It's Time to Say Goodbye for the Summer

“Your light must shine before others,

that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”

Matthew 5:16 (The Sermon on the Mount)

Last Friday, parents, grandparents, and relatives gathered for Mass in the Msgr. Neal Dolan Holy Family Center not only to give glory to God, but also to recognize and congratulate our 73 Eighth Grade graduates and present them with their diplomas. These students now join the illustrious ranks of our alumni who, since 1964, have carried the Spirit of St. Michael with them across the country and around the world, honing their skills, pursuing their dreams, and thanking their Creator who blessed them with innumerable gifts and talents.

Today, after a parade and clap-out through both North and South Campus, we commended and applauded our 30 Pre-Kindergarten students at their graduation. Next year, these youngsters will don the SMS plaid and begin their journey as a proud Crusader.

The end of a school year presents a dichotomy of emotions for students, parents, and teachers alike. We are happy for the reprieve that summer will offer, but we are also a bit sad to say goodbye to the routines that have been constant for 180 days. We are grateful for relationships that were formed and strengthened, memories that were created, and the skills and concepts that were learned. The next school year will undoubtedly be different: different classes, different classmates, different teachers, and a different curriculum. Change is good and necessary, but also a bit scary.

Fr. David, in his homily at our last school Mass, talked about a fig tree that was full of leaves but bore no fruit. He reminded students that they have been given many gifts and it is their responsibility to develop those God-given gifts – to bear fruit – for their own benefit and also to help others. He asked them to work on two things over the summer: to be kind – especially at home, to their parents and siblings, and to pray every day. At our Eighth Grade Graduation Mass, Fr. Mel’s homily focused on “salt” and “light.” He explained to the students that their role going forward is to be disciples of Christ. Where salt gives flavor and preserves food, they are encouraged to be “spiritual flavor” to others, and where light illuminates the darkness, it is important that they reflect truth and morality.

I offer one final recommendation for the summer. It may sound unimaginative and obvious, but in between traveling, beach trips, and sports, try to spend time every day reading. The most influential and successful people in the world are all avid and diverse readers. Not only does reading provide access to knowledge, vocabulary, and ideas, but it also allows us to be creative and imaginative in a way that digital media does not. I have my stack of summer reading already picked out!

On behalf of the faculty and staff of St. Michael’s School, I thank you for allowing us to educate, nurture, and mentor your children this past year. It has truly been a joy and a pleasure. We wish you a restful, refreshing, and joyful summer, and we look forward to seeing you again in the fall.

Deo Gratias, Kathy