Dear St. Rose School Families:
What sets Catholic schools apart?
*Faith infused learning environment
*Family-like connections that last a lifetime
*High standards -- morally and academically
*Tradition -- built on a strong foundation which is Christ, our Rock, who never changes
*Genuine concern for every student
*Committed, passionate educators
*Committed, dedicated parents, grandparents, family members
*Enlightened students who are strong in their convictions and make an impact wherever they go
We are all here for one or more of these reasons (maybe some I have not mentioned). While there are many sacrifices, the rewards are far greater. In these tumultuous times it is more important than ever to partner in our precious children's education, giving them a foundation that ensures a bright future. They are the hope!
We've had an eventful week. Congratulations to 8th grader Isabella Corona who received the St. Thomas Aquinas Award from Bishop Caggiano in recognition of her academic excellence and for exemplifying her Catholic faith through service to others and Christ-like behavior. Isabella and her parents attended the Breakfast of Champions with Bishop Caggiano, Dr. Cheeseman and other recipients on Wednesday May 22nd. I was delighted to join them and am very proud of Isabella for her accomplishments and for representing St. Rose School. I am sure she will continue to make great strides at St. Joseph High School over the next four years.
St. Rose School hosted the final stage of the Modern Woodmen Speech contest this week as well. A total of 16 finalists from St. Rose and surrounding parochial schools participated. All of the speeches were commendable -- this contest has been a long standing tradition in the Diocese for 6th-8th graders and is an exceptional learning experience. Many alumni reflect back on the speech contest as being pivotal in their ability to prepare and present in public both in school and the workplace. Congratulations to our St. Rose School finalists: Kyle Getzinger, Gabriella Corona, Isabella Criscoula, Ava Faruol, Mycayla Canlas and Isabella Corona. Isabella Corona received Third place in the contest. First place went to Faith Bargellini at St. Joseph Academy and Second place to Gavin Conciatore from St. Gregory's. Well done!
The Golf Tournament was a great success. Sunny skies made the day exceptionally nice with so many St. Rose School families and friends gathered together for fun and a good cause...our school. Thank you to the committee who worked so hard to make it happen, to the HSA Board for all of your assistance and to all of the families who participated in some way.
This is the last week of sales for our Tuition Raffle. Don't miss this opportunity to possibly win $15,000 for tuition to ANY accredited K-8, High School, college, graduate school or student loan organization in the United States. It is also a very important fundraiser for our school. We hope every family will purchase at least one ticket and join us for the HSA End of year social at the Villa Friday, May 31st where the drawing will take place at 8:30 p.m. Please share the information with your family and friends. You can contact hsa@srles.com to purchase a ticket or for more information. Thank you.
Yesterday we started a new tradition at St. Rose School -- Red Carpet Day for our "star" 8th graders! The whole school gathered to watch as 8th graders, dressed in their finest, entered the hall and walked the red carpet. Star awards were then given to each 8th grader by their second grade buddy whose special comments were read by Mrs. B. Words like "kind, caring, friend, cool, helper" were among the glowing remarks. As I told the 8th graders, these special days are a tribute to them for the hard work they have accomplished and the good example they set as leaders in the school. I reminded the current 7th graders to take note for what lies ahead.
Our 8th graders will receive Confirmation tomorrow, May 25th. Please keep them and their families in your prayers. This is a significant step in their faith journey as they become adult Catholics and we pray that they will be on fire for the Lord and our faith going forward.
Memorial Day weekend is here. I know we are all excited for an extra day off. I hope we can also take time to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day and offer prayers for the brave men and women who have died for our country. The Knights of Columbus are holding a prayer service on Monday, May 27th at the St. Rose cemetery at 8:00 a.m. All families are invited to join them and place flags on the graves of our fallen heroes.
Please note that next Thursday, May 30th, is the Feast of the Ascension. We will attend mass as a school at 9:00 a.m. This will replace our usual Friday school mass.
I wish you a sun and fun filled long weekend.
God Bless,
Mr. Bardhyl Gjoka
