation can be seen on Instagram , Facebook and Twitter . We will share additional photos as they become available.

Congrats to all of our graduates! You will always be a Mighty Saint Mary’s Monarch.

Catholic High School Scholarship Recipients

Katie B. – St. Gertrude High School Saint Scholastica Scholarship

Matthew F., Thomas G. & Nico P. – Benedictine College Prepartory Merit Scholar Program

Maria G., Gianni S. & Andrew S. – Frank Parater Scholarship, SGHS & BCP

Cazin S. – Smithfield Foods Scholarship Program, Benedictine College Preparatory

President’s Award Recipients

Thomas G.

Nico P.

Cathy S.

Isaac T.

Citizenship Awards Recipients

Homeroom 8S – Cazin S.

Homeroom 8B – Molly M.

Music – Kyria M. & Aidan Y.

Technology – Hanna D. & Josh S.

French – Nico P.

Spanish – Katie B. & Daniel C.

Foreign Language Contest & Exam Award Recipients

Honorable Mention – Finn H.

Bronze – Lauren L.

Silver – Nico P. & Cathy S.

National Spanish Exam Contest Recognitions

Honorable Mention

Nia B.

Daniel C.

Erin C.

Hanna D.

Joe H.

Mihika I.

Xavier L.

Molly M.

Alex P.

Bronze

Isaac T.

Silver

Matthew F.

Thomas G.

Cazin S.

Math League Contest Honorees

Commendable

Lauren L.

Thomas G.

Andrew S.

Annabelle F.

Jack C.

Cathy S.

Matthew F.

Top Scoring for SMCS

Nico P. & Alex P.

Spelling Bee Honorees

Classroom Winners

8R1 Annabelle F.

8R2 Cathy S.

8R3 Matthew F., Mihkia I. & Aidan M.

School Winner

Cathy S. (8R2)

Catholic Daughters of North America Education Contest Honorees

State Winners

2nd Place, Division 2, Poetry – Katie B.

2nd Place, Division 2, Essay – Cazin S.

Court of Redeemer’s Angels Winners:

1st Place, Division 2, Poetry – Katie B.

1st Place, Division 2, Essay – Cazin S.

2nd Place, Division 2, Essay – Finn H.

2nd Place, Division 2, Poetry – Nico P.

3rd Place Division 2, Poetry – Thomas G.

Photo Album: ’20-’21 Awards Ceremony G1-G4

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 16:08:00 GMT

A complete list of award winners by Grade, Foreign Language and Resource Class follows this photo album.

Citizenship Award Winners by Grade:

Grade 1B – Rosie D.

Grade 1M – Ethan U.

Grade 2K – Nora H.

Grade 2R – Mary Caroline B.

Grade 3O – Emery C.

Grade 3T – Charlotte W.

Grade 4T – Mary Catherine V.

Grade 4C – Sydney D.

Grade 5L – Reilly D.

Grade 5B – Anna P.

Grade 5W – Kate B.

Grade 6T – Megan J.

Grade 6S – Trip C.

Grade 7F – Anna R.

Grade 7L – Anna G.

Grade 8S – Cazin S. (Awarded at Graduation)

Grade 8B – Molly M. (Awarded at Graduation)

Citizenship Award Winners for Foreign Language:

French

Grade 2 – Mila M. & Dev S.

Grades 4/5 – Lucy H. & Easton R.

Grades 6/7/8 – Nico P. (Awarded at Graduation) & Mercy G.

Spanish

Grade 1 – Elle W. & Lucas C.

Grade 3/5 – Marley T. & Alejandro C.

Grades 6/7/8 – Katie B. (Awarded at Graduation) & Daniel C. (Awarded at Graduation)

Citizenship Award Winners for Resources:

Art

Grades 1/2 – Bella G. & Isaac Y.

Grades 3/4/5 – Fiona B. & Samuel G.

Grades 6/7/8 – Sydney D. & Liam M.

Music

Grades 1/2 – Dani B. & Andrew T.

Grades 3/4/5 – Haley J. & Cole D.

Grades 6/7/8 – Kyria M. (Awarded at Graduation) & Aidan Y. (Awarded at Graduation)

Library

Grades 1/2 – Grace R. & Will H.

Grades 3/4/5 – Cadhla O. & East B.

Grades 6/7/8 – Ava S. & Joseph W.

Physical Education

Grades 1/2 – Eleanor M. & Caleb C.

Grades 3/4/5 – Lilly S. & Alexander H.

Grades 6/7/8 – Alden C. & Chance G.

Technology

Grades 1/2 – Victoria V. & Cooper B.

Grades 3/4/5 – Aerin H. & Ben C.

Grades 6/7/8 – Hanna D. (Awarded at Graduation) & Josh S. (Awarded at Graduation)

Photo Album: ’20-’21 Awards Ceremony G5-G7

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 12:21:00 GMT

A complete list of award winners by Grade, Foreign Language and Resource Class follows this photo album.

Citizenship Award Winners by Grade:

Grade 1B – Rosie D.

Grade 1M – Ethan U.

Grade 2K – Nora H.

Grade 2R – Mary Caroline B.

Grade 3O – Emery C.

Grade 3T – Charlotte W.

Grade 4T – Mary Catherine V.

Grade 4C – Sydney D.

Grade 5L – Reilly D.

Grade 5B – Anna P.

Grade 5W – Kate B.

Grade 6T – Megan J.

Grade 6S – Trip C.

Grade 7F – Anna R.

Grade 7L – Anna G.

Grade 8S – Cazin S. (Awarded at Graduation)

Grade 8B – Molly M. (Awarded at Graduation)

Citizenship Award Winners for Foreign Language:

French

Grade 2 – Mila M. & Dev S.

Grades 4/5 – Lucy H. & Easton R.

Grades 6/7/8 – Nico P. (Awarded at Graduation) & Mercy G.

Spanish

Grade 1 – Elle W. & Lucas C.

Grade 3/5 – Marley T. & Alejandro C.

Grades 6/7/8 – Katie B. (Awarded at Graduation) & Daniel C. (Awarded at Graduation)

Citizenship Award Winners for Resources:

Art

Grades 1/2 – Bella G. & Isaac Y.

Grades 3/4/5 – Fiona B. & Samuel G.

Grades 6/7/8 – Sydney D. & Liam M.

Music

Grades 1/2 – Dani B. & Andrew T.

Grades 3/4/5 – Haley J. & Cole D.

Grades 6/7/8 – Kyria M. (Awarded at Graduation) & Aidan Y. (Awarded at Graduation)

Library

Grades 1/2 – Grace R. & Will H.

Grades 3/4/5 – Cadhla O. & East B.

Grades 6/7/8 – Ava S. & Joseph W.

Physical Education

Grades 1/2 – Eleanor M. & Caleb C.

Grades 3/4/5 – Lilly S. & Alexander H.

Grades 6/7/8 – Alden C. & Chance G.

Technology

Grades 1/2 – Victoria V. & Cooper B.

Grades 3/4/5 – Aerin H. & Ben C.

Grades 6/7/8 – Hanna D. (Awarded at Graduation) & Josh S. (Awarded at Graduation)

Pray with Us! SMCS Yearend Novena from Mrs. Slifka

Fri, 28 May 2021 14:43:00 GMT

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

Let us bow down in humility at the power and grandeur of the Holy Spirit. Let us worship the Holy Trinity and give glory today to the Paraclete, our Advocate.

Oh Holy Spirit, by Your power, Christ was raised from the dead to save us all. By Your grace, miracles are performed in Jesus’ name. By Your love, we are protected from evil. And so, we ask with humility and a beggar’s heart for Your gift of Self-Control within us.

Your Martyrs had the overwhelming self-control to go joyfully to a painful death without shrinking from the opportunity to join You in heaven. Give us this self-control to have command over our emotions and desires that we may serve You more fully.

Holy Spirit, we ask for the grace of [mention your intention here or borrow mine, below].

My intention: May our school dwell in peace, unity and love for each other and that our future is led and filled with the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth.

O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, through Christ Our Lord,

Amen.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

Photo Album: Retiree Celebration (’19-’20 & ’20-’21)

Fri, 28 May 2021 13:10:00 GMT

Special Announcement: SMCS Welcomes New Assistant Principal

Thu, 27 May 2021 18:18:00 GMT

Mary Jordan joins the Saint Mary’s Catholic School team with both instructional and leadership experience in JK-12 settings. During the selection process, Mary shared that one of her favorite aspects of her role as Assistant Principal for Student Life at Bishop Ireton High School was working with the school Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry to plan retreats, liturgies and programming related to our Catholic faith.

Before serving the Arlington diocese, Mrs. Jordan was a teacher and advisor for several years at The Langley School, a JK-8 school in McLean, Virginia. Prior to this she taught in both middle and elementary settings in Crozet and North Garden, Virginia.

Mary Jordan holds a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership from George Mason University. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education as well as a Master of Teaching from the University of Virginia. She has recently relocated to Richmond, Virginia with her husband, John, and two young sons.

Office of Catholic Schools: Reintegration & Guidelines as of 05/28/21

Thu, 27 May 2021 15:15:00 GMT

The Catholic Diocese of Richmond has released information pursuant to the amendments on public health restrictions outlined in Executive Orders 72 & 79. Below are some guidelines pertaining to students, summer camp attendees, teachers, staff and visitors.

Per the Governor of Virginia’s Executive Order 79 effective May 28, 2021, public health restrictions have been lifted in the Commonwealth, apart from continued guidance on mask wearing.

EXECUTIVE ORDER 72: (EO72)
• SCHOOLS ARE AN EXCEPTION TO THIS AMENDMENT
• ALL students, teachers, staff, and visitors MUST wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on
school property (regardless of vaccination status) on ALL school campuses (public and private) for
the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year.
• Our diocesan mask policy will remain in effect for the remainder of the academic school year
which ends June 3, 2021. This policy continues to allow for masks to be removed while students
are actively eating and drinking. Occasional mask breaks are permitted to be given.
• Masks may be removed when an employee is working in a classroom or office space alone or by
small groups of vaccinated employees.

