OLVCS Updates

We are happy to be back to school! The January through February months give us solid weeks to learn and grow without much disruption. The end of January brings Catholic Schools Week. Sunday, January 26th will be the kick off with the 9:30 Mass followed by an Open House in the School and PreSchool. We will send more information home next week, in the meantime, think of a family that you could invite to the Open House. We look forward to seeing you all there.

Please see information below on how to help Mrs. Salada during this most difficult time. I sent an email to the 5th grade families, but would like to inform the entire school community that Mrs. Salada has resigned. Early in December she let me know that she would resign due to health concerns. Then the unthinkable happened with the loss of her son. We are heartbroken for Mrs. Salada and saddened that we could not say an in-person good-bye. Mrs. Laura Yartz has agreed to teach until we find a long-term substitute for the remainder of the year. If you know of anyone who would like to apply, please have them email me.

Remember we have Mass tomorrow, students are to wear their Mass uniforms.

Make it a Great Week,

Samantha

Notable Dates:

Friday, January 10th: Protecting God’s Children Opt out Forms due

Friday, January 10th: School Mass @ 9:00

Thursday, January 16th: End of 2nd Marking Period

Monday, January 20th: No School; Teacher Inservice

NO Mass; Friday, January 24th

Sunday, January 26th: Catholic Schools Week Mass

January 26th - January 31st: Catholic Schools Week

*Picture below is of our Pre-K class. Their letter of the week was 'O' for Orange Bowl. These little fans are ready for the game!

Many of you have inquired about ways to assist the Salada family. Given Mrs. Salada’s allergies, we have decided against recommending specific food donations. Instead, we believe that organizing a monetary collection would be the most effective way to alleviate some of the financial challenges associated with a funeral, allowing the family to use the funds in a way that best supports their needs. If you wish to contribute, please send your donations via Venmo to Betsy Kraft at @Elizabeth-Kraft-4 and kindly label your donation with “SALADA.” If Venmo isn’t an option for you, cash or checks can be sent with your child in a sealed envelope marked “SALADA” once school resumes. We kindly ask that all contributions be sent by Wednesday, January 15th.

Please remember that donating is completely voluntary, and there is no obligation to give. This is simply a way to respond to the requests for assistance.

If you have any questions, feel free to email or text Betsy Kraft at Elizabeth.northam.kraft@gmail.com or 812-320-1745.

Each year we are required to teach the diocesan Protecting God’s Children lesson. These lessons will take place during Religion class the week of January 13th.

Attached is an overview; and also an opt out form. Families can opt their children out of the lessons. Complete the form and return to your child’s teacher. During the lesson your child will come to the office. (you may also pick your child up if your prefer)

Here is more information from the diocese:

• As caring adults, we have the great responsibility of ensuring the safety of children and youth. We must also give children and youth the tools they need to help us keep them safe by educating them regarding boundaries, safe and unsafe behaviors and healthy relationships.

• The material is developmentally appropriate for each age group and includes content and activities that reinforce the message.

OLVCS Trivia Night

Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025.

Time: Doors open at 6:30PM, and the trivia fun kicks off at 7:30PM.

Location: OLVCS Gymnasium

Early Bird Tickets/Tables

**Discounted Rate When Purchased On Or Before February 15th**
Individual: $50
Table (seats 8): $350

Regular Tickets/Tables
**Purchased Between February 16th And 26th**
Individual: $60
Table (seats 8): $400

Need More Info?
Look for a special edition newsletter next week!

• Ignatius Book Fairs offer a Christian alternative that is unparalleled to any known book fair, teaching lessons of faith, hope, and charity to children.
  
• Visit ignatiusbookfairs.com to learn more!
  
• There will be time during school Tuesday -Thursday for OLVCS Students to purchase books, after school during ASAP one day, and after Masses on Saturday and Sunday for our whole parish community.
• We will need volunteers to help with the book fair. Clearances are not needed for this volunteer opportunity.
• Sign up to volunteer, here.
• Email Melanie Smith (melanie.yonushonis@gmail.com) with any questions.

Enjoy the OLVCS Pep Band and cheer on our Basketball teams TODAY!

OLVCS Boys Game VS. Belleville

Date: Thursday, 1/9

Time: 5:00 pm

Location: OLVCS Gym

OLVCS Girls Game VS. Bellville

Date: Thursday, 1/9

Time: 4:00 pm

Location: OLVCS Gym

This Tuesday the OLV girls' basketball team achieved their first win of the season after consistently applying themselves to their craft and focus. Their skills, confidence, and teamwork were evident throughout training and revealed itself during the game as they worked their way to victory.

• Friday 1/17/2025 Parent/Teacher Conferences (no school or ESP)
• Monday 1/20/2025 No School

• Bring a friend!
  
• We have space available at all grade levels for enrollment.
• Be sure to spread the word about OLVCS!
• New families can learn about the application process at www.olvcatholicschool.org/admissions or call the school office at 814-238-1952 to schedule a tour or shadow day.