Thursday, February 08, 2007
More Photos!
These photos (in no particular order) were taken during Catholic Schools Week and show some of the things that happened on Vocations Day, Grandparents/Special Guest Day, and Student Appreciation Day. Enjoy!
Friday, February 02, 2007
Open House Sunday Morning!
Yes, it's Superbowl Sunday, but in between Mass and the pre-game shows you've got time to visit.
Cub Scout Pack 10 will provide breakfast, and student ambassadors will guide you on a tour through the building.
Meet the teachers and the staff. Share a coffee with the principal. Come on down!
The school will be open between 9:30AM and 12:30PM.
Cub Scout Pack 10 will provide breakfast, and student ambassadors will guide you on a tour through the building.
Meet the teachers and the staff. Share a coffee with the principal. Come on down!
The school will be open between 9:30AM and 12:30PM.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Photos - Catholic Schools Week - Day 2
Staff & Student basketball game pictures! The students scored first, but the staff were soon ahead, and they never looked back. Every basket was cheered!
Olav the Viking graces the trophy, now in the hands of the staff - until the inevitable rematch!
Olav the Viking graces the trophy, now in the hands of the staff - until the inevitable rematch!
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Photos - Catholic Schools Week - Day 1
Photos of our volunteer tea (complete with student musical entertainment) and of the fifth grade giving thank you gifts to our neighbors.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Students vs. Staff Basketball Game Tuesday
Come watch Fr. Bryan and Ms. Bowen lead our staff team against our all-star student team!
Tuesday, January 30th
1:30PM at Visitation Upper Hall
Tuesday, January 30th
1:30PM at Visitation Upper Hall
Celebrate Catholic Schools Week
Monday: Volunteer Appreciation Day
Tea in the library at 10AM for our volunteers.
Tuesday: School Spirit Day
Free dress day for anyone wearing blue and gold! Students vs Staff Basketball game 1:30PM in the Upper Hall. All are welcome!
Wednesday: Vocations Day
Special guests will speak to all classes.
Thusday: Grandparents / Special Guests Day
Lunch with students and their guests.
Friday: Student Appreciation Day
Mass at 9AM, awards, treats!
Tea in the library at 10AM for our volunteers.
Tuesday: School Spirit Day
Free dress day for anyone wearing blue and gold! Students vs Staff Basketball game 1:30PM in the Upper Hall. All are welcome!
Wednesday: Vocations Day
Special guests will speak to all classes.
Thusday: Grandparents / Special Guests Day
Lunch with students and their guests.
Friday: Student Appreciation Day
Mass at 9AM, awards, treats!
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Open House at Saint Ann this Sunday
Please join us on Sunday morning, January 28, for an open house at our Pre-Kindergarten at Saint Ann.
In addition, to kick off Catholic Schools Week, school parents will be speaking at all of our cluster parishes this weekend; they can answer any questions you might have about our school. We look forward to meeting you!
In addition, to kick off Catholic Schools Week, school parents will be speaking at all of our cluster parishes this weekend; they can answer any questions you might have about our school. We look forward to meeting you!
Friday, January 19, 2007
Revised Basketball Schedule (all grades)
Come on out and support the Vikings!
Junior High Boys Team
Coaches: Fr. Bryan Dolejsi and Toby Dinkins
Fifth Grade Boys Team
Coach: John Albers
All games played on Saturdays at Bellarmine Prep.
Fourth Grade Boys Team
Coach: Dan Estabrook
All games played on Saturdays at Bellarmine Prep.
Fourth / Fifth Grade Girls Team
Coach: Roger Dzul
All games played on Saturdays at Bellarmine Prep.
Students vs. Staff Basketball Game
Tuesday, January 30th
1:30PM at Visitation Upper Hall
Junior High Boys Team
Coaches: Fr. Bryan Dolejsi and Toby Dinkins
| January 27th | vs. St. Charles (Gold) | at 9:00AM | at St. Charles Gym |
| February 3rd | vs. Holy Rosary | at 12:30PM | at St. Patrick Gym |
| February 24th | vs. Annie Wright | at 11:20AM | at All Saints Gym |
| March 3rd | vs. St. Frances Cabrini | at 10:10AM | at St. Charles Gym |
Fifth Grade Boys Team
Coach: John Albers
All games played on Saturdays at Bellarmine Prep.
| January 27th | vs. All Saints | at 1:30PM |
| February 10th | vs. St. Patrick | at 12:30PM |
| February 24th | vs. St. Charles | at 12:00PM |
| March 3rd | vs. St. Frances Cabrini | (time and location TBA) |
Fourth Grade Boys Team
Coach: Dan Estabrook
All games played on Saturdays at Bellarmine Prep.
| January 27th | vs. All Saints | at 2:30PM |
| February 3rd | vs. All Saints | at 2:30PM |
| February 10th | vs. St. Patrick | at 2:30PM |
| February 24th | opponent and time | TBA |
Fourth / Fifth Grade Girls Team
Coach: Roger Dzul
All games played on Saturdays at Bellarmine Prep.
| January 27th | vs. St. Frances Cabrini (5) | at 2:00PM |
| February 3rd | vs. St. Frances Cabrini (4) | at 2:00PM |
| February 10th | vs. St. Patrick (4th) | at 1:00PM |
| February 24th | vs. All Saints | at 3:00PM |
| March 3rd | vs. Holy Rosary | at Noon (location TBA) |
Students vs. Staff Basketball Game
Tuesday, January 30th
1:30PM at Visitation Upper Hall
Thursday Note Home
Dear Visitation Families,
It feels like a whole year since we last sent a parent note home! Here at school, we are working very hard rewriting and improving our accreditation self-study, planning for Catholic Schools Week, and celebrating the fact that the space for our new pre-kindergarten at St. Ann is ready for operation!
Fr. Tuan officially blessed the room on Sunday, January 14th, after the 9:30 mass at St. Ann. Fr.Tuan and I would like to invite all of the school families to come and see the new space at our next open house on Sunday, January 28th from 10:00AM to 2:00PM.
If you need directions to St. Ann, please call the office. Also, please spread the word to any families you might know in the St. Ann area with 3 or 4 year old children that they have a great pre-kindergarten program close to home!
WHEN THE SCHOOL CLOSES: Making the decision to close the school or have a delay involves a number of factors. First I look at the schedule of the larger school district that Visitation is located in, in this case Tacoma. If Tacoma School District has made the decision to close, I give that factor considerable weight. However, I do not always follow the Tacoma School District.
Visitation was open when the Tacoma District was closed on Dec. 15th because we had power whereas many of the Tacoma schools did not. I also look at what the adjacent districts (University Place, Lakewood, Puyallup) are doing as a number of our families come from those districts. Then I consult a few of the staff members who live in the area to get a picture of the conditions around the school itself.
I listen to the weather forecasts and finally make a determination. Uppermost in my mind is the safety of our children, families, and staff. As inconvenient as making up days can be, it is definitely preferable toputting any of our Visitation Family at risk.
I know that this week has been very frustrating for many families, particularly when both parents are working or it is a single parent family and there is a scramble to find child care. As I said, my first priority is always going to be safety. If the school is insession and parents don't feel that it is safe to travel, then I would certainly expect that they would make a decision in the best interest of their family. Teachers will always take weather factors into
consideration if a parent's decision was to keep a child home because the roads were hazardous around them.
Please tune to KOMO News or KING News for the latest information. Margie also updates the voice-mail whenever there is new information and the website is updated as quickly as possible.
Because of the number of days we have had to cancel school, the faculty and I will be looking at the calendar and determining how we will make up those days. I will have more information to you soon.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: We are looking for part time help in our kitchen and on our playground. Please contact the office for more information.
8TH GRADE PARENTS: A reminder that any 8th grade parent whose child is applying to Bellarmine and wishes to apply for financial aid can pick up the application papers in the office. The deadline for submitting an aid request is January 31st.
