STM Newsletter for August 29, 2012

August 29th, 2012

Dear Parents:

We are back at it! Morning and after school extended care are up and running, volleyball and soccer practices are being held, and the school lunch program is off to a great start. Our Spanish teacher, Beatriz Cortes, began working with kindergarten through sixth grade students this past Monday. We are happy to have both Mike Shimabukuro (P.E.) and Irene Navarro (Music) join us again this year. We welcome our new dance teacher, Sue Rissotto, for our first dance class next Tuesday, September 4th. Also joining us this year as our school counselor is Vanessa Gamache, from the USF Center for Child and Family Development. Yes, we are back at it!

BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT: Mark your calendar! Tomorrow evening, Thursday, August 30th, is our Back-to-School Night beginning at 6:30pm in the gym. This is a mandatory meeting for all parents. At least one parent from each family is required to attend. While it would be ideal if children could stay at home, we understand this is not always possible. Childcare for younger children enrolled at STM will be available in Carroll Hall at no cost. Children will not be allowed to attend the meeting. We will begin in the gym promptly at 6:30pm. Please arrive early enough to sign in with your child/ren’s teacher/s so that you may receive a raffle ticket. One lucky attending family will win $500 towards their tuition. Be on time! The raffle will take place at 6:30pm sharp. Following general introductions and a few brief presentations in the gym, teachers will make two, fifteen minute, duplicate presentations in their classrooms. The first will be from 7:30 - 7:45; the second will be from 7:50 - 8:05. These duplicate presentations will allow you to attend presentations by more than one teacher. There will be time to purchase school supplies, used uniforms, and to meet with representatives from some of our after school programs.

LET’S THINK LIKE JESUS: This year, the faculty has chosen to incorporate our Schoolwide Learning Expectations with our theme. Our theme for the year is ‘Let’s THINK like Jesus’. Students in all grades will learn more about how they can become Thoughtful, spiritual individuals, Highly effective communicators, Involved citizens, Nurturing individuals, and Knowledge seekers all while THINKing like Jesus and how he would like us to act.

Our first service project of the year will begin the collection of personal items/toiletries for our nation’s military personnel. Again this year we are partnering with the Blue Star Moms organization to provide personal items to our troops stationed overseas. Beginning Tuesday, September 4th through October 4th, we will be collecting the following travel size items: Powder - Gold Bond, foot and baby powder, baby wipes, hand sanitizer, Lip Balm/SPF, sunscreen, dental floss, toothbrushes, toothpaste, eye drops, shower gel, shampoo, deodorant, lotion, Q-tips, disposable razors, hand and foot warmers, and batteries (preferably AA). This is a great way to donate any unused travel size products you may have collected over the summer. There will be many more opportunities throughout the school year for you and your child to be involved in a variety of similar service projects.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: Families who have not yet returned their child’s Universal Medical Information/Emergency Contact Release and Consent Form and/or disaster forms are asked to do so by this Friday, August 31st. Without those forms we do not have the updated medical and family information for your child.

TDAP: Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, continues to be widespread in California. To help stop its spread, all students in 7th through 12th grade are required by law to have proof of a whooping cough booster (‘Tdap’) shot, or file an exemption, in order to attend classes this year. Students will not be allowed to attend classes after Friday, August 31st, 2012 without a shot record. In order to be sure that your child is in compliance with this law, we are asking that all 7th and 8th graders who have not yet provided this proof do so before Friday’s deadline.

TUITION AND FEES: A reminder that several school fees are due by Friday, August 31st. If you have not paid your Cultural/Disaster fee ($75 per student) or your Parents’ Club dues ($40 per family), please send them to the school office now. Also, families who pay tuition on a monthly schedule are reminded that the September payment is also due tomorrow, September 1st. Just a reminder, in an effort to reduce costs, we will no longer issue a paper receipt when a payment is made unless it is paid with cash. We ask that you use your bank/credit card statements as your receipt.

FIELD TRIPS: Today the 4th graders are receiving a permission slip for their upcoming field trip to the Sanchez Adobe. Students will experience life as it was on the Mexican Ranchos in early California. Among other things, the students will make adobe bricks, grind corn and make candles. Be sure to get those permission slips and payments back by the due date! As always, late forms will not be accepted.

HOT DOG SALES: Today you are receiving hot dog order forms for the first quarter. Please remember that order forms will be sent home at the beginning of each quarter. This will be your only opportunity to order. You must order for all four sales if you wish to participate in these special lunches. The hot dog lunches will continue every second Wednesday again this year. Please clearly mark the name, grade and the word HOTDOG on the envelope if you wish to order.

PIZZA SALES: Just a reminder that the pizza sale order form you received last week is due by this Friday, August 31st. If you have misplaced this form, it can be downloaded and printed from our website.

SODA FREE CAMPUS: In an effort to help our students make healthier beverage choices, we continue to be a soda free campus this year. Water, milk or juice will be served with all school provided lunches. Please do not send soda to school with your child for any occasion. Together we can set good examples for our children.

