February 6, 2012

 

 

Dear Parents:

 

Last week was filled with fun, energy and a tremendous school spirit. We ended Catholic Schools Week with a beautiful Mass. The entire week was meaningful and successful. The children enjoyed all of the events – from service projects to fun with music and dance to a lively talent show. Thank you again for being here, for all of the support you gave during the entire week. A special thank you to Shane Morrison who coordinated the donut making. 

 

The Mardi Gras is Saturday. This is a huge fundraiser and many people have spent hours preparing for this great event. I hope to see you there, having a good time and bidding. We have great items for sale and I know the food will be delicious.

 

 

Reminders:

v     February 8^th Late Start – School starts 2 hours late. Please have everyone here by 10:15. PreSchool will come at regular time – 8:15

v     February 11^th – Mardi Gras - Join us for a great evening of fun

v     February 14^th – Valentines Day – 2:00-3:00 classroom parties

v     February 20^th – 24^th Spring Break No School

v     February 22^nd – Ash Wednesday – please try to bring your child to church since this is the beginning of Lent. I will send more information regarding Lent next week.

v     March 22^nd - Kindergarten Roundup - 8:30-11:00 please send your family and friends to this important event

v     April 12^th – PreSchool Roundup – 6:00pm-8:00pm - Please spread the news.

 

As we look forward to the K & PreSchool Roundups, I ask all of you to market our school. We need to continue to grow. I would like to have more children attending and by Fall 2012 exceed 100 students. We have a wonderful faculty – tuition should not be viewed as a problem. Nothing is impossible if we communicate our needs and work together.

 

A special thank you to Bonnie & Steve Monfeldt for coordinating the cookie sale. They gave of their time and talents to make the sale a huge success. Please remember to mark your calendar for cookie pickup day - February 17 – 2:00-5:00 in the lunch room.

 

Today Mrs. Weets dropped off some Watkins catalogs. Over the years she has given our school the opportunity to order and gives a % back to the fundraising efforts. If you wish to order Watkins, please stop by the office and place your order. Thank you.

 

Have a wonderful week and thank you for all your support and for all you do for Queen of Peace School.

 

See you at Mardi Gras!!!

 

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Sister Therese

 

January 30, 2012

 

 

As you are all aware yesterday was the beginning of Catholic Schools Week. This year’s theme is “Catholic Schools: Faith, Academics, Service” which highlights our commitment to infuse students with the Faith, strong Academics, morals and discipline that will help them lead fulfilling lives.

 

The pancake breakfast was awesome.  The preparation, food and service was second to none. Thank you to the Knights of Columbus, parents and students who helped and attended this event. What a true sign of dedication and commitment to our school.

 

This morning we started with our rally, each child and adult received a pin with the Catholic Schools Week logo and the children shared the research on how Catholic Schools started in America. The classes preformed a play, sang a song and read about the many Saints who started and influenced catholic education in America. It was great! Thank you to the teachers and children for their many efforts.

 

Please remember to sign and return the report card. We need them for future grades. Also, if you have concerns or questions, please consult with your child’s teacher. Communication is important for us to meet your child’s needs.

 

You have received the schedule for Catholic Schools Week and it is also on the web. Please try to attend the events. The children love to have you present. We are aware of your work responsibilities. Sunday, February 5^th will be our closing Mass. I encourage all of you to attend. We will contact individuals to do the readings, cantor etc.

 

Cookie dough sales were a tremendous success. I believe we made over $ 3000.00 in profit. Thank you to all who sold and bought the cookies. Over 500 tubs were sold.

 

Mardi Gras is our next big day. This is a huge fundraiser and many people have spent hours preparing for this great event. I hope to see you there, having a good time and bidding. We have great items for sale and I know the food will be delicious.

 

Thanks to all who continue to spend the extra hours, giving and giving some more and for everything you do to serve our school. It is truly an inspiration. You will be blessed!

 

Raffi Johnson (preschooler Alex’s Dad) has been home from Iraq for two weeks. He returns to Iraq this week knowing of our prayers and gratitude for serving all of us.

Please continue to pray for Raffi and his family.

 

Have a wonderful week!