CONTEST TIME: There is still time to get those labels and box tops in! PTO is sponsoring a contest with Box Tops for Education and Campbell Soup labels. The contest runs until Jan. 19th.
The class with the most labels and box tops will win a pizza party! The second place class wins an ice cream party and the third place class wins a day of free dress. Start clipping!!
POLICY CHANGE: Previously, when we had a late start, we would not provide hot lunch. However, it became apparent during our last late start that this was difficult for a number of parents.
As a result, on days when we have a late start, students will still be able to get lunch. However, because of the shortened preparation time, it will likely not be what was originally planned on the menu, and it will likely not be a HOT lunch. Depending on what is available in the kitchen, it will likely be sandwich, chips, and fruit.
EMAIL ADDRESSES NEEDED: Our technology support has put a new spam filter in place. It is a great filter and has made a huge dent in the volumes of spam we were receiving.
However, it also tends to filter out parent addresses especially if they are aol, msn, or hotmail. For that reason, we are asking you to send your e-mail address to Support@visitationschool.net.
This will allow any e-mails you send to the faculty and staff to not be blocked. Also, there has been some discussion by parents about receiving your Thursday Note Home by e-mail. If you are interested in that, please e-mail me.
AHOY MATIES! You’ll notice that a pirate ship is sailing in our main hallway. This is to get us all thinking about our annual Family Auction Night on March 23rd and our Auction Gala coming up on March 31st. Be sure to save that date or you risk walking the plank!! Thanks to Mrs. Todd for the cool ship….
SERVICE HOURS OPPORTUNITY: The parish needs help taking down the Christmas decorations. If you can spare a few minutes, please stop by the church after the 10:30 AM Mass on Sunday, January 21st or contact Kathy McSperitt.
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK: We are finalizing plans for Catholic Schools Week which runs January 28th through February 3rd. Stay tuned for the details.
Peace and Blessings,
Sheila Harrison
It feels like a whole year since we last sent a parent note home! Here at school, we are working very hard rewriting and improving our accreditation self-study, planning for Catholic Schools Week, and celebrating the fact that the space for our new pre-kindergarten at St. Ann is ready for operation!
Fr. Tuan officially blessed the room on Sunday, January 14th, after the 9:30 mass at St. Ann. Fr.Tuan and I would like to invite all of the school families to come and see the new space at our next open house on Sunday, January 28th from 10:00AM to 2:00PM.
If you need directions to St. Ann, please call the office. Also, please spread the word to any families you might know in the St. Ann area with 3 or 4 year old children that they have a great pre-kindergarten program close to home!
WHEN THE SCHOOL CLOSES: Making the decision to close the school or have a delay involves a number of factors. First I look at the schedule of the larger school district that Visitation is located in, in this case Tacoma. If Tacoma School District has made the decision to close, I give that factor considerable weight. However, I do not always follow the Tacoma School District.
Visitation was open when the Tacoma District was closed on Dec. 15th because we had power whereas many of the Tacoma schools did not. I also look at what the adjacent districts (University Place, Lakewood, Puyallup) are doing as a number of our families come from those districts. Then I consult a few of the staff members who live in the area to get a picture of the conditions around the school itself.
I listen to the weather forecasts and finally make a determination. Uppermost in my mind is the safety of our children, families, and staff. As inconvenient as making up days can be, it is definitely preferable toputting any of our Visitation Family at risk.
I know that this week has been very frustrating for many families, particularly when both parents are working or it is a single parent family and there is a scramble to find child care. As I said, my first priority is always going to be safety. If the school is insession and parents don't feel that it is safe to travel, then I would certainly expect that they would make a decision in the best interest of their family. Teachers will always take weather factors into
consideration if a parent's decision was to keep a child home because the roads were hazardous around them.
Please tune to KOMO News or KING News for the latest information. Margie also updates the voice-mail whenever there is new information and the website is updated as quickly as possible.
Because of the number of days we have had to cancel school, the faculty and I will be looking at the calendar and determining how we will make up those days. I will have more information to you soon.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: We are looking for part time help in our kitchen and on our playground. Please contact the office for more information.
8TH GRADE PARENTS: A reminder that any 8th grade parent whose child is applying to Bellarmine and wishes to apply for financial aid can pick up the application papers in the office. The deadline for submitting an aid request is January 31st.
CONTEST TIME: There is still time to get those labels and box tops in! PTO is sponsoring a contest with Box Tops for Education and Campbell Soup labels. The contest runs until Jan. 19th.
The class with the most labels and box tops will win a pizza party! The second place class wins an ice cream party and the third place class wins a day of free dress. Start clipping!!
POLICY CHANGE: Previously, when we had a late start, we would not provide hot lunch. However, it became apparent during our last late start that this was difficult for a number of parents.
As a result, on days when we have a late start, students will still be able to get lunch. However, because of the shortened preparation time, it will likely not be what was originally planned on the menu, and it will likely not be a HOT lunch. Depending on what is available in the kitchen, it will likely be sandwich, chips, and fruit.
EMAIL ADDRESSES NEEDED: Our technology support has put a new spam filter in place. It is a great filter and has made a huge dent in the volumes of spam we were receiving.
However, it also tends to filter out parent addresses especially if they are aol, msn, or hotmail. For that reason, we are asking you to send your e-mail address to Support@visitationschool.net.
This will allow any e-mails you send to the faculty and staff to not be blocked. Also, there has been some discussion by parents about receiving your Thursday Note Home by e-mail. If you are interested in that, please e-mail me.
AHOY MATIES! You’ll notice that a pirate ship is sailing in our main hallway. This is to get us all thinking about our annual Family Auction Night on March 23rd and our Auction Gala coming up on March 31st. Be sure to save that date or you risk walking the plank!! Thanks to Mrs. Todd for the cool ship….
SERVICE HOURS OPPORTUNITY: The parish needs help taking down the Christmas decorations. If you can spare a few minutes, please stop by the church after the 10:30 AM Mass on Sunday, January 21st or contact Kathy McSperitt.
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK: We are finalizing plans for Catholic Schools Week which runs January 28th through February 3rd. Stay tuned for the details.
Peace and Blessings,
Sheila Harrison
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Two Hour Delay Wednesday
It looks like we will be operating under a two hour delay on Wednesday, January 17. Please continue to check back for the latest information!
Two Hour Delay
Friday, January 12, 2007
St. Ann Dedication
Come join us on Sunday for the dedication and blessing of the Visitation Pre-Kindergarten at St. Ann at 10:30AM!
Thursday, January 11, 2007
No School Friday (or Monday)
The streets continue to be icy and treacherous, and the temperatures are dropping. School is therefore being cancelled for Friday, January 12.
Monday is Dr. Martin Luther King Day, and there is no school. Enjoy the weekend, and stay safe!
Monday is Dr. Martin Luther King Day, and there is no school. Enjoy the weekend, and stay safe!
Visitation Campus in the Snow
For those of you who are missing school right now, here are some pictures to tide you over:
(Click on image for larger picture)
(Click on image for larger picture)
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
No School Thursday Either
Well, it's still snowing. As a result, school has been cancelled for Thursday, January 11.
Enjoy the snow! Play safe and stock up on the hot cocoa.
Edited to add: No Chess Club today either!
Enjoy the snow! Play safe and stock up on the hot cocoa.
Edited to add: No Chess Club today either!
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Web Site Note
Due to continuing technology issues, we are unable to update the web site at this time.
The news reader remains unaffected by these problems, and news will continue to post to the site promptly.
We are aware of these issues, and we are attempting to address them in a timely manner. Thank you for your patience.
The news reader remains unaffected by these problems, and news will continue to post to the site promptly.
We are aware of these issues, and we are attempting to address them in a timely manner. Thank you for your patience.
Friday, January 05, 2007
Basketball Schedule (6-8 grade boys team)
Come cheer on our Viking basketball teams!