Executive Order 79: (EO79)
• While this order ends the “Commonsense Public Health Restrictions” (such as social distancing,
capacity limits, etc.) our schools will continue to follow through with their current health
mitigation plans that have been in place since the beginning of the school year. These plans have
served us well and there is no need to implement any new plans with only three days of school
left after EO79 is effective.
• SCHOOLS ARE AN EXEMPTION TO THIS AMENDMENT as related to masks
• ALL students, teachers, staff, and visitors MUST wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on
school property (regardless of vaccination status) on ALL school campuses (public and private) for
the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year
• Our diocesan mask policy will remain in effect for the remainder of the academic school year
which ends June 3, 2021. This policy continues to allow for masks to be removed while students
are actively eating and drinking. Occasional mask breaks are permitted to be given.
• Masks may be removed when an employee is working in a classroom or office space alone or by
small groups of vaccinated employees.

Summer Camps on School Grounds
• Summer camps being held on school grounds should plan on following the requirements for
schools in EO79 regarding masks being worn by all while on school property – when indoors
regardless of vaccination status. When outdoors on school grounds, vaccinated individuals do not
need to wear masks and unvaccinated individuals can be unmasked if maintaining a 6ft distance.
• Commonsense Public Health Restrictions will have ended with the EO79 being in place so there
will not be any social distancing, capacity limits, etc. – however, guidelines adhering to the mask
requirements for schools should be followed.

School Workplace After the School Year Ends
• Employee and Visitor Screenings including temperature taking will cease.
• Social distancing and capacity limits will cease.
• Masks will not be required for vaccinated individuals indoors or outdoors.
• Masks should be worn by all individuals over the age of five that are not vaccinated following
guidelines and specific exceptions in the EO79.
• Any person not wearing a mask shall not be required to produce documentation that they are
vaccinated or that they have an underlying medical condition.

2021-2022 Academic Year
• There is currently no information available for health mitigation requirements for the 2021-2022
school year.
• Diocesan guidelines for the 2021-2022 academic year will be based on CDC guidance and
Executive Orders in place as required.
• Guidelines will be shared as soon as more information becomes available.

Surprise Sketches teach Art, Religion, Gratitude

Wed, 26 May 2021 14:39:00 GMT

A few weeks ago, SMCS’ Visual Arts teacher, Mrs. Dunham, arrived at school to see yet another pop-up mural on her whiteboard. Like all of the other murals that have appeared overnight this year, it depicted a scene from the Bible. This time, it was a beautiful sketch of Jesus turning water into wine at the Wedding at Cana.

More recently, she arrived in her room to a neatly stacked pile of drawings with a note that read, “I made some drawings for the students of your class. I hope you like it.” It was signed by fellow SMCS staff member, Jerry Duenas.

These drawings were in fact messages of thanks, individually created for each student who had written Mr. Duenas a thank you for sharing his talents and faith throughout the school year in such an engaging way. Every time he left a mural, Mrs. Dunham would read her students the Bible story depicted in his surprise work. As seen in the images below, the beautiful drawings Jerry made for each student were also largely biblical in subject matter (with a few sharks and one soccer player thrown in!).

If you love seeing Jerry’s art as much as we do, you can see more–including this time lapse video of a full color mural– on his dedicated Facebook page . Thank you, Jerry, for sharing your talents so generously with our students and the wider community this school year. You are a blessing to us all!

8th Grade Community Projects: Extraordinary Times, Extraordinary Efforts

Wed, 19 May 2021 18:05:00 GMT

Trying to organize well-planned Community Projects for 8th grade IB students is a feat in a regular school year. Finding a subject of interest, identifying a mentor and monitoring the timely completion of project milestones is a time intensive undertaking. Introduce COVID19 considerations into the equation and it gets complicated.

“COVID caused many of last year’s graduates to fall short of completion which was really disappointing, but understandable given the circumstances,” reflects Mrs. Lavallee, our current IB MYP Design lead. “Thankfully, Mrs. Tuskey worked with me to create a digital project outline for this year’s students once Mrs. Forkey decided we could move forward with the Community Projects in late December.”

The January start date meant an abbreviated time period for completion, but many students tapped into their IB learner traits, rose to the challenge and completed all aspects of their capstone project which included a recorded online presentation. Ranging from environmental conservation efforts to building a community book exchange, the Class of 2021 is already making an impact. They certainly don’t need superlative labels to know how likely they are to make our world a better a place.

Check out some of their impressive Community Project highlights below!

Joe H. (pictured top left) – Joe and his dad built a wood duck nesting box to promote the local wood duck population and it worked! His presentation shows a new generation of wood duck nesting in a swamp area near his home.

Ella J. (pictured top right) – EJ received approval from Mr. Hess and Father Mike to place a Little Free Library on the SMCS playground. It is already built, and will be installed near our playground soon. The Little Library is dedicated to EJ’s late grandmother, Christie McCarthy Stier.

Joshua S. (pictured bottom left) – Josh researched and investigated the impacts of virtual learning on students’ social-emotional well-being. He researched a variety of studies and interviewed multiple students about their experiences in learning from home.

Daniel C. (pictured bottom right) – Daniel and his dad investigated and designed an efficient, low-cost solution to providing solar power to low-income households. They built a prototype of their solar tower design in their garage.

Have a ball, Mrs. Tuskey!

Tue, 11 May 2021 13:36:00 GMT

Pam Tuskey has been teaching middle school history at Saint Mary’s for seven years, having begun in 2014. Much beloved by her students and community, she will be retiring at the end of this school year.

Originally from Pittsburgh, Tuskey came to Virginia for graduate school at UVA. While there, she met her husband, David, and has been in Virginia ever since. She began her teaching career in Chesterfield County public schools, where she taught for 12 years.

She left teaching to work at Capital One for 12 years, then returned to teaching with a year at a private school in Midlothian called Millwood.

Tuskey said she left Capital One for several reasons, the most pressing being that “I could tell that God wanted me back in the classroom. He was fairly relentless!”

She had gotten to know Dr. Tom Dertinger, then principal of Saint Mary’s, and his family, and called Dertinger one afternoon while working at Millwood to tell him that she was looking to teach in a Catholic school. He told her that that very morning the middle school history teacher had told him she was moving away and wouldn’t be returning to Saint Mary’s.

“Everything had fallen into place,” she said.

Tuskey said she’s excited about retirement and all of its possibilities, but said it won’t be easy to say goodbye.

“I will miss my amazing colleagues who have been so supportive, and these sweet kids who remind me every day of the reason I was called to teach,” Tuskey said.

Saint Mary’s has been special to her, and will remain so, she said.

“I feel Christ when I enter the building every morning,” Tuskey said. “There is a such a sense of Christian community here unlike anywhere else I’ve been.”

That sense of community is something that Tuskey has strengthened by her presence here, through her connection with students and their families.

Bethany Gasperini is a Saint Mary’s parent of five – her three oldest children, Matthew, Thomas and James, have all learned under Tuskey.

“My first experience with her was at a middle school open house night when Matthew was in sixth grade,” Gasperini said. “All of the teachers were fabulous, but Mrs. Tuskey is a social studies teacher and I am not a social studies person.

“She started talking about what the students were learning and I was captivated,” Gasperini said. “As a parent, I could see that if she had been my social studies teacher, I would have been so engaged. She’s always struck me as someone who is so gifted in the way she communicates information.

“I’ll never forget another time when she gave me some nice feedback about the boys and told me I was doing a good job,” Gasperini said. “I cherish that. She loves the kids she works with and she loves their families as well. That love shows in how she teaches and how she gives back to the community.”

Ally Talton is an alumni parent whose twins, John and Callie, graduated from Saint Mary’s in 2020. She is grateful for Tuskey’s influence on her children.

“Mrs. Tuskey is a teacher whom John and Callie cherish so much,” Talton said. “Connecting with middle schoolers can be hard to do. Her compassion and her enthusiasm paired together allow her to reach them.

I say to my kids: ‘I want the best for you but I expect the best from you,’” Talton said. “Mrs. Tuskey is that kind of teacher.

“You can tell she genuinely cares about her students – they matter to her, and likewise, she matters to them,” Talton said. “That’s a shared relationship. She’s the kind of teacher all parents hope for their children to have.”

“Not only did Mrs. Tuskey dedicate her time to teaching me about history, but she also taught me how to be the best version of myself,” said Ally’s daughter, Callie.

Matthew Faraci is an eighth grader at Saint Mary’s who’s had Tuskey as a teacher for three years.

“I really love her teaching style,” he said. “She’s very easy going – if you need to talk to her about anything she is easy to talk to and understanding. She’s also a good communicator. She presents ideas to the class well.”

What are Tuskey’s plans for retirement?

When her husband retires from teaching in a year, they plan to travel. The Tuskeys share a side job and hobby as Co-Premiere Tournament Organizers (PTOs) for Trading Card Games and Video Games for the State of Virginia. One of their primary involvements is with Pokémon competitions.

The competitions have been shut down this year because of COVID-19. Once things resume, she and David will likely be traveling to and running Pokémon events again.

They also hope to travel for fun, outside of working the events.

“We are also seriously considering moving to North or South Carolina in several years to be closer to the beach, so we will begin the exciting process of exploring possible new homes,” Tuskey said.

She also plans on doing a lot of volunteering at St. Mary’s church in whatever way she’s needed. In the past, Tuskey has been involved at the parish as a confirmation sponsor as well as a sponsor for adults going through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). Because she converted to Catholicism herself in 1994, she feels the process is close to her heart.

She has a long list of projects to tackle around her house, too, she said.

Last but not least, Tuskey said she’d like to work on her master’s degree in theology a bit at a time, without formally entering a master’s program.

When reflecting on what’s changed since she came to Saint Mary’s in 2014, Tuskey said: “I feel like our student population is becoming more diverse, which to me is always positive, because we are reflecting the diversity of God’s beautiful creation.”

She’s also appreciated the increase in technology, such as new student Chomebooks, which has given her and her colleagues access to additional teaching tools.

As well, the renovation of the school was very exciting and needed, she said.

“I especially love our new entrance,” Tuskey said. “The statue of Mary is now in a place of prominence, and the huge windows in the front office make it feel so welcoming, as do the folks who work there.”

What words of advice would Tuskey leave for students?

“The kids have heard me say so many times: doing the right thing is rarely the easy thing, so pray for courage.“

“Be aware and be knowledgeable about current events,” she said. “Speak up if something is going on that you think is wrong. Get involved in some way, shape or form.“

“One thing this pandemic has taught me – and which Father Mike has talked so eloquently about – is gratitude – being grateful for the small things we take for granted,” Tuskey said.

This year she’s recognized how much she appreciated life before masks. “I miss seeing kids’ faces,” she said.

