Dear Parents,

This week we were able to get back into the routine of daily classes with the regular TerraNova testing completed. While it is nice to take the opportunity to deviate from the normal routines and schedules from time to time, there is something to be said for consistency as well.

This past Saturday, Jacob Kuzyk, one of our eighth graders, represented us at the Diocesan Geography Bee for middle school students, at Bishop Snyder High School. It was so wonderful to see Jacob and other students from throughout our diocese, share their knowledge of the world.

The third, fourth, and fifth graders took some time to reflect on Lent this week in their Spring Retreat, on campus. They had the opportunity to participate in the Stations of the Cross as part of their retreat experience.

On Thursday, K-4 was treated to a Rodeo presentation put on by Mr. Bill Banner and Mr. Kent Banner, also known as Drew's (from our Kindergarten class) grandpa and dad! They showed a video explaining all of the various rodeo events and showed the students all of the equipment that the competitors use. They also had a chance to get up in a saddle to see how it would feel if they were competing! Many thanks to the Banners for kicking off the local rodeo weekend for the kids.

As we prepare to wrap up the third marking quarter next Friday, March 17th, I encourage you as parents to continue to check in with your student daily to see ways in which you can support his/her learning. Daily review and practice should be a weekly occurrence and reading to/with your younger student and ensuring that your older student is always reading something both grade level and content appropriate will reap not only short term benefits in the classroom but also a lifetime of benefits in his/her future.

I am thankful that we managed to forego any major storms in our area this past fall and that you had the opportunity today, to enjoy a discretionary day off as a result. The teachers and I will be attending workshops on Monday with other Catholic school educators in our diocese. We look forward to sharing and gaining new ideas in this process.

Have a wonderful, long weekend with your student and we will see him/her back here on Tuesday.

Yours In Christ,

Rita M. Klenk