Annunciata Principal's Blog

2011-11-30T14:19:00.000-06:00

DECEMBER NEWS 2011

PANCAKE BREAKFAST
Many thanks to the entire Family and School Committee and their families and all those (including students and Girl Scouts) who cooked, served and helped to make this year’s Pancake Breakfast on November 20th a success. The food was delicious, the decorations and atmosphere were terrific and the company was pleasant. Our thanks also to the all of the guests who came to enjoy the event! Everyone’s hard work brought a profit of $750.00 to the school. THANK YOU!

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PROGRAM—MONDAY, DECEMBER 19TH—7:00 P.M.
Parents/guardians, grandparents, family and friends are all invited to join us for an evening of musical delight. Our children and teachers are working very hard to present our Christmas Program. The school children, Pre-K—8, should wear “Sunday Best” clothing—red and/or green or Holiday dress. If a grade needs to wear something special, the teachers will inform the families. On December 19th the children should be in Church by 6:45 p.m. They are to leave their coats with their families. The children will be sitting with their classes until the end of the program.

INCLEMENT WEATHER
We are in the season of unpredictable weather conditions. Please listen to the weather reports on radio and TV. We will also use the School Reach phone system. That is why we need accurate phone numbers; please notify the school if you change your phone number. Children should dress appropriately for the weather.

Throughout this year I have been trying to encourage you to use the morning drop off plan on the parking lot. With the new Wal-Mart opening, the traffic on 112th has increased both in volume and speed (many times without regard for the stop signs). Traffic will probably get heavier as Christmas gets closer. When the snow arrives, the parking lot will be plowed and the snow will be heaped along 112th and Avenue H making it very difficult to walk or climb through. Paths will be cleaned for the ease of walking to the building. The paths will be from the drop off lanes to the school doors. So the mystery remains, why you would park the cars on the very busy 112th Street to drop off children or jay-walk. Many cars just don’t stop on 112th. It’s mind-boggling!!! Please consider using the safest plan to drop off children in the morning. Use the Avenue H driveway to enter and the Avenue G driveway to exit. If the children exit the cars on the passenger side they NEVER WILL BE IN FRONT OF A VEHICLE. If you do park the car to walk your children to the building, PLEASE CROSS AT THE CORNERS (WE HAVE A CROSSING GUARD).

For the after school pick-up, drivers need to be cautious, as well. PLEASE DO NOT DOUBLE PARK, ESPECIALLY ON 112TH STREET; AND BE ALERT WHEN YOU PULL AWAY FROM THE CURB!

BE SAFE NOT SORRY!!!

2011-10-31T14:18:00.000-05:00

NOVEMBER NEWS 2011

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES-NOVEMBER 4TH
On Parent/Teacher Conference Day we will have school in the morning. Dismissal will be at 11:30 for all students. Conferences will begin at 2:30 p.m. and continue to 7:30 p.m. They are scheduled for 10 minutes each (A bell will ring every 10 minutes as a reminder). As a courtesy to all the parents and teachers, please help us keep to the schedule. If you need a longer conference please make an additional conference at another time. There will be a request form available for you if you need to see other teachers. On November 4th, Ms. Kopchak, the P.E. teacher, will be available for conferences from 2:30 – 7:30 p.m. The Title I instructor, Ms. Costello, and the Title I Counselor, Ms. Portillo, will be available from 3 – 7 p.m.

There will be a dinner break for the faculty/staff from 4-4:30 p.m. No one will be able to wait in the school. Therefore, do not come early for appointments beginning at 4:30 p.m. Thank you for your understanding.

ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH, THERE WILL BE EXTENDED DAY BEFORE SCHOOL, BUT THERE WILL NOT BE EXTENDED DAY AFTER SCHOOL.

SUPER BINGO
Many thanks to the Bingo Team and all who helped with Super Bingo. All of your hard work provided a fun day for everyone. All proceeds from Bingo go directly to the school. A profit of over $4,000 was realized. We look forward to the next Super Bingo in the Spring. Thanks also to all of those who came to play Bingo—without you, super Bingo would not have been such a success.

BOX TOPS FOR EDUCATION
Keep those Box Tops coming! The efforts of everyone that collected the Box Tops certainly paid off. The school will receive $724.40 and it’s only November. Just think what we can collect by the end of the school year! These profits also benefit your children directly.

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT IN ALL THE FUND RAISERS!!!

PANCAKE BREAKFAST/CHRISTMAS BAZAAR & CRAFT FAIR – NOV. 20TH
Join us for a delicious pancake breakfast and great Christmas ideas. Tickets will be sold ahead of time through the school. If you buy your tickets through school, your child(ren) will earn an out of uniform pass (date to be announced later).

MEDICINE
No one on the school staff is allowed to dispense medicine of any kind to the children, even if you send a note. DO NOT SEND PRESCRIPTION OR OVER THE COUNTER MEDICATION TO SCHOOL WITH YOUR CHILDREN. THEY WILL NOT BE ABLE TO TAKE IT.

PHONE MESSAGES FROM SCHOOL
When the school calls your phone and leaves a message, please listen to the message before you instantly call the school back. It will save time.

DRESS FOR WEATHER
We will have recess unless the weather is really inclement so children need to dress appropriately.

2011-09-29T11:59:00.000-05:00

OCTOBER NEWS 2011

CONGRATULATIONS!
This year our sixth grade and Junior High English teacher, Mrs. Karen Finlon, has been selected to be honored by the East Side Chamber at their Annual Awards and Leadership Night that will be held later this month. Mrs. Finlon has been with Annunciata since 1998 and was at St. Francis DeSales Elementary School from 1976-1992. This is Mrs. Finlon’s 30th year as a dedicated teacher in the Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools. Also, many of you know that Mrs. Finlon is a long time East Side resident; member Annunciata Church and choir; and active in community organizations.

SUPER DABBER BINGO—SUN. 10/9/11
Are you looking for something fun to do? Why not go to the Super Dabber Bingo? It’s a relaxing, fun time, several chances to win prizes, great dinner buffet and only $26 per person. Another good reason is that all proceeds from Bingo go directly to the school and help to keep your tuition cost down. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. Dinner is served at 2:00 p.m. Bingo games begin at 3:30 p.m. The Bingo committee is waiting to serve you! Have a great time! For tickets call Ron Sellers at (773) 734-3934.

CASH “WIN” FALL RAFFLE
Don’t forget to buy your $100 raffle ticket (or more). Only 500 tickets are being sold; SO DON’T WAIT TIL THE LAST MINUTE! You have a great opportunity to be a winner if you buy tickets. Maybe the $15,000.00 will be your “Win Fall”. THIS RAFFLE COUNTS TOWARDS YOUR $300 FUNDRAISING OBLIGATION. Drawing takes place Saturday, October 29th in the School Hall at 8 p.m. This year the Vendors Bazaar & Chicken Dinner sponsored by Annunciata Human Concerns Committee will take place at 6 p.m. immediately following the 5 p.m. Mass on October 29th in conjunction with the raffle. Tickets are on sale after the Sunday masses.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Please plan ahead for the annual Parent/Teacher Conferences to be held on November 4th from mid-afternoon to early evening. Dismissal on November 4th will be at 11:30 a.m. There will not be Extended Day after school on November 4th. Remember that all students in grades 3-8 are required to attend the conference with their parents/guardians. Information regarding scheduling appointments will be sent home later in October. Sports schedules are not to interfere with the conferences.

FOR THE SAKE OF SAFETY:THE LIFE YOU SAVE COULD BE YOUR OWN CHILD!
Please be mindful of the drop off procedures in the morning. From 7:45 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. no one should stop or slow up to watch your child enter the building on 112th, Avenue G or Avenue H. No one ever is to wait to watch your child enter the building when you are in the drop off area between the two driveways on the parking lot. If you need to drop off your child after 7:30 a.m., please do not park in the traffic drop off lane as described above. A parked car at that time will be in the way of the traffic flow and could cause an accident. Also, do not have the children sit in your cars and wait for the second bell to ring. THE CHILD WILL BE LATE FOR SCHOOL.
In nice weather, it is not too much of a problem; however, when the weather becomes inclement, obstruction to the flow of traffic is magnified and could cause someone to get hurt. It is very frustrating to watch the cars deliberately park in places that they should not. In their hurry to pull away from the curb, there is a good probability of an accident. Please share this information with anyone you designate to drop off your children.

