Parent Letters

January 15, 2020

RE: General meeting, parent conferences, etc.

Dear Parents,

We are changing the time of our general meeting on January 30^th in Msgr. Dalton Hall to 7:15 (instead of 6:30) to try to accommodate the needs of our working parents who are arriving directing from work.

I am very pleased to announce that our new pastor, Rev. Robert Pinnisi will attend the general meeting. So this will be an excellent time to meet him. He is very excited about getting to know you and meeting your children!

Just to remind everyone, the second parent conference at this time of the year is not mandatory but it is necessary if you have direct questions about the curriculum or your child’s progress, etc.

The parent conference date and time has been changed to accommodate more families. The new date is February 6^th from 2:00- 6:00 or you may schedule an earlier date with your child’s teacher after school or early afternoon during the last week of January. Each classroom / H.R. teacher will ask you if you are available to meet either any afternoon after school or on February 6^th from 2:00 - 6:00. I hope this change in date/time will address your needs.

The STREAM Fair is one way of highlighting each classroom’s STREAM projects. Students will be demonstrating their projects and telling you way and how they made their project.

Teachers and students are encouraging our CSW visitors to not stay in one classroom during their visit but to visit other classrooms as well to see the exceptionally wonderful work of other grades.

Lastly, don’t forget to attend the scheduled “Coffee with Principal” this Tuesday, January 21^st from 8:00 – 8:30am to catch on any questions or if you want to chat about anything on your mind! I look forward to seeing all of you!

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

Principal

October 31, 2019 (November letter)

Dear Parents,

November is such a busy month as fall lessons and activities are in full swing as well as getting ready for Thanksgiving, etc. We begin the month with All Saints Day, Nov. 1^st, which is a holy day of obligation. Students and teachers will attend mass at 8:15 and the 8^th grade students will do their traditional saint parade when we return from mass.

Our wonderful secretary, Mrs. Bernadette Connors, had surgery on her ankle this week and is home recuperating. Please keep her in your prayers while she heals. We are very fortunate to have Mrs. Dowd and Mrs. Colleen Ach taking turns in the office. At this time, we were not given an exact date of when Mrs. Connors will return to school.

This week we had two days where some of the classrooms had trouble with the electrical lighting. All the teachers worked as a team, and the students’ instruction and learning were not negatively impacted. All of the electrical problems have been fixed and we don’t anticipated any further issues.

By now you have met with your child’s teacher and have a better sense of his/her progress in school. The MAP Family Report will be distributed sometime soon and this will provide you with a detailed picture of where your child stands in comparison to the national norms, a RIT score, and areas of strength and areas needed for growth. The October test will act as a baseline; while the MAP tests taken in February and May will provide you with a clearer picture of your child’s growth and overall achievement stand for this school year.

The teachers and I are hard at work analyzing many important documents for the AdvancED reaccreditation process including surveys, SQF benchmarks, MAP test scores along with completing all the rest of the procedural requirements. We hope to complete the process by the end of December. Updates on this process will be given to you in the monthly letters.

For the present moment, the Maker Space is on hold for another two weeks, but this hasn’t stopped the teachers from doing STREAM and project based learning in their classrooms. As we move forward, we will compile a list of materials for the Maker Space as needed and post it on the website.

OLV School is spearheading a “Going Green” initiative to help our planet because of Pope Francis’ call to action from his encyclical called “Laudato si” and our school’s spiritual theme “Witnessing Christ through Love and Action”. This written document and spiritual theme inspires us to become better stewards of the planet. Each class has their very own green name: PreK 3 - Green Machines, PreK 4-Squirmin’ Worms, Kindergarten-Wastebasket Worms, 1- Color Recycle Team, 2-Guardians of Nature, 3 - Waste Watcher, 4-Trash Busters, 5-Let Us Be Green, 6 /7-Tree Keepers and 8-The Tree Musketeers and will concentrating on one aspect of being ecologically friendly. During the Student of the Month Assemblies, each class will express how they are “Going Green”! This initiative has already created great discussions in the classrooms, interactive STREAM lessons all of which gives the students a better awareness.