CALENDAR/HOT LUNCH: September’s calendar of events is included in today’s envelope. Please, keep it available for reference during the month. On the back of the calendar please find the Hot Lunch menu for September. The menu is also posted on the school website. Children may bring lunch from home or take advantage of the school lunch program we offer. We are continuing with the same caterer as last year. This year the lunch price continues to be $4.00. Students ordering the hot lunch will receive an entrée, a fruit/vegetable component and milk. Milk alone can be ordered for 50¢. You may order the lunch whenever you wish. If your child has forgotten his/her lunch at home, you may call and order a school lunch as long as you call before 9:00 a.m. Just pay the next day. This service allows us to provide for those who wish to order lunch as well as for those who have forgotten a lunch. You may order and pay for lunch for your child on a daily basis. However, if you know that your child will be ordering lunch several times, it is most convenient for us to have you pay for several days at once. Lunch will not automatically be ordered for a child, even if paid for in advance, unless the child is in class when the order is taken (usually between 8:15 and 8:30) or we have received a phone call before 9:00 a.m. asking us to order lunch for a student who will be arriving late, but in time for lunch. We will do our best to ensure that no child goes hungry.

BIRTHDAYS: If you wish to provide class refreshments on the occasion of your child’s birthday, please contact the classroom teacher at least a week in advance to make a mutually convenient plan. Refreshments must be limited to: an individual serving of prepared treats (such as a muffin, a bagel or a piece of fruit) and a self-serve beverage (milk or juice). Please avoid snacks high in sugar and fats. Need suggestions? Ask your child’s teacher. No goody bags allowed. Refreshments should be dropped off to the office before school or at the time specified by the teacher.

BIRTHDAY BOOKS: If you are planning to bring treats to celebrate your child’s birthday, you are required to purchase a “Birthday Book” for our school library. This year all books are $15. Each book that you purchase from the school will have a bookplate placed in the front of the book indicating that the book was donated by your child. The students in your child’s class will have the first opportunity to enjoy the selection before it is added to the school library. This book represents your family’s lasting appreciation to the school, as well as honoring your child’s birthday. Books are pre-selected by the teacher to provide a well-rounded class library regarding subject matter and grade appropriateness.

FUNDRAISING CATALOG: Today we are sending home the fund raising gift catalog and order forms with every child. Some of you have opted out of participating in this fundraiser by paying the necessary buy-out fee. If you are one of those who have done so, please feel free to place an order anyway. All support is welcome! Families who did not pay the necessary fee to opt out of the catalog sale by June 1st are required to participate in this fundraiser. Participating families must make a combination of personal purchases and/or sales to friends and co-workers for a minimum of $100 per child enrolled in STM. All order forms are due back to the classroom teachers by Wednesday, September 19th. Extra catalogs are available from the office or your child’s teacher. Can you help? We need a parent volunteer(s) to help count and collate the orders that come in. Please contact the school office if you are available.

SHOPAROO: This year we are participating in a hassle-free fundraiser called Shoparoo. All you need to do is take pictures of your grocery receipts with the Shoparoo app for smartphones and tablets. It doesn’t matter where you shop or what you buy - every receipt submitted results in a donation to our school! So, what are you waiting for? Simply download the free app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store and then select St. Thomas More School as your chosen cause. Since there is no limit to how much money we can raise with Shoparoo, be sure to invite your friends and neighbors to join in – every receipt counts!

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROCEDURES: Regular yard supervision begins at 7:45. It is not acceptable to leave children unsupervised in front of the school, on the steps of the hall or in front of church before this time. Students who are dropped off before the yard opens at 7:45 must be enrolled in the Morning Extended Care Program or stay with their parent until the yard opens. Students who have been left at school unattended by a parent before 7:45 may be brought into morning extended care by a member of the staff. They will be charged at a rate of $10 per day for that service.

At dismissal, only Kindergarten parents are allowed to enter the schoolyard. Kindergarten students must stay with their teacher at dismissal until someone comes for them. If they are not picked up by 3:00pm, they will be placed in extended care. It is a good idea for parents to notify their children’s teachers in writing when they are planning to use the extended care program. Little ones don’t always

know what they are doing and may insist that their parent is missing. It is also especially helpful that parents let us know who will be picking up the child each day.

PARKING AND TRAFFIC: Finally we have a few notes about parking and traffic at school. There are a number of rules that have been established over the years. These address many issues and, when they are followed, make life easier for everyone. At this time, we need to remind everyone of a few guidelines. First, please avoid U-turns if at all possible. We ask you to drive around the church instead. Second, please don’t drive down into the golf course unless it’s absolutely necessary. Never park on, nor drive across, their grass. (Yes, that is a problem every year.) Also, very important, is avoiding parking incorrectly if you turn right at the top of Thomas More Way (toward the golf course). There are only two marked spaces available on both sides of the road immediately adjacent to the hedge. Do not park on the side of that road next to the tall bushes where the no parking sign is. (The Golf Club WILL tow your car if you are parked in their way) And lastly, please be respectful and courteous to our neighbors at the Golf Club, St. Thomas More Church and Alma Via. We all need to share the valuable and limited parking spaces.

For the next few weeks, at dismissal, we will allow parking on Thomas More Way from the school gate to the corner of Brotherhood Way. If all goes well, this will become a permanent option for those picking up at dismissal. We ask that you continue to pay attention to the traffic patrol during drop off and pick up to ensure the safety of all our children. Practice patience, drive carefully!

AFTER SCHOOL EXTENDED CARE: Get your forms in!!! Three forms went home last week for Afternoon Extended Care: (1) Services Agreement; (2) Parent Authorization; and (3) Food Allergy Form. These forms MUST be turned in if there is even a possibility your child might go to Afternoon Extended Care this school year. Some forms are still missing and the grace period ends this Friday. Beginning Tuesday, September 4th, a child is not qualified to attend Afternoon Extended Care without these forms having been signed and returned. Thanks for your attention to this detail.

SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS: STM appreciates the many hours of time you give to help in the classrooms, chaperone on field trips, help with pizza and hot dog sales, bake cookies, coach sport teams, yard duty, and help with the many other school activities. Archdiocese policy dictates that all persons (parents, friends, relatives) who work in any capacity that have contact with children must submit to a background check and have completed the safe and caring training course online (Shield the Vulnerable). If you are new to the school or have not yet completed these two requirements, we have included information on how to go about doing this.

UTOPIA PRESCHOOL: Congratulations also to our Utopia Preschool for a successful summer program. Our numbers for the fall continue to grow. Currently we have 35 students enrolled and several other applications pending. Thanks to some hard work by our director, Gloria Perez, we have been again approved for PFA (Preschool for All) funding. PFA is a city-funded initiative that funds a part-day preschool program. Regardless of family income, all children who will be 4-years-old on or before December 2, 2012, and live in San Francisco are eligible for PFA.

Finally, we want you to know how pleased we are to be working with you again this year in the education of your child. It is our pleasure. If you have any questions or concerns now or in the future, please let us know.

We wish to thank everyone for making the start of the school year so smooth.

Sincerely,

Marie Fitzpatrick

Back to School Newsletter - Important 1st Day of School Information

Dear Friends,

Welcome Back! We are excited to welcome the forty kindergartners who have replaced the thirty-six graduates who left in June, eighteen of whom recently graduated from Utopia Preschool. Another special welcome goes out to the eighteen, new, first through eighth graders who are joining us this year. It is our expectation that all our new students and their families will again be warmly welcomed and enjoy their time at St. Thomas More School. Our school continues to thrive because of your wonderful community spirit and the precious children you entrust to our care.

Tomorrow you are receiving your first and, probably, biggest Envelope of the school year! Please, watch for this Envelope again next week, on Wednesday, August 29^th, and throughout the school year each Wednesday.  It contains useful information from the Archdiocese, STM parish, the school, Parents’ Club, Athletic Board and various other groups. Please return the signed purple envelope with your child no later than Friday each week and include any necessary forms or responses. Important forms that require your attention will be included in your Envelope tomorrow. Please complete and return them immediately.

• Universal Medical Information/Emergency Contact Release and Consent Form
• Disaster Form
• AM Extended Care Sign up
• PM Extended Care Sign up/Authorization

When the school bell rings at 8:10, all parents will be required to leave the schoolyard so that students may line up and prepare for morning assembly. Immediately following the assembly, the Parents’ Club will host a “Welcome Back” reception in Carroll Hall. Coffee and breakfast treats will be provided. The Parents’ Club will also be selling used uniforms and school supplies at this time. The following school supplies will be available tomorrow (cash or checks only):

Nap Mats (Kindergarten)        $10
STM School Planner (3-8)      $10
Atlas (4-8)                               $15
Bible (6-8)                               $15
FX-55 Calculator (5-8)            $10
TI-108 Calculator (3-4)            $5

These items will also be available through the school office beginning Friday and at Back-to-School Night.

After tomorrow’s early dismissal we will ease into the school year. Friday, the 24^th is a minimum day according to the schedule provided. Both morning and afternoon extended care programs will begin on Friday. In order to use the extended care program, please complete the form/s you are receiving tomorrow. The first full day of school, and the beginning of the hot lunch program is Monday, August 27^th.

SCHOOL HOURS:
School hours and dismissal times:

	Monday-Thursday	Friday	Minimum Days
Kinder-3rd grade	8:10-2:45	8:10-2:15	8:10-12:15
4th-8th grade	8:10-3:00	8:10-2:30	8:10-12:30

UNIFORMS:
Please follow closely the uniform regulations and pay special attention to the shoe requirements. Students wearing incorrect footwear will be required to replace them. If you are unsure of the suitability of a particular shoe, please check with the school office. The Parents’ Club will also be selling good quality used uniforms at Back-to-School Night on August 30^th.

MORNING EXTENDED CARE:
Morning Extended Care in under the direction of Sue Kapovich, our first grade teacher. The before school extended care program is NOT a drop-in program. The program is held in the 1^st grade classroom each morning from 7:00 a.m. to 7:45. Students may arrive for the program at any time during that period. If you sign up for morning care, please understand that, while the commitment to this program is for the school year, you do not need to have your child present for the program each day. The cost of this program is $350 per year, payable in 4 installments. An enrollment form will be included in your envelope tomorrow.

AFTER-SCHOOL EXTENDED CARE:
Our Extended Care Director is John Kavanagh. This is a drop in program and can be used at any time. However, in order to attend it is important that the necessary forms are prepared in advance. If you think your child may use this program any time during the school year, please complete the necessary forms at this time. Advance sign up is not necessary for the after-school extended care program. It is a good idea for parents of lower grade students to notify their children’s teachers, in writing, when they are planning to use the extended care program. The hourly charge is $4 per hour or fraction thereof. Extended care runs from dismissal each day until 6:00 p.m. Families of students not picked up by 6:00pm will incur a charge of $1 per minute, per child. Billing will be sent out at the end of each month. Further information and a pick-up authorization sheet will be in your envelope tomorrow.