2011-08-31T13:32:00.000-05:00

SEPTEMBER NEWS 2011

WELCOME TO THE 2011-2012 SCHOOL YEAR!
All of the faculty and staff welcome our Annunciata School Families back for another great academic and spiritual year. This year we welcome Mrs. Lynn Mendoza as the grade 1 teacher. In addition to our PK to 8 classroom programs we are proud to maintain music, art, computers, P.E. and Catapult (Title I). Very soon our Keyboard and Band programs will also resume. In fact, band recruitment will be on September 1st and 2nd. Parents can sign their children up for band on Tuesday, September 6th from 2:30-3:30 p.m. in the school. As you can see, we have a full staff that will provide a complete and well-rounded curriculum for our students from PK through grade 8.

During the summer general repairs have been completed. We look forward to a productive and exciting year in a pleasantly refreshed environment.

Why not help us celebrate the New Year by joining us at the “Back to School Mass” on Friday, September 2nd at 8:00 a.m. Grades 1-8 will attend, the students should go directly to the church at 7:50 a.m.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve your children and for your support!

MANY THANKS TO THE ANNUNCIATA SUMMER FEST COMMITTEE AND ALL OF YOU THAT HELPED!! THE WEEK-END WAS TERRIFIC! THE HUGE CROWDS OF PEOPLE HAD A GREAT TIME. WE APPRECIATE ALL THE WORK THAT IT TOOK TO MAKE IT SUCH A SUCCESS.

UNIT MASSES
Unit Mass will begin Thursday, September 8th. The schedule will be the same each week: grades 2, 3, 4, 5—Thursdays; grades 6, 7, 8—Fridays. The children should go directly to church at 7:50 a.m. Their teachers will meet them there. When there is an all school mass scheduled, no unit masses will be attended that week.

HANDBOOK
The Handbook with updates was distributed on the first day of school. Please read through it carefully as it contains the school policies and procedures. Details of the Uniform, Discipline and other pertinent information are included and should be read.

BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT
SAVE THE DATE! Thursday, September 8th at 7:00 p.m. the Family and School Association and the School will host a “Back to School Night”. Come out to meet your child’s teachers, see the school and ask questions! We look forward to seeing you!

2011-08-31T13:26:00.000-05:00

2011-04-20T16:20:00.000-05:00

MAY NEWS 2011

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION
On Saturday, May 7, 2011 our second graders will receive communion for the first time. They have been working very hard in preparation. Please keep them in your prayers at this very special and exciting time. A photographer will be available in the school hall for individual communion photos from 9-10:30 a.m. and after mass until about 1 p.m.

RIBBON DAY
On Friday, May 13, 2011 at the 8 a.m. mass our eighth graders will receive their first ribbon acknowledging the academic progress they have made over the last nine years. Later in the evening they will be honored at a dinner. We pray for them as they begin their journey to higher education and prepare for their future. The second grade Communion class will participate in the May Crowning at the same mass.

UNIFORMS
Beginning May 1st all students may wear their uniform dress or gym shorts on appropriate days.

MISERICORDIA WALK-A-THON
The benefit for Misericordia will be re-scheduled for May. As soon as we return after Easter break we will look for a day and let you know as soon as possible.

LENTEN MISSION/FOOD DRIVE
Thank you for your participation in the Holy Childhood Mission collection during Lent. We will be sending $300 to the Holy Childhood on behalf of our students.

Many thanks for the items you sent for the Food Drive. The food is given to the St. Vincent DePaul Society in our parish and will help families in our community.

TUITION AND ALL FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS
The May tuition is due by May 10th. All financial obligations for this school year need to be paid or up-to-date by May 17th. Failure to bring your outstanding debts up to date may change your tuition status, jeopardize records from being forwarded, prevent students from receiving his/her final report card or diploma, and/or prevent us from reserving a place for a student for the next school year. Any payments for this school year made after May 17, 2011 must be in cash or money order—no checks will be accepted.

CONTRACT SIGNING (ALL FAMILIES MUST COME IN TO SIGN CONTRACTS)
The first tuition installment for the 2011-2012 school year is due on June 9, 2011 (All first payments must be made on June 9th not online). Contract signing is scheduled from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the small lunchroom. If payment is not made on June 9th, a late charge of $25.00 will be assessed beginning June 10th. All previous financial obligations (including church contributions/fundraising/Extended Day/library fines/NSF checks, Bingo, etc.) must be paid in full before any payment for the next school year will be accepted.

DENNIS UNIFORM
On May 17th from 2:30 – 6 p.m. the Dennis Uniform Company will be here for your convenience to try on and order any items. Girls in grade 1 need the new jumper for next year. Girls in grades 2 through 8 will have 2 years to order the new jumper, skirt or skort. Polo shirts with the school logo are required by all students for next year. We are looking into best prices and/or discounts.

2011-04-20T16:18:00.000-05:00

APRIL NEWS 2011

SUPER BINGO—MANY THANKS FOR A GREAT JOB!
Thanks to the hard work of all those involved, the March Super Bingo was an overwhelming success. To the Super Bingo Team, the entire bingo committee and to all the Bingo workers, we cannot thank you enough for all you do for our school. Last BUT not least, a huge “thank you” to all of you who came to play. The coordinated efforts of everyone made the whole day terrific. The entire profit of $6,000.00 will benefit the school. The school appreciates all the support.

FIRST RECONCILIATION
Please pray for our second graders as they approach their First Reconciliation this month on April 2nd. They have diligently been preparing for this sacrament, as well as, for their First Holy Communion in May.

REPORT CARDS
Report cards for the third quarter for grades PK through 8 will be distributed on Friday, April 8,2011.

POSTER CONTEST
The East Side Lions sponsored the “Say No To Drugs” Poster Contest. This year’s winners listed below will receive $100 Savings Bond at a presentation dinner on April 5th. Good Job Everyone!

6th grade—Anissa Vanna
7th grade—Courtney Bartkiewicz
8th grade—Autumn Flick

UNIFORMS
Please do not purchase uniforms for next school year until you receive an updated dress code. Some items have changed and can be purchased only through Dennis Uniform Co. For example, the polo shirts for boys and girls must have the Annunciata logo on them. The girls jumpers and skirts will be a blue/white plaid (the colors of our school). New students and first and fifth grade girls will purchase the new plaid jumpers or skirts. Girls in other grades will have two years to change to the new pattern. All polo shirts for 2011-2012 must have the Annunciata logo provided through Dennis Uniforms.

EASTER/SPRING VACATION
We will be out of school from Thursday, April 21st through the week of April 25th. Classes will resume on May 2nd.

F.Y.I. – ANY OUTSTANDING MONEY DUE TO THE SCHOOL THAT IS PAID AFTER MAY 10TH MUST BE MONEY ORDER OR CASH!

Blessings for a Happy and Holy Easter!

2011-03-02T13:15:00.000-06:00

MARCH NEWS 2011

TERRA NOVA TESTING
Testing for grades K-7 will be administered from February 28th through March 11th. The preparation you can help with is to be sure that the children have plenty of rest (at least 8 hours of sleep), eat three balanced meals daily and arrive at school on time. This routine sets the tone for the day so the children can start off relaxed and ready to participate. Encourage your children to listen carefully to the teacher as the directions are given and to do the best they can.

If your child misses part of the test due to illness, we will do our best to have him/her make it up. Please understand that if several sections are missed, it may be impossible to make up; and therefore, the test may not be sent in for scoring.

The students should come prepared each day with two or three sharpened number 2 pencils.