Mrs. Hockenjos, Middle School science/math teacher, is already working with students and creating teams for the upcoming National Geographic GeoChallenge. The Middle School Students are planning ways the school and parish can help them accomplish their goals of “Going Green” and more information will be given to you next month.

Our HSA members are hard at work getting things ready for the big Christmas Bazaar fundraiser held on Nov. 9^th. Bring your donations to the school office by next Friday. Tell your friends to head to the bazaar for lots of fun and prizes! Don’t forget to go to the Panera Bread fundraiser held on Nov. 1^st and the check out the new “Coca-Cola Gives Program” both listed on the OLV School’s website. Thank you for all your support!!!

If your child was absent during Picture Day, retakes will be held on November 7^th. Please ask your child’s teacher for the retake form or call the office for one. The form must be filled out, submitted to the office along with a check.

Please don’t forget that students must wear their winter uniforms beginning November 1^st.

May you and your family be blessed on Thanksgiving and throughout the year!

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

Thanksgiving Table Prayer

O Gracious God, we give you thanks for your overflowing generosity to us.

Thank you for the blessings of the food we eat and especially for this feast today.

Thank you for our home and family and friends, especially for the

presence of those gathered here.

Thank you for our health, our work and our play.

Please send help to those who are hungry, alone, sick and suffering war and violence.

Open our hearts to your love.

We ask your blessing through Christ your son. Amen.

October 1, 2019

Dear Parents,

This is a very busy month for OLV School! It’s hard to believe we are entering the season of autumn! “God doesn’t just give us a few blessings, He pours out an abundance of good things on our lives. Fall offers the perfect time to reflect on His goodness toward us.” Lamentations 322: 323

During this month, several Catholic High Schools come to OLV to review their programs with our Middle School students. The local Fire Department is coming to visit our primary grade students on October 2^nd. Students love seeing the Firemen, Fire Trucks and especially the working water hoses! I enjoy it too since my dad was a NYC fireman!

The Student Government candidates are already hanging their posters in the hallway! The Installation mass will take place on Friday, Oct. 11^th at 8:15 and all parents are welcome to attend! Sometime this month, the 8^th graders will lead the students in a walking pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. More details and information will be given out at a later time.

This month we will begin the monthly student led assemblies with the 8^th grade students on October 25^th. This year we are simplifying the monthly assemblies so that the students will just share how they are making the spiritual theme come alive in their classroom and the Student of the Month disciple awards will also be given out. One of the reasons we have a monthly assembly is to celebrate our faith together and highlight our Spiritual theme: “Witnessing Christ through Love and Service”.

Halloween costumes will be the same as last year; all students are invited to wear a costume that represents either the class saint or a character from the bible (no devil costumes) and the 8^th graders will continue the tradition of walking down the hallways for the Saint Parade! Your child’s teacher will give you additional information.

The 50’s Dance is quickly approaching! Come out on October 19^th and have a fun night with friends and family! I am extremely grateful to our HSA committee for their continued support and all of their hard work. I’ll see you at the dance! Keep checking the website for all of the HSA fundraiser activities. Oct. 21^st -TAG Day. All monies collected will help the poor and needy.

CORRECT DATE for Boscov’s fundraiser is Oct. 16^th (not Oct. 15^th) Make the change of date to your calendar.

Please note that the parent conferences will be held on October 29^th so that you can meet with your child’s teacher and discuss your child’s progress in school, review the results of the MAP test, ask questions about the curriculum and share any concerns you may have. This visit will give you a clear picture on your child’s advancement.

Fr. Ryan has financed a new boiler system for the OLV School building which will be installed on October 14^th. We continue to be thankful for our pastor’s devotion to Catholic Education and his personal dedication to OLV School.