Players please remember to arrive at least 30 minutes before game time.
| Date | Opponent | Location | Time |
| January 6 | St. Charles Blue | St. Charles | 9:00 |
| January 13 | All Saints White | All Saints | 10:10 |
| January 20 | All Saints Green | St. Pats | 11:20 |
| January 27 | St. Charles Gold | St. Charles | 9:00 |
| February 03 | Holy Rosary | St. Pats | 12:30 |
| February 10 | Week off! | ||
| February 24 | Annie Wright | All Saints | 11:20 |
| March 03 | St. Frances Cabrini | St. Charles | 10:10 |
Players please remember to arrive at least 30 minutes before game time.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Friday, December 22, 2006
Merry Christmas to All!
The staff of Visitation Catholic School wish you a blessed Christmas and a happy New Year.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Thursday Note Home
Dear Visitation Families,
As we get close to our Christmas break, there are a few personnel changes I would like to make you aware of.
I have asked our Kindergarten teacher, Patty Teich, to take on the responsibility of setting up the new Pre-kindergarten at St. Ann School. She has done a wonderful job with the Kindergarten and I am confident that she will do a great job setting up and running the new Pre-K program.
To take her place in the Kindergarten, I have hired Marjorie Hoffmann as a long-term substitute for the rest of the school year. Ms. Hoffmann comes with extensive experience in teaching both as a public school teacher and a substitute in the Catholic schools. She is also very involved in the religious education program at St. Patricks. She and Patty will be working closely to make the transition smooth for our kindergarteners.
I have also asked Christine Buzard, our playground aide, to become Patty’s full-time aide at St. Ann.
Aracely Perez has been hired as a part-time playground aide. Aracely is a new parent with a first grader and a fifth grader. She previously worked at Sacred Heart.
Finally, our kitchen assistant, Cindy Heinen has resigned as she was offered an opportunity for full time work at Target. We wish her great luck! I have hired Patricia Aleman to help in the kitchen. Patricia has previous experience in food preparation.
Please be sure to welcome Aracely, Marjorie and Patricia when you see them!
8TH GRADE PARENTS: Any 8th grade parent whose child is applying to Bellarmine and wishes to apply for financial aid can pick up the application papers in the office.
CONTEST TIME: PTO is sponsoring another contest with Box Tops for Education and Campbell Soup labels. The contest will run from Dec. 14th- Jan. 19th. The class with the most labels and box tops will win a pizza party! The second place class wins an ice cream party and the third place class wins a day of free dress. Start clipping!
THINGS TO DO OVER BREAK: In today’s packet you will find a reading chart for your child to fill out during the 14 days of the break. The amount of minutes each grade should be reading is on the back side of the chart. If your child follows the steps on the chart they will get a good reward when they get back to school! It will also give you a little quiet time! You will also find a flyer with lots of activities planned at the Tacoma libraries. Check it out for fun stuff to do!!
THINGS TO SAVE: Miss Fiona is asking for old calendars and "gently used" gift wrap. Please save those and bring them to the Pre-K when we come back from break.
KATE’S PARTY: Be sure to read the flyer in today’s packet about the potluck for Kate Amundson.
And finally, on behalf of all of the faculty and staff of Visitation Catholic School, I want to wish all of you the blessings of this Holy Season.
Peace and Blessings,
Sheila Harrison
As we get close to our Christmas break, there are a few personnel changes I would like to make you aware of.
I have asked our Kindergarten teacher, Patty Teich, to take on the responsibility of setting up the new Pre-kindergarten at St. Ann School. She has done a wonderful job with the Kindergarten and I am confident that she will do a great job setting up and running the new Pre-K program.
To take her place in the Kindergarten, I have hired Marjorie Hoffmann as a long-term substitute for the rest of the school year. Ms. Hoffmann comes with extensive experience in teaching both as a public school teacher and a substitute in the Catholic schools. She is also very involved in the religious education program at St. Patricks. She and Patty will be working closely to make the transition smooth for our kindergarteners.
I have also asked Christine Buzard, our playground aide, to become Patty’s full-time aide at St. Ann.
Aracely Perez has been hired as a part-time playground aide. Aracely is a new parent with a first grader and a fifth grader. She previously worked at Sacred Heart.
Finally, our kitchen assistant, Cindy Heinen has resigned as she was offered an opportunity for full time work at Target. We wish her great luck! I have hired Patricia Aleman to help in the kitchen. Patricia has previous experience in food preparation.
Please be sure to welcome Aracely, Marjorie and Patricia when you see them!
8TH GRADE PARENTS: Any 8th grade parent whose child is applying to Bellarmine and wishes to apply for financial aid can pick up the application papers in the office.
CONTEST TIME: PTO is sponsoring another contest with Box Tops for Education and Campbell Soup labels. The contest will run from Dec. 14th- Jan. 19th. The class with the most labels and box tops will win a pizza party! The second place class wins an ice cream party and the third place class wins a day of free dress. Start clipping!
THINGS TO DO OVER BREAK: In today’s packet you will find a reading chart for your child to fill out during the 14 days of the break. The amount of minutes each grade should be reading is on the back side of the chart. If your child follows the steps on the chart they will get a good reward when they get back to school! It will also give you a little quiet time! You will also find a flyer with lots of activities planned at the Tacoma libraries. Check it out for fun stuff to do!!
THINGS TO SAVE: Miss Fiona is asking for old calendars and "gently used" gift wrap. Please save those and bring them to the Pre-K when we come back from break.
KATE’S PARTY: Be sure to read the flyer in today’s packet about the potluck for Kate Amundson.
And finally, on behalf of all of the faculty and staff of Visitation Catholic School, I want to wish all of you the blessings of this Holy Season.
Peace and Blessings,
Sheila Harrison
Monday, December 11, 2006
Advent Program Thursday
On Thursday, December 14, at 7:00PM Visitation Catholic School will hold its annual Advent Program.
Doors open at 6:00PM, so arrive early for good seats!
We are very proud of the hard work the students and teachers have put into the program this year. Teachers are asking the students to dress in their Sunday Best.
Doors open at 6:00PM, so arrive early for good seats!
We are very proud of the hard work the students and teachers have put into the program this year. Teachers are asking the students to dress in their Sunday Best.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Pictures)
What does the "Immaculate Conception" mean?
God freely chose Mary from all eternity to be the Mother of his Son. In order to carry out her mission she herself was conceived immaculate. This means that, thanks to the grace of God and in anticipation of the merits of Jesus Christ, Mary was preserved from original sin from the first instant of her conception.
(From The Compendium Catechism of the Catholic Church, Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 2006)
Remember today is a holy day of obligation. If you did not get the chance to join our students at the school Mass this morning, please plan to attend the 7:00 Mass this evening at Visitation Church, or the evening Mass at your parish.
Here are some pictures from this morning's Mass, sponsored by the second grade and celebrated by Fr. Bryan:
God freely chose Mary from all eternity to be the Mother of his Son. In order to carry out her mission she herself was conceived immaculate. This means that, thanks to the grace of God and in anticipation of the merits of Jesus Christ, Mary was preserved from original sin from the first instant of her conception.
(From The Compendium Catechism of the Catholic Church, Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 2006)
Remember today is a holy day of obligation. If you did not get the chance to join our students at the school Mass this morning, please plan to attend the 7:00 Mass this evening at Visitation Church, or the evening Mass at your parish.
Here are some pictures from this morning's Mass, sponsored by the second grade and celebrated by Fr. Bryan:
Third Grade Coat Drive
The third grade students are sponsoring a Coat Drive to help people who might not have a warm coat to wear during this winter. They are collecting new and gently used coats in all sizes and colors.
Please bring your donations to the 3rd grade classroom. Last year the children bought in over three hundred coats and donated them to the Angel Room at St. Vincent de Paul.
They are hoping to exceed that total this year, so tell your friends and neighbors to clean their closets!
Please bring your donations to the 3rd grade classroom. Last year the children bought in over three hundred coats and donated them to the Angel Room at St. Vincent de Paul.
They are hoping to exceed that total this year, so tell your friends and neighbors to clean their closets!
