The Weekly Update #4

As we conclude the Christmas season, we are reminded of the precious gift of the Jubilee Year. As pilgrims on this journey of faith, we are invited to receive God’s grace and let it illuminate our hope in these times. The opening weeks of this year encourage us to seek and nurture hope, a hope given to us through Christ. We believe His Spirit moves among us, and we must never forget this truth.

The 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope is a Catholic celebration that began on December 24, 2024, and will close on January 6, 2026.

Theme:
The theme for the 2025 Jubilee is "Pilgrims of Hope," inspired by Romans 5:5, which says, "Hope does not disappoint."

Motto:
The motto for the 2025 Jubilee is "Pilgrims of Hope."

Logo:
The 2025 Jubilee logo features four figures from the four corners of the earth embracing each other. The figure in the front holds a cross, symbolizing faith and hope. The figures stand on rough waves, representing the challenges of life's pilgrimage. The cross has been extended and transformed into an anchor, symbolizing steadfast hope.

Pope Francis hopes that the Jubilee will be a time for people to have a personal encounter with Jesus. He urges us to "fan the flame of hope" and to look to the future with an open heart.

As a community, we commit to engaging ourselves and our students in this special year to grow closer to Christ—the true source of all hope. I share with you the decree given to us by Bishop Daniel Flores for our Diocese, along with the official prayer from Pope Francis to mark this year.

My prayer for our community is that we may grow ever closer to Christ and share the hope that only He provides with all.

The Jubilee Prayer

Father in heaven,
may the faith you have given us
in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother,
and the flame of charity enkindled
in our hearts by the Holy Spirit,
reawaken in us the blessed hope
for the coming of your Kingdom.

May your grace transform us
into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel.
May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos
in the sure expectation
of a new heaven and a new earth,
when, with the powers of Evil vanquished,
your glory will shine eternally.

May the grace of the Jubilee reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope,
a yearning for the treasures of heaven.
May that same grace spread
the joy and peace of our Redeemer
throughout the earth.
To you our God, eternally blessed,
be glory and praise for ever.
Amen.

Always in Christ,

Mrs. Ana E. Gomez, M.Ed.

Principal

Our students will soon be participating in the NWEA Achievement Testing (Middle of the Year - MOY) as part of our ongoing efforts to assess their academic progress.

The NWEA (Northwest Evaluation Association) Achievement Testing is an online assessment tool used to measure student growth and academic performance in key areas such as Math, Reading, and Language. These assessments help us to understand each student's strengths and areas where additional support may be needed. The data we gather from these tests plays an important role in shaping our instructional practices and planning to ensure every student reaches their full potential.

The Middle of the Year (MOY) NWEA testing will take place between January 14th through January 24th for students in 1st- 6th grade. The final week of January will be used for any make-up testing. Students will complete the test during their regular class time, with accommodations provided as needed. Teachers will share details and schedules for each grade-level.

While the test is designed to be an accurate measure of each student's progress, there are several ways you can help prepare your child:

• Ensure your child gets a good night's sleep before the test.

• Encourage a healthy breakfast on the day of testing.

• Foster a calm, positive attitude toward the testing process. Reassure them that this is an opportunity to show what they know and to continue growing.

• Support your child in reviewing basic skills, but there is no need for extensive studying or cramming for the test.

Once testing is complete, we will analyze the results to monitor each student's academic progress and tailor future lessons to better meet their needs.

We appreciate your ongoing support in helping us provide a learning environment where your child can thrive. If you have any questions about the NWEA Achievement Testing, the process and results please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher(s) or adminstration.

Thank you for being a vital part of our school community!

Students in PK3 - 6th grade will receive Quarter Two report cards on Friday, January 17th. Parents are asked to review, sign and return to their child's teacher. Teachers will be open to meeting with parents during their planning period to discuss their child(ren) progress if needed. Meetings may be requested by calling our school office, sending an email or Remind message.

A reminder from the Business Office, all accounts must be up to date in order to receive their child's report card. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call during the school day.

We ask each family that will be attending the Grandparent's Day Mass on Sunday, January 26th that you complete the RSVP Google Form below. Please include your grandparents attending and those you wish to remember in memoriam. Thank you!

Catholic School Strong Hoodies are available for purchase in the Business Office. There is a limited inventory.

Child Sizes : Extra Small - XL $30.00 dollars ( tax included)

Adult Sizes : Small - XL $35.00 dollars ( tax included)

Note: Kind shirts may continued to be order via the link shared in previous newsletters.

Please do not hesitate to call the office if there are any questions.

Team St. Mary's involved in a teamwork activity led by Mrs. Guajardo, school counselor this past Monday. We are blessed with a team of dedicated educators.

Students had a great time creating resolutions and engaging in traditions such as sharing a rosca for the feast day of the Three Kings.

Students engaged in prayers for those affected in California in the tragic wildfires. We continue to pray for their communiites and safety. We pray for their recovering and healing.

Our firsties started a money unit this week. They apply what they learn in a Snack Shop created in the classroom.

Our 5th grade students closed the week with a Pajama day as they closed their novel study of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis.

Our school community will celebrate Catholic Schools Week beginning on January 26th - January 31st. Highlights will be shared soon!