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.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
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
Monday, October 30, 2006
The Week Ahead (Oct. 30 - Nov. 5)
Everything you need to know for the upcoming week.
Monday October 30
Tuesday October 31
Wednesday, November 1
All Saints Day
Thursday, November 2
All Souls Day
Friday, November 3
Saturday 11-4 or Sunday 11-5
Wear Visitation School uniform to church of worship = Free Dress on Monday November 6th (Monday send note with student for teacher and bring a can of food.)
Wanted
Volunteer Opportunities (hours count towards commitment hours)
In Order by Date:
Ongoing:
Save and Send to Visitation School
Monday October 30
- Scrip due - 9AM
- 2:00PM - Early school dismissal
Tuesday October 31
- Free Dress for pictures – Bright colored clothing best for photographs
- Deadline - money and order forms for photos
- Individual School Photos - 9AM
- return Thursday folders to school
- Advanced Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM
- Trunk or Treat - 6PM to 7:30PM - School Parking lot - CANCELLED if raining
Wednesday, November 1
All Saints Day
- Full Dress Uniform
- All Saints Liturgy - 9AM (4th grade responsible for Mass) - All friends and family welcome to attend.
- Beginning Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM (openings available)
- Student Council Meeting - 3PM to 3:30PM
Thursday, November 2
All Souls Day
- Brownie Girl Scouts - 2:45PM to 4:15PM - Collier Center
- Chess Club – 2:45PM to 4:00PM – School Library –Bring a chess set if you have one. (4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th graders)
- PTO Meeting - 7PM to 8PM - School Cafeteria, enter side door on playground.
- Auction Procurement Party after PTO meeting. Refreshments and Snacks served.
Friday, November 3
- Full Dress Uniform
- Cookie Dough sale ends – Turn in money and orders
- Popcorn Sale - $.50
- Turkey Feather Contest Begins
- All School Mass - 9AM to 10AM – All friends and family welcome to attend. (Grade 5 responsible.)
- 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, will sell in PTO room.
- After-School Art program – 3PM to 4:15PM
Saturday 11-4 or Sunday 11-5
Wear Visitation School uniform to church of worship = Free Dress on Monday November 6th (Monday send note with student for teacher and bring a can of food.)
Wanted
- Baskets for Auction – send to school
- Espresso maker for staff room
- School Uniforms. Gently used to replenish emergency closet
Volunteer Opportunities (hours count towards commitment hours)
In Order by Date:
- Oct. 31 - Truck or Treat – 6PM to 7:30PM – Contact Robin Estabrook at rdesta@aol.com.
- Nov. 2 - Attend PTO Meeting. Auction Procurement party afterwards.
- Nov. 10 - Bunco Night.
- Nov. 21 - Cookie Dough Distribution.
- Dec. 2 - Chili Cook-Off Coordinator and Volunteers (tentative date) - Contact Tona Mickelson.
- Dec. 5 thru 8 - Santa Shop helpers.
- Dec. 6 - St. Nick’s Day.
- March 23, 2007 - Family Auction Night. Contact Annette Thomas at jonaza_3@msn.com.
- March 31 - Auction Gala. Contact Annette Thomas at jonaza_3@msn.com.
Ongoing:
- 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!)
- Auction jobs - Contact Annette Thomas at jonaza_3@msn.com.
- Chess Club helpers. Meet every Thursday, 2:45PM to 4:00PM at School Library. Contact Thom Ryng at ryngt@visitationschool.net
- New Visitation School Gym and Social Hall committee members - Contact Thom Ryng or Lillian Albers.
- PTO Fundraising chair or two co-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.
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 and Fax Cartridges - for more information go to http://www.labelsforeducation.com/eligibleproductsEN.aspx
and http://www.boxtops4education.com/index.aspx
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Installation Mass Saturday
On October 28th at 5:00PM, Archbishop Alex J. Brunett will celebrate Mass at St. Ann's Church to mark the installation of our new pastor and our three parochial vicars.
Several students are involved as greeters or gift bearers, and choirs from all four parishes will sing. We invite and encourage all school families to attend this Mass.
Any student who attends this Mass in uniform will earn a free dress coupon.
Several students are involved as greeters or gift bearers, and choirs from all four parishes will sing. We invite and encourage all school families to attend this Mass.
Any student who attends this Mass in uniform will earn a free dress coupon.
Monday, October 23, 2006
The Week Ahead (Oct. 23 - 29)
Everything you need to know for the upcoming week.
