Holy Family school in Hillcrest Heights has faced some financial challenges over the past several years and they are striving to keep a Catholic education available to the families that live in that community. (I have been an employee in the Archdiocese of Washington for over 30 years and I have seen far too many of our Catholic schools close. There are valid reasons for much of what has happened, but these schools tend to be in areas with the greatest need, particularly in poorer areas both urban and rural.) The principals of the archdiocese have committed to supporting Holy Family and many of the schools are holding fundraisers this holiday season specifically to support the school. Just this week, a major private donation was given to Holy Family, but we still want to show our support and therefore we will be doing a $2.00 Christmas Sweater/Hat/Accessory Day next Thursday (December 13) AND a bake sale (with baked goods donated by the teachers) the same day. Children will wear their uniforms but may wear a pretty or ugly Christmas sweater, a Christmas hat, Christmas socks, etc. More information will go out next week but please join us in supporting another Catholic school that could use a little holiday magic.

 

Safety update. As promised, I have attached some information about the safety program that I attended (along with a couple of teachers) in late September. The superintendent has composed this letter to be sent out to all schools. Current belief is that lockdown/shelter in place is not necessarily the best reaction to a violent situation in the school (although it is one alternative). The intent of the ALICE program is to educate the teachers and the children about options that are possible in any situation. Please realize that we are preparing for the very unlikely event of something happening here at school and this is only the very beginning of our awareness and training. More information will be coming home the rest of the year and in the coming years about this program.