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Thursday Note Home
Dear Visitation Families,
The school has been humming with preparations for our Advent Program. Children have been shopping in Santa's Workshop, and on Wednesday, St. Nicholas Day, there was a rumor that St. Nick himself visited. When the children heard that rumor, they each placed one of their shoes out in the hall. The rumors must have been true, as when the children looked, they found treats stuffed in their shoes!
Classrooms are finishing up Community service projects and there is definitely a sense of preparation around! We lit the first Advent candle on Monday and listened to prayers that focus on the coming of Our Lord. Those prayers continued through the week in classroom prayer services. Next Monday we will light the second candle and focus on how we can change our lives to welcome the Infant Child.
IN THE ENVELOPE: Included in this week's envelope, are the updated service hours and fund-raising totals. The reports reflect all pink slips turned in through December 1st.
SPEAKING OF SERVICE HOURS: Take some time to help decorate the church for Christmas and get your service hours in! Work will be happening on December 24th from 12 noon to 3 PM.
ADVENT PROGRAM INFO: Our wonderful Advent Program is set for Thursday, December 14, at 7:00 PM. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Teachers are asking the students to dress in their Sunday Best!
HOT CHILI TIME! Congratulations to the winners of the First Annual PTO Chili Cook-Off.
The Celebrity Judges choices were:
1st Place: Greg Reed
2nd Place: Kileen Swortz
3rd Place: Keith Wawrin
People's Choice Awards were:
1st Place: Keith Wawrin
2nd Place: Helen Johnson
Thanks to the celebrity judges: Fr. Tuan, Greg Morley, and Joe McCallum (Philly Joe's Restaurant).
PICTURE MAKE-UP DAY: Individual portrait make ups will be on Wednesday, Dec. 13th. Students who were absent and wish to purchase a portrait package should pick up an order envelope from the office.
Retakes are done at no charge only for those students who experienced a technical error, closed eyes, an error that is under the studio's control or a lab/printing mistake. If a retake is due to a hair style change, new glasses, different selection of clothing or other reasons beyond the control of the studio, there will be a $6.00 per package fee or a refund can be issued.
If you have questions, contact the studio at 253-841-2967.
COAT DRIVE: 3rd grade students are sponsoring a Coat Drive to help people who might not have a warm coat to wear during this winter. They are collecting new and gently used coats in all sizes and colors.
Please bring your donations to the 3rd grade classroom. Last year the children bought in over three hundred coats and donated them to the Angel Room at St. Vincent de Paul. They are hoping to exceed that total this year, so tell your friends and neighbors to clean their closets!
SAVE THE DATE: As you know, Kate Amundson, our wonderful parish administrator, is leaving her job at the end of December. The parish will be hosting a farewell party for her on Sunday, January 7th after the 10:30 Mass until 2:00 in the Lower Hall.
CHOIR OPPORTUNITY: Lisa Heyel, a parishioner at Visitation, has approached me with a proposal to begin a children's choir. She has a background in music and has worked with children and choirs before. Because this time of year is so hectic, she has decided to begin auditions in January after we are back in school. Look for more information as it becomes available.
Peace and Blessings,
Sheila Harrison
The school has been humming with preparations for our Advent Program. Children have been shopping in Santa's Workshop, and on Wednesday, St. Nicholas Day, there was a rumor that St. Nick himself visited. When the children heard that rumor, they each placed one of their shoes out in the hall. The rumors must have been true, as when the children looked, they found treats stuffed in their shoes!
Classrooms are finishing up Community service projects and there is definitely a sense of preparation around! We lit the first Advent candle on Monday and listened to prayers that focus on the coming of Our Lord. Those prayers continued through the week in classroom prayer services. Next Monday we will light the second candle and focus on how we can change our lives to welcome the Infant Child.
IN THE ENVELOPE: Included in this week's envelope, are the updated service hours and fund-raising totals. The reports reflect all pink slips turned in through December 1st.
SPEAKING OF SERVICE HOURS: Take some time to help decorate the church for Christmas and get your service hours in! Work will be happening on December 24th from 12 noon to 3 PM.
ADVENT PROGRAM INFO: Our wonderful Advent Program is set for Thursday, December 14, at 7:00 PM. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Teachers are asking the students to dress in their Sunday Best!
HOT CHILI TIME! Congratulations to the winners of the First Annual PTO Chili Cook-Off.
The Celebrity Judges choices were:
1st Place: Greg Reed
2nd Place: Kileen Swortz
3rd Place: Keith Wawrin
People's Choice Awards were:
1st Place: Keith Wawrin
2nd Place: Helen Johnson
Thanks to the celebrity judges: Fr. Tuan, Greg Morley, and Joe McCallum (Philly Joe's Restaurant).
PICTURE MAKE-UP DAY: Individual portrait make ups will be on Wednesday, Dec. 13th. Students who were absent and wish to purchase a portrait package should pick up an order envelope from the office.
Retakes are done at no charge only for those students who experienced a technical error, closed eyes, an error that is under the studio's control or a lab/printing mistake. If a retake is due to a hair style change, new glasses, different selection of clothing or other reasons beyond the control of the studio, there will be a $6.00 per package fee or a refund can be issued.
If you have questions, contact the studio at 253-841-2967.
COAT DRIVE: 3rd grade students are sponsoring a Coat Drive to help people who might not have a warm coat to wear during this winter. They are collecting new and gently used coats in all sizes and colors.
Please bring your donations to the 3rd grade classroom. Last year the children bought in over three hundred coats and donated them to the Angel Room at St. Vincent de Paul. They are hoping to exceed that total this year, so tell your friends and neighbors to clean their closets!
SAVE THE DATE: As you know, Kate Amundson, our wonderful parish administrator, is leaving her job at the end of December. The parish will be hosting a farewell party for her on Sunday, January 7th after the 10:30 Mass until 2:00 in the Lower Hall.
CHOIR OPPORTUNITY: Lisa Heyel, a parishioner at Visitation, has approached me with a proposal to begin a children's choir. She has a background in music and has worked with children and choirs before. Because this time of year is so hectic, she has decided to begin auditions in January after we are back in school. Look for more information as it becomes available.
Peace and Blessings,
Sheila Harrison
Friday, December 01, 2006
The Week Ahead (Dec. 4 - 10)
Everything you need to know for the upcoming week. Happy Advent!
Monday, December 4
Monday, December 4
- Free dress (provided the student wore a School Uniform to church on 12/2 or 12/3. Send note with student for teacher and bring can of food.)
- Santa Shop Set up - 11:00AM to 3:00PM
- NOON Dismissal - Report Card Preparation
- NO Hot Lunch
- Title 1 Meeting - 7:00PM - School Library (Parent meeting for families receiving Title 1 Services during 2006-07 school year.)
- return Thursday folders to school
- Free Dress, 1st Tuesday - Bring can of food for food bank.
- Santa Shop - 8:00AM to 3:30PM
- Advanced Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM
- Adult Enrichment classes with Fr. Bryan Dolejsi at St. Ann’s Hall - 7:00PM to 9:00PM
- St. Nicholas Day
- Santa Shop - 8:00AM to 3:30PM
- Beginning Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM (openings available)
- Santa Shop - 8:00AM to 3:30PM
- Thursday folders and scrip sent home with students
- NO Counselor on campus for students. Joel Hellenkamp is out of town until 12/14. Joel's schedule is set by teacher and/or administrator request. If you would like Joel to talk with your child, contact your child's teacher to make a request.
- Brownie Girl Scouts - 2:45PM to 4:15PM - Collier Center
- Chess Club - 2:45PM to 4:15PM - School Library -Bring a chess set if you have one. (4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th graders)
- PTO Meeting - 7:00PM - School cafeteria
- Full Dress Uniform
- Santa Shop - 8:00AM to 10:00AM
- All School Mass - 9:00AM to 10:00AM - All friends and family welcome to attend.
