Dear Parents-
The school
safety audit was held this past Tuesday, and I am confident that St. Joseph Catholic School is well positioned in terms of school safety. The audit focused on building security, and campus safety, and a review of our practices in these areas. A summary report is anticipated in the next few weeks, and I will update you with conclusions and recommendations as appropriate. In the meantime, we continue to monitor our safety practices and remain vigilant.
The quality of our “
school climate” affects how students feel about school. We want our school to feel welcoming, inclusive, and supportive. It can be difficult to define school climate, but it is founded in solid relationships between all stakeholders. One of our school climate initiatives involves Mrs. Carson and me having lunch with three or four students as often as possible. This gives us the opportunity to get to know each child, and develop a supportive school climate.
Mrs. Farrell
is planning small counseling groups this year to provide support to students dealing with a similar situation, or to learn new skills. These groups will meet once a week for five-six week period, during the school day. If you are interested in possibly having your child participate, and would like more information, please
click on this link for grades K-4
, and
this link for grades 5-8
.
I
f you are interested in any of the groups offered, please fill out the interest form found at the bottom of the information page. Participation is completely
voluntary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Mrs. Farrell at
p.farrell@sjschoolva.org
If your child missed picture day in September, or if you need a make-up picture, Provine will be at school on Thursday, Nov. 15th for individual make up pictures. Students who were absent in September should complete the form
found at
this link. If your child needs a picture retake, please return the original packet and a new picture will be taken. If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Pearce in the front office.
The
1st and 2nd grade classes
tied for the most registrants in the Run with the Saints race, and have won a “dress-out day.” Teachers will notify parents in those classes when the special day is scheduled.
On Monday, 1st grade had a visit from
Harley, a PAL certified therapy dog
. Harley is a 9 year-old Golden Retriever, who loves to sit and read with children! Harley and his handler, Mrs. Emery, visit schools in our area to help students.
Many thanks to all our families who were able to support the
Scouting for Food initiative
. St. Joseph students contributed 75 bags of food this year that will help many area families in need.
Popcorn parties are awarded to the class with the largest contributions. This year, parties were won by:
1st place - Kindergarten Orange
Second Place - Fourth Grade White
3rd Place - a 3-way tie by First Grade Red, Third Grade Red and Eighth Grade Green
Don’t forget to place
December lunch orders
for your children through our school lunch program, in conjunction with Fairfax Food Service. Use this link,
https://sjschoolva.org/hot-lunch-program
, to be re-directed to our webpage to find the ordering procedures. Remember to place your order no later than the 28
th
of each month!
As always, please let me know if you have any questions.
Rejoice and Be Glad!
Denise Rutledge
Principal