CONFIRMATION
We ask for prayers for our eighth graders. They have been preparing for the sacrament of Confirmation that will take place March 25th. Since the beginning of this school year, they have been doing service hours, as well as, keeping up with their studies. On March 1st they will enjoy the experience of the Confirmation Retreat.

CONGRATULATIONS!
Our seventh and eighth grade students participated in an Americanism essay competition sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. Three of the students had winning essays, and the first place essay has been sent on to the Third District Americanism Chairman for further competition. The winners are: 1st prize – Andrew Navarro, grade 8; 2nd prize – Carina Wedryk, grade 8; 3rd prize – Michael Medina- Moulfarha, grade 7.

Several of our Junior High students, whose names are listed below, have written poems that have been submitted and accepted into the 2011 Anthology of Poetry by Young Americans.

Grade 6: Lauren Cikulin, Juan Flores, Justin Goshen, Lisa Ledezma, Lailah Martinez, Ryan Navarro, Karisa Ploszaj, Karina Rivera, Julissa Velazquez.

Grade 7: Noah Alvarez, Jessalyn Cabrales, Gianna Caporale, Delia Cuellar-Gallegos, Destiny Hernandez, Mikayla Kelly, Marco Medina, Michael Medina-Moulfarha, George Mitchell, Crystal Padilla, John Rivera.

Grade 8: Robert Flores, Kaylin Ledezma, Marta Medina, Adam Ortiz, Arianna Vanna, Elizabeth Zuccarelli.

Annunciata is proud of all of you!

2011-03-02T13:14:00.001-06:00

FEBRUARY NEWS 2011

OPEN HOUSE—THANK YOU
Our thanks to all of you who helped to make the start of Catholic Schools Week a success! Whether you spoke at the week-end masses, baked, served, set-up, cleaned-up or attended, all of your efforts helped to make our Open House a wonderful, positive experience. We also acknowledge the hard work of the students and their teachers for the great display of classroom work and projects. Many visitors complimented the students’ work on display, the friendliness of the staff, and the school in general. All in all it was an exhilarating and uplifting day. This Open House was very well attended. Several new families came to see what were are all about.

MANY, MANY THANKS TO ALL OF YOU THAT MADE IT HAPPEN!!

Many thanks also to the Family and School Committee for coordinating the exciting events and to all those who volunteered to carry them out! The activities for Catholic Schools Week include: Scholastic Book Fair, all school bingo, a variety of out of uniform fun days, an ice cream social, a special collection for the Christina Taylor Greene Memorial Fund, a Talent Show and an all school mass on Friday.

BROWNIE TROOP
The Brownie Troop that meets here is looking for a co-leader for next year. If you are interested you may call Mary Ann Sellers at (773) 734-3934.

HELP ME UNDERSTAND/ESPECIALLY WITH MORE SNOW PREDICTED?
Throughout this year I have been trying to encourage you to use the morning drop off plan on the parking lot. I just cannot seem to understand why you would have your children climb through the snow and walk in areas that were not shoveled when they could walk on salted and shoveled paths that were purposely cleaned for the ease of walking to the building? It’s also a mystery, why you would park the cars on the very busy 112th Street to drop off children or jay-walk. Many cars just don’t stop on 112th. It’s mind-boggling!!! Please USE the safest plan to drop off children in the morning. Use the Avenue H driveway to enter and the Avenue G driveway to exit. If the children exit the cars on the passenger side they NEVER WILL BE IN FRONT OF A VEHICLE. If you do park the car to walk your children to the building, PLEASE CROSS AT THE CORNERS (WE HAVE A CROSSING GUARD).
BE SAFE NOT SORRY!!!

DO NOT DROP OFF CHILDREN ON 112TH OR AVENUE H!!!!!

2011-03-02T13:13:00.000-06:00

DECEMBER NEWS 2010

PANCAKE BREAKFAST
Many thanks to the entire Family and School Committee and their families and all those (including students) who cooked, served and helped to make this year’s Pancake Breakfast on November 21st a success. The food was delicious, the decorations and atmosphere were terrific and the company was pleasant. Our thanks also to the all of the guests who came to enjoy the event! Everyone’s hard work brought a profit of $820.00 to the school. THANK YOU!

OUT OF UNIFORM DAY—DECEMBER 2ND
Since all the school families did such a fantastic job of collecting over 1,000 food items for our Thanksgiving Food Drive, all students will be given an out of uniform day, Thursday, December 2nd as a thank you. Please wear appropriate clothing watching necklines, hemlines and proper fit. No one is to wear make-up or nail polish.

RECONCILIATION
Reconciliation for our students in grades 3—8 will be December 15th. Grades 6, 7 and 8 will attend in the morning; and grades 3, 4 and 5 will attend in the afternoon.

BAND PROGRAM
The Winter Band Program is Thursday, December 9th at 7 p.m. in the school hall. All band members need to be at school by 6:30 p.m. and piano students are to come at 6:40 p.m. The dress for the concert is as follows: Advanced band wears all black; beginning band and piano students wear nice dress clothes. No one is to wear tee shirts, gym shoes, jeans or shorts!

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PROGRAM—MONDAY, DECEMBER 20TH —7:00 P.M.
Parents/guardians, grandparents, family and friends are all invited to join us for an evening of musical delight. Our children and teachers are working very hard to present our Christmas Program. The school children, Pre-K—8, should wear “Sunday Best” clothing—red and/or green or Holiday dress. If a grade needs to wear something special, the teachers will inform the families. On December 20th the children should be in Church by 6:45 p.m. They are to leave their coats with their families. The children will be sitting with their classes until the end of the program.

COLLECTION FOR THE LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR
During December our school will be having a toiletry collection for the Little Sisters of the Poor. Since their mission is to care for the aged and disabled, they are always in need of toiletries. As an act of sharing with those in need we are asking for families to donate the following items from December 1st – December 15th. The items listed are the most important: KLEENEX, BODY LOTION, MOUTHWASH, BODY WASH (SHOWER GEL), EFFERDENT, DEPENDS. Please be generous and think of the elderly in your family that someday may need assistance. Items can be brought to your child’s homeroom.

INCLEMENT WEATHER
We are in the season of unpredictable weather conditions. Please listen to the weather reports on radio and TV. We will also use the School Reach phone system. That is why we need accurate phone numbers. Children should dress appropriately for the weather.

2010-11-02T11:54:00.000-05:00

NOVEMBER 2010 NEWS

REQUIRED MASS ATTENDANCE
As members of the Catholic Faith we are all obligated to attend Mass on the week-ends; therefore, the following requirement specifically for sacramental classes is really not an “extra thing to do”.

Beginning with the week-end of November 6th and 7th all students in Grades 2 and 8 MUST attend Sunday mass every week-end. They may attend mass at any of the scheduled times of Saturday, 5 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m., 11 a.m., or 12:30 p.m. at Annunciata. They may also attend another Catholic church if it is more convenient. Each student must have the priest who presided at that mass sign a copy of the church bulletin after mass. The homeroom teacher will collect the bulletins on Mondays. Mass participation will be part of the religion grade. Fr. Paul thanks you for your cooperation.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES-NOVEMBER 11TH
On Parent/Teacher Conference Day we will have school in the morning. Dismissal will be at 11:30 for all students. Conferences will begin at 2:30 p.m. and continue to 7:30 p.m. They are scheduled for 10 minutes each (A bell will ring every 10 minutes as a reminder). As a courtesy to all the parents and teachers, please help us keep to the schedule. If you need a longer conference please make an additional conference at another time. There will be a request form available for you if you need to see other teachers.

On November 11th, Ms. Kopchak will be available for conferences from 2:30 – 7:30 p.m.

There will be a dinner break for the faculty/staff from 4-4:30 p.m. No one will be able to wait in the school. Therefore, do not come early for appointments beginning at 4:30 p.m. Thank you for your understanding.

ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11TH, THERE WILL BE EXTENDED DAY BEFORE SCHOOL, BUT THERE WILL NOT BE EXTENDED DAY AFTER SCHOOL.

