School Newsletter: September 2, 2021

Dear Families,

We have begun!!! This was a monumental week of implementing our new Catholic liberal arts curriculum in multiple subjects, in all grades.  Yes, we are on a two-year plan to complete this transformation, and are passionate about moving forward with the greatest guidance from ICLE (Institute for Catholic Liberal Education).  The students may or may not be aware of all the changes, but nevertheless, it has commenced. Your child’s instructors have actively adopted the pedagogy of supporting parents in the full formation of the whole person. Teachers are not merely conduits of knowledge, but rather facilitators of wonder and discovery of Truth. However, this just doesn’t happen without great effort, planning and practice. I am grateful for a staff who understands the necessity of sound instructional methods and content for an authentic Catholic education.

We started off our week with a special school Mass that included a blessing on staff, a procession of the Blessed Sacrament to our beautiful school chapel, and blessing of the classrooms. This is quite a sight to see and an experience students look forward to each year. Also this week, students encountered new “specials” classes of choir and Latin. Welcome Mr. Meloche and Ms. Ryalls. As expected, a few hiccups were experienced along the way with the closure of the P-Z parking lot and sack lunches being offered, rather than hot. The week ended with our regular Friday celebration of the Eucharist, with students being given a reprieve from the weekly interrogation by Fr. Lappe about the Gospel’s meaning. Be prepared next week, kids!
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I want to thank you again for your patience as I acquaint myself with this new role as principal, and likewise learn all the names and faces of our school families (cars as well). Please introduce yourself to me if possible. I look forward to building a strong school community linked heavily with our parish, as we regain our true Catholic identity. 

I’ve included a weekly section that displays (in blue) ways we have moved toward the freeing of souls to learn salvation history with joy and intrigue.

CATHOLIC LIBERAL ARTS EDUCATION IS:
This week, Second Graders discovered the art of Roman tapestry and replicated pieces of their own. The varying colors and patterns were amazing as this integral lesson involved history, art and literature. 

Have a safe, relaxing, and “last chance of summer” weekend.

In Christ,
Tina Powell
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SCHOOL DEVELOPMENTS

• Our Lady Star of the Sea will be following the masking mandate issued by Governor Inslee on August 18th, 2021.  We are asking all students, teachers and guests to wear a mask when indoors in accordance with this state mandate. 
• Our P-Z parking lot will be open and ready for a round about style drop off /pick up Tuesday, Sept. 7. Please attempt to enter heading north on Veneta to avoid backup on 6th. Please no U-turn on Veneta & 5th. 
• Hot lunches may be subject to change. Hopefully, this will be resolved soon.
• Don’t forget to go to the parish website and sign up to the Domestic Church Project to utilize this tool in building and strengthening your family life.
• Grades 5-8, PE pants and jackets are on backorder through October. Remember, to order now even though they are backordered. In lieu of the tracksuit, plain solid navy or grey sweats are acceptable.
• Please consider being a room parent and  joining our Parent’s Club as well. Be on the lookout for an email about an upcoming meeting.
• Please consider celebrating the feast of Our Lady ‘s birthday this Friday, September 8. 
  https://blessedisshe.net/blog/celebrate-our-ladys-birthday/