Good Afternoon St. Stephen Families,
Our Move Together event is almost here and we have three weeks to meet our goal of 100% participation. As I have shared many times, tuition does not cover all the costs of running the school. In January I explained that our cost per pupil is approximately $7700. There is a $600 gap, between the greater cost per pupil and tuition, for the first and only child and for siblings, with the second and third child discounts, the gap becomes greater. The school depends on fundraising to fill that gap. In recent years our fundraising efforts have struggled to meet our goals and this year we expect that we will have even greater challenges. Many schools have mandatory fundraising amounts that must be met, some as much as $500. I am asking that we all work together to reach our goals this year so that mandatory fundraising amounts or higher tuition do not become necessary at St. Stephen.
A number of parents have asked about Mass attendance, envelopes, and the effect on tuition rates. The Bishop has given everyone a dispensation from attending Mass in person. While that is in effect, we are not looking Mass attendance. Once the dispensation is lifted, we will once again require that students attend Mass on the weekend which is verified through the use of envelopes at Mass. For now, everyone will stay at the tuition rate they are currently assigned. When things change, I will be sure to communicate with everyone.
I had a request from our Faith Formation office. Many of you are probably not aware of where they park or the fact that you are blocking their driveway during carline. If you arrive early for carline and find yourself in the area between the front entrance and the turn in the parking lot next to the gravel lot, please try not to block the Faith Formation parking lot. Once carline is moving, it's not a problem if someone is trying to get out.
You may have noticed in the church's online bulletin, Cornerstone, that Faith Formation classes will be starting up again this weekend. Classes will be held in the main school building on Sundays and Wednesday afternoons and evenings. All the classrooms and restrooms will be cleaned and disinfected after each session. Please know that we are making every effort to ensure we continue to provide a safe environment for your children.
Next week is our famous and exciting Principal's Coffee on Facebook Live at 8:30 am! Please be sure to tune in or watch at a later date to learn more about grades including the difference between a standards-based report card for K-2 and a traditional report card for grades 3-8. We will also update everyone on upcoming events and evolving procedures in response to COVID-19.
Please read all of Tidbits as there is much exciting news being shared. As always, thank you all for your continued support.
Peace and Blessings,
Linda Umoh
