Our Lady of the Lake School is committed to the Word of God through living out the Good News of Jesus Christ. A supportive educational team of students, staff, parents, and community aims at providing a creative, Christian learning environment. An emphasis is placed on developing students’ individual abilities, promoting social awareness, and encouraging them to become responsible, contributing members of church and society.

Dear OLL Families,

As we enter Holy Week with today’s celebration of Palm Sunday, I am reminded of the beautiful tradition that connects us to the earliest days of our faith. Today we commemorate Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, when crowds welcomed Him with palm branches and joyful “Hosanna!” acclamations.

Our sincere thanks to Father Peter and Father Jerome for meeting with our Grade 2-8 students for confessions this week. We are grateful for their spiritual guidance and support of our students.

We are excited to announce that we have begun planting seeds for our school garden! Each class will have one grow box for planting. The garden will be located on the side of the Daily Parish Center. Mrs. Gorstein is the lead contact for this project. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, please reach out to her.

New Exterior Doors: We are planning to begin installation over Easter Break with the replacement of the Main entrance and the Auditorium Door on Lakeside Ave. Please note that access to these areas may be limited during this time.

A special thank you to our Home and School Association for their incredible decorations for the Aloha Dance for middle school students last Friday evening. The students had a wonderful time at this tropical-themed event!

May this Holy Week bring abundant graces to your family as we prepare our hearts to celebrate the joy of Easter.

Have a beautifully blessed week,

April is Autism Awareness Month, a time to foster understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for individuals with autism. Throughout the month, we will explore what autism is, common strengths and challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum, and the importance of celebrating neurodiversity. We’ll also learn how to communicate and connect with people with autism while promoting kindness and inclusion for all. By having these conversations at home and in our community, we can create a more accepting and supportive world for everyone.

As we continue to observe Autism Awareness Month, this week’s focus is on Celebrating Neurodiversity—the idea that all brains are different, and that’s a good thing.

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity means that people experience the world in many different ways. Some individuals are autistic, others may have ADHD or learning differences—and these unique ways of thinking are all part of the natural variety in how our brains work.

When we talk about neurodiversity, we’re not just accepting differences—we’re celebrating them. Just as biodiversity helps ecosystems thrive, neurodiversity helps our communities grow stronger, more creative, and more compassionate.

Why Differences Make Us Stronger

Each person brings something valuable to the table. Some individuals may notice details others miss, think creatively, or have deep knowledge in a specific area. While challenges can exist, so do incredible strengths. When we recognize and value these differences, we create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

Inspiring Individuals with Autism

Here are a few well-known individuals with autism who have used their unique strengths to make a lasting impact:

• Temple Grandin – A scientist and author who has helped transform the way animals are treated in farming. She is also a leading voice in autism advocacy.

• Satoshi Tajiri – The creator of Pokémon, who channeled his intense focus and creativity into one of the most beloved games and stories in the world.

• Greta Thunberg – A global climate activist who credits her autism with helping her stay focused and determined in her mission to create change.

• Anthony Ianni – The first known autistic Division I college basketball player, now an inspirational speaker who encourages students to be kind and inclusive.

These stories can be a great starting point for family conversations. Ask your child:

• What makes you unique?

• Can you think of something you’re really good at or interested in?

• How can we be kind and supportive to classmates who may think or learn differently?

How Students Can Be Inclusive and Supportive

Here are a few simple ways children can practice inclusion in their daily lives:

• Be a friend to someone new or someone who might feel left out.

• Show patience and kindness, especially if someone communicates or behaves differently.

• Celebrate others' strengths and talents.

• Ask questions with curiosity and an open heart.

Talking about these ideas at home helps children build empathy and understand the value of diversity in all its forms. When we teach our children to appreciate different ways of thinking and being, we help build a more accepting world—starting right here in our own community.

📚Books to Read Together

• A Friend for Henry by Jenn Bailey: Follows a young boy on the autism spectrum as he navigates the social world of friendship in his classroom.
• The Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida: Written by a 13-year-old nonverbal boy with autism, this book offers eye-opening insight into the autistic experience.

💻Digital Resource

• Sesame Street & Autism Resources: Family-friendly videos, games, and tools featuring Julia, a Muppet with autism.

🏛️Places to Visit

• Liberty Science Center (Jersey City, NJ) – Hosts Sensory Friendly Days throughout the year, with reduced sound, dimmed lights, and quiet spaces for neurodiverse guests.
  www.lsc.org

As we enter the Fifth Sunday of Lent, we are reminded that this season is a special opportunity for families to grow in faith together—through prayer, acts of kindness, and small sacrifices.

To support your journey, we’ve created a Lenten Family Calendar filled with daily activities, prayers, and reflections—simple yet meaningful ways to embrace Lent as a family!

Be sure to check out some helpful Lenten resources below to guide you and your family through this special season of prayer, reflection, and growth. These resources are designed to make your Lenten journey meaningful and fun!

Easter Recess at OLL begins on Wednesday, April 16th, with an early dismissal at 12:10 PM. School will be closed from Thursday, April 17th, through Sunday, April 27th. We will resume regular school hours on Monday, April 28th.

Teacher Appreciation Week is right around the corner—May 5th–9th—and we’re still looking for parent volunteers to help make it extra special!

Join our Teacher Appreciation Week Committee to help plan fun and meaningful ways to celebrate our amazing OLL teachers and staff.

