Dear Parent/Guardians,
Another year is upon us as we send our students to summer break, a well-deserved break for all. It has been a tough year for teachers, and in general for staff in schools. Schools have been left vulnerable to COVID, from the viewpoint of the unknown. Not knowing if staff or students would contract the virus has caused stress upon people. Invisible stress is one of the most difficult stresses to detect but it has descended upon many educators across the country where many educators are leaving the profession. This is very sad to see. I call this the “victims of COVID”. Along with this stress, both school personnel and students are feeling the stress of insecurity in their schools. Recent mass school shootings have not helped the stress increase on all. That is why it is important that both school staff and students take time during the summer break to relax and try new things.
Upon return in August, I am happy to announce that we will be offering a weekly class of mindfulness and meditation for the students and staff. We have trialed it with our current 6th graders over the last few weeks and from all reports, the students appreciated the time for these sessions.
I am also happy to announce that band will resume next school year. It will take a new direction where the participants will have the opportunity to play in various events locally and in San Francisco, especially during St. Patrick’s Parade. More information about the program to come next year.
Over the past two weeks, we held our graduation ceremonies, and all had a wonderful time. Two of the highlights were the awards evening and dinner at the Yacht club at Oyster Point, the Graduation Mass, and awarding of the diplomas. Thanks to my staff for organizing these events.
We celebrated the academic achievements of our students on Wednesday morning at the Principal Awards. It was great to see so many students receive awards. Congratulations to all students who I am sure have tried their best with their learnings.
Window Project
Long-awaited window project begins on Monday and will be concluded in early August for the start of the new school year. With the window replacement, it will drastically change the appearance of the building. Please drive by to see the progress of the project especially later between June and mid-July.
Farewell
I wish to Farwell Mr. Ceja who will be leaving us at the end of the school year. He has served our community for over 10 years as a Teacher Assistant, Art Teacher, and then the 8th Grade teacher and Religion Coordinator. He will be sorely missed by the students and staff. More recently, Mrs. Gatmen informed me that she will not be returning, so that she can spend time with her family. She originally was employed as the Learning Resource Director and more recently for the past two years as Vice-Principal. Miss Yanez was under contract with SSFUSD through Title I funds and she will be leaving us also. We wish all those leaving the best for the future.
Family Commitments and MobileServe app.
I wish to remind everyone that your Family commitment contracts begin in July. If you have signed up for BINGO, it is important that you honor the evenings you are assigned to work. The tracking of your commitment hours will be via the MobileServe app. You will be receiving an email to register yourself on the app.
I wish to thank everyone for your support to our school community and I wish each and everyone a very happy summer break. I look forward to seeing you in the new school year. The first day of school is Thursday, August 18th.
God Bless and Stay Safe,
Vincent Riener
Principal