Tuskey wanted her students and former students to know: “If you are in need of a confirmation sponsor in a few years, please feel free to consider me. I would be honored.”

Mother’s Day at St. Mary’s Catholic Church

Thu, 06 May 2021 17:50:00 GMT

On the weekend of May 8/9, we are celebrating the women in our lives.

After each mass this weekend , we will be offering live music, ice cream sundaes with fun toppings, a photo opportunity with your loved ones, and most importantly – a chance to visit with one another!

Mass registration is currently at capacity, but if you are not registered, you are invited to join us for a Mother’s Day celebration anytime from 1:30 – 2:30 pm on Saturday, May 8 ^th .

A Sweet Farewell to Mrs. Peebles

Wed, 05 May 2021 15:23:00 GMT

During her years at Saint Mary’s, Peebles has been witness to the growth of the parish and the school community. She and her husband, Lee, were married in 1982 in what is now the parish hall and cafeteria, and what then was the church. She’s seen the second church built (what is now the Upper Commons) and the new – current – church constructed. Her class sizes have almost doubled as the school has grown.

Peebles has worked under eight principals, and been a St. Mary’s parishioner through eight pastors. Her children – Christopher, Rachel and Matthew, now in their 20s and 30s, were born during her career, and all baptized at Saint Mary’s.

“It’s been like a family,” Peebles said. “The people at Saint Mary’s have been here for me, and they take care of one another. It’s been like a second home.”

Kathleen Tucholka has been Peebles’ aide for the past eight years. “Pam is a teacher who knows she is accountable and who strives to rise to that accountability,” Tucholka said. “She is amazing – you don’t stay somewhere 41 years if you are not great at what you do.”

“Pam is a devout Catholic whose faith has been strengthened by her life at Saint Mary’s, and her students and colleagues are enriched by her example,” Tucholka said.

“We see Christ in our students, and that’s what we try to teach them,” Peebles said, “to look for Christ in everyone, and treat everyone with love and kindness.”

Peebles has taught first grade, third grade, and kindergarten during her time at Saint Mary’s, and considers all of her students to be “her” kids. She said it’s special to see her grown-up students today, and to have watched them grow as they’ve matriculated through Saint Mary’s. She’s been blessed to teach siblings, as well as, in recent years, sons and daughters of former students.

Becca Croxton is one of those individuals who had Peebles as a teacher, and whose daughter, Lucy, did too. Becca was in Peebles’ third grade class in 1987; Lucy was in her kindergarten class in the 2017-18 school year. Becca’s mom, Camilla Alipanah, also worked at Saint Mary’s for more than 30 years, first as a kindergarten aide and then as receptionist.

“Mrs. Peebles has always been a staple in my life,” Croxton said. “I don’t remember a time without her. She’s been there [at Saint Mary’s] as long as my mom has!

“I loved having her,” Croxton said. “I knew that she and Lucy would be a great pairing – I knew that she would love the spunk in Lucy. Mrs. Peebles was a loving, kind teacher – always warm. She would always give us hugs.”

“It was special when Mrs. Peebles gave you a hug. She stopped to listen to you and it made you feel seen,” Croxton said. “When she was Lucy’s teacher, she didn’t try to dampen Lucy’s spunk. She was able to see the good in it and encourage and constructively use it. She’s a very genuine person and cares so much about the kids.”

Rick Foster, Becca’s classmate, is another former third-grade student of Peebles whose son, Xavier, had Peebles for kindergarten. Foster said he was surprised to see her name when he and his wife found out who Xavier would have as a kindergarten teacher, and thought it was a coincidence that two teachers at Saint Mary’s would have the same last name. Then they arrived on meet-the-teacher day and discovered it was the same Peebles.

“She knew me flat out!” Foster said. “I was surprised that she was still teaching and excited for Xavier to have a teacher whom I had. He loved her – she was his favorite teacher. It was really neat for it to be full circle.”

Rick and his family attended Mass at St. Mary’s parish when he was growing up, and he remembers seeing some of his teachers at Mass – Peebles was one of those teachers he saw both at church and at school. Her faith made an impression on Rick. He has a lot of admiration for her.

“She is a patient person,” he said. “She must be to work with so many children and so many personalities for so long – siblings and families – not too many people can say they do that in any occupation.”

Rick and Becca both had Peebles for third grade, and their children had her for kindergarten, which is the grade she’s taught for 15 years. One of her favorite aspects of teaching kindergarten is to help children begin to start reading.

“Watching the lightbulbs go off and their big grins when they ‘get’ it is amazing,” Peebles said.

Leaving Saint Mary’s this year is bittersweet, she said. “I’m excited to spend time with family and friends and my dog, but it’s hard to leave a place you’ve been for 41 years.”

Peebles, her husband, their children and their children’s significant others plan to take a three-week trip to Europe together once COVID is better controlled, to celebrate her birthday and retirement. Peebles also hopes to work with her dog Brodie, a four-year-old Mastador (Mastiff + Labrador) to train him to be a therapy dog.

To all of her colleagues, she said: “Thank you for all these wonderful years. As long as you keep leading with love and respect, Saint Mary’s will be here.”

Praying for Bees

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 14:17:00 GMT

During Catholic School Week in February, a second grade student shared that her Dad, Kevin Harrington, was a beekeeper. While this fascinating snippet didn’t make it into our student interview montage, it proved to be useful information leading up to Mrs. Janus’ presentation about bees in Junior Kindergarten this week!

Since we are currently unable to welcome parent volunteers inside classrooms owing to COVID mitigation policies, Mrs. Janus called upon Mr. Harrington who kindly stopped by to drop off some interesting bee facts as well as a small sample hive to share with our students. For those readers who may be concerned–“bee” not afraid–the hive was empty of buzzy inhabitants.

Mr. Harrington also shared an endearing bit of news about the hives he keeps in his backyard. It turns out Mrs. Klein’s class had been praying for them throughout the winter during their morning prayer intentions! Less than 50% of hives are able to successfully endure the winter months, but despite several cold snaps, all of his bees survived. And thanks to his home’s proximity to our school, it’s entirely possible that the pollinator plants in and around our campus (including those in our school garden planted by Mrs. Janus’ Garden Club!) might be visited by some of the honey bees in the Harrington family hives.

Prepped by an expert and determined to wow our tiniest Monarchs with her newfound knowledge of all things bee, Mrs. Janus made two key decisions: She sourced a bee costume and purchased cheese balls. The result? 15 Junior Kindergarteners received some hands on learning (complete with “cheesy” pollen tasting) and buzzy bee dance moves!

Other ECDC classrooms have also been prepping for Earth Day by learning about parts of the flowers, counting leaves and reading The Lorax by Dr. Seuss with Mrs. Lavallee. Happy Earth Day to all, big and small, from SMCS!

Let’s Finish Strong: What, How & Why

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 14:45:00 GMT

I often find inspiration for weekly blogs by walking through the halls after morning prayer. Today, I dropped off a first grader to her classroom just as her peers were excitedly heading to PE, so upon leaving I had the chance to take in some of the adorable artwork that adorns the halls our Early Childhood Development (ECDC). I was searching for a topic or theme. I was searching for a WHAT .

Along the way I encountered a teacher who was clearly energized by our recent break but also honest in her hope that she could sustain her energy and finish the year as strong as she had started. Which of course got me wondering, after such a strange year, HOW do we collectively set ourselves up for success as we enter the final quarter?

The simple answers literally leapt off the walls in the form of brightly colored construction paper kites, lightbulbs and candles: FAITH, KINDNESS and PRAYER .

As I mounted the stairs back to the elementary hallway, I saw a giant multicolor flower made in the shape of our students hands affirming that God indeed “calls us to work together.” Somehow I had missed seeing this on my initial trip down the hall with my tiny Monarch charge. It’s a stunning reminder of our resilience and beauty as a community. It’s hanging near second graders’ family trees–smaller scale visual reminders of our unique roots as individuals and families who come together to form something unexpectedly extraordinary because of our shared choice to weather this year in the same garden so to speak.

Rounding the corner to walk toward the Middle School hallway, I came face to face with our collective WHY –the crowned visages of our Monarchs of the Month ; representatives in human of form of our shared values and ability to not just weather storms together, but to THRIVE.

In the week after Spring Break, our students and faculty have returned with a pep in their step , our eldest Monarchs have been fitted for graduation robes and our school is filled with reminders of how blessed we are to share this space and this time TOGETHER . We are so grateful to continue to grow and finish this year strong, with all of you, Mighty Monarchs!

Weekly Giving: Impact & Inspiration

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 15:06:00 GMT

Georgeann Schmied is a Richmond native who’s been a member of St. Mary’s Parish for more than 30 years. Since the middle of 2018, Georgeann has made a weekly gift to Saint Mary’s Catholic School’s Go Forth! Capital Campaign, which supports the recent renovation of a large part of our school. She will complete her pledge by the end of the 2020-21 school year.

As a product of Catholic schools herself, Georgeann said it’s important to her to give whatever support she can.

Georgeann went to St. Bridget’s Catholic School in Richmond from kindergarten through eighth grade, and then to Marymount School for high school. Marymount was an all-girls Catholic high school in Richmond that is no longer in operation. Georgeann was in high school from 1964 to 1968 – an interesting time in our country with social justice issues that were coming to the surface, Georgeann said.

Georgeann said the nuns at Marymount were a little ahead of their time with regard to social justice, and exposed their students to the topics of the day. Their teachings helped influence Georgeann’s perspectives, as did her family.

Georgeann is one of eight children; her mother was Catholic and her father converted from the United Church of Christ to Catholicism when Georgeann was in sixth grade. One of her older brothers, four years her senior, became a priest (he is now retired).

She said through her family and those other outside influences, “ … it was just always there – the faith piece – an idea of the way we’re supposed to treat each other/be of service to each other,” she said. “That made such an impression and shaped my life.”

Through jobs and life experiences, Georgeann feels grateful to have been able to bring her faith to work so to speak. She worked for a few years in the Diocese of Richmond’s refugee office. She worked at St. Mary’s Bon Secours, where, as at the Diocese, there “was a certain freedom to talk about your faith and live it out a little more in the open.” She also filled in as a teacher at All Saints Catholic School for a year when a teacher had to leave at short notice.

She says that the past year, with COVID restrictions, has been a good reminder of what the Saint Mary’s community means to her. “When church had to shut down for a couple of months, I missed it terribly,” she said. “I missed not being able to receive the Eucharist. I missed the people. It really is about community – relationships – how that is formed by our beliefs and our faith.”