Sister Therese

January 24, 2012

 

Dear Parents:

 

Next Sunday, January 29 ^th marks the beginning of Catholic Schools Week. This begins the national celebration of Catholic education and its role in preparing our young people for a life of love and service to their families, their communities and the Lord. We’ve planned a variety of events everyone can enjoy. I’m hoping that all of our school families will join us and share this treasured gift of a Catholic School. Attached is a schedule of events. We will also have a wonderful article in the Pine Journal. Please invite your friends, relatives and potential families to enjoy the week with us.

 

Every Monday I send home important information about the school and the upcoming events or meetings. The letter is sent via email and is also put on the web-site. I thank all of you who read, respond with requests and the positive remarks about the letters and information.   I know everyone is extremely busy – I understand, but would you please check your email so you do not forget this information.

 

The children in grades 3-6 took their standardized tests last week. If you recall the test is taken 3 times per year. After each test the children with the teacher set new goals and in so doing try to meet the goals for the next test. I am very pleased to announce that the % of students that reached and excelled beyond their goal is terrific. Congratulations to the teachers and students for their hard work and determination.

 

Reminder:

 

v     January 29^th – February 5^th National Catholic Schools Week. Please attend Mass, Sunday, February 5^th, 9:30 for the conclusion of the week. I will be contacting parents requesting children to read, cantor, etc.

v     Cookie dough sales ended today. If you did not return your envelope, please do so tomorrow.

v     February 8^th – Late Start We will have PreSchool. Mrs. Thaler will send a separate note with the PreSchool children regarding the day.

v     February 11^th Mardi Gras. Please refer to the information sent to you regarding donations, ticket sales etc. Let’s continue making this event a huge success.

v     March 8^th – 11^th Pasties Sale More to follow.

v     March 10^th – Destination Imagination Competition

v     March 17^th Bishop’s Dinner. Tickets are available and selling. Let’s sell and pack the Dry Dock for this wonderful event.

 

Have a wonderful week. 

Sincerely,

Sister Therese

January 17, 2012

 

Dear Parents:

 

Yesterday we remembered an important leader of our country – Martin Luther King. Mr. King asked the questions: Why? Why not? What if? We as a nation, as individuals must ask the same questions. Queen of Peace School is called through mission to ask these same questions. We have a tremendous opportunity as a Catholic school, independent of policies and procedures that do not relate to our Mission, to make a difference. Let us never be afraid to make a difference as a family, as a church, as a school and as an individual. 

 

Today we begin the winter testing for grades 3-6. Please have the children rested and ready to do their best. Report cards will be sent home Friday. There will be no parent conference this quarter. If you have questions, please contact your child’s teacher.

 

A request: If your child has signed up for DI, please make sure that they attend the various meeting dates and participate fully. All of the coaches are giving their time and energy for this excellent opportunity and we need to respect their efforts.

 

Reminders:

v     January 23^rd - NO SCHOOL Teacher InService

v     January 29 – February 5^th National Catholic Schools Week. Please try to attend the many events planned and invite family and friends. This would be an opportunity for you to invite a potential student. Next week we will have the flyer on the website with dates and times. Please try to attend Mass, Sunday, February 5th, 9:30am as we end this week of celebration.

v     Please try to sell cookie dough. Remember you get credit toward fundraising.

v     February 11^th Let’s all work hard to make the up coming Mardi Gras a success. Please volunteer to help with this great event. A great opportunity for all of us to join in and celebrate before Lent.

v     March 17^th – Bishop’s Dinner. Tickets are available. Please contact the office and invite your friends and relatives.

 

As a school we call on our parents many times to help with fundraising and various events. I know you are all involved in many things as a family as well. Please remember we need everyone to volunteer and be part of our school family. We have kept our tuition cost down due to the tremendous work of our families. Let’s continue these efforts, knowing that all of your efforts are always welcomed and much appreciated.

 

Have a week filled with fun, excitement and many blessings! 

 

 

Sister Therese

 

January 9, 2012

 

Dear Parents:

 

 

Please pray and encourage your children to become priests and sisters. Everyone is called to live out their Mission at Baptism. We are invited this week to pray and discuss these two vocations and encourage our children to listen and respond to whatever God is asking of them.