SUPER BINGO
Many thanks to Mr. Sellers and all who helped with Super Bingo for all the hard work in providing a fun day for everyone. All proceeds from Bingo go directly to the school. A profit of $4,000 was realized. We look forward to the next Super Bingo in the Spring. Thanks also to all of those who came to play Bingo—without you super Bingo would not have been such a success.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST/CHRISTMAS BAZAAR & CRAFT FAIR – NOV. 21ST
Join us for a delicious pancake breakfast and great Christmas ideas. Tickets will be sold ahead of time through the school. If you buy your tickets through school, your child(ren) will earn an out of uniform pass (date to be announced later).

UNIFORM UPDATE AND DRESS FOR WEATHER
Beginning with November 1st all children must wear their appropriate school uniforms on dress uniform days and on P.E. days. Shorts are no longer allowed.

All students need to dress appropriately including wearing warm outer clothing. Students will not enter the building early and will go out to recess unless the weather is extremely cold or inclement.

2010-10-08T16:05:00.001-05:00

OCTOBER NEWS 2010

CONGRATULATIONS!
This year our first grade teacher, Mrs. Lynda McQueary, has been selected to be honored by the East Side Chamber at their Annual Awards and Leadership Night. Mrs. McQueary has been with Annunciata since 1997 and has been a dedicated teacher in the Catholic schools of Illinois and Indiana for 32 years. Mrs. McQueary has been recognized in the Cambridge Who’s Who Among Professional Women and Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.

SUPER DABBER BINGO—SUN. 10/10/10
Are you looking for something fun to do? Why not go to the Super Dabber Bingo? It’s a relaxing, fun time, several chances to win prizes, great dinner buffet and only $26 per person. Another good reason is that all proceeds from Bingo go directly to the school and help to keep your tuition cost down. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. Dinner is served at 2:00 p.m. Bingo games begin at 3:30 p.m. The Bingo committee is waiting to serve you! Have a great time!

CASH “WIN” FALL RAFFLE
Don’t forget to buy your $100 raffle ticket (or more). Only 500 tickets are being sold; SO DON’T WAIT TIL THE LAST MINUTE! You have a great opportunity to be a winner if you buy tickets. Maybe the $15,000.00 will be your “Win Fall”. THIS RAFFLE COUNTS TOWARDS YOUR $300 FUNDRAISING OBLIGATION. Drawing takes place Saturday, October 30th in the School Hall at 8 p.m. This year the Vendors Bazaar & Chicken Dinner sponsored by Annunciata Human Concerns Committee will take place at 6 p.m. immediately following the 5 p.m. Mass on October 30th in conjunction with the raffle. Tickets are on sale after the Sunday masses.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Please plan ahead for the annual Parent/Teacher Conferences to be held on November 11th, from mid-afternoon to early evening. Dismissal on November 11th will be at 11:30 a.m. There will not be Extended Day after school on November 11th. Remember that all students in grades 3-8 are required to attend the conference with their parents/guardians. Information regarding scheduling appointments will be sent home later in October. Sports schedules are not to interfere with the conferences.

FOR THE SAKE OF SAFETY
Please be mindful of the drop off procedures in the morning. From 7:45 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. no one should stop or slow up to watch your child enter the building on 112th, Avenue G or Avenue H. No one ever is to wait to watch your child enter the building when you are in the drop off area between the two driveways on the parking lot. If you need to drop off your child after 7:30 a.m., please do not park in the traffic drop off lane as described above. A parked car at that time will be in the way of the traffic flow and could cause an accident. Also, do not have the children sit in your cars and wait for the second bell to ring. THE CHILD WILL BE LATE FOR SCHOOL.
In nice weather, it is not too much of a problem; however, when the weather becomes inclement, obstruction to the flow of traffic is magnified and could cause someone to get hurt.
It is very frustrating to watch the cars deliberately park in places that they should not. In their hurry to pull away from the curb, there is a good probability of an accident. Please follow the guidelines: THE LIFE YOU SAVE COULD BE YOUR OWN CHILD! Please share this information with anyone you designate to drop off your children.

2010-10-08T16:02:00.000-05:00

SEPTEMBER NEWS 2010

WELCOME TO THE 2010-2011 SCHOOL YEAR!
All of the faculty and staff welcome our Annunciata School Families back for another great academic and spiritual year. This year we welcome Ms. Michelle Johnson as the grade 7 homeroom teacher and the Junior High Math instructor. In addition to our PK to 8 classroom programs we are proud to maintain music, art, computers, P.E. and Catapult (Title I). Very soon our Keyboard and Band programs will also resume. As you can see, we have a full staff that will provide a complete and well-rounded curriculum for our students from PK through grade 8.

During the summer, repairs have been completed, and the old carpets on the first floor have been replaced. We look forward to a productive and exciting year in a pleasantly refreshed environment.

Why not help us celebrate the New Year by joining us at the “Back to School Mass” on Friday, September 3rd at 8:00 a.m.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve your children and for your support!

MANY THANKS TO THE ANNUNCIATA SUMMER FEST COMMITTEE AND ALL OF YOU THAT HELPED!! THE WEEK-END WAS TERRIFIC! THE HUGE CROWDS OF PEOPLE HAD A GREAT TIME. WE APPRECIATE ALL THE WORK THAT IT TOOK TO MAKE IT SUCH A SUCCESS.

UNIT MASSES
Unit Mass will begin Wednesday, September 8th. The schedule will be the same each week: grades 6, 7, 8—Wednesdays; grades 2, 3, 4, 5—Thursdays. The children should go directly to church at 7:50 a.m. Their teachers will meet them there. When there is an all school mass scheduled, no unit masses will be attended that week.

REVISED HANDBOOK
The revised August 2010 Handbook was distributed on the first day of school. Please read through it carefully as it contains the school policies and procedures. Details of the Uniform, Discipline and other pertinent information are included and should be read.

BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT
SAVE THE DATE! Thursday, September 9th at 7:00 p.m. the Family and School Association and the School will host a “Back to School Night”. Come out to meet your child’s teachers, see the school and ask questions! We look forward to seeing you!

2010-03-25T10:43:00.000-05:00

2010-03-02T10:39:00.000-06:00

MARCH NEWS 2010

TERRA NOVA TESTING
Testing for grades K-7 will be administered from March 1st through March 12th. The preparation you can help with is to be sure that the children have plenty of rest (at least 8 hours of sleep) and eat three balanced meals daily. Encourage your children to listen carefully to the teacher as the directions are given and to do the best they can.

If your child misses part of the test due to illness, we will do our best to have him/her make it up. Please understand that if several sections are missed, it may be impossible to make up; and therefore, the test may not be sent in for scoring.

The students should come prepared each day with two or three sharpened number 2 pencils.

CONFIRMATION
We ask for prayers for our eighth graders. They have been preparing for the sacrament of Confirmation that will take place March 25th. Since the beginning of this school year, they have been doing service hours, as well as, keeping up with their studies. On March 16th they will enjoy the experience of the Confirmation Retreat.

CONGRATULATIONS
Our seventh and eighth grade students participated in an Americanism essay competition sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. Three of the students had winning essays, and the first place essay has been sent on to the Third District Americanism Chairman for further competition. The winners are: 1st prize – David Stahl, grade 8; 2nd prize – Andrew Navarro, grade 7; 3rd prize – Tiffany Rivera, grade 8. Annunciata is proud of all of you!

FAMILY AND SCHOOL NEWS
The two recent events they were sponsored through the Family and School Organization were quite successful. Besides being a fun filled evening with good food, the production of “Til Death Do Us Part” realized a profit was $900. Our Candy Sale brought in a profit of $6,000. Thanks to all the hard work and energy of the Family and School group, as well as, all of you who bought tickets for the play or sold candy. The financial gain is great, but does not compare to the cooperation from all of the school and parish families. Winners of the Candy Sale contest are: 1st place—Ricardo Medina (24 cases) won the $350 in tuition; 2nd place—Richard Rebeles (21cases) won $100; 3rd place—Robert Flores (15 cases) won $50. Congratulations!