Georgeann has served in various ministries at St. Mary’s Parish for many years – as part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) program, as a member of the Human Concerns Committee, as a lector. She said that working with RCIA candidates has been a fantastic and eye-opening experience. She told Sister Pat McCarthy, former Pastoral Associate at St. Mary’s Parish, that as a cradle Catholic she felt she’d never really been the one to make the choice to join the Catholic Church. She said: “I remember, Sister Pat said: ‘You’re making a choice every day to remain a part of this church and this community.’”

Georgeann said: “When the opportunity arose to plug in to the school program (the Go Forth! Capital Campaign), I thought sure, why not. This is one community: church and school … I can make it work. I feel kind of called to do that for as long as I can. “The whole idea of Catholic education – not only my own personal experience but the quality I know is involved with it – is such a great balance of underlying values and good, practical education,” she said.

If you, like Georgeann, are interested in supporting Saint Mary’s Catholic School , please contact Jennifer Janus via email or by telephone 804.740.1048 x.142.

Content for this blog post provided by Jennifer Janus, SMCS. Photo Credit: Agata Schoenborn

Parenting & Community Violence: A Pastoral Care Program for Parents

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 12:30:00 GMT

_{Photo credit:

D. Pearson for the Henrico Citizen}

Updated content as of Monday, April 12, 2021

Chris Jenkins, St. Mary’s Youth Minister and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, will facilitate three duplicate Parent Pastoral Care opportunities in response to the issue of community violence.

These gatherings are for PARENTS ONLY and are coming up fast. Tuesday, April 13 or Wednesday, April 14 from 8:15pm to 9:15pm via Zoom.

The aim of each 1hr. opportunity will be three-fold:

To attend one of these sessions, please use the following links and access info:

Tuesday, April 13, 2021, 8:15 – 9:15pm

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82078174117?pwd=Mk83OFNnVHF3ZGk2Ny9jVDFBZGV0Zz09

Meeting ID: 820 7817 4117

Passcode: Parent

Wednesday, April 14, 2021, 8:15 – 9:15pm

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88958132184?pwd=WjZyOFZlMDlkbHRFMnliYWlHY25adz09

Meeting ID: 889 5813 2184

Passcode: Parent

Shadow Stations of the Cross

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 14:48:00 GMT

This month, students in Mrs. Trout’s and Mrs. Carleton’s fourth grade classes performed several Stations of the Cross reenactments for members of our school and parish community. Links to the recordings of each class are available below.

Mrs. Carleton’s Class

Mrs. Trout’s Class

Welcome Home

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 20:42:00 GMT

Though Saint Mary’s is a Catholic School, and its academic environment is formed by Catholic tradition, our school community embraces families and students from all faith backgrounds. Through the years, and through their association with the Saint Mary’s community, some individuals – students and parents – have found themselves drawn to learn more about the Catholic faith and, ultimately, to join the Catholic Church. This story is about some of those individuals and their journey as part of our community.

According to Saint Mary’s Director of RCIA and Baptism Pat Novak, when an individual begins to consider membership in the Catholic Church, he or she begins a program called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, or RCIA. RCIA is a formal process of faith formation providing the inquirer with answers to his/her questions, an understanding of the key tenets of the faith and experiences in prayer that can shape spirituality. The choice to join the Catholic Church is always a free choice.

The traditional time to celebrate this entrance into the parish community is on Holy Saturday night, the eve of Easter. Those who have never been baptized will receive all three sacraments of initiation: baptism, first Eucharist and confirmation. Those who have already been baptized in another denomination will make a profession of faith and then receive first Eucharist and confirmation.

Ally Talton , and twin son and daughter John and Callie Talton :
Ally, her husband Corby, and their twins John and Callie became part of the Saint Mary’s School family in 2015-2016 when John and Callie started the fourth grade. They were active in another Christian church in the area, but Ally started attending student Mass on Wednesdays with John and Callie.

As the twins got to middle school, they found themselves interested in what they were learning in religion class with Saint Mary’s middle school religion teacher Mrs. Jeanne Slifka. Ally was learning, too – she joined a group of parents who, pre-COVID, met each Monday morning to pray the Rosary together. Ally was also supporting a dear friend who was sick with cancer. Ally’s friend had drifted away from Catholicism, but her faith was growing as her journey with cancer progressed. Ally’s friend shared her growing faith with Ally.

John and Callie made their decisions to be confirmed as a Catholic after attending the Diocesan Youth Conference last February. Ally then decided to join her twins in becoming Catholic.

“I felt like I was a puzzle with one piece missing,” Ally said, “and the first time I attended Mass, I felt like someone had put that piece in the puzzle. There’s a depth to the Catholic faith that I’ve never experienced elsewhere.”

The three of them: Ally, Callie and John, are attending RCIA now and will be initiated into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil Mass.

While Corby has not decided to take the step to become Catholic, he has been supportive, and he joins Ally and the twins at Mass each weekend. “He sees how meaningful this is for Callie, John and me,” Ally said.

When asked what she believes are ways that Saint Mary’s Catholic School shares faith with students, the community and the world, Ally said that for John and Callie, it’s not just about what they’re learning in a classroom.

“You know how they say you can talk the talk? At Saint Mary’s they walk the walk.” Ally said. “They’re living it. They really do show it in everything they do. There’s such a humility in the way they teach the kids and the things they want the kids to be mindful of – prayer before lunch, at the opening and closing of the day, thinking of others and not themselves, being contributory to the community – they weave it into everything.

“It is a gift the kids won’t even realize they’ve gotten until they are parents one day,” she said. “You see it in the whole community. The overriding piece of that is faith.”

Vanessa and Ryan Young : Vanessa is originally from Switzerland and came to the U.S. in 2002 to go to college in New Hampshire. She ended up in New York City and met her husband, Ryan, there. They moved to Northern Virginia, had their daughter, Julia (who is now a second grader at Saint Mary’s) and decided to move to Richmond to raise their family, which now includes a younger daughter named Isobel.

Ryan is originally from Lynchburg and was raised Baptist; Vanessa was raised in the Protestant church. As a couple, they’d been exploring different religions to try to find a faith community where they felt a connection.

Vanessa said they discovered Saint Mary’s during the pandemic – they wanted Julia, who finished first grade online with Henrico County schools, to be able to attend school in person this year. Saint Mary’s was the first and only private school they looked at; Vanessa said they felt very at peace with deciding to enroll Julia and are grateful that she’s able to be at school here.

She said that in exploring Saint Mary’s as a faith community, they’ve found RCIA to be a place where they can connect with God and be spiritual and at peace. They’ve learned to read the Bible in a different way and to get a better understanding of religion in general.

Because the RCIA group is able to meet in person during COVID (using spatially distant guidelines), Vanessa said it’s been a place to connect. Father Mike is great, she said.

“It’s been a really meaningful journey for both of us,” she said. “We’re both talking about our faith more as a couple. It’s brought us together closer as a couple as a result.”

The RCIA sponsors are there because they want to be there, not because they have to be, Vanessa said. “Ryan and I are excited to go to RCIA class on Wednesdays.”

About Saint Mary’s School, Vanessa said: “I think they really do a good job teaching the kids about service – that you’re not the only one that matters — about being a responsible human being, a responsible citizen to the earth and the people we encounter on a daily basis. I think our daughter has learned a lot. I think Saint Mary’s drives home a value system with the lessons they teach.”

David Gleberman Dave’s parents are Jewish and he was raised in their faith, celebrating his Bar Mitzvah at age 13 and attending services for the Jewish high holidays. But by his college years, he said, he lost interest in his faith and was largely agnostic.

Dave was introduced to Catholicism by his wife, Becky. He began attending Mass with her during their courtship. He said he was very drawn to the Mass and learning about the faith, but his journey was a long one. He attended weekly Mass for 22 years before Sister Pat McCarthy (former Pastoral Associate at St. Mary Church) grabbed his arm one day and asked him if he was ready to join the church.

The Gleberman family began their journey with Catholic education at St. Bridget’s School when their oldest child entered kindergarten. When their oldest child completed middle school, they reassessed their educational needs and decided that Saint Mary’s, with its IB Middle Years Programme, was the perfect home. Their oldest child moved on to Benedictine College Preparatory, and Becky and Dave transitioned their other children to Saint Mary’s.

Dave said that while he attended weekly Mass, participated in his children’s faith-based education and witnessed the many sacraments of each of their children, he’d not considered RCIA until Sister Pat approached him. It was summer when Sister Pat asked him if he was ready, and he immediately joined the RCIA group. He received the sacraments at the Easter Vigil in 2017.

“RCIA was not at all what I expected,” Dave said. “My initial belief was RCIA was going to teach me how to be Catholic. I thought it would be a rigorous study of the Catechism and would teach me the mechanics of prayer. Instead it truly was a faith journey that allowed me to connect dots in my life that led me to Jesus Christ.”

“The largest influence in my faith journey is definitely my wife, though she never asked me to become Catholic,” Dave said. “My children were also significant influences in my journey. I traveled with them through so many sacraments. And I learned so much about my faith through them and their Catholic education.”

Dave said that he and his family have felt blessed and welcome at Saint Mary’s. They appreciate Father Renninger’s long-term leadership, the faith-centered education at Saint Mary’s School, and they love the overlap between the school and parish community.

“Perhaps our favorite aspect of Saint Mary’s is the close relationship between the church and school communities,” Dave said.

Dontrese Brown
Dontrese grew up “rooted in the Southern Baptist tradition” at a church in New Albany, Indiana, just across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky. His grandfather was a preacher in the church his family attended, and Dontrese said they were in church all the time. As he grew older, he did not practice churchgoing as much.

As an adult he started feeling drawn closer to God and to his Christianity. Meg, his wife, grew up Catholic, so they were married in the Catholic church; their children have been raised in the Catholic faith. As a family, they held to many Catholic traditions.

“As I felt closer to God, I knew that I would transition to Catholicism,” he said.

The Brown family moved to Richmond in 2015, and after doing so they were looking for a church home where they felt comfortable. The only people they really knew in Richmond happened to be Steve and Anne Leigh Bisese: Steve had been dean of students at Georgetown College in Kentucky when Dontrese attended for undergraduate studies. Anne Leigh – Saint Mary’s director of admissions – had been a financial advisor at Georgetown College in Kentucky. When Dontrese and Meg were considering their move to Richmond, he called the Biseses and had lunch with Anne Leigh.

