Gifts of the Heart
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give,
not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
2 Corinthians 9:7
Thank you to everyone who helped make our Annual Fall Festival a memorable and enjoyable event. From those of you who helped set-up and worked the booths, to those who purchased tickets to enjoy delicious food and games, and braved the inclement weather, your contribution is very much appreciated. The festival is a long-standing church and school event intended to strengthen our common ties and build community. It is also an important fundraiser to support our general operating expenses.
This week you will receive a letter from me outlining our Annual Giving Goals* for the year. Our previous campaigns have been extremely successful, thanks to so many generous donors who understand and appreciate the value of Catholic education as we strive to develop future scholars, athletes, musicians, artists, and scientists, not only as leaders for our Church, but also for the nation and the world. Most recently, we focused on the security of our campus, and to that end, we have been able to vastly improve our safety efforts. Specifically, we installed a 10-ft. automated center gate, replaced the 6-ft. chain link fence around the South Campus Field with 8-ft. non-scalable fencing, and replaced/added 49 high-grade security cameras around campus. By the end of the month, we will open our police storefront in the Parish Center where law enforcement will have a more visible presence on site and utilize the space for report writing and meal breaks. Our safety efforts** will continue as we utilize remaining designated funds to replace/install new fencing on North Campus.
For this year, our fundraising concentration will be geared toward “Educating the Whole Child,” particularly with an emphasis on a decrease in screen time and an increase in a back-to-the-basics approach to learning. Hands-on and physical activities are key to getting body and mind connected, so our goal is to replace the play structure and turf on North Campus, and install exercise stations on South Campus.
Each student, each parent, each family is integral to who we are as community, and your presence among us is very much valued. As we head into the fall season, with cooler weather, shorter daylight hours, and the holidays approaching, it is a natural time to reflect on the gifts we have been given, and to give thanks to God for His many blessings.
Deo Gratias, Kathy
*October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month and Safety Preparedness Month. On Tuesday, October 6, SMS students in Grades 5-8 attended an assembly on Internet and phone safety. All students in PK-8 will participate in the Annual “No-Go-Tell” training (Stranger Safety) this month as well as the Great California Shake-Out this Thursday.
