Throughout my entire life, one thing that I do not enjoy is goodbyes. Being a mom with children who select not to live in Michigan, you think I would become better at this, but I haven’t, and I still cry at every farewell. So, probably one of the most painful tasks for me as a principal is to say goodbye each year to another amazing group of students like the Class of 2021!

However, this particular graduating class also leaves the legacy of persevering through an entire year of COVID protocols with such a joyful spirit. Throughout this school year, there were many traditions and activities that needed to be modified or totally eliminated, and yet this group of kids continued to possess a positive and grateful attitude. As one of their religion teachers, it has also been a joy to hear them articulate and express their faith throughout this pandemic as well.

The length of attendance at St. Matthew Lutheran School for these students ranges from one to eleven years, but as the Class of 2021 prepares to conclude their journey at St. Matthew, each one of them have shared a brief reflection regarding how St. Matthew Lutheran School has impacted their lives:

“St. Matthew has helped me become a much better student as well helped me grow in my Christian faith.”

- Mark Alarcon

“During these past eleven years at St. Matthew, I have learned that by putting my faith and trust in God, He will make my paths straight!”

- Sarah Bennett

“Attending St. Matthew has impacted me by bringing me closer to God, and bringing me many friends.”

- Lily Boggess

“Attending St. Matthew Lutheran School has taught me to put all of my worries on God, no matter how big or small the circumstance is.”

- Natalie Dykstra

“Attending St. Matthew made an impact on my life by showing me the greatness of God and how much I need Him.”

- Drew Kort

“Attending St. Matthew started me on the right path to life.”

- Brady Mason

“Attending St. Matthew has made an impact on my life by the way I learn. I came into this school during the sixth grade with pretty bad grades, and compared to my current grades, that is some evidence of how I have grown as a learner attending St. Matthew.”

- Luke Nelson

“Attending St. Matthew has impacted my life by helping me grow and defend my faith. The teachers have also taught me so much more about my core classes."

- Travis Rupe

“I am very thankful for everything that I have learned at St. Matthew this year.”

- Liedan Siegel

“At St. Matthew, I have made lifelong friendships with both my classmates and the Lord!”

- Lilly Stevens

“St. Matthew has impacted me by teaching me more about God and His goodness.”

- Adyn Stoddard

“St. Matthew has impacted my life by showing me that everything that I do should reflect God, our Everlasting Father.”

- Bella Tinskey

“Attending St. Matthew Lutheran School has impacted my life by teaching me to be more like Jesus. St. Matthew has also taught me to be kind to everyone.”

- Tyler Webb

“I have learned that God is our Rock and Salvation. No matter what we go through, He will always be there by our side.”

- Rachel Yeskie

As I watch our Preschoolers enter this building each day, I am reminded how fast time flies. I am sure each of our 8th grade moms would share with all Preschool moms that it will only be a blink of an eye before they become the 8th Grade Class of 2031!

We are so proud of this year's 8th graders and their accomplishments during their journey at St. Matthew Lutheran School, and we wish them God’s richest blessings!

It’s not good bye, but see you later… when you return to visit and share with us how God is working in your lives because we are confident that He has great plans for each of you!

In His Love,

Mrs. Palka

P.S. We invite you to watch our 8th Grade Graduation live online HERE on Tuesday, June 1st at 7:00 pm. You may also connect through Zoom using webinar ID 825 5833 8183.

NO SCHOOL

NO SCHOOL - Memorial Day

Kindergarten Graduation 6:00 p.m.

8th Grade Graduation 7:00 p.m.

8th Grade Class Trip to Mackinaw

End of the Year Picnic

Gourmet popsicles from Frios Foodtruck

Closing Chapel at 8:40 a.m.

8th grade Clap Out at 11:25 a.m.

Dismissal at 11:30 a.m.

This has been a wonderful, yet demanding year! Our students and teachers have done an amazing job implementing and following all necessary COVID protocols that have assisted in keeping us in-person throughout a majority of the school year, and we realize this endeavor has been exhausting for everyone!

However, of all the years, we did not need to utilize any of the SNOW DAYS that were already built into our school calendar. As a result, our School Board voted to cancel school on Friday, May 28th, so that everyone can relax and enjoy an extended Memorial Day Weekend.

We hope that you have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

We are very excited that the Lord has opened an opportunity for our 8th graders to still participate in their annual Class Trip and yet do it safely through outdoor activities. This year, they will travel Up North to hike the Tahquamenon Falls as well as visit Mackinaw Island. As a result, we are moving both Kindergarten and 8th Grade Graduation to Tuesday, June 1st.

Due to Covid safety guidelines, these worship services will be designed for just the graduates and their families.

Details include:

Kindergarten Service at 6:00 p.m. in the church - students arrive by 5:45 p.m.

8th Grade Service at 7:00 p.m. in the church - students arrive by 6:45 p.m.

We look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of both of these milestones!

This is the year of “how do we still do this but in a COVID-safe manner?” As a result, our traditional “School Picnic” will still occur, just in a different way!

On June 8, our cooks and Mr. Welte will grill hot dogs, but instead of eating all together as a school, we will keep our original lunch schedule. As a special treat, the Detroit Donut truck will return to serve gourmet popsicles!

If your child would like to participate, this lunch will just be a regular hot lunch

purchase.