- Santa shop take down and clean up - 10:00AM to 2:00PM
- Beginning Band - 11:45AM to 12:15p (openings available)
- Advanced Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM
- Scrip available at PM carpool - 2:45PM. If raining (or snowing!), will sell in PTO room.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Thursday Note Home
Dear Visitation Families,
Sunday begins the Advent season. This is a wonderful opportunity to help your children focus on the true purpose for our celebration: the birth of Our Lord. In the school, we will have our Advent wreaths and will be using them as a focus of our daily prayer. In Music class, students are learning traditional Advent songs (as well as practicing for the upcoming Advent Program!) and in Religion class there are discussions of the scripture readings used during Advent.
If you would like some ideas for celebrating as a family, come to the Lower Hall on Sunday, December 3rd from 11:30 to 2:00. You will have an opportunity to make an Advent Wreath and enjoy a wonderful bowl of chili. Check out the flyer in today’s Note Home envelope.
REMINDER: Next Monday will be a noon dismissal as teachers prepare report cards. There will be no hot lunch served. Extended Care will be available. Report cards will be sent home with students on Friday, December 8th, so check the backpacks!
THANK YOU: You might have noticed the beautiful wooden pew that is now sitting outside of my office. Thank you to Kate and Hal Amundson for generously donating it to the school.
TURKEY FEATHER WINNER: As you might have read in the Tacoma News Tribune’s Wednesday edition, Miss Fiona was the proud wearer of the lovely Turkey Feather Hat. Check out our weblog article for the full visual effect...
This contest brought in 580 food items and $57.25 to our food bank. Miss Fiona won with 485 feathers. Second place (280 feathers) was a tie between Mr. Manley and Mrs. Teich. Mrs. DM rounded out 3rd place with 170 feathers. Great job Visitation students!
YOU ARE INVITED: The monthly PTO meeting is Thursday, December 7th in the school cafeteria.The meeting starts at 7:00. Hope to see you there!!
GENEROSITY TO OUR SCHOOL: Thank you to the Knights of Columbus and John Klein for the generous gift of $1000.00 to our tuition assistance fund.
CONGRATULATIONS: To the winners of the VFW Essay Program for 2006!
Peace and Blessings,
Sheila Harrison
Sunday begins the Advent season. This is a wonderful opportunity to help your children focus on the true purpose for our celebration: the birth of Our Lord. In the school, we will have our Advent wreaths and will be using them as a focus of our daily prayer. In Music class, students are learning traditional Advent songs (as well as practicing for the upcoming Advent Program!) and in Religion class there are discussions of the scripture readings used during Advent.
If you would like some ideas for celebrating as a family, come to the Lower Hall on Sunday, December 3rd from 11:30 to 2:00. You will have an opportunity to make an Advent Wreath and enjoy a wonderful bowl of chili. Check out the flyer in today’s Note Home envelope.
REMINDER: Next Monday will be a noon dismissal as teachers prepare report cards. There will be no hot lunch served. Extended Care will be available. Report cards will be sent home with students on Friday, December 8th, so check the backpacks!
THANK YOU: You might have noticed the beautiful wooden pew that is now sitting outside of my office. Thank you to Kate and Hal Amundson for generously donating it to the school.
TURKEY FEATHER WINNER: As you might have read in the Tacoma News Tribune’s Wednesday edition, Miss Fiona was the proud wearer of the lovely Turkey Feather Hat. Check out our weblog article for the full visual effect...
This contest brought in 580 food items and $57.25 to our food bank. Miss Fiona won with 485 feathers. Second place (280 feathers) was a tie between Mr. Manley and Mrs. Teich. Mrs. DM rounded out 3rd place with 170 feathers. Great job Visitation students!
YOU ARE INVITED: The monthly PTO meeting is Thursday, December 7th in the school cafeteria.The meeting starts at 7:00. Hope to see you there!!
GENEROSITY TO OUR SCHOOL: Thank you to the Knights of Columbus and John Klein for the generous gift of $1000.00 to our tuition assistance fund.
CONGRATULATIONS: To the winners of the VFW Essay Program for 2006!
Peace and Blessings,
Sheila Harrison
PTO Meeting December 7th
You are cordially invited to attend the Visitation Catholic School PTO Meeting on Thursday, December 7th.
The meeting will be held in the school cafeteria. Please enter through the side door from the playground.
All Visitation parents, guardians, staff members, volunteers, parish cluster members, and/or alumni are welcome to attend any and all PTO meetings throughout the year.
Meet with your Visitation comrades. Get informed, get involved... Hope to see you there!
The meeting will be held in the school cafeteria. Please enter through the side door from the playground.
All Visitation parents, guardians, staff members, volunteers, parish cluster members, and/or alumni are welcome to attend any and all PTO meetings throughout the year.
Meet with your Visitation comrades. Get informed, get involved... Hope to see you there!
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Earn Free Tuition
No. Really. Any current family can earn one month of free tuition for their child.
Recruit a new family, and you will receive one month of free tuition for one child. Recruit two families, earn two months. It’s that simple.
A month not enough for you? How about a year?
For every family you recruit, your name will be placed in a drawing. Once ten families have recruited new families, we will draw one name for a year’s free tuition for one child for next year.
What’s the catch?
No catch. There are a few details, though. The new family must have a child in Kindergarten through 8th grade–new Pre-Kindergarten students are not eligible for this promotion. Your month of free tuition will be awarded in the month following the new family’s registration.
This offer valid from September 28, 2006 through March 30, 2007.
Recruit a new family, and you will receive one month of free tuition for one child. Recruit two families, earn two months. It’s that simple.
A month not enough for you? How about a year?
For every family you recruit, your name will be placed in a drawing. Once ten families have recruited new families, we will draw one name for a year’s free tuition for one child for next year.
What’s the catch?
No catch. There are a few details, though. The new family must have a child in Kindergarten through 8th grade–new Pre-Kindergarten students are not eligible for this promotion. Your month of free tuition will be awarded in the month following the new family’s registration.
This offer valid from September 28, 2006 through March 30, 2007.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Late Start Wednesday
Due to inclement weather, school will begin two hours late on Wednesday, November 29.
Monday, November 27, 2006
The Week Ahead (Nov. 27-Dec. 3)
Everything you need to know for the upcoming week.
Monday, November 27
Tuesday, November 28
Wednesday, November 29
Thursday, November 30
Friday, December 1
Monday, November 27
- Classes Resume
- Scrip due - 9:00AM
- 2:00PM - Early school dismissal
Tuesday, November 28
- return Thursday folders to school
- Advanced Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM
Wednesday, November 29
- Beginning Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM (openings available)
Thursday, November 30
- Thursday folders and scrip sent home with students
- Counselor on campus for students, staff and parents / guardians - 11AM to 1:00PM - Joel Hellenkamp. Contact Visitation office or e-mail at jhellenkamp@saintpats.org to make an appointment (optional).
- Brownie Girl Scouts - 2:45PM to 4:15PM - Collier Center
- Chess Club - 2:45PM to 4:15PM - School Library - Bring a chess set if you have one. (4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th graders)
Friday, December 1
- Full Dress Uniform
- All School Mass - 9AM to 10:00AM - All friends and family welcome to attend.
- Beginning Band - 11:45AM to 12:15PM (openings available)
- Advanced Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM
- Scrip available at PM carpool - 2:45PM. If raining (or snowing!), will sell in PTO room.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Who's a Turkey?
The 2nd Annual Turkey Feather Contest results are in!
VCS collected 580 food items and $57.25 for the parish food bank.
For each donation of one food item or 50¢, students were awarded a paper "turkey feather", which they could assign to the teacher or staff member of their choice. The feathers were pasted onto pictures all over the school. Whoever's picture ended with the most feathers is awarded the Visitation Turkey Crown.
The honor of wearing the lovely Turkey Crown this year goes to Miss Fiona, who gathered an amazing 485 feathers.
Second place was a tie, with Mr. Manley and Mrs. Teich each collecting 280 feathers.
Great job Visitation students!
VCS collected 580 food items and $57.25 for the parish food bank.