UPCOMING EVENTS:
While you will receive a full calendar of September events in next week’s Wednesday Envelope, we ask you to please mark your calendar for some important upcoming events.

• Thursday, August 23^rd, 10:30am: Kindergarten families will meet in the Kindergarten classroom for orientation and the 1^st-8^th grade new families will meet in the 1^st grade classroom.
• The school lunch program will begin on Monday, August 27^th. This will be included in your envelope tomorrow and is always available on our website.
• Thursday, August 30th, is our Back-to-School Night beginning at 6:30pm in the gym. This is a mandatory meeting for all families. At least one parent from each family is required to attend.
• All students and their families are expected to join us for our Back-to-School Family Mass and School Picnic on Sunday, September 9^th.

The new school year always brings with it a mixed bag of emotions. Disappointment at the end of summer vacation and excitement and anxiety over what the new school year will bring. We look forward to partnering with you and your child as they begin their journey here at St. Thomas More School!

Sincerely,

Marie Fitzpatrick
Principal

Newsletter for June 6, 2012

June 6^th, 2012

Dear Parents,

Welcome to your last Wednesday newsletter of the year! No field trip permission slips, no pizza or hot dog lunch order forms, no cookie order forms…the year is rolling to an end.

Our student body celebrated our final mass of the school year together this morning. Monsignor Labib reminded the students of three ways they can imitate God during the summer break. He asked them to continue to pray for one another, to show love and respect to all people and to always be truthful. Please ask your children about some symbols they learned in church today to keep these things in mind during the coming months.

We wish to extend a very big thank you to the Parents’ Club, under the leadership of Anarose Schelstrate, for all they have done on behalf of our school. Last night’s dinner celebrated all the parents who have taken lead roles in the club this year. We are also very happy to announce that the Parents’ Club raised over $50,000 this year. What a great accomplishment for a single grade school!

We look forward to many more fun filled events during the 2012-2013 school year. Last night also gave us the opportunity to welcome those who have volunteered to serve in various leading roles in the upcoming school year. 

2012-2013 Parents’ Club

Co-Presidents – Monica Martinez and Anarose Schelstrate

Co-Vice Presidents - Maureen Mihelich and Ivette Roca

Secretary – Gina Sheridan

Treasurer – Sue Sullivan

Assistant Treasurers – Mylee Bernardo and Jessica Ramirez

Corresponding Secretary – Cleo Noriega

Volunteer Coordinators – Angela Montiel and Arlene Dela Cruz,

Head Class Representatives - Raquel Cabading

Alumni Reps – Linda Shah and Jeffrey Spiegel

Report Cards: Do you have any unpaid tuition or fees for this school year? Do you still have sports uniforms not turned in? Please make sure you settle up with Melody and/or return your uniform before the 10:00am dismissal on Friday, June 8^th, in order that your child/children may receive their report cards. Report cards for students absent on the last day will be filed in their cumulative folders and may be picked up during the summer or next school year.

Extended Care: Remember, extended care payment for this final week continues to be on a cash basis. On Friday, June 8, our last day, K-7 will dismiss at 10:00 and Preschool at 10:30. There is NO Extended Care that day.

Summer Hours: The school office will be open during most of the summer, however, we will be on restricted hours, generally from 9-12. If you plan to come and make a payment of tuition and any fees, please call first to see if we are here. We prefer that you mail those items; but if we are here when you call, we’ll be happy to help you. If you do need us during the summer, please call and leave a message or send us an email. The school office will be closed from July 2-6 and July 16-20. Preschool runs a year round program and will continue to operate according to their regular schedule but will also be closed from July 2-6.

Used Uniforms: To facilitate the Parents’ Club collection of used uniforms this year, we are allowing the students to enjoy free dress tomorrow and Friday of this week. There are no strings attached, no required donations, just enjoy a little freedom. However, we will be happy to accept any uniform pieces that your children have outgrown or that you will no longer be using. The used uniform sale will take place in Carroll Hall on August 23rd, our first day back for next school year.

Save the Dates: Saturday, August 11^th, is ‘Parent Clean-up and Spruce-up Day’. Let’s all work together to make sure our campus is clean and welcoming when students return on August 23^rd. More details on this will be provided to you during the summer.

Please also save the evening of Thursday, August 30^th, for our annual Back-to-School Night. Again this year, this is a mandatory meeting for all parents. More information will be given when we return from summer vacation.

Chairs, chairs, chairs…and desks: The introduction of the scrip program this year enabled us to purchase new classroom chairs for 5^th and 8^th grades and new desks for 4^th grade. Would you like a child size desk or chair for your child's room or study area? We are giving away all of the chairs currently used in 5^th and 8^th grade and the desks from 4^th grade. Please drop by tomorrow or Friday if you wish to take one or more.

Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our families who volunteered their time this school year. Activities like showing up for yard duty, rain or shine, attending the Parents’ Club meetings, chaperoning on field trips, working on the Cioppino, Fall Festival, and numerous other school activities, would not happen without you. Your involvement allows St. Thomas More School to be a wonderful place for your children to grow and develop. A special thank you also to those who have donated paper, envelopes, used cartridges, and books for our library. Together we make a big difference in the lives of our children.

See you in August!