Monday, October 23
Tuesday, October 24
Wednesday, October 25
Thursday, October 26
Friday, October 27
Saturday, October 28
Sunday, October 29
Wanted
Volunteer Opportunities (hours count towards commitment hours)
In Order by Date:
Ongoing:
Save and Send to Visitation School
Monday, October 23
- 9AM - Scrip due in office
- 2:00PM - Early school dismissal
- Cookie Dough sale starts (40% of total sold goes toward your fundraising commitment.)
Tuesday, October 24
- return Thursday folders to school (deadline)
- Advanced Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM
- Adult Enrichment classes with Fr. Bryan Dolejsi at St. Ann's Hall - 7PM to 9PM
Wednesday, October 25
- Beginning Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM (openings available)
- Student Council Meeting – 3PM
Thursday, October 26
- Thursday folders and scrip sent home with students
- Brownie Girl Scouts - 2:45PM to 4:15PM - Collier Center
- Chess Club – 2:45PM to 4:00PM – School Library – Bring a chess set if you have one.
- Cub Scouts Pack Meeting - Upper Hall - 7PM (Welcome to join ANY time. Contact John Albers.)
Friday, October 27
- Full Dress Uniform
- 9AM Mass (5th Grade responsible)
- 1st grade Pumpkin Patch field trip – 8:30AM to 1:30PM
- 2nd grade Children's Museum field trip – 8:30AM to 1PM
- Beginning Band - 11:45AM to 12:15PM (openings available)
- Advanced Band - 2:45PM to 3:20PM
- 2PM – Student Council Assembly – All parents/guardians, etc. welcome to attend! – Upper Hall
- Scrip available at PM carpool - 2:45PM. If raining, will sell in PTO room.
- After-School Art program – 3PM to 4:15PM.
Saturday, October 28
- Installation of Fr. Tuan by Archbishop Brunett at St. Ann's Church – 5PM Mass.
Students wear Full Dress Uniform = Free Dress Coupon.
Please try to attend
Potluck reception dinner after Mass at St. Ann's Hall. - NO Confession and NO 5PM Mass at Visitation
- Set clock back 1 hour before you go to bed tonight. Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday.
Sunday, October 29
- Did you set your clock back 1 hour?
- Cub Scout Pancake Fundraiser – After both Masses (9:30AM to 12NOON) – Lower Hall
- Visitation Disciples Youth Group (grades 6th, 7th, and 8th) – 12NOON to 2PM – Collier Center. Contact Eugena Douglas at youthministry@visitationchurch.org.
Wanted
- Espresso maker for staff room
- School Uniforms. Gently used to replenish emergency closet
Volunteer Opportunities (hours count towards commitment hours)
In Order by Date:
- Oct. 31 - Truck or Treat – 6PM to 7:30PM – Contact Robin Estabrook at rdesta@aol.com.
- Nov. 2 - Attend PTO Meeting
- Nov. 10 - Bunco Night
- Nov. 21 - Cookie Dough Distribution
- Dec. 2 - Chili Cook-Off Coordinator and Volunteers (tentative date) - Contact Tona Mickelson.
- Dec. 5 thru 8 - Santa Shop helpers
- Dec. 6 - St. Nick's Day
Ongoing:
- 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.)
- Chess Club helpers. Meet every Thursday, 2:45PM to 4:00PM at School Library. Contact Thom Ryng at ryngt@visitationschool.net
- Visitation Campus Committee members - Contact Thom Ryng or Lillian Albers.
- PTO Fundraising chair or two co-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.
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 and Fax Cartridges
- for more information go to http://www.labelsforeducation.com/eligibleproductsEN.aspx
and http://www.boxtops4education.com/index.aspx
Friday, October 20, 2006
Pennies from Heaven
The school penny drive for the Holy Name Society ended today. Together, the students of Visitation Catholic School raised
$1006.06 !
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Thursday Note Home
Dear Visitation Families,
I want to thank Terri Nelson and Carol Loughridge for all of their hard work on the Annual Fund Appeal which started on Sunday. They are wonderfully organized and effective. I also want to thank Trudy Robinson, Maria Gilbert, Lynette Crumity, Mary Swindale, Debra Pedraza, Cecile Rieder, and Jennifer Keller who gave their time to call and ask for donations.
Also thanks to current and former students who gave of their time to call! Thank you also to the numerous people who sent in goodies and are writing thank you cards.