HELP ME UNDERSTAND?
Throughout this year I have been trying to encourage you to use the morning drop off plan on the parking lot. I just cannot seem to understand why you would have your children climb through the snow and walk in areas that were not shoveled when they could walk on salted and shoveled paths that were purposely cleaned for the ease of walking to the building? It’s also a mystery, why you would park the cars on the very busy 112th Street to drop off children or jay-walk. Many cars just don’t stop on 112th. It’s mind-boggling!!! Please consider using the safest plan to drop off children in the morning. Use the Avenue H driveway to enter and the Avenue G driveway to exit. If the children exit the cars on the passenger side they NEVER WILL BE IN FRONT OF A VEHICLE. If you do park the car to walk your children to the building, PLEASE CROSS AT THE CORNERS (WE HAVE A CROSSING GUARD).
BE SAFE NOT SORRY!!!

2010-02-01T11:06:00.000-06:00

FEBRUARY NEWS 2010

OPEN HOUSE—THANK YOU
Our thanks to all of you who helped to make the start of Catholic Schools Week a success! Whether you baked, served, set-up, cleaned-up or attended, all of your efforts helped to make our Open House a wonderful, positive experience. We also acknowledge the hard work of the students and their teachers for the great display of Science projects. Many visitors complimented the Science Expo, other students’ work on display, the friendliness of the staff, and the school in general. All in all it was an exhilarating and uplifting day. This Open House was very well attended—the most in a long time.
MANY, MANY THANKS TO ALL OF YOU THAT MADE IT HAPPEN!!

Many thanks also to the Family and School Committee for coordinating the exciting events and to all those who volunteered to carry them out! The activities for Catholic Schools Week include: Scholastic Book Fair, all school bingo, a variety of out of uniform fun days, an ice cream social, a special collection for Haiti, a Talent Show and an all school mass on Friday.

SPECIAL CLEAN-UP GROUP
Several parent volunteers got together on January 23rd to help clean the school hall and stairways. All the hard work, time and effort is very noticeable and very much appreciated. The support and pride that you take in your school is what makes Annunciata successful.

POSTER CONTEST
The East Side Lions sponsored the “Say No To Drugs” Poster Contest. This year’s winners listed below will receive $100 Savings Bond at a presentation dinner on February 16th. Good Job Everyone!

6th grade—Gianna Caporale, Mikayla Kelly, George Mitchell
7th grade—Jessica Balaszek
8th grade—Victoria Ramos

LENT
Lent gives us time to reflect and pray as we take a good look at ourselves. Join us on our journey with Jesus as we pray the Stations each Friday at 1:45 p.m. during Lent. Talk about Lent with your children. The story of Jesus can never be told enough. Each time it’s told, our lives are touched in different ways. Praying together as a family, at home and at mass, is a wonderful preparation for Easter.

2009-11-24T12:12:00.002-06:00

DECEMBER NEWS 2009

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PROGRAM—TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15TH —7:00 P.M.
Parents/guardians, grandparents, family and friends are all invited to join us for an evening of musical delight. Our children and teachers are working very hard to present our Christmas Program. The school children, Pre-K—8, should wear “Sunday Best” clothing—red and/or green or Holiday dress. If a grade needs to wear something special, the teachers will inform the families. On December 15th the children should be in Church by 6:45 p.m. They are to leave their coats with their families. The children will be sitting with their classes until the end of the program.

FAMILY AND SCHOOL UPDATE
Remember that all of the activities of the Family and School are centered around your children. The first distribution of any funds received through their events is always for the students. If any money is left over then it goes to the school for items that classrooms need.

HALLOWEEN LUNCH
The Halloween lunch was a “blast”. All of the Moms, Dads, friends and family that came to help had more fun than the children. Many thanks to all of the families that came; the children had a great time and are grateful to all of you.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST
Many thanks to the entire Family and School Committee and their families and all those (including students) who cooked, served and helped make this year’s Pancake Breakfast on November 15th a success. The food was delicious, the decorations and atmosphere were terrific and the company was pleasant. Our thanks also to the over 300 guests most of whom are our parishioners who came to enjoy the event. Everyone’s hard work brought a profit of $1,132.00 to the school. THANK YOU!

F.Y.I. In order to help in the school or with activities centered around children you must be Virtus trained (meaning you need to attend a 3 hour class and do online readings) AND you must complete an online Criminal Background Check. You may request information from the school office.

COLLECTION FOR THE LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR
During December our school will be having a toiletry collection for the Little Sisters of the Poor. Since their mission is to care for the aged and disabled, they are always in need of toiletries. As an act of sharing with those in need we are asking for families to donate the following items from November 30th --December 11th. The items listed are the most important: KLEENEX, BODY LOTION, MOUTHWASH, BODY WASH (SHOWER GEL), EFFERDENT, DEPENDS. Please be generous and think of the elderly in your family that someday may need assistance. Items can be brought to your child’s homeroom.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS WITH DIAGRAM
On November 24th a detailed set of instructions and a diagram was sent home with your children. Many of the drivers do not follow these directions. In the rush of the morning, some drivers do not look before they pull away and someone will have an accident and more importantly someone will get hurt. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE read the drop off and pick up directions and review the diagram; AND share this information with other family members and friends who also drive your children to school.

2009-11-24T12:12:00.001-06:00

NOVEMBER 2009 NEWS

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES-NOVEMBER 13th
On Parent/Teacher Conference Day we will have school in the morning. Dismissal will be at 11:30 for all students. Conferences will begin at 2:30 p.m. and continue to 7:30 p.m. They are scheduled for 10 minutes each (A bell will ring every 10 minutes as a reminder). As a courtesy to all the parents and teachers, please help us keep to the schedule. If you need a longer conference please make an additional conference at another time. There will be a request form available for you if you need to see other teachers.

On November 13th, Ms. Kopchak will be available for conferences from 2:30 – 7:30 p.m., and Mrs. Edwards, the Catapult instructor, will be available from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. both will be happy to have conferences if you wish to see them.

There will be a dinner break for the faculty/staff from 4-4:30 p.m. No one will be able to wait in the school. Therefore, do not come early for appointments beginning at 4:30 p.m. Thank you for your understanding.

ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH, THERE WILL BE EXTENDED DAY BEFORE SCHOOL, BUT THERE WILL NOT BE EXTENDED DAY AFTER SCHOOL.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST/CHRISTMAS BAZAAR & CRAFT FAIR – NOV. 15TH
Join us for a delicious pancake breakfast and great Christmas ideas. Tickets will be sold ahead of time through the school. If you buy you tickets through school, your child(ren) will earn an out of uniform pass (date to be announced later).

SUPER BINGO
Many thanks to Mr. Sellers and all who helped with Super Bingo for all the hard work in providing a fun day for everyone. All proceeds from Bingo go directly to the school. A profit of $4,000 was realized. We look forward to the next Super Bingo in the Spring. Thanks also to all of those who came to play Bingo—without you super Bingo would not have been such a success.

INCLEMENT WEATHER
We are in the season of unpredictable weather conditions. First and foremost, please make sure that your children are dressed for the weather. Unless the temperature is below 30 degrees or it’s raining or snowing, etc., the children will wait outside in the morning and/or have recess.

If weather conditions are questionable, please listen to the weather reports on radio and TV. We will also use the School Reach phone system. That is why we need accurate phone numbers.

FOR THE SAKE OF SAFETY
Please be mindful of the drop off procedures in the morning. From 7:45 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. no one should stop or slow up to watch your child enter the building on 112th, Avenue G or Avenue H. No one ever is to wait to watch your child enter the building when you are in the drop off area between the two driveways on the parking lot. If you need to drop off your child after 7:30 a.m., please do not park in the traffic drop off lane as described above. A parked car at that time will be in the way of the traffic flow and could cause an accident. Please be respectful to the adults who help monitor traffic. Also, do not have the children sit in your cars and wait for the second bell to ring. WHEN THESE RULES ARE NOT FOLLOWED, ERRATIC DRIVING OCCURS AND A CHILD WILL GET HURT.