Sincerely,

Marie Fitzpatrick                                   

Principal 

Newsletter for May 30, 2012

Dear Parents:

This past weekend, the church celebrated the Feast of Pentecost, the birthday of the Church and the gift of the Holy Spirit – the sending of the Holy Spirit by our Lord Jesus Christ. Having been with his disciples for forty days after the resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ ascended into heaven and now sits at the right hand of God the Father. Pentecost closes the Easter Season. It celebrates the overwhelming experience of God giving the Holy Spirit to the first community of believers in the church. The color of the vestments and decorations for Pentecost is red, which symbolizes the intense love and fire of the Holy Spirit. From now until the beginning of the Advent Season we will celebrate the church season known as Ordinary Time. We now see the return of the green vestments that are a symbol of life and growth in the church.

This week our sixth grade students made cards for their fellow sixth graders at School of the Epiphany in order to express their compassion on the death of one of their classmates. Please keep the family and the Epiphany community in your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

Sandwiches-for-the-needy: Just a reminder that our final collection of sandwiches-for-the-needy is this coming Friday, June 1^st. We ask that all grades pull together to provide sandwiches that day. Thank you once again to all who have supported these collections throughout the year.

Class of 2012: The graduates are off on their picnic to Six Flags tomorrow before they return for all the activities of graduation day this Friday. We are saying good-bye to a fine class of eighth grade students. They have earned awards and recognition for their academic achievements from several of the high schools at which they have been accepted! The student body will come together for the graduates’ last Mass as STM students this Friday at 11:00. The graduation ceremony will be at 5:00 p.m. that evening. At those events, students will pray together, share their thoughts about their time at STM, hear the announcements of awards, and celebrate this educational milestone in their lives. We salute our graduates and hope you will join them at either or both ceremonies. Congratulations to:

Maopeli Ali, Ari Arrospide, Samantha Basco, Noelle Bumanglag, Emily Cano, Ralph De Jesus, Chloe Deguzman, Amaya Echarte, Adrian Embry, Samuel Gagucas, Lidy Garcia, Mario Giusto, Austin Grotkin, Kevin Hughes, Peter Kolokotrones, Pearla Lewis, Byron Li, Nicholas Lobre, Matthew Martinez, Anderson Nguyen, Michelle Nguyen, Kaitlin Nori, Rowby Ocampo, Remy Phaophongsavath, Roisin Quirke, Jenyse Rojo, Josette Rojo, Mike Santos, Melia Schelstrate, Matthew Schivo, Dominic Soriano, Iza Tongol, Luca Trumbull, Jackie Tsodikova, Rayna Urbino, and Stacey Velasco.

More congratulations…Last Wednesday evening, two of our 8^th graders were honored by USF in an academic recognition award ceremony. Katie Nori accepted the award for most improved student in the area of academics, and Rayna Urbino accepted the award for consistent academic excellence. Keep up the great work as you begin your high school journey.

Memory Book: Last week those who had pre-ordered their memory book should have received it in their Envelope. There are still a few copies available but a sellout is assured! Remember, memory books are now $25 and can be purchased from the office.

Photo Time: Our First Communicants and Confirmandi are receiving photos from their special days today. Also, those who ordered the student body panoramic photos (by the deadline) will be receiving them today.

Tuition and Fees: Do you have any unpaid tuition or fees (including the scrip requirement and extended care) for this school year? Please make sure you settle up before the 10:00am dismissal on June 8^th, in order that your child/children may receive their report cards in a timely manner. Report cards for students absent on the last day will be filed in their cumulative folders and may be picked up during the summer or next school year.

Scrip: This Friday is the last chance to order scrip for the school year before our adjusted schedule during the summer. Additionally, we will continue to take simply Uniforms scrip orders through dismissal tomorrow, Thursday, May 31^st. Orders can be placed either online of through the school office. Remember, gift cards make great gifts for graduations and Father's day!

Early Dismissals: Next week, Monday through Thursday, we will have minimum days with 12:15 dismissal for students in grades K-3 and 12:30 dismissal for students in grades 4-7. There will be extended care starting at dismissal on those days. Remember, extended care payment for this final week continues to be on a pay-by-the-day or pre-pay basis. On Friday, June 8, our last day, K-7 will dismiss at 10:00 and Preschool at 10:30. There is NO Extended Care that day.

Summer Hours: The school office will be open during most of the summer, however, we will be on restricted hours, generally from 9-12. If you plan to come and make a payment of tuition and any fees, please call first to see if we are here. We prefer that you mail those items; but if we are here when you call, we’ll be happy to help you. If you do need us during the summer, please call and leave a message or send us an email. The school office will be closed from July 2-6 and July 16-20. Preschool runs a year round program and will continue to operate according to their regular schedule but will also be closed from July 2-6.

Parents' Club: Next Tuesday, June 5^th is the night set aside for the Parents’ Club end of year meeting and recognition dinner. This will be held in Carroll Hall at 7:00pm.

Don’t forget, the Parents’ Club is providing you with a final social activity as the year comes to an end. The end-of-the-year-social is scheduled to start just after school begins next Friday, June 8^th in Carroll Hall and lasts until dismissal. All are invited. See you there. Limited parking will be available in the school yard.

Used Uniforms: To facilitate the Parents’ Club collection of used uniforms this year, we are allowing the students to enjoy free dress on Thursday and Friday of next week. There are no strings attached, no required donations, just enjoy a little freedom. However, we will be happy to accept any uniform pieces that your children have outgrown or that you will no longer be using. Eighth graders may donate their uniforms Thursday and Friday of this week. The used uniform sale will take place in Carroll Hall on August 23rd, our first day back for next school year.