Annual Fund is our strongest and most effective fund raiser because ALL of the money raised goes directly to the school. It is also the ONLY fund raiser that's 100% tax deductible.
As our Annual Fund continues to grow, we will be able to look at reducing the number of other fundraisers we need to fill the gap between our tuition and the cost of educating a student. Please, if you have not yet sent in your donation to Annual Fund, do it today.
SPEAKING OF FUNDRAISERS: The Cookie Dough sale begins next Monday, Oct. 23rd. Get your orders in so you will be ready to get your holiday baking done with a minimum of fuss. Masterpiece cookie dough is the best pre-made cookie dough I've ever tasted and forty percent of the profit comes to the school.
Be sure to share your order forms with any co-workers you might have, so they can enjoy this great short cut to holiday baking.
REMINDER TO MARK THIS DATE: October 28th, at 5:00 there will be a special Mass at St. Ann's Church. All four parishes are involved as Archbishop Brunett officially installs Fr. Tuan as the Pastor of the four parish cluster.
Several of our school children are involved as greeters or gift bearers. I would like to see as many of the children at this Mass, dressed in their uniforms, as possible. Any child who attends this Mass in uniform will earn a free dress coupon. This is also a beautiful and solemn celebration.
WASL SCORES: Our school summary WASL scores have finally arrived. They tell us how our 4th and 7th graders performed as a group. The scores are percents of students who met or exceeded the standard.
As with any test, the teachers and I will analyze the scores on the individual components to determine if we need to adjust instruction. If you have any questions on the results, please contact me.
PICTURE DAY: The order forms for individual school pictures are going home today. Pictures will be taken on Tuesday, October 31st.
BAND NEWS: Our Advanced Band and Beginning Band are in full swing. Their enthusiasm is infectious!
There are still a few openings in Beginning Band. If your child would like to participate but you can't make the financial commitment for an instrument, please contact me. Bellarmine has quite a selection of instruments available and is happy to put them in the hands of our students.
HELP NEEDED: We are getting a load of computers from Mr. Klein on Friday. We need two to three helpers to offload them and bring them upstairs. It should only take twenty to thirty minutes at the most. If you can help, please call the office. Thank you to Mr. Rector for providing the transportation.
REMINDER ON EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY: Mary Bridge Children's Hospital is hosting a lecture series called "Tools For Parents". The next lecture is on sleep deprivation among young children and how a lack of sleep can contribute to behavioral problems. The talk includes practical strategies to help children and their parents get the sleep they need.
This is scheduled for Tuesday, October 24th, at 7:00PM in the Kemper Center located at Annie Wright School. Tickets are $10 and you can register by calling 1-800-342-9919 or go to www.marybridge.org.
PRAYERS PLEASE: One of the 2nd graders at St. Thomas More School has been diagnosed with leukemia this past week. Please keep her and her family in your prayers as she undergoes chemotherapy.
Also, please keep Margie Mykland's husband, Greg, in your prayers. He is recovering from a heart attack.
ONLINE AUCTION: The Saul Haas Foundation has a Home Gala and Online Auction from Oct. 13 – Nov. 5th. If you are looking for an affordable getaway or want to get a special sports memorabilia item, now is your opportunity. Travel packages to Leavenworth, museum passes, a day at the races, and much more are available for bid.
The Saul Haas Foundation had generously given us grants each year that help us to cover expenses for students that can't be covered through the school budget. Check out the Auction at www.haasfoundation.org
AN ERIC CARLE CELEBRATION: Actors from the Tacoma School of Arts bring Eric Carle's magical stories to life in this imaginative story theater program combining masks, improvisation, and audience participation.
Performances are Saturday, Oct. 21st, at the following locations: Wheelock Library at 11:00; Fern Hill Library at 1:00; South Tacoma Library at 3:00. There will be free passes to the Tacoma Art Museum for everyone attending.
There is also a showing of Eric Carle's art running from October 7th – January 21st. Two great ways to spend a rainy Saturday!
Peace,
Sheila Harrison
I want to thank Terri Nelson and Carol Loughridge for all of their hard work on the Annual Fund Appeal which started on Sunday. They are wonderfully organized and effective. I also want to thank Trudy Robinson, Maria Gilbert, Lynette Crumity, Mary Swindale, Debra Pedraza, Cecile Rieder, and Jennifer Keller who gave their time to call and ask for donations.
Also thanks to current and former students who gave of their time to call! Thank you also to the numerous people who sent in goodies and are writing thank you cards.