 

Mike Ausmus had a meeting with the DI coaches yesterday. They developed a list of team members and will be contacting each child this week. Mike and the volunteer coaches are giving a tremendous amount of time for this program. If you child is participating, please remind them to be present, engaged and work hard.

 

Reminders:

v     January 9^th Starts the Cookie Dough Sale. Thanks to Bonnie and Steve Monfeldt for coordinating this fundraiser. Sell them Cookies.

v     January 12^th K-6 Hartley Nature Center

v     January 16^th and 23rd Inservice Days. NO SCHOOL for children

v     Catholic Schools Week – January 29^th-February 5^th. January 29^th the Knights of Columbus will sponsor a pancake breakfast for the school. We will need some 4,5,6 grade children to help after the 9:30 Mass to serve and “bus” tables. Please let me know if your child can help. Thank you!

v     Let’s all work hard to make the up coming Mardi Gras a success. You should have received a flyer regarding baskets for the event. This is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to join in and celebrate before Lent.

v     Just a little reminder to keep your tuition payments up to date with SMART TUITION and the additional fundraising cost. The finance committee continues to monitor our progress and so far we are doing well in our tuition collection. Please contact me if you are having financial difficulties. I will be happy to discuss your situation and help in whatever way I can.

v     March 17^th – Bishop’s Dinner at the Dry Dock. Please mark that date on you calendar. Cost $ 50.00 per person. All proceeds will go to the Endowment fund. Tickets will be available this week in the school office and after Mass on Sunday. We would like to fill the place – so let’s think of all the great people we could invite. Every year we have a Campaign for the Endowment fund. This year we are asking parents, parishioners, local family members to attend this event as their donation. Out of town alumni, grandparents etc will receive a donation letter. 

 

Have a wonderful week and welcome the warm weather.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Sister Therese

January 3, 2012

 

Happy New Year!

 

The beginning of a new year is a time for prayerful gratitude. I am grateful for you and all that you do to help our children deepen their faith and grow in their academics. We are all committed to presenting experiences of faith to our children that affirm all that is being done in the home. These efforts to collaborate between home, school and parish are required tools to build meaningful connections to Christ. As we start another calendar year let us never forget where we have been and never take for granted where we are and continue supporting the tremendous efforts in keeping our school alive and well.

 

We have many events coming in January. Please make sure you read my letters, ask your child questions about school and please communicate with me if you have questions and concerns.

Upcoming Events:

v     You will be hearing from committee members regarding the cookie dough sale and Mardi Gras. Please remember we need everyone to share in the fund raising efforts. So far the response from the parents has been terrific. Please keep it up. Some time this month we will be sending a statement regarding your fundraising and volunteer hours. I appreciate your efforts.

v     Catholic Schools Week – January 29-February 5 Theme: Catholic Schools – Faith, Academics, and Service. Many events will be planned for the entire week. Watch the website for details.

v     Capital Campaign – Queen of Peace School Endowment Fund – Kick off during Catholic Schools Week.

v     Remember to visit our website, queenofpeaceschool.org additional information about our school.

Before Christmas we sent information regarding the DI Destination Imagination program. Mike Ausmus has graciously offered to coordinate the program. Several of you have offered to help coach and many children will be participating. Mike will be contacting all who volunteered and if others would like to help, please contact me. There will be more information sent home and meetings coming soon.

 

Thank you again for your prayers, gifts and remembrances for Queen of Peace School. We are deeply grateful for each and every one of you. Blessings on you and your families during 2012.

 

Sincerely,

 

Sister Therese

December 12, 2011

Dear Parents,

“Our soul waits for the Lord; he is our help and shield. Our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name. Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.” Psalm 33:20-22

 

We enter into our 3^rd week of Advent with joy-filled anticipation of the end of time when Jesus will welcome all of us into His kingdom. We also look forward to the celebration of Christmas when as we do every year remember the birth of Jesus – a birth that changed and continues to change the world. Let us continue to prepare our hearts with an openness to receive our Lord and Savior.