Dance Festival: Dancing with the Stars has nothing on our students. Last week's Dance Festival was a spectacular night showcasing what talented students we have. Congratulations to the dancers, their teachers and especially to Sondra Dwyer, our dance teacher, who put the show together. Thanks also to Cynthia Bringas and the preschool staff for leading our youngest students in their Zumba routine.

As you all heard at last week’s dance festival, our long time dance instructor, Sondra Dwyer will be retiring at the end of this school year. Sondra arrived at St. Thomas More School in 1986, and has been a valued member of the faculty ever since. During her time here, Sondra has guided students in kindergarten through eighth grade in more than 20 dance festivals covering dances from all around the world. Sondra will be dearly missed. Her enthusiasm for teaching and creativity will be remembered by all of her students, past and present. We look forward to seeing her as part of our audience next dance festival.

With Sondra’s departure, we welcome Sue Risotto, who will be taking the reigns as our new dance teacher. We are happy to be able to continue such an enriching program. Welcome Sue!

Band Program: Congratulations also to the students who played in the band. Their performance under the guidance of teacher Mike Borderline was superb! We look forward to continuing this after school class again next year.

As the school year draws to a close, I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the support you have extended to the staff of St. Thomas More School over the past year. Through your efforts in the various school events, you have shown a keen interest, not only in the activities involving your child, but also in the whole school community. It has been a privilege to have the opportunity to work with you and your children this year.

Sincerely,

Marie Fitzpatrick

Principal

Congrats Grads! Class of 2012!

Newsletter for May 23, 2012

May 23^rd, 2012

Dear Parents:

As the year draws to a close, we reflect back on the school year and our theme of ‘Go Make a Difference’. Students in all grades participated in many fundraisers and community awareness programs and learned more about how they can make a difference in the lives of others. Our students showed their charity throughout the year by collecting toiletries for the Blue Star Moms and providing sandwiches for the needy for the Martin de Porres House. Seventh grade spearheaded an extremely successful Confirmation service project. Through Project Night Night, the seventh graders were able to provide comfort to homeless children in our community by preparing and donating over 80 care packages. Together, as a school, we raised money during Lent for the Society of the Propagation of the Faith. We hope that with your continued support, next year there will be many opportunities for you and your child to be involved in a variety of similar service projects.

Our final collection of sandwiches-for-the-needy will be next Friday, June 1^st and we ask that all grades pull together to provide sandwiches that day. Thanks to all who have supported these collections throughout the year.

Dance Festival: As many of you know, our dance program, under the direction of Sondra Dwyer, is an enriching and enjoyable experience for all students. We look forward to seeing you all at this most popular event of the year. Tomorrow night, May 24^th, we will celebrate an evening of our own Dancing with the Stars. Your children will be the stars of our annual Dance Festival. The front doors of the school will open at 6:15pm to allow students to enter their classrooms. Students should arrive no later than 6:30pm. Parking will be available in the schoolyard beginning at 5:45pm. The doors of the gym will open at 6:15pm. Dismissal of students after the Dance Festival is as follows: Kindergarten students can be picked up from their classroom. First and second grade students will be dismissed through the front doors of the school by their teacher. Third through eighth grade students will be dismissed directly from the gym. Please make arrangements with your child as to where to meet them when dismissed.

Extended Care: Extended Care bills for May 1^st-18^th will be going home today. Please note the due date of June 1^st. As a reminder, families who use the after school Extended Care program from now until the end of the school year will need to either pre-pay or pay-by-the-day. Prepayments may be made in the office or when you pick up your child from extended care. The cost is $4.00 per hour or fraction-thereof. Any unused balance from a pre-payment will be applied to next years’ billing.

Tuition and Fees: Do you have any unpaid tuition or fees (including extended care) for this school year? Please make sure you settle up before the 10:00am dismissal on June 8^th, in order that your child/children may receive their report cards in a timely manner. Report cards for students absent on the last day will be filed in their cumulative folders and may be picked up during the summer or next school year.

Memory Books: Those who pre-ordered a memory book will be receiving it in their envelope today. If you ordered a book and did not receive one, please let the office know immediately. The price is now $25 if you wish to order a memory book.

Scrip: With Graduation and Father's Day just around the corner, now is a great time to receive credit on your account for purchasing gift cards through our school scrip program. Orders placed online by 6:00am this Friday, May 25^th, will be delivered in your next Wednesday envelope. Use of the scrip program continues to rise. Remember all families are required to generate $100 profit from the use of scrip for the 2012-2013 school year. A double-sided flyer is in your child’s envelope today regarding ordering scrip during the summer. Those of you who have not fulfilled your scrip requirement for the current school year will be receiving a statement in today’s envelope with the balance due.

Simply Uniforms: We have already received over $2000 in orders for Simply Uniforms scrip. We will continue to accept orders until dismissal on Friday. This is an easy way to get started on your scrip requirement for the 2012-2013 school year.

Physics Day at Great America – TAKE 2: Last Friday first round trebuchet champion, Katie Nori returned to Great America to test her skills against all other finalists in Northern California, including many high school entrants. We are happy to report that Katie’s trebuchet took third place overall. Congratulations!

