Dear School Families,
I write to you today blessed that our state, parish, and school community took the necessary precautions to keep you and most importantly, your children, safe during this pandemic. I am especially grateful for your efforts at home when we were forced to transition to online education to preserve our students’ right to a character education.
Although our students did not miss more than one day in this challenging transition, our school did not come out of the last few months unscathed. Our largest fundraiser of the year had to be cancelled and some families have been so sorely affected by employment challenges that their students are now unable to return to SJES for the 2020-2021 school year.
But there is good news to report. A parishioner has graciously offered to match new donations up to $25,000 to bolster tuition assistance. I realize this is not the best time to ask for financial help. Many of you have been adversely impacted by this pandemic and the financial future remains uncertain… but I am hopeful that you might find a way to make a donation to take advantage of this generous match. As whatever you donate will be doubled by the match (up to $25,000), every donation, no matter how big or small, is especially helpful. If you send in $50, it will give the school $100; your donation of $25 means the school will receive $50. All money collected will go toward providing a Catholic education for those families who have been impacted the most by circumstances beyond their control. The deadline to contribute is September 1st. Checks can be made out to St. John the Evangelist Catholic School or you can donate through paypal.
Although we have not finalized plans to welcome our students and parents for Meet the Teacher on Friday, August 21st at 1:00 p.m., I am grateful for those who remain committed to Catholic education. One anonymous donor recently covered the tuition for multiple children. Another donor donated $5,000 to assist in the purchase of our new K-5 Reading Series, Wonders. Materials arrived recently and I am pleased to say that there is an increased emphasis on differentiated instruction, scaffolding, and additional online capabilities.
I remain extremely grateful for your partnership in Catholic education and wish you every continued success. Until next time, may we continue to pray, learn, and serve the vulnerable and less fortunate.
Mr. Macdonald