“We started talking about school systems and where we might want to live,” Dontrese said, “and Anne Leigh said ‘I am biased, but Saint Mary’s is one of the top schools in the area.’ So it was stick and stay! Let’s do it!” That’s how they found Saint Mary’s.

About three years ago, when Dontrese began to feel ready to explore a transition to Catholicism, he set up time to talk to Sister Pat, and told her he felt God was pulling him to complete the circle and join the rest of his family as a Catholic.

Dontrese said the welcome and togetherness of Saint Mary’s influenced his faith journey and his family’s settling into Richmond. The Saint Mary’s community gave them a sense of connectedness and normalcy. Being a Catholic member of Saint Mary’s has “given me a great understanding of my faith journey,” he said. “It has allowed me to be confident of that faith journey. It enriched my life because I feel comfortable talking about it.”

Dontrese said he feels Saint Mary’s Catholic School has given his two children a solid foundation. “I feel phenomenal about the foundation that is built at Saint Mary’s: respecting elders, religious beliefs, making the right decisions,” he said.

Dontrese was part of the feasibility study that resulted in Cristo Rey Richmond High School being established in Richmond. Cristo Rey is a Catholic learning community that educates young men and women of low economic means, and includes a diverse population. Dontrese said he wants to see that broad demographic of young men and women receive the same strong foundation his children have found through Catholic education.

He hopes to be part of an effort to facilitate conversation around greater diversity and inclusion at Saint Mary’s, and to help create an even stronger sense of welcome within the school and parish community.

Sutten and Rod Compton
Sutten and Rod are parents to seventh-grader Mac. They were Christian but did not attend services at any faith community. They chose to send Mac to Saint Mary’s School because it was more convenient than the public option open to them in Goochland when Mac was entering first grade. They didn’t want Mac to have to ride the bus one hour each way to and from school, and when a neighbor (who is a St. Mary’s parishioner and alumni parent) suggested Saint Mary’s, they explored and chose it for Mac.

Mac was baptized Catholic and received first Communion with his classmates, and Sutten and Rod began to bring him to Mass each Sunday. After several months of attending Mass each week, Sutten said, both she and Rod decided to join Mac on his faith journey.

When asked how being a member of the Catholic Church and Saint Mary’s community has enriched their family life, Sutten said: “I think we feel a deeper part of the Saint Mary’s community, and a strong connection to and dependence on God.

“Going through RCIA demonstrated the ‘family’ of the Church,” Sutten said. “I never understood why the Eucharist was only shared by Catholics in the Catholic Church. I also learned more about the Bible as a whole. It was something Rod and I did together each week.”

Sutten said she loves that Saint Mary’s School students attend Mass together each week, and that Mac especially enjoyed the Mass Buddy program that paired older and younger students at Mass each week pre-COVID.

Christi Klein , and son Jack Hopler
Christi’s daughter Aerin and son Joe are students at Saint Mary’s. Her oldest son, Jack, graduated from Saint Mary’s in 2020.

Christi was baptized in the Catholic Church as an infant and her mother was Catholic, so she always identified as (Irish) Catholic. However, for various reasons her mother didn’t actively practice her faith, and Christi did not receive first Communion or otherwise become an official member of the Church until she was an adult.

Christi and her husband, David Hopler, discovered the Saint Mary’s community when they decided to enroll Jack in kindergarten in 2011. They had neighbors (who were not Catholic) whose children attended Saint Mary’s and who recommended the school.

In 2016, when Jack was in Mr. Woodburn’s fifth-grade class, he let his parents know that he wanted to become Catholic. Christi talked to Mr. Woodburn and to Sister Pat, and decided to enter the RCIA program and receive first Communion and be confirmed parallel to Jack’s journey. Christi was able to receive first Communion and be confirmed shortly before Jack, so that she could be closely involved in Jack’s baptism, first Communion and confirmation.

Christi attended weekly sessions with another RCIA candidate, and these were led by Sister Pat and another RCIA team member.

“These small sessions of just four people were extremely intimate and productive and greatly enriched my understanding of and desire to belong to the Catholic faith,” Christi said.

When asked how she feels Saint Mary’s School shares its faith and values with students and the world, Christi said: “I find that Saint Mary’s builds Catholic morality and guidance into everything the students do, whether it be ‘regular’ non-religious classes or at weekly Mass. Saint Mary’s also emphasizes giving back, including school supply and toy drives for less privileged children, which allows me to discuss with my own children the importance of understanding their advantages and helping others in line with Gospel values.”

Richard Lewis
Richard grew up Methodist; his grandparents helped shape his faith growing up. He and his wife Jo, who is Catholic, have attended Catholic Mass together since their teenage years. Jo has been an extremely important part of Richard’s faith journey and has been “help along the way” for more than 25 years, he said.

Richard said: “I have always enjoyed Mass even while not participating in many of the rites. As my family began to grow and my oldest son began participating in more of the rites, it became clear to me that it was time for me to take the next step in my Catholic faith journey.”

Richard and Jo and their children joined the Saint Mary’s community when they moved from Glen Allen to Henrico. They have two nephews who were both attending Saint Mary’s School at the time and they felt the community was a great fit for their son, who is now a fourth grader.

Richard said he rarely reads the church bulletin, but the bulletin from the Mass for his son’s first Communion included an “advertisement” for RCIA. “After that Mass, I was drawn to the information about RCIA and it was clear to me that I needed to act upon it,” he said. “God was telling me that it was time.

“Joining the rest of my family and finally taking the step to become Catholic has allowed each of us to make our faith more a part of our everyday life,” Richard said. “From prayer to Mass, we are more connected to one another and to God.”

Being part of the Saint Mary’s School community echoes the Lewis’s values: “I believe that the school provides an invaluable faith experience where the students have the opportunity to learn about their personal faith in an environment that is supportive, caring and understanding,” Richard said. “In normal times, the school community is very close, but also welcoming and inviting to others. As the school and parents work to develop our children into teenagers and young adults grounded in their faith, I know that we are simply doing our part by making the world a better place.”

Karen Lamb , and daughter Winnie :
Karen is a middle school math teacher at Saint Mary’s School – she joined the faculty as a part-time math teacher in 2019, and became a full-time teacher this school year. Her son and daughter, Bobby and Winnie, began attending Saint Mary’s this year.

Karen said she was reared in the Baptist church and that her family was a strong church family, attending a rural church near where she grew up – her dad was an organist at their church at age 15, her parents met there, and, growing up, her family was at their church five days a week.

When she was in college, her parents left her home-base church and spent some time seeking another good fit before they found another church in the city. When Karen came back home to attend services with her parents, it no longer felt like the place in which she grew up.

Karen and her husband Nick were married in 2003, and from that time, through having children, to today, they’ve tried various churches in the West End and Mechanicsville, looking for a community that had the same feel Karen had experienced in the church where she grew up. Till now, they’ve never really found the right fit.

Karen joined the Saint Mary’s faculty in 2018. “The first time I came to school Mass – it was before school started and it was just the faculty and staff – I felt at home, even with hardly any people there.”

Karen said she felt called to join the Catholic church last year, but she wasn’t ready to start RCIA. Her daughter Winnie, a third grader, started expressing interest this year as soon as she started attending Saint Mary’s Catholic School.

When asked how Saint Mary’s shares its beliefs with the community, Karen said: “It’s the way people interact with each other – faith is part of the daily conversation and life. People support each other.”

Also, Karen said, there’s something about the tradition and holiness of the Mass that draws her to the celebration.

“There’s a reverence here that I haven’t felt in a long time,” she said. “It feels sacred. I can slow down and hear God. I can feel it.”

Karen came to Saint Mary’s School from the public school system, and now she said she can’t imagine going back.

“I think the fact that we have God present in the curriculum makes a difference in the way we treat the children – it makes a difference in the way we approach each child,” she said. “At this point I can’t imagine teaching without that present.”

Karen and Winnie will start RCIA this summer.

Principal Brandon Hess
Mr. Hess was born and raised Protestant and said his family was very active in their church, attending services every Sunday and Wednesday, and participating in a robust youth program there. “I was able to form a lot of friends and foundational faith in those years,” he said.

When he married his wife, Meghan, who is Catholic, he was frequently exposed to Catholicism and was “able to see more closely the acceptance that was provided in the Catholic Church,” he said. “Growing closer to Jesus through regular communion with a supportive community allowed me to refocus my perspective on faith.”

The Hess family regularly attended Saint Bridget Catholic Church, and Father Michael Renninger was a pastor there years ago. Mr. Hess said that when he and Meghan had children and moved to the West End, they found a parish home at Saint Mary’s and were reunited with Father Renninger.

When asked how the Saint Mary’s community influenced his faith journey, Mr. Hess said: “Having spent nearly 20 years attending Catholic Mass as a Protestant, I was well equipped to make the move to being Catholic. The influencers were my wife and later the SMCS school community.”

Saint Mary’s School is doing a good job sharing Gospel values with the world, he said. “Daily, our teachers and staff fill the school with faith as examples of living the Catholic life. Our school day begins with prayer and lessons connect to the values of Jesus’s teachings. Taking the time to pause and reflect on the connections between our academic and daily lives with our Catholic life and how they are all woven together are providing a foundation to each student on how to be a faith-filled Catholic.”

Pat Novak
Pat is the director of RCIA and Baptism at St. Mary Catholic Church; she assumed this role when Sister Pat McCarthy retired in 2020.

Her comments during our interview well summed what I felt running through the words of all the community members to whom I spoke:

“People come to us tentatively trusting us when they send their child to school at Saint Mary’s,” she said. “They find that it’s more than just a school – they are drawn in by the welcoming presence and depth to membership. There is an opportunity to live faith out here.

“Membership in church is not just about theology,” Pat said. “The creed is its basis, but it’s more about how you live out that membership. There’s incredible potential – there’s enough room for everybody with lots of work to do.”

If you would like to learn more about becoming a Catholic, you can contact Pat Novak through an email to pnovak@stmarysrichmond.org .

G5-G8 Parents: Scoliosis & Eating Disorders

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 16:10:00 GMT

Each year, parents of current students in grades five through eight receive an email communication from the Clinic containing the following message and resources:

Recognizing the importance of early identification of at-risk students, the 2013 Virginia General Assembly passed a law requiring each school board to provide parent educational information regarding scoliosis and eating disorders on an annual basis to students in fifth through twelfth grades.

