Dear Parents-
It’s hard to tell where one school year left off and the next one begins, but I want to warmly welcome you to the start of our new school year! We are five months into the COVID-19 pandemic and I know we are all tired of it, and praying for the end. I hope that this Bark finds that you and your family are well, and that you were able to rest over the summer, and are a bit energized! Time away with our families and loved ones renews our spirits and gives us a fresh perspective.
On Thursday we will celebrate the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, where Christ made His divinity known to His closest disciples. In celebrating this feast, we reflect on Christ as the “Light of the World,” and victorious over evil. We are so very blessed to be Catholic, and to openly live and practice our faith!
Typically at this time of year we are working to schedule playdates for our incoming kindergarten students. This year, best practices in the prevention of the spread of COVID-19 requires social distance at all times, as well as wiping down playground equipment before and after use, and the wearing of masks. With these guidelines, SJS will not sponsor the playdates.
However, with three weeks to go to the start of school, our virus numbers remain steady. The Herndon zip code has the fifth highest report of cases by zip code per 100,000 population, according to the Fairfax County Government website, but daily new cases in Fairfax County remain low (4.8 per 100,000 population) and the infection rate of 1.01 indicates infection is still spreading but at a low rate (see covidactnow.org). The positivity rate for all regions in Virginia, not including Hampton Roads has moved to 7.3%. (see governor.virginia.gov). Please keep yourselves safe…wear a mask, keep your distance, wash your hands, avoid crowds!
I am happy to make the following personnel announcements:
Mrs. Jennifer Fallace joins the staff as an instructional assistant. Mrs. Fallace has eight years experience teaching in elementary schools in California and North Carolina. She earned a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies, visual art from Point Loma Nazarene University, (CA), and she holds a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential as well as a Virginia Collegiate Professional License in elementary education. Her two daughters attend SJS as well!
Former SJS Music teacher, Mrs. Amanda Davis returns to the teaching staff after a hiatus of several years. Mrs. Davis takes over as teacher for 2 White. Mrs. Davis has one year experience teaching kindergarten prior to her year at SJS. She earned a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from Radford University (VA), and she has completed her certification course work. Her two children also attend SJS.
I also want to announce the resignation of Mrs. Jeanne Nickles. Mrs. Nickels served as our Jr. High language arts teacher for the past two years, and I know you join with me in wishing her well.
Please keep all these amazing educators in your prayers!
Mrs. Sears has provided a list of supplies for all art students, and you can find it here. Please remember that students cannot share materials this year in any class, and art is no exception. Distance Learners are also required to participate fully in encore classes, and having materials at home, prepared ahead of time will help.
In addition, Mrs. Ezenwa reminds everyone that it is not too soon to start planning for the return to in-person learning. Please see her guidelines below.
As always, if you have any questions, or if I can be of any assistance, please let me know.
Denise Rutledge
Principal
Building Wisdom and Faith Through Service to God
