From the Principal's Desk

Summer's End, A New Beginning

Dear St. James Families,

As summer begins to draw to a close, there is always a certain excitement that fills the halls of St. James. A school is unique in that every August offers us something many parts of life do not: the opportunity to begin again. New students, new teachers, new friendships, and new opportunities all remind us that growth is always possible. It is fitting that our mission remains before us each year: to form missionary disciples of Jesus Christ by nurturing the desire for Truth, Goodness, and Beauty that lies in the heart of every child. Everything we do, from our classrooms to our playgrounds, from our policies to our prayers, is directed toward that mission.

As we prepare to welcome everyone back, I would like to share a few important updates:

The City of St. Joseph still plans to complete the school zone improvements around St. James, including updated street markings and other safety enhancements. At this time, however, construction has not yet begun, and the project may not be completed before the start of school. We will continue to communicate with the City and keep families informed as we receive updates. When the project gets underway and we have a date of when it will finish, we will then revisit the drop off and pick up procedures.

I am also happy to share that the playground brick pillars have been repaired. My next project is to reset the playground posts directly into the ground rather than attaching them to the brick columns. Along with this, there are several maintenance projects around the school that still need attention. If you know someone who enjoys working with tools, repairing things, or volunteering their time and talents, I would be grateful if you would have them contact me.

One area I would like to emphasize as we begin this school year is attendance and punctuality. This year I will be paying much closer attention to student attendance, tardies, and late arrivals. Our first moments together each morning are important. They set the tone for the day, allow students to begin together as a community, and help establish the habits of responsibility that will serve them throughout life. Consequently, there will be less flexibility regarding unnecessary absences and late arrivals. This information will be outlined more fully in the Parent Handbook, so I encourage every family to pick up a copy at Back-to-School Night and become familiar with these expectations.

Finally, because of the wonderful addition of our new fourth-grade teacher, we needed to a couple of classrooms this summer. One consequence of that move is that our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) Atrium will be relocated. While we have identified a new space, it will require some renovation before it is ready. I simply ask for your prayers during this transition. The Atrium is one of the most beautiful expressions of our Catholic identity, providing our youngest students with a peaceful place to encounter Christ through prayer, Scripture, and wonder. We are committed to preserving that experience and making the new space just as meaningful as the old one.

With that, I cannot wait to welcome everyone back to St. James. Thank you for your continued trust, support, and partnership. Together, let us begin another year seeking Truth, Goodness, and Beauty, confident that Christ continues to accompany us in the ordinary moments of school life.

May God bless you and your family as we prepare for a wonderful school year.

Sincerely in Christ,

Mr. McDonnell
Principal, St. James Catholic School