For each donation of one food item or 50¢, students were awarded a paper "turkey feather", which they could assign to the teacher or staff member of their choice. The feathers were pasted onto pictures all over the school. Whoever's picture ended with the most feathers is awarded the Visitation Turkey Crown.
The honor of wearing the lovely Turkey Crown this year goes to Miss Fiona, who gathered an amazing 485 feathers.
Second place was a tie, with Mr. Manley and Mrs. Teich each collecting 280 feathers.
Great job Visitation students!
A Blessed Thanksgiving to You All
Visitation Catholic School will close at noon today for Thanksgiving break. Classes will resume on Monday, November 27th.
Monday, November 20, 2006
The Week Ahead (Nov. 20 - 26)
Everything you need to know for the upcoming week.
Monday, November 20
NO school - Happy Thanksgiving!
Friday, November 24
NO school
Monday, November 27
Classes Resume
Wanted
Volunteer Opportunities
In Order by Date:
Save and Send to Visitation School
Monday, November 20
- Turkey Feather Contest continues. Bring a can/box of non-perishable food to get 1 feather OR buy 2 feathers for $1.00. Bonus items are worth 4 extra feathers each = Small jar of Pickles, Olives, Instant Pudding, Tomato Paste
- Scrip due - 9AM - Limited quantities this week only - First come, first serve
- 2:00PM - Early school dismissal
- Cookie Dough Distribution - 12:30PM to 6:30PM - Lower Hall - MUST BE PICKED UP - Any dough not picked up will be donated to the food bank.
- Last Day Turkey Feather Contest.
- return Thursday folders to school
- Advanced Band - 2:45PM to 3:20p
- School commission meeting - 7PM - Collier Center
- Noon Dismissal
- NO Hot Lunch
- NO Beginning Band
- NO Family envelope sent home
- Thanksgiving Break begins!
NO school - Happy Thanksgiving!
Friday, November 24
NO school
Monday, November 27
Classes Resume
Wanted
- Espresso maker for staff room
- School Uniforms. Gently used to replenish emergency closet
- Baskets for Auction - send to school
Volunteer Opportunities
In Order by Date:
- Nov. 21 - Cookie Dough Distribution - 10:30AM to 6:30PM - Contact Tona Mickelson.
- Dec 2 - Chili Cook-Off - Contact Kileen Swortz, Elizabeth Albers, or Kathi Morley.
- Dec 4 - Santa Shop Set up - 11AM to 3PM - contact Tona Mickelson.
- Dec. 5 thru 7 - Santa Shop helpers - 8AM to 3:30PM - contact Tona Mickelson.
- Dec. 6 - St. Nicholas Day - contact school
- Dec. 7 - PTO Meeting - 7PM - School Cafeteria
- Dec. 8 - Santa Shop helpers, Take down & Clean up - 8AM to 2PM
- March 23, 2007 - Family Auction Night. Contact Annette Thomas at jonaza_3@msn.com.
- March 31, 2007 - Auction Gala. Contact Annette Thomas at jonaza_3@msn.com.
- Auction 2007 - info on the web at http://www.visitationschool.net/support/auction.html. Any questions or comments contact Marta Palmquist Cady at mpalmquist@ups.edu
- After-School Art program - contact Mrs. Woodard or Mrs. Harburg-Petrich
- Athletic School Board Members - contact Mrs. Marcy at marcym@visitationschool.net (Be a part of the team!)
- Basketball Coaches (get 30 commitment hrs!) - Contact Mrs. Marcy.
- Chess Club helpers. Meet every Thursday, 2:45PM to 4:15PM at School Library. Contact Thom Ryng at ryngt@visitationschool.net - we're always looking for parent volunteers. If you have a board or chess clock, bring them!
- PTO Fundraising chairs. Contact Tona Mickelson.
- School Safety Committee Members - contact school
- Treats / Snacks for staff on Wednesdays. Sign-up sheet posted in PTO room or contact Celeste Ayton.
- Visitation Vision Committee Members - contact Lillian Albers.
Save and Send to Visitation School
- Campbell's product UPC labels - (includes Franco-American, Market Day, Pepperidge Farms, Prego, Swanson, V-8 lids)
- Cell Phones - old
- Education Box Tops
- Ink Jet, Laser & Fax Cartridges
- for more information go to http://www.labelsforeducation.com/eligibleproductsEN.aspx
and http://www.boxtops4education.com/index.aspx
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Thursday Note Home
Dear Visitation Families,
It is suddenly mid-November and the holiday season is rapidly approaching. It seems that each year the noise of commercialism gets louder and louder, threatening to drown out the true message of thankfulness to our God for all the amazing gifts He has given to us. At Visitation Catholic School we work very hard to emphasize the spiritual side of the holiday season and to help our students celebrate the true meaning of the holidays through the music we sing, the prayers we teach, and the community service we give. I know that you re-enforce this message at home as well.
One powerful way for you to model thankfulness to your children is to participate in the Stewardship Campaign at your parish. This weekend you are to return the pledge cards that were in the pews or you received in the mail this week.
Hopefully, you have had some time to prayerfully reflect on what you and your family can do to help support your parish and its mission. I understand that one of our parent’s, Mike Mello, shared a powerful story of how God has worked in the lives of his family members.
Also, remember that receiving the in-parish tuition rate is contingent on having an established pattern of support to the parish. One way to show that support is to have a current Sacrificial Giving card on file with your parish, whether it is Visitation, St. Ann, Sacred Heart, St. John of the Woods, or any other Catholic parish in the area. Please return those cards this weekend.
REMINDER: Because next Thursday is Thanksgiving and Wednesday is a half day, there will beno family envelope sent home.
THANK YOU: Purple Heart veteran and long-time parishioner John Klein and his wife Genevieve donated new US and Papal flags along with new stands, poles and headpieces to Visitation Church.
These flags were placed in the sanctuary on Veterans Day as a tribute to all Active Duty military, veterans of all wars and the non-veterans who stayed home to do the work needed to support the veterans and their families. The old US flag is faded and will be disposed of in a dignified manner as proscribed by law.
BASKETBALL REGISTRATION: Registration forms are going home today for all boys and girls in 4th through 8th grades who want to play basketball. CYO is also still in need of coaching help on a few of the teams. Please contact Mrs. Marcy if you would like to coach.
ONE OF THOSE THINGS... Every November the school conducts a check for head lice as during the colder months of the year children tend to both wear and share hats, so we try to be proactive.
I am happy to report that all are OK! Thank you to Susan Frey for doing the tough job of checking all heads.
NEWS ON THE AFTER SCHOOL ART PROGRAM: Because there are 35 children signed up to stay after school on Fridays for the Art Program, we have outgrown the space we had! The Art Program will be moving to the Lower Hall and Collier Center for the November 17th classes. Please see the enclosed flyer for more details. Thanks to Mrs. Harburg-Petrich and Mrs. Woodard for sharing their wonderful talents.
Peace and Blessings,
Sheila Harrison
It is suddenly mid-November and the holiday season is rapidly approaching. It seems that each year the noise of commercialism gets louder and louder, threatening to drown out the true message of thankfulness to our God for all the amazing gifts He has given to us. At Visitation Catholic School we work very hard to emphasize the spiritual side of the holiday season and to help our students celebrate the true meaning of the holidays through the music we sing, the prayers we teach, and the community service we give. I know that you re-enforce this message at home as well.
One powerful way for you to model thankfulness to your children is to participate in the Stewardship Campaign at your parish. This weekend you are to return the pledge cards that were in the pews or you received in the mail this week.
Hopefully, you have had some time to prayerfully reflect on what you and your family can do to help support your parish and its mission. I understand that one of our parent’s, Mike Mello, shared a powerful story of how God has worked in the lives of his family members.
Also, remember that receiving the in-parish tuition rate is contingent on having an established pattern of support to the parish. One way to show that support is to have a current Sacrificial Giving card on file with your parish, whether it is Visitation, St. Ann, Sacred Heart, St. John of the Woods, or any other Catholic parish in the area. Please return those cards this weekend.