LINKS TO INFORMATIONAL DOCUMENTS CAN BE FOUND BELOW:

Scoliosis info for Parents

Eating Disorders – What is it? (National Eating Disorders Association)

Eating Disorders – How to help (National Eating Disorders Association)

Both scoliosis and eating disorders are serious health problems that usually start in childhood or adolescence. The earlier they are diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome.

Scoliosis (a curvature of the spine) shows up most often during growth spurts, usually when kids are between 10 and 15 years old. About the same number of boys and girls are diagnosed with minor idiopathic scoliosis. But curves in girls are 10 times more likely to get worse and may need to be treated. The more your spine is curved, the more likely it is to get worse over time therefore, early detection and treatment is key.

Eating disorders are about more than food, they are a group of complex psychological conditions that can lead to other diseases. Both males and females are affected and weight is not the only indicator of an eating disorder. These disorders can be life-threatening if not recognized and treated appropriately.

After reviewing the information attached, if you think your child may be showing signs of either disorder, please contact your primary health care provider or the Saint Mary’s Health Clinic at (804) 741-8790 for further information and support.

Interview Project Sparks Intergenerational Connections

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 16:20:00 GMT

This month, Mrs. Burgess worked with her Grade 6 Language Arts students to conduct interviews with elder members of their family. The project was intended, among other aims, to teach students how to use direct and indirect quotations in their writing. What they learned and shared far exceeded Mrs. Burgess’ initial expectations.

“The projects are just awesome,” reports a beaming Mrs. Burgess, “Some students will submit their stories to the Legacy Project’s Listen to a Life Story contest.”

Students began their assignment by interviewing a family member, usually a parent or a grand parent. In some cases this could be done in person, while in others, technology like Facetime or simply a cell phone allowed them to conduct interviews from afar.

In terms of questions, students were given latitude in what they asked resulting in a broad range of stories to share. Their real challenge? How to capture their subject’s voice and distill stories into just a few paragraphs.

The result was a rich tapestry of personal accounts ranging from innocent childhood memories to courageous and sometimes tragic brushes with war and its aftermath. One adventurous grandfather even shared stories of mining for diamonds in Southern Africa!

Related: In order to support ECDC and Elementary students to be better prepared for the rigors of our IB Middle Years Program, Saint Mary’s Catholic School is building a new Literacy Library in Mrs. Murray’s resource office. Once our learners reach 6th grade, they have two English instructors: One dedicated to Literature and the other dedicated to Language Arts. Yet another reason SMCS graduates outshine their peers in high school! We’ll release more information on the Literacy Library and some special events related to its launch this spring.

Pop Up Art & Unexpected Blessings

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 15:43:00 GMT

Spontaneity can seem in short supply these days. It seems we cannot do anything or go anywhere without making plans and appointments weeks, if not months, in advance. And even then we have to remind ourselves to be flexible and roll with change depending on our health, the health of others and lately, we even have to roll with weather-related delays and closings!

But then, we are reminded (once again!) of the abundance of blessings in our community. One such reminder appeared, Good Will Hunting style, on Mrs. Dunham’s art room white board this week. Sixth grade students were delighted to see it when they arrived and wanted to know who was responsible for the beautifully drawn landscape depicting rural Colombia.

Who was the mystery artist? Jerry Duenas, a member of the nighttime custodial and maintenance team responsible for keeping our school safe and clean for students and faculty members. This is not the first “art abandonment” gift he has anonymously left to be found by school staff members. In fact, over the last couple of years, Mr. Duenas has left several pieces including a stunning painting of a parrot that resides in Mr. Hess’ office near a very familiar bobble head figure.

While capturing a photo of the whiteboard art, several staff members who had come to admire the unexpected blessing noticed another beautiful work of art nearby, this time in the form of a framed thank you note from a student. We were all stunned at the student’s beauty and striking resemblance to her chosen Wax Museum personality, Mexican painter Frida Kahlo.

These chance encounters with works of art hiding in plain site were timely reminders this week of the unexpected blessings we continue receive despite the many changes we continue to navigate together at Saint Mary’s Catholic School!

Related: Students in grades 2, 3 and 5 learned about Banksy, an anonymous street artist, renowned for the very public partial shredding of his now iconic 2002 piece known as Girl With Balloon , officially titled There is Always Hope .

Inspired by this work, our students then created their own black and white art featuring bright red heart shapes. We hope that their artwork brings an unexpected spark of joy to your week and reminds you that we are part of a very special school and parish community!

Upcoming Lenten Offerings at our Parish Church

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Please consider participating in one or more of these excellent opportunities to “Grow in God” this Lenten season! Simply click the images below to learn more or to register on our parish church website.

Love God, Love Your Neighbor

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 12:37:00 GMT

At Saint Mary’s, we are committed to following Christ and his Gospel, which at its simplest tells us this:

Love God and love your neighbor.

In our school garden, we take a deeper look at how blessed we are by the bounty of nature. We try to think about how we can be good stewards of God’s creation. We talk about the ways we benefit from its gifts of food, and community, and restoration.

Our garden is its own community: worms and microorganisms feed the soil, plants grow with warmth from the sun and water from the rain, pollinators of all sorts enable the cycle of life to continue. When we spend time in our garden we get to see how we fit into this cycle–how we can help it to flourish and how we can avoid harming its rhythms.

Our school garden also gives us a window into talking about food systems. Is what we eat local or does it come from far away? Are we choosing something to eat that grows here seasonally? Do all people have access to food or are they unable to get certain things because they lack transportation or the resources to grow or purchase it?

We wouldn’t be here today if Chef Gene had not asked me a year ago to grow butternut squash for him in the school garden. I brought seeds from a hardy variety I’d grown at home and planted some of those; I also bought a couple of seedlings and planted those as well to make sure we had lots of squash.

All through the long, quarantine summer, God did most of the work taking care of those squash. When school started back in August, the Garden Club members and I watched and waited and then harvested two heavy bags full of squash that Chef Gene was able to turn into a side dish for the people he helps feed.

Our garden is small, and once the squash were gone, we all wondered, and pondered, what else we might do to help Chef Gene and The Salvation Army feed more people. A group called Kids Gardening advertised a contest called Carton 2 Garden, sponsored by a company called Evergreen Packaging. We saw that contest and our idea–just a seed at first–began to take root.

As part of our project for the contest, we collected and recycled milk cartons from our school cafeteria. Our Girl Scout Troop, our school Garden Club, our lunchroom coordinator and her daughter, our youth minister and several of her friends, some of our alumni and some of our teachers and current students all joined us in turning the cartons into Christmas pots!

Virginia Department of Forestry, donated 100 Virginia pine seedlings and the Henrico County Extension donated 50 redbud seedlings. Scott Turner from Truetimber Arborists helped us pot the seedlings in our milk-carton pots, and we sold these online and in our carpool lines at school. We raised $1,000 selling seedlings.

We submitted our project as our Carton 2 Garden contest entry , and we won another $1,000! With the money we raised, we were able to pay one of our alumni to refurbish our raised beds so that our garden can keep on growing and we are able to present to you this check so that you can feed more people–people who are our neighbors.

Evidence that this journey has borne good fruit is abundant — we’ve learned that we can grow food, and we’ve learned that we can use our school garden as fertile space for community, creativity, action and motivation. If you think about it, God’s relationship with human beings began in a garden. Our relationship with each other can start here, too.

On behalf of all of the members of the Saint Mary’s community, I would like to present Captain Melody Moran of the Salvation Army with this check for $1,000 to be used to help Chef Gene and his team feed our neighbors through the Salvation Army’s mobile food kitchens in Richmond.

Kind Words, Actions During Lent

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 19:41:00 GMT

This week saw our 3rd grade learners take on the serious task of text surgery. As seen in the photos below, they were guided by two very experienced Text Surgeons , Mrs. Turner and Mrs. O’Leary. Their activity, complete with surgical gear, included carefully extracting parts of text–headlines, glossaries, charts– identifying them and cataloging their findings in post-op reports.

While fun and off-the-charts creative, this classroom activity can also serve as a metaphor for the rest of us: Words can be used in so many ways and we would be wise to dispense them with surgical care. This is especially true in a time when we are feeling the lingering social and emotional impact of the now year-long pandemic.

Similarly, a front page feature in this week’s edition of The Catholic Virginian is entitled, “Pope: Smile, say kind words during Lent.” The article makes several references to Pope Francis’ encyclical, “Fratelli Tutti, on Fraternity and Social Friendship,” including the wish for Catholics to be “increasingly concerned ‘with speaking words of comfort, strength, consolation and encouragement, and not words that demean, sadden, anger or show scorn.'”

For those of us who have the privilege to walk the halls of Saint Mary’s this week, we might notice the Pontiff smiling in the direction of our Mighty Monarch students who were “crowned” for their virtuous words and actions in January. As we continue our Lenten journey together, might we all heed Pope Francis’ call to focus more on using kind words; especially since our kind smiles are still hidden behind our face masks!

In addition to paying attention to words, the season of Lent gives students a time to reflect on their actions so that they might be more in line with Gospel values and teachings. Nowhere is this opportunity more apparent than in the solemnity of the church sanctuary during a practice session for the 4 graders’ much-awaited performance of the Stations of the Cross.

While some students practice reading and cantoring as silhouetted students create images of each station, other students sit quietly working on their assignments and awaiting their turn to perform. The excitement is palpable, but the silent reverence and patience on display is something special to behold.

Perhaps students were on their best behavior because there was a camera recording their movements, but something tells me that the Holy Spirit was at work in their hearts for the duration of the morning practice! We know all spirits will delight in their performances for 4th grade parents and the church community next month on March 11 and March 25 .

As our 25th week of school draws to a close, we are again grateful to celebrate another week together and to observe some familiar signs of spring and Easter on the horizon. Until then, stay kind, mighty Monarchs!

A link to recorded performances of the Stations of the Cross will be shared once available.

With God’s Love as Guiderails, Our Lenten Journey Begins with Love

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 19:54:00 GMT

With Monday’s observance of President’s Day, together we embarked on another short school week made even shorter by icy weather!

On Tuesday we loved seeing everyone’s belated celebration of Valentine’s Day with students and staff showcasing their spirit with pink and red clothing and accessories. We featured a love song in Spanish by ECDC students as well as some familiar faculty faces on social media. We also love this video below of fifth grade recess fun provided by Mrs. Benton!