Whether you’d like to coordinate treats, organize events, or share creative ideas, we’d love your help. Just fill out the form below to get involved!

Let’s come together to show our teachers just how much they’re appreciated!

We’re looking for helping hands during our lunch periods! If you sign up for the 11:00 AM or 12:15 PM slots, you’ll start by supervising recess (11:00–11:25 or 12:15–12:40), then assist with lunch distribution, support students as they eat, and help with clean-up. If you're on snack duty (11:00 AM–1:00 PM), you’ll sell snacks during lunch (don’t forget to grab the money box from the office!) and help tidy up afterward.

We truly appreciate your time and support—thank you for being part of our school community!💙

2025 SPRING SESSION – 5 WEEKS / APRIL 29TH – MAY 27TH

TUESDAY’S – 2:45 – 3:30PM

Tuition: $150.00

Kindergym® is designed to provide boys and girls, in PreK 3 and PreK 4, with fun activities including floor gymnastics, tumbling, acrobatics, gross motor development, and movement education. Our Kindergym® instructors work to build each child’s self-esteem and independence. Mats, low safe beams, and obstacle courses are utilized throughout the curriculum. The proper timing and use of this program should enhance the physical, social, emotional and cognitive development of the children while building their sense of self and others.

PAYMENTS

Kinderdance® New Jersey accepts Credit Card (A 2% convenience fee will be applied), Paypal, Venmo or Zelle for payments. Please include your child’s full name, school name and classroom non-credit card payments.

Venmo: Myrna Camacho - @KinderdanceNJ

Zelle: kinderdancenj@yahoo.com / 201-452-6762

For additional questions, please contact us directly via email at kinderdancenj@yahoo.com

Parents are welcome to stay and observe the class, but attendance is completely optional.

We are currently exploring interest in forming a girls’ cheer team for the next basketball season! The team would cheer at home games to support and energize our basketball teams. We are specifically looking for students who will not be playing on the basketball team next season. If your child is interested in being part of this exciting opportunity, please fill out the form below!

Our Lady of the Lake School’s talented performers are hitting the stage in a magical production of Matilda Jr. on May 2 & 3! This heartwarming, high-energy show is full of music, laughter, and inspiration—perfect for families.

🎟 Tickets are on sale now! Please send cash or check to the OLL School Office labeled “Matilda Tickets.”

📧 For ticketing questions, contact Michelle Peterson at michelle.peterson14@gmail.com.

Come cheer on our amazing students in this unforgettable theatrical adventure!

We're excited to partner with Art to Remember for a fun fundraiser! You can purchase keepsakes featuring your child’s artwork—perfect for gifts or mementos. Many items are under $20, and a portion of each sale supports our school.

How to Shop:
Use the code from your child’s order form (going home this week) to find their artwork online and start shopping.

Start Shopping Here: Art to Remember Fundraiser

Thank you for supporting our school!

All kids feel big emotions—anger, frustration, sadness—but sometimes they need help knowing what to do with those feelings. That’s where emotional regulation comes in.

What is Emotional Regulation?

It’s a child’s ability to understand and manage emotions in healthy ways. Kids who learn this skill can handle stress better, bounce back from setbacks, and feel more in control.

Why It Matters

Emotional regulation supports kids' mental health, relationships, problem-solving, and even success in school and life. It helps them build empathy, confidence, and resilience.

How Parents Can Help

Before trying activities, create a safe space where your child feels supported and comfortable. Talk about emotions regularly so they feel normal and manageable.

Easy, Helpful Activities to Try

Here are a few ways you can help your child practice emotional regulation at home:

• Name the Feeling: Help them label what they’re feeling—happy, frustrated, nervous, etc.
• Draw Emotions: Have your child draw what emotions look or feel like to them.
• Write it Out: Journaling or simply writing down thoughts can help kids process feelings.
• Model Your Emotions: Talk about your own feelings and how you handle them.
• Mindfulness & Meditation: Quiet moments help kids notice their thoughts and feelings.
• Breathing Exercises: Teach simple techniques like balloon or belly breathing to calm down.
• Yoga & Movement: Physical activity boosts mood and helps kids reset.
• Mindful Walks: A slow, thoughtful walk can help your child feel more grounded.
• Body Scan: Guide your child through noticing how each part of their body feels.
• Talk It Out: Let them share what they’re feeling. Listen and validate their emotions.

Teach the Traffic Light System

Red = Big emotions (anger, fear) – pause and use coping tools

Yellow = Manageable emotions (worry, frustration) – take a breath

Green = Feel-good emotions (joy, pride) – enjoy and share

Encourage Self-Care

Show your child how to take breaks, enjoy relaxing activities, and recognize when they need to reset. Kids also learn by watching you do the same.

4/16: School Mass - 8:30am

4/16: Early Release Day- 12:10pm dismissal

4/17-4/27: EASTER BREAK-No School

4/28: School Mass- 8:30am

4/31 + 5/1: Matilda Dress Rehearsal @ MSDA- 5pm

5/2: Early Release Day- 12:10pm

5/2 + 5/3: Matilda @ MSDA- 6pm

Email: tconroy@myoll.org
Website: https://myoll.org/
Location: 26 Lakeside Avenue, Verona, NJ, USA
Phone: 973-239-1160
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ollverona