2009-11-24T12:10:00.000-06:00

OCTOBER NEWS 2009

SUPER DABBER BINGO—SUN. 10/11/09
Are you looking for something fun to do? Why not go to the Super Dabber Bingo? It’s a relaxing, fun time, several chances to win prizes, great dinner buffet and only $26 per person. Another good reason is that all proceeds from Bingo go directly to the school and help to keep your tuition cost down. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. Dinner is served at 2:00 p.m. Bingo games begin at 3:30 p.m. The Bingo committee is waiting to serve you! Have a great time!

CASH “WIN” FALL RAFFLE
Don’t forget to buy your $100 raffle ticket (or more). Only 500 tickets are being sold; SO DON’T WAIT TIL THE LAST MINUTE! You have a great opportunity to be a winner if you buy tickets. Maybe the $15,000.00 will be your “Win Fall”. THIS RAFFLE COUNTS TOWARDS YOUR $300 FUNDRAISING OBLIGATION. Drawing takes place Saturday, October 17th in the School Hall at 8 p.m. This year the Vendors Bazaar & Chicken Dinner sponsored by Annunciata Human Concerns Committee will take place at 6 p.m. immediately following the 5 p.m. Mass on October 17th in conjunction with the raffle. Tickets are on sale after the Sunday masses.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Please plan ahead for the annual Parent/Teacher Conferences to be held on November 13th, from mid-afternoon to early evening. Dismissal on November 13th will be at 11:30 a.m. There will not be Extended Day after school on November 13th. Remember that all students in grades 3-8 are required to attend the conference with their parents/guardians. Information regarding scheduling appointments will be sent home later in October. Sports schedules are not to interfere with the conferences.

FOR THE SAKE OF SAFETY
Please be mindful of the drop off procedures in the morning. From 7:45 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. no one should stop or slow up to watch your child enter the building on 112th, Avenue G or Avenue H. No one ever is to wait to watch your child enter the building when you are in the drop off area between the two driveways on the parking lot. If you need to drop off your child after 7:30 a.m., please do not park in the traffic drop off lane as described above. A parked car at that time will be in the way of the traffic flow and could cause an accident. Please be respectful to the adults who help monitor traffic. Also, do not have the children sit in your cars and wait for the second bell to ring. THE CHILD WILL BE LATE FOR SCHOOL.

In nice weather, it is not too much of a problem; however, when the weather becomes inclement, obstruction to the flow of traffic is magnified and could cause someone to get hurt.

It is very frustrating to watch the cars deliberately park in places that they should not. In their hurry to pull away from the curb, there is a good probability of an accident. Please follow the guidelines: THE LIFE YOU SAVE COULD BE YOUR OWN CHILD!

2009-11-24T12:03:00.000-06:00

SEPTEMBER NEWS 2009

WELCOME TO THE 2009-2010 SCHOOL YEAR!

We are so pleased to welcome our Annunciata School Families back for another great academic and spiritual year. All of our staff of instructors PK – 8, clergy, computers, gym, health, aides, secretarial, extended day, lunch and maintenance will be with us in the new school year. This year we are adding a music teacher, Mrs. Mary Oosterbaan, and an art teacher, Mrs. Lynn Mattes-Ruggiero to our faculty. We also continue with Catapult and welcome Mrs. Edwards who will work in the Title I academic program. The Title I Counseling program will also continue. As you can see, we have a full staff who will provide a complete and well-rounded curriculum for our students from PK through grade 8.

During the summer, repairs have been completed and the old carpets on the second floor have been replaced. Grades four and five will be back in their proper locations on the second floor in their newly remodeled rooms. We look forward to a productive and exciting year in a pleasantly refreshed environment.

Why not help us celebrate the New Year by joining us at the “Back to School Mass” on Friday, September 4th at 8:00 a.m.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve your children and for your support!

Welcome to the 2009-2010 School Year

2009-08-28T15:36:00.002-05:00

We are so pleased to welcome our Annunciata School families back for another great academic and spiritual year. All of our staff and instructors Pk - 8, clergy, computers, gym, health, aides secretarial, extended day, lunch and maintenance will be with us in the new year. This year we are adding a music teacher, Mrs. Mary Oosterbaan, and an art teacher, Mrs. Lynn Mattes-Ruggiero to our faculty. We also continue with Catapult and welcome Mrs. Edwards who will work with the Title I academic program. As you can see, we have a full staff who will provide a complete and well-rounded curriculum for our students from PK through grade 8.

During the summer, repairs have been completed and the old carpets on the second floor have been replaced. Grades four and five will be back in their proper locations on the second floor in their newly remodeled rooms. We look forward to a productive and exciting year in a pleasantly refreshed environment.

SCHOOL BEGINS ON MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2009 FOR ALL GRADES PK - 8. School days begin at 8 a.m. promptly. The first day students will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m. Beginning September 1, 2009, all grades will have a full day with dismissal at 2:30 p.m.

Why not help us celebrate the new year by joining us at the "Back to School Mass" on Friday, September 4th at 8 a.m.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve your children and for your support!

2009-05-12T12:41:00.000-05:00

MAY NEWS 2009

RIBBON DAY
On Friday, May 8, 2009 our eighth graders will receive their first ribbon acknowledging the academic progress they have made over the last nine years. We pray for them as they begin their journey to higher education and prepare for their future.

TUITION AND ALL FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS
The May tuition is due by May 10th. All financial obligations for this school year need to be paid or up-to-date by May 15th. Failure to bring your outstanding debts up to date may change your tuition status, jeopardize records from being forwarded, prevent students from receiving their final report card or diploma, and/or prevent us from reserving a place for a student for the next school year.

CONTRACT SIGNING
The first tuition installment for the 2009-2010 school year is due on June 11, 2009. Contract signing is scheduled from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the small lunchroom. If payment is not made on June 11th, a late charge of $25.00 will be assessed beginning June 12th. All previous financial obligations (including church contributions/fundraising/Extended Day/library fines/NSF checks, Bingo, etc.) must be paid in full before any payment for the next school year will be accepted.

UNIFORMS
Beginning May 1st all students may wear their uniform dress or gym shorts on appropriate days.

TRANSPORTATION REIMBURSEMENT
Anyone that needs to fill out the transportation reimbursement form may do so until the last day of school. The form will be in the school office. You will need your social security number and the mileage from your house to school (needs to be over a mile and a half one way to qualify).

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!
Before Easter, our school children were asked to participate in a food drive so the St. Vincent DePaul food pantry would be able to help our needy families during Easter. We are pleased to announce that about 290+ items were collected from our school. Thank you for putting others first.

Our school children also collected for the Holy Childhood Mission. Our total collection amounted to $295.00 for the needy children.

Thank you students of Annunciata School, again, for participating in the Annunciata Cub Scout Pack 773 Scouting for Food Program during the week of April 20th. Thanks to your overwhelming generosity, 331 food items were collected and donated to the St. Vincent DePaul food pantry. Thank you for helping our Cub Scouts make a difference in the lives of our community residents.

We are proud of the generosity and caring that our student body and parents show for those in need.

2009-03-31T11:25:00.001-05:00

APRIL NEWS 2009

EASTER
It’s difficult to believe that Easter is just around the corner. Holy Week is fast approaching. Has your Lent been all that you anticipated! There is still time to reflect and do whatever you wanted to accomplish for self-improvement during this Lent. Holy Week including the Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday) is a perfect time to refresh your commitment. Remember, in God’s eyes you are never too late!

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION
On Saturday, April 25, 2009 our second graders will receive communion for the first time. They have been working very hard in preparation. Please keep them in your prayers at this very special and exciting time. A photographer will be available in the school hall for individual communion photos from 9-10:30 a.m. and after mass until about 1 p.m.