 

The children are busy preparing for the Christmas Program. Please have your children here in their classrooms by 6:15, Thursday, December 15^th. Please remind the children about listening and no running. They get really excited and we don’t want any accidents. After the program we will have cookies and juice in the gym. Please invite friends and relatives to attend. Thanks to Mrs. Lah for her hard work in preparing the children.

 

The children with their teachers are preparing for Christmas Around the World. The children have some wonderful, creative projects to share with everyone. Please join us on December 22, in the gym – after Mass-11:00. Again, please invite friends and relatives. The children are excited to share their work with you.

 

Christmas vacation begins at the end of the day December 22^nd. Children will have Christmas parties starting at 2:00. School resumes January 3, 2011. 

 

Congratulations to our 2^nd grade children. They made their First Reconciliation on Saturday. This is wonderful and we give thanks for these beautiful children as they make another step in their Catholic faith.

 

The cold weather is upon us. Please make sure your children have hats, mittens, boots, etc. When the temperature is below 10 and windchill is below 10 we do not have the children go outside.

 

The school uniforms are white tops and navy blue pants, jumpers etc. Lately I’ve noticed some children are wearing other colors in socks, sweaters etc. We have vests and sweaters available for purchase.  I would appreciate everyone following the uniform policy. We do have a uniform exchange box – if you need extra clothes, please contact the school.  We would love to share. Thank you!

 

Reminder: Thank you to those who have donated toward Father’s gift. If you haven’t and wish to do so, please send in the donation soon. 

Have a wonderful week – one that is filled with joy and excitement as we await the coming of our Savior.

 

Sister Therese

December 5, 2011

 

Dear Parents:

 

Rejoice the Lord is near. As we enter into the second week of Advent let us continue to prepare our children for the wonderful feast of Christmas by helping them remember the true meaning of this great feast. 

 

The weekend was another wonderful witness to the commitment of our school families in helping to get the message of the school out to our parish and community. Thank you to Jen Saletel and her committee for the outstanding  – chili and soup dinner. The food was wonderful, Santa was cheerful, the crafts and decorations were beautiful and the Santa pictures were unbelievable. Thank you to all who donated supplies, decorated, made the food, set-up, cleaned-up and attended. You can all be very proud.   The parade was another success!!! Thanks to George Lah, John Bleskacek, Erik Lavan, Andy Mork, Steve Stracek, and all the parents and children who built the float, walked in the cold and showed our community the pride we hold in our school. All I can say is thank you – everyone of you are tremendous. It takes an entire school community to “makes things happen” this weekend was another example of your dedication and desire to sustain and build our school.

 

Please remember to turn in your volunteer hours for the time you spent at each of these events. We need to have this information to give you credit.

 

This time of year we give thanks for the people that have shared their time, love and support. One person I would like to suggest we thank is Father Fish. Would you please send a few dollars as a sign of appreciation for the gift he is to all of us. I will use the money to purchase Scrip. The children will present him with the gift at the last school Mass before vacation, December 22^nd. 

Reminders:

v     December 8^th – Immaculate Conception - Children’s Mass 9:30

v     Christmas Program – December 15th  6:30pm – children in classroom by 6:15pm

v     Please remember to send the cash gift for Father Fish

v     December 22^nd following 9:30 Mass – Christmas Around the World – gym Everyone is welcome to join the entire school for a great event. Invite relatives and friends.

v     Christmas vacation starts at the end of the day – December 22^nd

 

NOTE: School starts at 8:15. All children should be in their seats at 8:15 unless their bus comes later. Please revisit this and make sure your child is present at the required time. Thank you!

 

Enjoy the snow and keep warm.

 

Sister Therese, F.S.E.

November 28, 2011

Dear Parents:

We begin the First Week of Advent. A time when we prepare our hearts and families to welcome Jesus once more into our home. Please set aside some time to share this beautiful season by doing some of the activities in the family book sent home, praying extra, and worshiping as a family on the weekend. 

 

We received a check for $366.00 from NEW PAGE. Thanks to Glen Gaffney and Joe Alberio who took the shiny paper to the company. Great work and thanks to all who participate in this project.