REMINDER: Because next Thursday is Thanksgiving and Wednesday is a half day, there will beno family envelope sent home.
THANK YOU: Purple Heart veteran and long-time parishioner John Klein and his wife Genevieve donated new US and Papal flags along with new stands, poles and headpieces to Visitation Church.
These flags were placed in the sanctuary on Veterans Day as a tribute to all Active Duty military, veterans of all wars and the non-veterans who stayed home to do the work needed to support the veterans and their families. The old US flag is faded and will be disposed of in a dignified manner as proscribed by law.
BASKETBALL REGISTRATION: Registration forms are going home today for all boys and girls in 4th through 8th grades who want to play basketball. CYO is also still in need of coaching help on a few of the teams. Please contact Mrs. Marcy if you would like to coach.
ONE OF THOSE THINGS... Every November the school conducts a check for head lice as during the colder months of the year children tend to both wear and share hats, so we try to be proactive.
I am happy to report that all are OK! Thank you to Susan Frey for doing the tough job of checking all heads.
NEWS ON THE AFTER SCHOOL ART PROGRAM: Because there are 35 children signed up to stay after school on Fridays for the Art Program, we have outgrown the space we had! The Art Program will be moving to the Lower Hall and Collier Center for the November 17th classes. Please see the enclosed flyer for more details. Thanks to Mrs. Harburg-Petrich and Mrs. Woodard for sharing their wonderful talents.
Peace and Blessings,
Sheila Harrison
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Basketball Coaches Needed
It's time to sign up for coaching basketball. If you're interested in the positions of coach or assistant coach, please contact Mrs. Marcy.
Fr. Bryan has agreed to be an assistant coach, but he obviously will need some help!
Fr. Bryan has agreed to be an assistant coach, but he obviously will need some help!
Chili Cook-Off
If you make the best chili west of the Pecos, now's the time to let us know! The Visitation Chili Cook-Off will be held in the Lower Hall on Saturday, December 2 - sign up now!
If you'd like to register for the event, or you've just got questions, please contact Elisabeth Albers, Kileen Swortz, or Kathi Morley.
If you'd like to register for the event, or you've just got questions, please contact Elisabeth Albers, Kileen Swortz, or Kathi Morley.
Thursday Note Home
Dear Visitation Families,
I am very excited that the work is proceeding on the new Visitation Pre-Kindergarten at St. Ann Parish.
As you may recall, the idea of locating a pre-kindergarten at St. Ann Parish operated under the auspices of Visitation Catholic School began last year. Initially, the main reason for this program was to boost our enrollment by increasing the number of students who attend our Pre-K and then follow through to enrolling in our Kindergarten.
Now that Visitation Catholic School has become the regional school for the parishes of St. Ann, Sacred Heart, and St. John of the Woods (as well as Visitation), having a Pre-K program located at St. Ann will help provide more access to families living near St. Ann. It’s also nice to have a Catholic school presence again in that area.
The site of the new Pre-K room is in the old St. Ann grade school. Most of the building is leased by Catholic Community Services’ Phoenix Program. However, the old library wasn’t part of the lease. It is the perfect place for a Pre-Kindergarten room as it is a large, sunny room at the end of the building. Construction began last week to put in a new entrance and a new bathroom for the children.
We are thankful to the Fulcrum Foundation and the Archdiocese for grants to do the renovation. If all goes well, we hope to have the room ready for use by the beginning of December. If you know any families in that area who have 3 or 4yr. olds and might be interested in a quality Pre-Kindergarten program, let them know that St. Ann is happening! Watch this space for more updates!
NEW STAFF: Mrs. Sherry Drake has joined our staff as an aide. She is a parishioner and comes with a wonderful background of working with the Scouting program for many years. Please welcome her if you see her in the halls.
TURKEY FEATHERS CONTINUED!: The Turkey Feather Contest is beginning to heat up! Several staff are in the running for the privilege of wearing that “unique” hat.
PLEASE NOTE: The service hours report for each family is in this week’s envelope. Please be Aware that the reports cover from May 1, 2006 through November 3, 2006. They do not include Cookie Dough totals or Scrip due to a computer crash. They are in the process of re-inputting all the data.
CALLING ALL COACHES: It’s time to sign up for coaching basketball. If you are interested in the positions of coach or assistant coach, please contact Mrs. Marcy.
THANK YOU: Extended Care would like to thank Gonzalo Chale for the computer monitor and Arturo and Sonya Pascual for the computer games.
PRAYERS PLEASE: Please keep the faculty, staff and students of Assumption/St. Bridget School in your prayers. Their Principal, Michael Foy, passed away suddenly this week. He was Principal at Assumption/ St. Bridget School in Seattle for 19 years. Mike touched many lives in the Archdiocese over the years. Among the principals, he was known as a wise counsel and always did his best to help all. He will be sorely missed. Please also keep his family in your prayers.
Peace,
Sheila Harrison
I am very excited that the work is proceeding on the new Visitation Pre-Kindergarten at St. Ann Parish.
As you may recall, the idea of locating a pre-kindergarten at St. Ann Parish operated under the auspices of Visitation Catholic School began last year. Initially, the main reason for this program was to boost our enrollment by increasing the number of students who attend our Pre-K and then follow through to enrolling in our Kindergarten.
Now that Visitation Catholic School has become the regional school for the parishes of St. Ann, Sacred Heart, and St. John of the Woods (as well as Visitation), having a Pre-K program located at St. Ann will help provide more access to families living near St. Ann. It’s also nice to have a Catholic school presence again in that area.
The site of the new Pre-K room is in the old St. Ann grade school. Most of the building is leased by Catholic Community Services’ Phoenix Program. However, the old library wasn’t part of the lease. It is the perfect place for a Pre-Kindergarten room as it is a large, sunny room at the end of the building. Construction began last week to put in a new entrance and a new bathroom for the children.
We are thankful to the Fulcrum Foundation and the Archdiocese for grants to do the renovation. If all goes well, we hope to have the room ready for use by the beginning of December. If you know any families in that area who have 3 or 4yr. olds and might be interested in a quality Pre-Kindergarten program, let them know that St. Ann is happening! Watch this space for more updates!
NEW STAFF: Mrs. Sherry Drake has joined our staff as an aide. She is a parishioner and comes with a wonderful background of working with the Scouting program for many years. Please welcome her if you see her in the halls.
TURKEY FEATHERS CONTINUED!: The Turkey Feather Contest is beginning to heat up! Several staff are in the running for the privilege of wearing that “unique” hat.
PLEASE NOTE: The service hours report for each family is in this week’s envelope. Please be Aware that the reports cover from May 1, 2006 through November 3, 2006. They do not include Cookie Dough totals or Scrip due to a computer crash. They are in the process of re-inputting all the data.
CALLING ALL COACHES: It’s time to sign up for coaching basketball. If you are interested in the positions of coach or assistant coach, please contact Mrs. Marcy.
THANK YOU: Extended Care would like to thank Gonzalo Chale for the computer monitor and Arturo and Sonya Pascual for the computer games.
PRAYERS PLEASE: Please keep the faculty, staff and students of Assumption/St. Bridget School in your prayers. Their Principal, Michael Foy, passed away suddenly this week. He was Principal at Assumption/ St. Bridget School in Seattle for 19 years. Mike touched many lives in the Archdiocese over the years. Among the principals, he was known as a wise counsel and always did his best to help all. He will be sorely missed. Please also keep his family in your prayers.
Peace,
Sheila Harrison
Monday, November 06, 2006
The Week Ahead (Nov. 6 - 12)
Everything you need to know for the upcoming week.
Monday, November 6
Volunteer Opportunities - Obtain job positions and descriptions from contacts.