FOOD DRIVE
IT’S NOT TOO LATE! We are still collecting for the food pantry for The St. Vincent DePaul Society. Your generosity will help to give a Happy Easter to several needy families in our area. Sharing is a wonderful way of caring for others. MANY THANKS!

TRANSPORTATION REIMBURSEMENT
Anyone that needs to fill out the transportation reimbursement form may do so until the last day of school. The form will be in the school office. You will need your social security number and the mileage from your house to school (needs to be over a mile and a half one way to qualify).

CONFIRMATION
We ask for prayers for our eighth graders. They have been preparing for the sacrament of Confirmation that will take place in May. Since the beginning of this school year, they have been doing service hours, as well as, keeping up with their studies. On March 31st they enjoyed the experience of the Confirmation Retreat where they were provided time to reflect on the present and their future.

On Friday, May 1st, our 8th graders will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Our prayers are with our 8th graders as they accept more responsibility for their faith. After the ceremony, the Family and School Association and will host a reception for the Confirmandi and their families.

REPORT CARDS
Report cards for the third quarter for all grades, PK through 8th, will be distributed on Friday, April 3rd by Mrs. Miceli. Please review the report cards, sign them and return them to the homeroom teacher by Monday, April 6th. If you have any concerns, please call for an appointment with your child’s teacher.

EASTER/SPRING VACATION
Classes will be in session through 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8th. We will be out of school from Thursday, April 9th through the week of April 13th. Classes will resume on April 20th.

Blessings for a Happy and Holy Easter!

Americanism Essay Contest Update

2009-03-03T10:19:00.003-06:00

The first place essay written by David Stahl has also won the Third Division Competition. His composition will now go on to the division competition and possibly on to the state.

Congratulations again David!

2009-03-03T10:17:00.000-06:00

MARCH NEWS 2009

TERRA NOVA TESTING
Testing for grades K-7 will be administered from March 3rd through March 13th. The only preparation you can help with is to be sure that the children have plenty of rest (at least 8 hours of sleep) and eat three balanced meals daily.

If your child misses part of the test due to illness, we will do our best to have him/her make it up. Please understand that if several sections are missed, it may be impossible to make up; and therefore, the test may not be sent in for scoring.

The students should come prepared each day with two or three sharpened number 2 pencils.

SACRAMENTS
Please pray for our second graders as they approach their first Reconciliation this month, March 28th. They have diligently been preparing for this sacrament, as well as, for their First Holy Communion in April.

We ask for prayers for our eighth graders also. They have been preparing for the sacrament of Confirmation that will take place in May. Since the beginning of this school year, they have been doing service hours, as well as, keeping up with their studies. On March 31st they will enjoy the experience of the Confirmation Retreat.

CONGRATULATIONS!
Our seventh and eighth grade students participated in an Americanism essay competition sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. Three of the students had winning essays, and the first place essay has been sent on to the Third District Americanism Chairman for further competition. The winners are: 1st prize – David Stahl; 2nd prize – Vincenzo Caporale; 3rd prize – Ryan Miller. Good Luck David! Annunciata is proud of all of you!

FOR THE SAKE OF SAFETY
Please be mindful of the drop off procedures in the morning. From 7:45 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. no one should stop or slow up to watch your child enter the building on 112th, Avenue G or Avenue H. No one ever is to wait to watch your child enter the building when you are in the drop off area between the two driveways on the parking lot. If you need to drop off your child after 7:30 a.m., please do not park in the traffic drop off lane as described above. A parked car at that time will be in the way of the traffic flow and could cause an accident. Please be respectful to the adults who help monitor traffic.

Parking on 112th Street in the morning is becoming a dangerous problem. Some cars are double parking to let the children off. THE SAFEST DROP OFF IS IN THE PARKING LOT BETWEEN THE TWO DRIVEWAYS. THE ENTIRE AREA IS MONITORED FOR SAFETY. THAT IS ALSO THE CLOSEST DOOR TO THE ENTRANCE, ESPECIALLY, IN BAD WEATHER.

PLEASE COOPERATE BY NOT PARKING OR DROPPING OFF STUDENTS ON 112TH STREET OR ON EAST SIDE OF AVENUE H.

2009-01-29T12:15:00.001-06:00

FEBRUARY NEWS 2009

OPEN HOUSE—THANK YOU
Our thanks to all of you who helped to make the start of Catholic Schools Week a success. Whether you baked, served, set-up, cleaned-up or attended, all of your efforts helped to make our Open House a wonderful, positive experience. We also acknowledge the hard work of the students and their teachers for the great display of Science projects. Many visitors complimented the Science Expo and the school in general.

Many thanks also to the Family and School Committee for coordinating the exciting events and to all of the volunteers who helped carry out the activities for Catholic Schools Week. The Ice Cream Social is always fun and delicious (volunteers have as much fun as the children). The children very happily donated $1.00 to wear jeans and give the very much needed money to St. Vincent DePaul Society to help needy families in our community. All school Bingo is always enjoyable, especially with the anticipation of winning prizes. And as always, we end Catholic Schools Week with an all school mass celebrating and giving thanks for the opportunity to be in a Catholic School where we can deepen and share our faith.

POSTER CONTEST
The East Side Lions sponsored the “Say No To Drugs” Poster Contest. This year’s winners listed below will receive awards at a presentation dinner on February 17th.
Good Job Everyone!

6th grade—Elizabeth Zuccarelli--$100 Savings Bond
7th grade—Victoria Ramos--$100 Savings Bond
8th grade—Kayla Castaneda--$100 Savings Bond

TRANSPORTATION REIMBURSEMENT
For those of you who live 1½ miles or more from Annunciata School and your children are in attendance for the 2008-2009 school year, you may complete a claim form in the school office for travel reimbursement. When you are ready to complete the form you need to know the miles to and from school, and the person completing the form must provide his/her social security number. The form must be completed at the school before the last day of school in June.

LENT
Lent gives us time to reflect and pray as we take a good look at ourselves. Join us on our journey with Jesus as we pray the Stations each Friday at 1:45 p.m. during Lent. Talk about Lent with your children. The story of Jesus can never be told enough. Each time it’s told, our lives are touched in different ways. Praying together as a family, at home and at mass, is a wonderful preparation for Easter.

Catholic Schools Week 2009

2009-01-28T12:05:00.002-06:00

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK
January 25 – January 31, 2009

Good Morning! In spite of the prolonged cold, snow and ice, it is always terrific to be here with you. The warmth of our parish family shields us from winter’s frigid days. With the inspiration of today’s powerful readings, our very soul is warmed with our desire to be like Jesus.

In all of the readings today, Jonah, the faithful, the disciples, all are summoned to follow and serve the Lord without question, and they do. Jonah realizing that he has been given a second chance and seeing a merciful God, unconditionally follows through with God’s charge for Jonah to help the Ninevites, St. Paul cautions the Corinthians not to put so much emphasis on material things, but to put their faith and trust in the Lord. The early disciples see Jesus is the Son of God, a powerful teacher and healer, a person of authority, and without hesitation are willing to follow and serve.

We, all of us at Annunciata, are on the same mission. We are called to teach and serve as Jesus did. It is with pride that all here in this church have been part of a 60 year tradition of quality education. Yes, 2009 is the 60th year of Annunciata School. For all those years our school has held its own among many. Our students are consistently being sought by high schools. A high percentage not only graduate from college, but go on to find excellent jobs and careers. The foundation that they receive at Annunciata Elementary School is what sets them on a positive course for their futures.