Speaking of fun, Tuesday was also Mardi Gras, so Middle School learners in Mrs. Healy’s French class flipped the traditional script on masquerade ball masks to create bedazzled face masks in light of COVID-19’s impact on celebrations in New Orleans and elsewhere around the world. Elementary students were in on the Mardi Gras creativity too with some guidance from Madame Lee in World Language studies.

On Wednesday, the first day of Lent, we celebrated Ash Wednesday with a school mass for fifth through eighth grades. After mass, first through fourth grades also received ashes on their foreheads as did our JK and Kindergarten students thanks to a quick visit to ECDC by Mrs. Heishman.

In a school year marked by so many changes and uncertainty, we remain grateful to embark on this year’s Lenten journey together with God’s love as our guiderails!

Celebrating 100 Days: We made it!

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 15:02:00 GMT

The 100th day of school milestone is in the rearview mirror and we’re really hitting our stride as we head into a long President’s Day weekend. But before you go, be sure to watch this snippet of our Centenarian Parade–Yet another Saint Mary’s tradition that lives on despite COVID-19.

We are so proud of ALL of our students and families for helping to keep our community safe so that we could hit this major milestone in-person TOGETHER. Thank you once again, #mightymonarch community!

Day-by-Day Celebrations: #CSW21

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 12:53:00 GMT

Today marks the start of Catholic Schools week celebrations across the nation. At Saint Mary’s, we have planned a week full of activities and fun!

Since it’s snowing, why not gather as a family and enjoy this recording of yesterday evening’s 5:30pm mass at our parish church?

Celebrating Our Community #CSW21

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 18:12:00 GMT

In anticipation of this year’s Catholic Schools Week (Jan.31 – Feb.6), we asked student representatives in each homeroom to share why they love being a part of the Saint Mary’s Catholic School Community. It’s been a year like no other in our school’s history and we are so proud of every student for smiling through their masks and sharing their spirit of gratitude with us. Enjoy!

ECDC student testimonials

Dancing was a common theme among our Junior Kindergarten representatives, possibly because they were asked for ideas on how we should celebrate Catholic Schools Week!

In Kindergarten, things got a little more specific. Our first representative requested to pay a visit to his favorite place in the whole school–the Art Room! While our second friend declared his favorite spot of all was the playground. No surprise there…

And speaking of the playground, that is where our next two student testimonials were captured during first grade’s recess time. Check them out below!

Elementary School student testimonials

Second graders captured in the videos below were equally clear on their favorite spot and subjects. For our book lover, the library is her happy place, whereas our PE enthusiast chose the multipurpose cafetorium.

Grade three learners were all about resource classes! Our first representative loves art–and Father Mike’s homilies–while our second student loves music. Both acknowledge that resource classes are a bit different this year. For example we listen to music more instead of singing, but that is not a bad thing. Learning to adapt and rising to new challenges has been a big part of what we learn together.

Inspired by the global backdrop for our fourth grade testimonials, our two representatives talked about some bigger topics — school uniforms as symbols of unity and middle school readiness. This pair is certainly ready to share their light with the world!

Fifth grade representatives spoke about Catholic values, celebrating God, in-person school masses and feeling gratitude for kind teachers. Plus feeling just plain lucky to be a student at Saint Mary’s! The feeling is mutual: Our students are AMAZING!

Middle School student testimonials

Sometimes actions can speak just as loud as words–in this case, our first representative from sixth grade literally lit up when we asked him his favorite subject: Math! Upon arriving in Mrs. Olesen’s room, he decided to show off some dance moves in celebration of his recent math midterm success. Our second representative was soft-spoken but clear: She loves how teachers and students make her feel included.

Seventh graders did not hesitate when asked about their favorite things about Saint Mary’s. Our first representative is grateful for our recent facility upgrades and 1:1 technology access! Our second seventh grader chose to share his love for learning Spanish with Señora Thompson at Saint Mary’s in our International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme.

Eighth grade student representatives recapped what we love about our school from the inside out: the many academic offerings paired with a deep belief that our faith grounds everything we do. WE ARE SAINT MARY’S!

REMINDER FROM THE CLINIC

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 13:23:00 GMT

Dear Parents & Staff,

As we head into a long holiday weekend, Nurse Osborne would like to urgently remind you of our mutual responsibility to stay safe and prevent the spread of COVID-19 at Saint Mary’s Catholic School.

First and foremost, if you believe that you or your child may have been exposed to COVID-19 or are feeling even mildly ill with symptoms—STAY AT HOME and contact your medical-care provider.

As local hospitals and health authorities report rising COVID-19 case rates, we urge everyone to continue social distancing, frequent hand-washing and wearing a face mask when you’re out in public and disinfecting high-touch surfaces.

In addition to these primary measures, we encourage you to:

· Avoid the 3 C’s: Crowded settings, close contacts and confined spaces. Keep your contacts limited and your social circles small.

· Get tested if you feel sick at all. Stay home and isolate; don’t be around others if you are not feeling well.

· If you test positive, let Saint Mary’s clinic staff know ASAP so we can start our safety protocol. Our direct clinic line is (804) 741-8790.

· Quarantine for a full 14 days if you are a known close contact to a person with COVID.

· Consider getting tested 5-14 days after any possible exposure.

As always, we welcome you to contact the Clinic anytime via telephone at 804.741.8790 or email ( clinic@saintmary.org ) if you have any health-related questions.

Inclement Weather Policy Reminder

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 15:11:00 GMT

Once a decision has been made by the Principal, Saint Mary’s Catholic School will communicate all weather related delays and closings in the following order:

Since this is our first mode of communicating all weather related information, we ask that you please take a moment to ensure that you have signed up to receive text messages and that the phone number you have provided for the Parent Alert System is correct.

Annual Appeal Match Challenge Highlights as of 12/16/2020

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 14:53:00 GMT

Many thanks to the 90+ donors who helped us meet our $12,500 match challenge. You can still join the village of supporters who give so generously to our school by making a gift ! Below are just a few highlights along the way to our ultimate goal of $65,000. To date, we have raised 57% or $37,000.

Last week one grandmother called to make a monthly recurring gift to the Annual Fund. Her monthly gift is $20 — Consider making your gift this way if it works better for your household! She is a retired teacher, and was full of thanks to our teachers and staff for working so hard and making it possible for her grandchildren to be in school for in-person learning this year.

Another friend of Saint Mary’s made a gift in honor of our faculty. That’s another great idea, and great way to say thanks!

Don’t forget, too, that your employer may offer a matching gift program for donations you make to a charitable organization. Saint Mary’s qualifies for these kinds of gifts, and we’ve received donations already that will not only double (with the match) but TRIPLE because of the employer’s matching gift.

We have also recently received a stock transfer as a gift to our Annual Fund. If you have questions about how you can help us reach our $65,000 Annual Fund goal, please contact Jennifer Janus .

Annual Fund Matching Gift Challenge: Just in time for Giving Tuesday!

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 18:41:00 GMT

While 2020 has come with challenges, it’s also brought silver linings. At Saint Mary’s we have been able to return to in-person instruction. The dedication and resilience of our teachers and families are matched by our students’ joy at being back at school.

You can see smiles in the eyes above our students’ masks. Despite social distancing, the strength and generous spirit of the Saint Mary’s community connects us no matter how far apart we stand. As a member of our family, you have helped us navigate this challenging time by sharing with us your love, optimism and faith. Together, we are part of something bigger than the challenges that 2020 brings our way.

Now is the time of year for the Annual Fund appeal at Saint Mary’s. The Annual Fund is built into the school’s budget each year; the fund allows us to cover operating expenses and keep tuition costs down. This year’s goal is $65,000.

Please help us to meet and even exceed our goal by contributing to Saint Mary’s Catholic School Annual Fund at whatever level you are able. You may give online or by check made out to SMCS with Annual Fund ’20-’21 in the memo line.

Your participation makes a difference to each student and teacher at Saint Mary’s Catholic School! If you have any questions, please contact Development Coordinator, Jennifer Janus .

Carton2Garden Project: Green, Good & Joy-Giving

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 15:31:00 GMT

As part of a contest opportunity called Carton2Garden , our school garden club is up-cycling milk cartons from the school cafeteria into planters. The SMCS Garden Club, Girl Scout Cadette Troop 5163, Saint Mary’s students and alumni and staff are all helping to spruce up the cartons so that they are miniature works of art. The Virginia Department of Forestry is donating seedlings to be planted in the cartons under the watchful eye of Truetimber’s Scott Turner .

In exchange for a suggested donation of just $5 each, you will be contributing to a Green, Good and Joy-Giving project!

The beneficiaries:

1. You! You will get a lovely little tree that can be planted as soon as you’d like as long as the ground is not frozen!
2. The school garden: some of the proceeds from donations will go toward refurbishing the raised beds in our school garden.
3. People in Richmond experiencing homelessness: some of the proceeds will also go to help our former school chef Gene Garrision in his ministry to the homeless via a Salvation Army mobile food kitchen.
4. Girl Scout Cadette Troop 5163, which is working on this project as part of its bronze service award.

BONUS: If we win one of the Carton2Garden contest prizes, the SMCS garden and the people experiencing homelessness will benefit even more, so please pray for a win!

SEEDLING DELIVERY/PICK-UP: If you are a school family, we will try to send your seedling(s) home at the end of the day with your child or one of your children whom you can indicate on the next page. If you are a parish or community family, we will have your seedling(s) at the school office for you to pick up, and we will contact you with more information once the seedlings are ready.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS? Please contact Jennifer Janus .

Turn up the volume

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 16:23:00 GMT

After studying about Día de los Muertos and La Toussaint, fifth grade students decorated “calaveras,” the Spanish word for skulls, and then wrote a brief statement dedicating their creation to the memory of a deceased relative. When the projects were completed, Mrs. Lee, our Elementary French & Spanish teacher displayed them in the elementary school hallway and on the window overlooking the school garden. The display, backlit by the sun streaming in from the garden was beautiful.

But she still felt something was missing.

Because the dedication cards were scrawled in small handwriting, Mrs. Lee was worried that her students’ written sentiments would go unseen, so she decided to offer them the chance to record their dedications in audio files that were then added to a compilation video that was shared with the students’ parents as part of their weekly Language update.

In a time when we are collectively grieving a multitude of specific and ambiguous losses related to the global pandemic, this exercise was a poignant reminder of our ability to express deep emotion through art, writing and the spoken word. The result proved to be a moving experience for Mrs. Lee, her students and parents alike.

