The Weekly Update #4

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. At our school, STEM education is more than just learning facts—it's about helping students explore, discover, and solve real-world problems in fun and creative ways. It is a dynamic way for students to also explore God’s creation with wonder, curiosity, and purpose.

Through hands-on activities and teamwork, students learn to ask questions, test ideas, and think critically. Whether they're building simple machines, experimenting with science concepts, or exploring technology, our students are developing important skills that will help them succeed in school and in life. Our students discover how science and technology are tools that can be used to serve others and care for the world around us. Whether they’re building models, conducting experiments, or exploring new technologies, they’re learning to think critically, collaborate, and persevere—all while growing in their understanding of how faith and reason work together.

STEM also encourages creativity, curiosity, and resilience—helping children learn that it's okay to make mistakes and try again. Best of all, it connects learning to the world around them, making their education meaningful and exciting. Students see the beauty of God’s design, develop their God-given talents, and understand how they can use those gifts to contribute to their communities.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education offers several important advantages for elementary students. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Builds Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

STEM encourages students to ask questions, explore, and think through problems logically. These skills are valuable not only in academics but in everyday life.

2. Fosters Curiosity and Creativity

STEM challenges students to be creative and curious about how things work. It helps them develop innovative ideas and explore new solutions.

3. Encourages Teamwork and Collaboration

Many STEM activities involve group work, which teaches students how to communicate, share ideas, and collaborate to reach a common goal.

4. Prepares Students for Future Careers

Introducing STEM early helps students develop a strong foundation for future careers in high-demand fields like technology, healthcare, engineering, and environmental science.

5. Promotes Resilience and Growth Mindset

STEM projects often require trial and error. Students learn that failure is part of learning, helping them develop perseverance and a positive attitude toward challenges.

6. Connects Learning to Real Life

STEM activities often have real-world applications, making learning more meaningful and helping students see how their education connects to the world around them.

7. Strengthens Math and Science Foundations

Hands-on STEM learning reinforces key math and science concepts, making them more accessible and engaging for young learners.

We are proud of our 5th and 6th grade students who recently participated in the BANSA STEM Challenge held on our campus last week. They did a great job working as a team with other students from local private schools to address a variety of challenges under the theme, " Outta this World".

Our team of teachers are currently planning our school wide STEM days for Kinder - 6th grade where all students will engage in challenges througout the school. This an opportunity to apply skills from their tool box to problem solve and show creativity. Our STEM days are planned for May.

We look forward to this time together with our students. By starting STEM early, we’re helping our students build a strong foundation for future success in school and in the ever-changing world around them!

In Christ,

Mrs. Ana E. Gomez, M.Ed.

As we approach the end of the school year, our students in 1st - 6th grade will be participating in the NWEA MAP Growth End-of-Year (EOY) Assessment. This important assessment helps us measure each student’s academic progress and growth in key areas such as reading and math. It provides valuable data that supports teachers in planning instruction and helps us better understand how to meet each child’s learning needs.

Why It Matters: The EOY assessment is not about assigning grades or labels. Instead, it gives a clear picture of how much your child has grown academically over the year. This growth-focused approach helps us celebrate progress and plan for continued success in the next grade level.

Our Kinder students will be benchmarked using the Star Renaissance to assess math and reading. These results will support measuring student growth and guide future instruction.

How You Can Help at Home: Here are some simple, effective ways to support your child as they prepare:

1. Ensure plenty of rest. A good night's sleep before each test day helps your child stay alert and focused.

2. Provide a healthy breakfast. Nutritious food fuels brainpower and supports better concentration.

3. Encourage a positive mindset. Remind your child that this is a chance to show what they’ve learned—and that trying their best is what matters most.

4. Avoid unnecessary stress. Reassure your child that the test is just one part of the learning journey.

5. Stay informed. Talk with your child’s teacher if you have questions about the assessment or your child’s progress. EOY acheivement reports will be shared with parents.

Testing schedules varying per grade level and will be shared by your child's teacher.

We are so proud of all the hard work our students have put in this year, and we look forward to seeing how much they’ve grown. Thank you for your continued partnership in helping your child thrive!

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher or the school office.

Many of you have noticied the wonderful new marquee on the Parish Hall building facing our school grounds. This is a generation gift of the Class of 2025. We want to express our gratitude and thanks to the parents for this thoughtful gift. It was be utilized to help promote and commuicate all that is happening at our beloved school.

Thank you!

Thank you to our Special Events Coordinator, Mrs. Nena Cecere and her crew of volunteers who made the inaugural Mom's Night Out a success. It was a night of great fellowship, fun and great prizes. We thank everyone who was able to make it out and support our Tuition Assistance program. We look forward to next year.

Thank you for making a difference!

Learning outside the classroom is a complement to the curriculum. Our 4th graders visited the USS Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi this past week.

Engaging in the faith is a joy every Wednesday.

It is always a great day with friends!

Gold star to our BANSA track team representing 3rd-6th grade. Way to go Saints!