In a world where society allows values to slide, it’s not always easy to hold on to the basic tenets of our religion, let alone, instill them in the youth. Holding on to these values is a good part of what helps Annunciata maintain its high standards of achievement and provide the students with excellent study skills that can take them anywhere. In recent times, external forces (like the economy, for example) have played a significant role in making life difficult for us. But when things were looking a little down we had some wonderful signs. The Big Shoulders Fund and the Archdiocese have not only supported us with kind words and prayers, but have given significant financial help. With the help of both—Big Shoulders and the Archdiocese, we have a patron, the DeSantis family (of Martinque/Drury Lane Fame). They have made a financial commitment to Annunciata for the next 3 years. The new computers in the lab are a result of the DeSantis family’s commitment. Most recently we had a visit by our new Superintendent of Schools, Sr. Mary Paul. Some of you may know her as the former principal and president of Marion High School. Sr. Mary Paul came while we are in the midst of repairing the roof and two classrooms. Even with all this distraction, Sr. Mary Paul picked up on a positive spirit, a pleasant atmosphere, a student body that is comfortable, courteous and willing to learn. She sees in us a substantial reason to continue supporting Annunciata and a Catholic presence on the East Side.

When you visit our school today following this mass, you will be able to see for yourselves the academic excellence and vitality of our children and staff. Throughout the building there are science projects on display so don’t miss our Science Expo. Outside of each room, students’ work is displayed. We are proud to show you what we do and who we are. Oh and don’t forget the new lab.

This year’s Catholic Schools Week theme is Celebrate Service. At Annunciata parish and school we celebrate service in many wonderful ways. We see service in the pastoral staff, Fr. Paul, Fr. Dennis, Br. Brian and Fr. Conrad, who guide us in our religion whether in celebration of mass or in visits to the classrooms. We see service in our faculty, staff—including secretarial, classroom aides, Extended Day, Title I, librarian and maintenance—all of whom care for Annunciata as their own home and diligently devote their time and energy each day of the week developing values, academics and responsibility into our students. We see service in members of groups like Family and School—our parent volunteers for the school that coordinate activities like catalog sales, candy sales, Halloween party, today’s refreshments, and this week’s special events, and many other activities throughout the school year—all to benefit each child and the school; in the Annunciata Athletic Association (our parent volunteers that coach and co-ordinate our school sports teams); in Market Day volunteers that faithfully offer help monthly early on Saturday mornings; in our Bingo volunteers (and those who attend) who devote their time Wednesday after Wednesday; in the Board of Specified Jurisdiction (our parent and business volunteers that help the administration promote the school). We see service in the parents/guardians of our students who sacrifice to send their children to our quality school. We see service in our children as they strive to learn and help in a variety of ways in and around the parish. We see service in our loyal Seniors and parishioners who are always there to support our school whenever we have special events, projects or activities and fund-raisers. [Believe me Seniors and parishioners without your continued support our events and fund-raisers would not be nearly as successful—you are an excellent example of giving back to the community while placing a continued value on Catholic education.]

We are truly indebted to all of the groups and can never thank you enough.

All of you have been summoned just as the disciples in today’s readings and you are following that call. For in your service, you are carrying out the Good News. You are choosing to center your lives around Jesus and helping to instill this same message in all of our children for now and future generations.

Today we celebrate service through all of you, through all of us with the love that only a faithful people can give. And with that love Annunciata School and Parish will continue to grow indefinitely.

Thank you and God Bless you all!

I would also like to take this opportunity to welcom two new members to our staff:

Ms. Linda Moscinski is our new third grade teacher.

Ms. Seana Higgins is our new art instructor.

Welcom to Annunciata Catholic School

Blessings in the New Year

2008-01-08T13:19:00.000-06:00

As we look forward to a New Year with new hope and energy, we look back and give thanks for our blessings in the last year. Most recently, we had a beautiful Christmas message given by our entire school at the Annual Christmas Program on December 20th. We are grateful to Ms. Pazanin for coordinating the program and for the students and faculty/staff for the efforts to perform. It was an enjoyable event for all.

We also review the first half of the year and give thanks to our Family and School and all who have volunteered. The Family and School Organization has been very active this year and has provided several activities for all the school families (adults and children). Board members coordinating the events are: Kathy Swanson, Mary Reblin, Kristy Kelly and Claudia Polovina. For the adults, they have sponsored the "Back to School Night" in September with gifts and speaker, Dr. Ray Guarendi, and the speaker, Ms. Jan Irwin, in November. Those that attended spoke highly of the wealth of information and the value of the practical applications. In fact, many want to hear both speakers again. The Organization also put together an Annunciata Cook Book. In addition, Family and School has organized the Halloween lunch for all of your children with games and prizes, the Pancake Breakfast for the whole family; a visit from St. Nick with treats on December 6th, events during Catholic Schools Week; and others yet to happen. In order to fund these events and other treats for you and your children, Family and School has various fund raisers (i.e. Market Day Catalog Sale, Wreath Sale, Pancake Breakfast, Candy Sale, and others). Proceeds for all of these activities go directly to the children and families first. If anything is left at the end of the school year, the profits go to the school. So far this year, the fund raising was mostly supported by the parishioners (for whom we are very grateful). Even though, the Family and School fund raising is optional, please support it when you can since all proceeds are used for your children and you. Another way to participate is to volunteer for the various events and activities. It takes a lot of effort to accomplish all of these activities. An hour would be helpful. So when the requests for helpers are sent to you, sign up!

Halloween Lunch--The Halloween lunch was a "blast". All of the Moms, Dads, friends and family that came to help had more fun than the children. Many thanks to the following families: Benavente, Benavidez, Campos, Cikulin, Downs, Evans, Galindo, Gee, Gonzales, Ledesma, Maciel-Haygood, Mendoza, Merchant, Mican, Milhouse, Nieves, Ochoa, Palacios, Plebanski, Quinlan, Quiroz, Ramos, J. Rivera, Ruiz, Sellers, Torres, Valasquez, Vanna, Vargas, Vega, Wedryk, Ybarra and anyone who may not have signed the sheet including the Family and School Board members.

Pancake Breakfast--Many thanks to the entire Family and School Committee and their families and all those (including students) who cooked, served and helped make this year's Pancake Breakfast on November 4th a success. We appreciate the help from the following: Dawn Cikulin, Elsy Vanna, Roger Prskalo, Laura Miller, Tricia Quinlan, Natalie Vargas, Ana Salazar, Dawn Bartkiewicz, Lisa Downs, Valida Milhouse, Shirley Dickens and anyone who did not sign the sheet. The food was delicious, the decorations and atmosphere were terrific and the company was pleasant. Out thanks also to the over 300 guests most of whom are our parishioners who came to enjoy the event. Everyone's hard work brought a profit of $1,000.00 to the school. THANK YOU!

Upcoming Events include Worlds Finest Candy Sale beginning January 25th and Catholic Schools Week from January 27th to February 1st.

After a Family Mass at 11 a.m. on Sunday, January 27th, Annunciata School will hold an Open House showcasing the children's work, especially, the science department's Science Expo.

All are welcome to tour our school, meet our faculty/staff, and register for the next school year.

We are proud to announce by popular demand that Dr. Ray Guarendi will return on January 28th at 7 p.m. in our Church to speak to all parents of the parish. Everyone is invited. Those parents of second graders and eighth graders are required to attend as the evening fulfills a requirement for a Sacramental meeting for Communion and Confirmation.

WELCOME TO A NEW SCHOOL YEAR

2007-08-30T10:35:00.000-05:00

MANY,MANY, MANY THANKS TO THE ANNUNCIATA SUMMER FEST COMMITTEE!! THE WEEK-END WAS TERRIFIC! THE HUGE CROWDS OF PEOPLE HAD A GREAT TIME. WE APPRECIATE ALL THE WORK THAT IT TOOK TO MAKE IT SUCH A SUCCESS.

Welcome to all new students, their families and staff members. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs. Mary Kooistra for her many years of dedicated service to Annunciata School and wish her well in her retirement. She has instructed, guided and nurtured hundreds of students over the years and will be missed by all. Mrs. Elizabeth Surufka is returning to Annunciata to teach third grade. Mrs. Surufka formerly taught second grade. We also congratulate Mrs. Julie Groos (formerly Ms. Julie Hale), our second grade teacher, on her marriage.

We are looking forward to a wonderful 2007-2008!