Annual Fund is our strongest and most effective fund raiser because ALL of the money raised goes directly to the school. It is also the ONLY fund raiser that's 100% tax deductible.
As our Annual Fund continues to grow, we will be able to look at reducing the number of other fundraisers we need to fill the gap between our tuition and the cost of educating a student. Please, if you have not yet sent in your donation to Annual Fund, do it today.
SPEAKING OF FUNDRAISERS: The Cookie Dough sale begins next Monday, Oct. 23rd. Get your orders in so you will be ready to get your holiday baking done with a minimum of fuss. Masterpiece cookie dough is the best pre-made cookie dough I've ever tasted and forty percent of the profit comes to the school.
Be sure to share your order forms with any co-workers you might have, so they can enjoy this great short cut to holiday baking.
REMINDER TO MARK THIS DATE: October 28th, at 5:00 there will be a special Mass at St. Ann's Church. All four parishes are involved as Archbishop Brunett officially installs Fr. Tuan as the Pastor of the four parish cluster.
Several of our school children are involved as greeters or gift bearers. I would like to see as many of the children at this Mass, dressed in their uniforms, as possible. Any child who attends this Mass in uniform will earn a free dress coupon. This is also a beautiful and solemn celebration.
WASL SCORES: Our school summary WASL scores have finally arrived. They tell us how our 4th and 7th graders performed as a group. The scores are percents of students who met or exceeded the standard.
| 4th Grade | Tacoma District | |
| Reading: | 68.4% | 74.6% |
| Writing: | 73.6% | 54.7% |
| Math: | 55.5% | 43.0% |
| 7th Grade | Tacoma District | |
| Reading: | 92.9% | 53.8% |
| Writing: | 76.9% | 33.1% |
| Math: | 69.2% | 56.6% |
As with any test, the teachers and I will analyze the scores on the individual components to determine if we need to adjust instruction. If you have any questions on the results, please contact me.
PICTURE DAY: The order forms for individual school pictures are going home today. Pictures will be taken on Tuesday, October 31st.
BAND NEWS: Our Advanced Band and Beginning Band are in full swing. Their enthusiasm is infectious!
There are still a few openings in Beginning Band. If your child would like to participate but you can't make the financial commitment for an instrument, please contact me. Bellarmine has quite a selection of instruments available and is happy to put them in the hands of our students.
HELP NEEDED: We are getting a load of computers from Mr. Klein on Friday. We need two to three helpers to offload them and bring them upstairs. It should only take twenty to thirty minutes at the most. If you can help, please call the office. Thank you to Mr. Rector for providing the transportation.
REMINDER ON EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY: Mary Bridge Children's Hospital is hosting a lecture series called "Tools For Parents". The next lecture is on sleep deprivation among young children and how a lack of sleep can contribute to behavioral problems. The talk includes practical strategies to help children and their parents get the sleep they need.
This is scheduled for Tuesday, October 24th, at 7:00PM in the Kemper Center located at Annie Wright School. Tickets are $10 and you can register by calling 1-800-342-9919 or go to www.marybridge.org.
PRAYERS PLEASE: One of the 2nd graders at St. Thomas More School has been diagnosed with leukemia this past week. Please keep her and her family in your prayers as she undergoes chemotherapy.
Also, please keep Margie Mykland's husband, Greg, in your prayers. He is recovering from a heart attack.
ONLINE AUCTION: The Saul Haas Foundation has a Home Gala and Online Auction from Oct. 13 – Nov. 5th. If you are looking for an affordable getaway or want to get a special sports memorabilia item, now is your opportunity. Travel packages to Leavenworth, museum passes, a day at the races, and much more are available for bid.
The Saul Haas Foundation had generously given us grants each year that help us to cover expenses for students that can't be covered through the school budget. Check out the Auction at www.haasfoundation.org
AN ERIC CARLE CELEBRATION: Actors from the Tacoma School of Arts bring Eric Carle's magical stories to life in this imaginative story theater program combining masks, improvisation, and audience participation.
Performances are Saturday, Oct. 21st, at the following locations: Wheelock Library at 11:00; Fern Hill Library at 1:00; South Tacoma Library at 3:00. There will be free passes to the Tacoma Art Museum for everyone attending.
There is also a showing of Eric Carle's art running from October 7th – January 21st. Two great ways to spend a rainy Saturday!
Peace,
Sheila Harrison
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Half-Days This Week
Remember that due to conferences, school will dismiss at 12:00NOON on Wednesday and Thursday.
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