More Congratulations: We are proud to have many sport champions in our school! Firstly, congratulations to the 3^rd grade baseball team. They won their division championship last Sunday beating St. Cecilia’s, 17-4. This past March, Arabella (4^th grade) and Krystelle Chloe (6^th grade) Sunga represented Coastside Fencing in a fencing tournament in Canada. Congratulations also go out to Gabriel Lozano (1^st grade) who will compete in Taekwondo at the Junior Olympics in Dallas at the end of June. In his most recent qualifier, Gabriel received a gold and a silver medal for his age and belt group. How wonderful it is to have so many incredible athletes here at STM.

And finally, thank you to all students who stepped up and took an interest in becoming a part of their student council for the 2012-2013 school year. The results are as follows:

2012-2013 STM Student Council

President – Elyssa Nicolas

Vice President – Jose David

Secretary – Samantha Bernardo

Treasurer – Andre Corrales

Sargent at Arms – Kameron Powers and Riley Mihelich

School Spirit/Publicity – Julietta Lehmann and Chloe Novillos

Athletics – Andrew Triunfo

Religious Affairs – Ava Ragasa

Ecology – Lara Bautista

Traffic Commissioners – Crystal Tobar, Chris Taylor and Sean Ramos

Yearbook and Newspaper Editors – Tony D’Aura, Evan Prasadi, Nikki Binza and Janelle Paredes

Don’t forget, Monday, May 28^th is a holiday in observance of Memorial Day. Enjoy the long weekend!

Sincerely,

Marie Fitzpatrick                 

Principal         

Newsletter for May 16, 2012

Dear Parents,

Tomorrow is the Feast of the Ascension of the Lord. According to Scripture, Christ was crucified then resurrected on the third day. Following his resurrection, Christ remained with his disciples and continued his ministry for forty days. Following these forty days, he ascended into heaven. The feast of the Ascension’s meaning provides a sense of hope that the glorious and triumphant return of Christ is near. It is a reminder of the Kingdom of God within our hearts, and of the ever-present Spirit of God, watching over and protecting us as we spread the light of Jesus' truth throughout the world.

We trust everyone enjoyed the special three-day-weekend as we return to the full and exciting next few weeks at STM. Only 16 days to go!

Spirit Week!: Yesterday, we kicked off Spirit Week with our pajama day. We had a great time this afternoon being active and sporty with a Rhythm and Moves Field Day. Thanks to our PE teacher, Mike Shimabukuro, for organizing such fun activities. Moving along, Spirit week continues tomorrow as the students enjoy Wacky, Crazy Thursday. Students are allowed free dress and are allowed to show their wacky, crazy side. Absolutely no make-up or hair coloring allowed. To round out the week, on Friday, students may dress as their favorite super hero. In the afternoon, the student body will enjoy a talent show highlighting our own students as contestants. The show will begin at 1:00pm in Carroll Hall and all are invited to come and enjoy the show.

Afternoon Extended Care: Beginning this coming Monday, May 21^st, parents who use the after school Extended Care program will need to either pre-pay or pay-by-the-day. Prepayments may be made in the office or when you pick up your child from extended care. The cost is $4.00 per hour or fraction-thereof. Any unused balance from a pre-payment will be applied to next years’ billing.

Field Trips: Today the 8^th graders are receiving a permission slip for their end-of-year graduation picnic at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo. Please pay close attention to the due date! Thank you to all the parents who have volunteered their time to chaperone on field trips throughout the year. We are so lucky to live in a city which has so many culturally and enriching activities to offer.

Dance Festival: Next Thursday, May 24^th, we will celebrate an evening of our own Dancing with the Stars. Your children will be the stars of our annual Dance Festival. The front doors of the school will open at 6:15pm to allow students to enter their classrooms. Students should arrive no later than 6:30pm. Parking will be available in the schoolyard beginning at 5:45pm. The doors of the gym will open at 6:15pm. Today you are receiving a list of the suggested clothing your child should wear. As many of you know, our dance program, under the direction of Sondra Dwyer, is an enriching and enjoyable experience for all students. We look forward to seeing you all at this most popular event of the year.

Jamba Juice: On Wednesday, May 30^th, as a special treat, we will be offering yummy, classic, all fruit Jamba Juice smoothies for purchase. If your child wishes to enjoy a smoothie on this day, please complete the order form you are receiving in your envelope today. Smoothies will be available in two different flavors and sizes. YUM!

Summer Plans: The Stop Motion Animation Tech Camp for Kids is in danger of canceling. You are receiving an updated flyer in today’s envelope. One difference you might note is that it will only run for two weeks, not three as previously offered.  The deadline to register has been extended to June 1^st. Sign up as soon as possible in order for this camp to continue.

From the Athletic Board: Check out the knock-out flyer in today’s envelope. This fun contest is open to all 3^rd through 8^th graders. Also, the next dad & grad pick up game is this Sunday, May 20^th from 6pm to 8pm.

Preschool Applications: Our four-year-old preschool program for the 2012-2013 school year is now full. We do however still have a few openings for three-year-olds. Preference will be given to school families if applications are received in a timely manner.

Finally, we are delighted to announce that we will have very little changes in staff for the new school year. We will have some wonderful new faculty members joining us next year and some juggling, from last year to this, of the roles some faculty will play. Leaving us and moving back to her hometown of Portland, Oregon is Lillie Stevens, our current 5^th grade teacher. We wish her well as she pursues new challenges in her career and takes advantage of new opportunities. Taking the reins in fifth grade and making her way up to the second floor is our own Kelly Stamatis. We welcome Jessica Bryan as our new third grade teacher.