We at Saint Mary’s Catholic School are incredibly grateful for teachers like Mrs. Lee who continue to use their creativity to bring projects like this alive through technology, innovation and love. We notice and appreciate their effort to go the extra mile for our community!

Guide for Parents: Understanding Performance Series Test Scores

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 13:41:00 GMT

In September, students in grades 2-8 were assessed using the Performance Series Test. These test score reports will be sent home on Friday, October 30th. Students in grades 2-5 will receive their scores in their Friday folder while middle schoolers (grades 6-8) will be given their scores in a sealed envelope.

Sometimes interpreting scores can be difficult. To assist in interpreting the scores, we are providing this letter distributed by the Office of Catholic Schools. This document outlines the Scantron Performance Series Reading and Mathematics score report. The intent is to provide support in better understanding how the Performance Series Test delivers the assessments to meet students’ individual goals.

Additionally, the score report provides assistance on how to interpret scores and to better understand your child’s current areas of strength and areas for further growth. Teachers use these scores to direct individualized instruction in their classrooms with groups of students demonstrating the same areas of need.

We look forward to assessing student growth again upon returning from the Christmas Holiday break.

Student Council Supports Lusaka Students with School Fees

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 14:21:00 GMT

Next Thursday, October 22, students will elect new Student Council officers who will be installed during a ceremony following Daily Mass on Wednesday, October 28.

Before we welcome our new officers, let’s take a look at the impact our prior SCA officers created through their main service project: Donating School Fees to Students in Need in Lusaka, Zambia.

This time last year, SCA officers selected Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa to receive funds raised during Daily Mass on Wednesdays. This month, Sister Paula Healy of FMSA Ministries sent us a detailed impact report on how students living in shanty areas of Lusaka, Zambia benefited from the SCA’s generous allocation of donated funds.

In education, the sisters in Sister Paula’s order of nuns are the managing agent of St. Paul’s Primary and Secondary Schools – a Church owned school and St. Francis and Clare Secondary school owned by the sisters but operating under government sponsorship (meaning teachers are paid by the government). This arrangement renders school fees less expensive while still offering quality education to the students in need. Both schools are situated in shanty compounds.

The sisters also run St. Francis Day Care for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs) who attend early childhood education and get one meal per day. Most of these children are under the care of vulnerable grandparents who cannot afford a meal for these children who are on medication for HIV & AIDs. These children continue to come for meals even after they move on to primary and secondary schools – most of them join St. Paul’s primary and secondary where they are easily monitored by the sisters. As they move on in their education, there is continued and growing demand for school fees, food and clothing including the new baby girl cutest clothes . The sisters try to source funds for these students and others who attend classes in schools within their catchment area.

To raise sufficient school operating funds and student fees, the sisters rely on donations and support from the government, private sector, friends and individuals to facilitate quality education in shanty compounds. The schools have been built to modern standards and are a true haven for pupils who come from shanty compounds. Some parents are able to pay all or partial school fees while many parents fail to pay fees required by the government due to poverty situations exacerbated by the global pandemic. A lack of school fees often leads to high school dropouts, drug abuse, and early pregnancy or marriages; especially for female students.

BY THE NUMBERS : SCA IMPACT

Sister Healy reported using funds allocated by Saint Mary’s Catholic School SCA to pay school fees for 72 children who attend various schools:

1 girl in college who is projected to complete her Teaching course in December. The sisters hope she will then be able to help her younger siblings complete their education as well.

Out of the 72 students paid for, 19 are double orphans (looked after by grandparents or other family members), 24 are single orphans and 28 children have both parents (most of whom are currently without jobs).

For more information on Saint Mary’s Catholic School SCA, please contact Ms. Spring Lavallee , MLS.

Mini-Session Style Tips: Family Photo Fundraiser Oct. 18 & Oct. 25 @ SMCS

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 14:40:00 GMT

First, take a deep breath and know that we are working with a pro!

Mark Gormus loves taking outdoor photos and has spent some time this week checking out our photoshoot location (on and around the SMCS playground). Keep in mind that a beautiful location and good light are key to a nice photo. The weather forecast for this Sunday, Oct. 18, looks great and there is enough shade and gorgeous fall colors in the areas we have selected to ensure you and your family will have several stunning backdrops to choose from!

When you arrive, Mark will direct you through a few natural groupings and poses with your family. The idea is to capture you interacting with one another and to avoid static poses. You can expect to receive 3-6 fully edited photos that represent the best of your mini-session. We will deliver them to you in digital format and you will have full usage rights to create holiday cards, social media posts, etc.

Now for the style tips:

New Air-Cleaning Technology Installed at Saint Mary’s Church and School

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 14:47:00 GMT

Dear Saint Mary’s Catholic School community,

The community at Saint Mary’s Church & School has undertaken extraordinary efforts to ensure the health and safety of everyone who enters our buildings during the COVID-19 outbreak. Parish and School leaders have worked throughout the summer to implement the hygiene regulations which have been promulgated by the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Diocese of Richmond. These efforts have allowed us to safely gather for the public celebration of Mass, and for our school to reopen with all of our students and teachers in the classroom.

In addition to these efforts, our parish has made significant investments in technology, training and equipment which will permanently enhance the safety of every person who comes into our buildings.

We are happy to report that professional HVAC technicians have completed the installation of a Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization system in all of our air handling units to significantly improve air quality in every part of our church and school.

This technology is currently used at locations such as Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard University, the White House and Charlotte Airport. This same technology has recently been installed in Richmond-area schools including St. Catherine’s and St. Edward-Epiphany Catholic School.

Bipolar Ionization Technology works to safely clean the air inside commercial and residential buildings. The patented technology uses an electronic charge to create a high concentration of positive and negative ions. As these ions travel with the air stream they attach to particles, pathogens and gases, making them filterable. The ions kill pathogens by robbing them of life-sustaining hydrogen. The ions travel within the air stream into the occupied spaces, cleaning the air everywhere the ions travel, even in spaces unseen.

Most importantly, this technology has been proven to kill airborne bacteria and viruses, including COVID-19.

The installation of this technology will cost the parish and school over $50,000. This is a significant financial investment, but we know that this is the right decision because it is an investment in the health, safety and well-being of every child and adult who spends time within the buildings of Saint Mary’s Church and School.

If you have any questions about this information, please feel free to contact us.

May God bless you and your loved ones.

In Christ,

Fr. Michael Renninger, Pastor

Mr. Brandon Hess, Principal

7th & 8th Grade students recognized for National Spanish Exam 2020 results

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 20:07:00 GMT

Congratulations to the following SMCS students for their performance on this year’s National Spanish Exam!

Registration is LIVE for the Virtual Go Forth! 5K & Kids’ Mile

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 14:37:00 GMT

Grab a friend and register online for the Go Forth 5K or Kids 1 Miler! This year’s virtual event will take place from Friday, September 18 through Sunday, September 27, so it’s never been easier to find time to participate.

Since going virtual, our goal is to have participants from across the country and the world! Registration is $25 for the 5K or $15 for the Kids’ Mile and includes an official 2020 race T-shirt.

Questions about suggested routes? Contact Jennifer Janus .

Flynn O’Hara Uniform Information

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 15:40:00 GMT

Please Update Kroger Change!

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 13:48:00 GMT

If you have a Kroger account, can you please update your community rewards to our new account number DN165?

We recently found out the old number was deactivated, and they had to create a new account for us. Please, don’t shop at Kroger until you update your account!

A PAINLESS way to donate and help raise funds for our school

Our Class of 2020 Baby Photos A Time Honored Tradition

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 16:51:00 GMT

Traditionally, on Grandparents Day – baby photos of our 8th graders are posted for all to see. This has become a time honored tradition and a much anticipated event at SMCS. We are sharing the baby photos with you! You also have the chance to try and guess which baby photo is our 8th grader.

Visit our news post again on June 22 to check out which beautiful baby photo is one of our great 8th grade graduates.

SMCS End Of Year Awards May 28, 2020

Fri, 29 May 2020 14:53:00 GMT

Hello Saint Mary’s families,

Every year we take time to recognize our students (grades 1-8) for the outstanding work they have done over the course of the school year. This year we will do the same, in a slightly different format. Our 2019/20 End of Year Awards ceremony has been recorded and prepared for all to see. Our teachers are so proud of each student for adjusting to a very different learning format and wished to give everyone recognition. So kudos to every student in grades junior kindergarten through eighth grade. Congratulations on a job well done.

We look forward to recognizing our eighth graders at our Eighth Grade Closing Mass next Monday at 3:00. More details are forthcoming and will be sent to parents of eighth graders.

One item of note, you will see in the video, there is an additional member of our team who will be leaving the school at the end of the school year. Heather Heishman has given more than 14 years of time and service to Saint Mary’s Catholic School. Her talents are many and she has been behind so much of the great things that happen here at the school. While the school will miss her many contributions she, will be just a few steps away as she takes on a new role at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church. Congratulations Heather and we will see you around the way!!

As for now, please gather the family together and enjoy the End of Year Awards and Recognitions .

Best regards,

Brandon

Mrs. Harris 2020 Excellence in Catholic Education Award

Wed, 13 May 2020 17:36:00 GMT

Mrs. Harris was selected by her colleagues and will represent Saint Mary’s Catholic School at the Excellence in Catholic Education Awards. Mrs. Harris is an amazing representative and that was BEFORE the pandemic. Since then Mrs. Harris has wowed the parents and motivated the students while teaching remotely!

A Word Of THANKS!

Mon, 11 May 2020 13:45:00 GMT

Good afternoon Monarch Family,

Our teachers are the best! They are. First and foremost, on the tail end of this Teacher Appreciation Week I want to thank our Saint Mary’s Catholic School teachers. Each one of our teachers are dedicated, patient, loving and supportive. It is most reassuring that each student is physically/emotionally safe and academically prepared and prosperous. For this and other unmentioned reasons, I am thankful!

To the parents, thank you for each of your efforts to recognize our teachers as the skilled and thoughtful educators that they are. This week has been slightly more difficult to provide a ‘regular’ celebration but like always, you have each come through to recognize our teachers. Thank you! Additionally, thank you to our PTO for spearheading the charge to recognize our teachers. Not an easy undertaking, so thank you.

I want to thank all persons affiliated with SMCS for their dedication to Catholic education and especially Saint Mary’s Catholic School. In every altered circumstance we stand up and deliver with such grace. A true mark of a united community committed to excellence. I am excited about the school’s future and am thrilled that each of you are part of the journey.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Best regards,

Brandon