In Order by Date:
Monday, November 6
- Scrip due - 9AM
- 2:00p - Early school dismissal
- Turkey Feather Contest continues. Bring a can / box of non-perishable food to get 1 feather OR buy 2 feathers for $1.00. Bonus items until Nov. 9th: Peanut Butter, Jelly. Boxed Cereal, Hot Cereal = 5 feathers.
- return Thursday folders to school
- VOTE - General Election - Your Vote is Your Voice
- Free Dress 1st Tuesday. Bring can of food for food bank.
- Advanced Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM
- Adult Enrichment classes with Fr. Bryan Dolejsi at St. Ann’s Hall - 7PM to 9PM
- Beginning Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM (openings available)
- Thursday folders and scrip sent home with students
- Counselor on campus every Thursday - 11AM to 1PM - Joel Hellenkamp. Parents / Guardians contact office to make an appointment (optional).
- Veteran’s Day Assembly - 12:40PM to 1:30PM - Friends and Family invited to attend
- Brownie Girl Scouts - 2:45PM to 4:15PM - Collier Center
- Chess Club - 2:45PM to 4:15PM - School Library - Bring a chess set if you have one.
- NO School - Veteran's Day
- Bunco Night - 6:30PM - School Cafeteria - $10 - Babysitting provided (Donations cheerfully accepted.) - Dessert and Prizes! - Over 18 please.
- Baskets for Auction - send to school
- Espresso maker for staff room
- School Uniforms. Gently used to replenish emergency closet
Volunteer Opportunities - Obtain job positions and descriptions from contacts.
In Order by Date:
- Nov. 10 - Bunco Night - contact Heather Liufau.
- Nov. 21 - Cookie Dough Distribution - contact school.
- Dec. 2 - Chili Cook-Off - contact Kileen Swortz or Elizabeth Albers.
- Dec. 5 thru 8 - Santa Shop - contact Tona Mickelson.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Thursday Note Home
Dear Visitation Families,
The four-parish Mass on Saturday, October 28th, was a roaring success! It was a wonderful coming together of all our parish families and all of the cultural groups that help make up our new cluster. The Archbishop remarked that he was most pleased to see all of the groups represented, including the school.
Both Fr. Tuan and I received many compliments about our children. The mass and ceremony were very meaningful. The students and families who attended have mentioned how beautiful the ceremony was and many Visitation parishioners commented that they felt a definite coming together of all of our parishes.
If you didn't stay for the celebration after the mass, you missed great food and music. You also missed out on an opportunity to see Fr. Tuan and Fr. Poao dance with the Samoan dancers!
All in all, it was a memorable evening! Thank you to the children and parents who worked as ushers, greeters, candle lighters, and gift-bearers as well as to all of you who attended.
NEW STAFF: I am very pleased to announce that Joel Hellenkamp, a well-known counselor in the Tacoma area, will be working at our school every Thursday from 11:00AM to 1:00PM. He will work with classes on a number of issues as well as serving as a resource for staff and parents. Joel has worked with Visitation School before. He also works with St. Charles Borremeo, St. Patrick, and Holy Rosary.
INVITATION: The Student Council would like to extend a special invitation to any Visitation family with a family member currently serving in the military to come for our Veterans Day Assembly. We would very much like to honor you. The assembly will be on Thursday, November 9, from 12:40 to 1:30 in the Upper Hall.
A BIG THANK YOU! A very big thank you to the Visitation Women's Club who donated brand new dictionaries to each of our third graders. Every student in the third grade now has his or her very own dictionary to use and keep. A special thanks to Linda Johnson who spearheaded this wonderful gift.
IN THE NEWS: One of our parishioners has been honored in People Magazine's "Heroes Among Us" series. Wayne Mangan has been honored for his work with local families of children with leukemia. Read about it in the November 6th edition of People.
TURKEY FEATHERS: The Student Council is gearing up for the return of the very popular Turkey Feathers Contest. This is a fun way to raise food and funds for our Food Bank. Details in today's note home. The contest begins Friday.
LAST CHANCE ON COOKIE DOUGH: Get those orders in by tomorrow! That's the last day to order cookie dough for your holiday baking.
THANK YOU! Thanks to Yasmin Rodrigues who helped our Kitchen Manager, Cecelia Tun, pick up commodities for our lunch program. Also thanks to Ken Leary and Binh Dang who helped unload the order! Thank you also to the 7th and 8th graders who helped clear out the room at St. Ann so construction can begin!
LOW COST DENTAL FOR CHILDREN: If you know someone with children who is on Medicaid or has limited resources, Lindquist Dental Clinic for Children is offering walk-in exams for all new patients who are children ages 0 to 18. No appointment is necessary. Call 253-539-7445 for more information.
HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: O'Dea High School is hosting an Open House for any interested parents and students. O'Dea is an all - boys high school located on First Hill in Seattle (by all the hospitals). The open house is Thursday, November 9th from 6:00PM to 9:00PM. For more information call their admissions office at 206.622.1308. You can also ask me about the program, as my son graduated from O'Dea.
Peace,
Sheila Harrison
The four-parish Mass on Saturday, October 28th, was a roaring success! It was a wonderful coming together of all our parish families and all of the cultural groups that help make up our new cluster. The Archbishop remarked that he was most pleased to see all of the groups represented, including the school.
Both Fr. Tuan and I received many compliments about our children. The mass and ceremony were very meaningful. The students and families who attended have mentioned how beautiful the ceremony was and many Visitation parishioners commented that they felt a definite coming together of all of our parishes.
If you didn't stay for the celebration after the mass, you missed great food and music. You also missed out on an opportunity to see Fr. Tuan and Fr. Poao dance with the Samoan dancers!
All in all, it was a memorable evening! Thank you to the children and parents who worked as ushers, greeters, candle lighters, and gift-bearers as well as to all of you who attended.
NEW STAFF: I am very pleased to announce that Joel Hellenkamp, a well-known counselor in the Tacoma area, will be working at our school every Thursday from 11:00AM to 1:00PM. He will work with classes on a number of issues as well as serving as a resource for staff and parents. Joel has worked with Visitation School before. He also works with St. Charles Borremeo, St. Patrick, and Holy Rosary.
INVITATION: The Student Council would like to extend a special invitation to any Visitation family with a family member currently serving in the military to come for our Veterans Day Assembly. We would very much like to honor you. The assembly will be on Thursday, November 9, from 12:40 to 1:30 in the Upper Hall.
A BIG THANK YOU! A very big thank you to the Visitation Women's Club who donated brand new dictionaries to each of our third graders. Every student in the third grade now has his or her very own dictionary to use and keep. A special thanks to Linda Johnson who spearheaded this wonderful gift.
IN THE NEWS: One of our parishioners has been honored in People Magazine's "Heroes Among Us" series. Wayne Mangan has been honored for his work with local families of children with leukemia. Read about it in the November 6th edition of People.
TURKEY FEATHERS: The Student Council is gearing up for the return of the very popular Turkey Feathers Contest. This is a fun way to raise food and funds for our Food Bank. Details in today's note home. The contest begins Friday.
LAST CHANCE ON COOKIE DOUGH: Get those orders in by tomorrow! That's the last day to order cookie dough for your holiday baking.
THANK YOU! Thanks to Yasmin Rodrigues who helped our Kitchen Manager, Cecelia Tun, pick up commodities for our lunch program. Also thanks to Ken Leary and Binh Dang who helped unload the order! Thank you also to the 7th and 8th graders who helped clear out the room at St. Ann so construction can begin!
LOW COST DENTAL FOR CHILDREN: If you know someone with children who is on Medicaid or has limited resources, Lindquist Dental Clinic for Children is offering walk-in exams for all new patients who are children ages 0 to 18. No appointment is necessary. Call 253-539-7445 for more information.
HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: O'Dea High School is hosting an Open House for any interested parents and students. O'Dea is an all - boys high school located on First Hill in Seattle (by all the hospitals). The open house is Thursday, November 9th from 6:00PM to 9:00PM. For more information call their admissions office at 206.622.1308. You can also ask me about the program, as my son graduated from O'Dea.
Peace,
Sheila Harrison
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