Congratulations go out to one of our kindergarten teachers, Megan Kennedy and her husband Tim, who are expecting their first child in September! We are happy to have Yvonne Benedict, a long time classroom teacher here at STM, join Heidi Haas in the classroom until Megan returns from maternity leave in late fall.

We will also be including a couple of new positions for the 2012-2013 school year. We are happy to have Alison Hayden on board as our Resource and Learning Specialist. Another position that will help kick off the second phase of our Capital Campaign is the Development Director. We look forward to all that Nicole Owens (mother of Blake, 5^th grade) can offer as she fills this position. Plans are well underway for another great year.

Sincerely,

Marie Fitzpatrick

Principal

Newsletter for May 9, 2012

May 9th, 2012

Dear Parents,

During the month of May, a month dedicated to honoring Mary, Catholics have long honored Mary by placing a crown on her image. The tradition in the United States and many other countries has been for school children to have a "May Crowning" ceremony, with a procession, pretty dresses and a wreath of fresh flowers that are placed on the statue. Thank you to Sue Kapovich and Julianne Beach for preparing a beautiful May Crowning last Sunday. A special thank you also to the 2nd and 8th grade students who participated in such a lovely ceremony.

It is a little less noisy in the homes of fifth and sixth graders as well as here at school. The fifth and sixth graders’ are away on their Outdoor Education Program. They will be back on Friday, near dismissal time, tired, dirty but full of stories of the fun and education they experienced.

Also on Friday, Utopia, our preschool, will have a minimum day with 12:00pm dismissal. Grades K-8 will dismiss regularly on Friday at 2:15/2:30pm. Don’t forget that this coming Monday, May 14th, is a holiday for all students, preschool through eighth grade. School will resume on Tuesday. 

A Reminder…Beginning Monday, May 21st, parents who use the after school Extended Care program will need to either pre-pay or pay-by-the-day. Prepayments may be made in the office or when you pick up your child from extended care. The cost is $4.00 per hour or fraction-thereof. Any unused balance from a pre-payment will be applied to next years’ billing.

Parent Agreement and Participation Requirements: Please remember that the deadline has passed for returning the “yellow” Parent Agreement-Parent Participation form. If you have not yet returned that form, please do so as soon as possible. That way we will know how you plan to pay your tuition and how you intend to fulfill your Parent Participation Requirements in the coming year. Please be aware that the monthly tuition payment plan began this month and the 1st payment is due by next Tuesday, May 15th. Also, there are still a few families who have not yet paid their re-registration fees. Please understand that a spot will not be held for your child until those fees are paid.

2012-2013 Calendar: Today you are receiving the 2012-2013 school calendar, which has been approved by the Archdiocese. Please note that we will begin next school year on Thursday, August 23rd. Also, save the evening of Thursday, August 30th at 7:00 p.m. This is the date set for our mandatory parent back-to-school meeting. Hopefully this will help those of you who are planning your vacations now.

Scrip/Uniforms: We are grateful to all of the families who have completed this requirement for the 2011-2012 school year. As of May 1st, any scrip purchases will be credited to the next school year, 2012-2013. Those who have not fulfilled this requirement will be notified through next Wednesday’s envelope and all balances will need to be in order by the end of this month.

Did you know that Simply Uniforms now participates in our scrip program? They are offering a 10% rebate back to the school. As a convenience to you, we have included a Simply Uniforms scrip order form in your envelope today. If you wish to purchase some Simply Uniforms scrip, please complete the form and send it to the office by Friday May 25th. Scrip will be sent home on Wednesday, May 30th.

First Communion Photos: Raul Panelo, father of 4th grader Samantha, took some great photos at First Communion. Check out the STM website to view and/or order pictures from this memorable event. The photo website password is 1st@stm.

From the Athletic Board: Girls’ Basketball and Baseball Pictures will be taken after school next Wednesday, May 16th. Please make sure your child brings their basketball or baseball uniform to school with them that day. Any sports uniform, including Boys’ Basketball, Girls’ Basketball, Baseball uniforms need to be turned by May 25th. Please put the uniform in a bag with your child’s name and grade clearly written on it. 

Dance Festival: Save the date! This year, our Dance Festival will be held on Thursday night, May 24th. As you know many of our dances are partner dances and Mrs. Dwyer spends a lot of effort preparing the children for this. If your child is unable to attend, please let the office know immediately in writing. It is very upsetting if on the night of the festival a child is not able to perform a dance because his or her partner does not show up. If we do not hear from you, we expect your child will be participating.

Summer Plans: The Stop Motion Animation Tech Camp for Kids is filling up quickly. You are receiving an updated flyer in today’s envelope. One difference you might note is that it will only run for two weeks, not three as previously offered.  Also, the deadline to register and pay is now June 1st. Sign up now!

Physics Day at Great America: Science is a Physics Affair! On Monday, May 7th the 8th graders invited the student body to come and learn about their roller coasters, a physics project they have been working on for the past several weeks. We are very proud of their creativity and workmanship as their rollercoaster’s had many vertical loops, corkscrew turns and plunging drops. Last Friday, four rollercoasters were entered into Great America's Physics Day rollercoaster building contest.  We are happy to announce that 3 of our teams receieved awards. Congratulations also go out to Katie Nori who entered and won the trebuchet building contest launching a small rubber ball more than 20 feet. Congratulations 8th graders and keep up the good work!

Sincerely,
Marie Fitzpatrick    
Principal