Now, let’s talk about the upcoming standardized testing. MAP Assessment will begin on October 7^th and end on October 18^th; Students in grades 1-8 will child will take a MAP^® test, in reading and mathematics, from NWEA^® on a desk top computer, iPad or Chromebook. This assessment helps our teachers check student performance by measuring achievement and growth. Teachers use results to tailor classroom lessons and set goals for students. MAP Growth tests are unique, and it adapts to your child’s responses to measure your child’s skill level. If your child answers a question correctly, the next question is more challenging. If they answer incorrectly, the next one is easier. These results will provide a more complete picture of what your child knows and is ready to learn—whether it is on, above, or below their grade level. Since MAP Growth tests provide immediate and accurate information about your child’s learning, it’s easy for teachers to identify students with similar scores that are generally ready for instruction in similar skills and topics, and then plan instruction accordingly. MAP Growth reports also provide typical growth data for students who are in the same grade, subject and have the same starting performance level. There will be three test dates this school year, students in grades 1-8 take the tests in October, February and May. Following each testing period, you will receive a Family Report showing a summary of how your child is performing academically. We are truly excited to focus on your child’s individual growth and achievement!

Thank you again for your support! God Bless you always!

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts, Principal

September 3, 2019

Dear Parents,

Welcome back! The teachers, staff and I had time to rest and refresh ourselves this summer and we’re excited about this school year! I hope you and your family had a peaceful summer as well.

First, I need to introduce two new teachers who will be joining us this year. Ms. Jennifer Perkel, our new music and librarian teacher, comes to us with over 25 years of teaching music to elementary school children and understands the tenants of the faith. Mrs. Perkel brings her excitement and love of children with her! Mrs. Heather Pawski, our new Middle School Social Studies and Physical Education teacher, has a real passion for children and Catholic Education. She brings with her teaching experience in many different age groups including High School and understands what it takes for students to be prepared for H.S. We are truly blessed to have these two new teachers join our faculty. Please help me welcome the new teachers and keep them, and Mrs. Gertz and Mrs. Lucas, in your prayers this year.

The Diocese of Metuchen is providing all of their Catholic Schools with a new standardized testing system called MAP Growth Assessment which is an online testing system that enables teachers to help students reach their fullest potential in learning. Students will be tested three times this upcoming school year. We will continue with the program called “STOP!T” for students to report bullying. This program will be discussed with students when they return to school this month. The teachers and I will keep you informed of how this program works. Click on this link for additional info: http://stopitsolutions.com/

The teachers and I have had several meetings to discuss ways to make this school year exciting and fruitful for the students. Teachers and students will continue to use the “Maker Space” to explore the world by using the engineering process and solving problems. Last June, OLV teachers had professional development in STREAM which provided them new ways of including the engineering process in their lesson plans. Over the next two weeks, we will create a new “WANTED LIST” to help us fill the Maker Space.

The Back to School Night meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 10^th beginning with the Middle School grades 5-8 at 6:00-6:45. The general meeting for parents whose children are in grades K-8 will begin at 7:00. Pre K 3 and Pre K 4 parents will meet with their child’s teacher in the classroom at 7:30. All parents will meet with their child’s teacher after the general meeting.

We look forward to seeing you and sharing with you important and exciting information about the upcoming school year. Teachers have been involved in professional development and staff meetings over these past few weeks and they are ready to implement this school year’s spiritual theme: “Witnessing Christ through Love and Service”. OLV School’s spiritual theme will help our students and teachers stay focused on Christ.

OLV School is celebrating its 130^th year of providing an excellent Catholic Education for our students! As a great school, we must continue to plan for the future with goals and direction, set high expectations, keep dedicated faith-filled teachers, maintain a school setting that is secure and welcoming, and work as a team with our parents. We have challenges ahead of us, like any other Catholic School, but we are here with great joy and enthusiasm. The mission of OLV will continue to have your children love coming to school and thriving!

We greatly appreciate your dedication to our school and thank you for choosing OLV for your children. I look forward to seeing you at the Back to School Night.

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

August 15, 2019

Dear OLV Parents,

I hope you are having a peaceful summer! This is an important letter with OLV School arrival and dismissal times and important dates about the upcoming school year. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call the office.

The following is some important information along with the 2019-2020 tentative calendar:

● September 3^rd is the first day of school for grades K-8 with half day dismissal at 11:40.

● September 4^th is also an early dismissal at 11:40 for K-8.

