The goals and objectives of our academic program are being checked off one after another. At this time of year, the second benchmark evaluations have been given. Successes are being celebrated, and plans to ensure future success are being shared with parents. Strong attendance at our Parent Teacher Conferences gives evidence of how highly valued the partnership between home and school is.

               Traditional Lenten practices of giving up something and doing something charitable strengthen us spiritually and develop virtues: self-denial, delayed gratification, patience, generosity, and more. At Mass last Friday, Fr. Jesse (St. Mary Star of the Sea) encouraged the children to say, "Jesus, I love you more than _____" to make their little sacrifice of giving up candy or such a prayer. At morning assembly, we have talked about how giving up something or being charitable is like weight lifting for our souls. It makes us stronger. The example of the life of St. Thomas More was given. From his own writings, we have insight into his spiritual life. He was close friends with Henry VIII. When Thomas did not support Henry's decision to separate from the Catholic Church, Thomas was imprisoned. Thomas wrote that it was the small penance of wearing a scratchy belt made of hair that gave him the fortitude and perseverance to do the right thing. Sometimes, it is in the small exercises that we are prepared for the great ones.

Thank you for being part of the mission and ministry of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic School.