Events for this week:

v     November 29th, 8:30 Picture retake in the family room and 2 day Preschool.

v     December 2, 5:00-7:00 Home for the Holidays

v     December 3, Home for the Holidays Parade – Line up at 5:00, parade starts at . 6:00. If possible please send in 2 AA batteries by Friday. The children will be holding battery candles and there is a need for these batteries. Please help!!!

v     December 15^th All School Christmas Pageant – PreSchool-6^th grade.

 

I received a letter from Cynthia Zook today regarding her visit as Director of Schools.

She was very pleased with the outstanding work throughout the school. She witnessed strong academics and a profound faith formation within our school. Congratulations to our teachers and children.

 

Tuesday, December 6^th is the feast of St. Nicholas. Throughout the world on December 6^th, whether he goes by the name of St. Nicholas, Sinter Klaas, or Santa Claus, this figure shows enormous generosity, love of children, deep care for the poor and the needy, and a completely selfless nature who embodies the spirit of Christmas and the true spirit of the Lord. If this feast is part of your tradition, please enjoy the day.

 

Have a wonderful week!

 

Sister Therese

 

 

November 21, 2011

 

 

Dear Parents,

 

 

Across the globe and within many religious traditions, the winter season marks the beginning of a new year, a new creation. In Christianity, that new beginning is celebrated with the Advent season. It is my hope that we all take the time to prepare for Christmas by spending extra time in prayer, going to Mass, sharing the beauty and excitement of the season with family and friends and most of all preparing our hearts for the celebration of our Savior’s birth.

 

Last Friday was another example of the spirit of Queen of Peace School in action. The outpouring of generosity was wonderful as we celebrated Thanksgiving Mass with our children. To watch the children process with their donations for the needy was very heartwarming. Then we moved into the day of wreath distribution. Thank you to everyone who sold, delivered, put on bows, made lunch etc. Queen of Peace School families continue to demonstrate their community spirit. Thank you especially to Gina Ausmus for the hours of time in organizing the event.   To everyone THANK YOU!! I am very proud of your generosity.

 

Last week the State of MN licensing representative was present to relicense our preschool. This was another time of concern. Mrs. Thaler and I spent hours making sure we were in compliance in all areas. I am pleased to report – we are good in all areas. To say it is a relief – is minor. Thanks to all who attend our preschool – please continue to spread the word about our fabulous program. 

 

Mrs. Beck from the VFW gave the awards to the children who won the patriotic contest. As usual our children and teachers were stars. Congratulations to all!!

 

Tomorrow, Tuesday, Cynthia Zook, the director of Catholic Schools will be present all day. She will visit each classroom, speak with the teachers and meet with me. This is an annual visit and I’m confident she will witness outstanding education and beautiful children.

 

Advent begins, Sunday, November 27^th. As we prepare for the Lord’s coming let us take time during these next four weeks to open our hearts to Jesus. You will find in your child’s backpack a family booklet with great activities for you to do as a family. Please take a few moments each day and share the readings and activities. We as a school will gather every day around the Advent Wreath as a way of preparing our minds and hearts for Jesus’ birthday. If you are free, please join us.

 

REMINDERS:

v     November 23^rd Hartley Nature Center Field Trip K-6

v     November 24 & 25 Thanksgiving Vacation

v     November 29, Picture Retake and Tuesday, Thursday PreSchool

v     December 2 Santa Home for the Holiday Chili and Soup Supper. Please contact Jen Saletal if you are able to help. Also, please turn in the food items that were requested.

v     December 3 Home for the Holiday Parade. We need help building the float – please contact George Lah 879-1692. Line up will be at 5:00 – All children may ride the float. I believe Father Fish plans to ride this year, also. Let’s have a fun time.

v     December 15 All School Christmas Pageant.

 

 

As we celebrate Thanksgiving Day let us remember to thank God for all He has given us. As a Nation we are fortunate to know a freedom that no other country experiences. Let us remember to pray for those who are less fortunate. Let us pray for one another, especially for the children we serve. May God Bless you and your families – may you know the love and peace of Christ, always.

 

Have a beautiful Thanksgiving!

 

Gratefully,

 

Sister Therese