● September 5^th first full day for K-8 students.

· Doors open at 7:10 am School begins at 7:40, classes begin at 7:50. Bus schedules for Sayreville students will be accessible on the Sayreville public school website at www.sayrevillek12.net.

● Summer uniforms may be worn until October 31^st .

● Before-care and Aftercare are not available until Wednesday, September 11^th .

● The school lunch program begins on Monday, September 9^th. All lunch orders must be sent to school by Wednesday, September 4^th. The September menu is posted in Backpack on the school website.

● Photo release, acceptable use policy and the handbook signature page can be found in Backpack for grades K-8. Please print, sign and send these forms to school by September 13^th. Pre-K forms will be sent home separately.

● The tentative last day of school is June 17^th , 2020.

● The Kindergarten graduation will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 9:00 am in Monsignor Dalton Hall.

● Eighth Grade Graduation Mass will be on Friday, June 5, 2020 at 8:30.

Preschool students

● Pre-K 3, and Pre-K 4 students first day of school is Monday, September 9^th which is a half day dismissal at 11:00.

● September 9^th, 10^th and 11^th are half day dismissals at 11:00.

● Start time for Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 students will be 8:00 am

● Beginning September 12^th dismissal for full time Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 students will be 2:00 pm.

● Pre-K 4 students enter by the side door of the school on the church side.

● Pre-K 3 students enter through the Pre-K 3 door on the side of the building by the driveway. Parents may park in the back of the school.

● Pre-K 3 children must be signed-in and out by a parent or designated adult.

● Prek students Before-care and Aftercare begins on Thursday, September 12^th.

● Before-care students enter through the Pre-K 3 door on the driveway side. Parents may park in the back of the school to bring their Pre-K 3 students to the classroom. Aftercare parents may also park in the back of the school and use the side door by the Church to enter the school. Please remember to send a note in to your child’s teacher if you would like your child to attend either of those programs. Morning care notes must be sent in the day before.

● The Pre-K 3 end of year playdate is Tuesday, June 2, 2020.

● The Pre-K 4 Moving Up ceremony will also be on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at 9:00 am in Monsignor Dalton Hall.

A MESSAGE FOR ALL OUR NEW OLV FAMILIES

· Registrations for the Honeywell Alert System and Powerschool will be distributed to you when school begins. Please complete and return to school as soon as possible.

· Please remember to check the monthly calendar on the OLV website, which will be posted each month in Backpack,for any activities or changes for that month.

I am looking forward to seeing you in September. Enjoy the remaining summer!

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

Principal

April 1, 2019

Dear Parents,

Well, it looks like spring weather is here to stay! During our Lenten time, we should challenge ourselves to cultivate being aware of the needs of others through acts of kindness. Hopefully, we achieve this in small ways each day. This week Fr. Ryan is leading a Lenten Penance Service for students, grades 2-8, to examine their conscience, say their act of contrition and ask God for forgiveness. This is a wonderful way to prepare their hearts for the blessings of the Risen Lord.

Important - the AdvancED parent survey. We had less than 50 people complete the second survey. It is critical that we double that number. If you haven’ taken the parent survey as of yet, please take 5 minutes to click on the link below and thank you to all of you that have already taken the survey. https://eprovesurveys.advanc-ed.org/surveys/#/action/99615/p33469

Report Cards will be going home on Friday, April 5^th. If you have any questions or concerns please contact your child’s teacher. You will be given your child’s test results as soon as we receive the IOWA Test Results.

Thank you to all who helped with the National Geographic GeoChallenge bake sale which raised $1200.00 dollars. Although our team didn’t place first place, they are still winners! Mrs. Hockenjos is already planning for next year’s challenge!

The “Moms, Tots and Teddy Bears” program will be held on April 3^rd,10^th, and 17^th from 9:30 – 10:15. Please invite all young moms that you know to come out and bring their toddler for some fun and play. It is a great way to introduce mothers to OLV!

An evening Open House for new families will be held on April 4^th from 6:00 – 7:30. This is a wonderful opportunity for working parents to come out and meet and greet our faculty, learn about the curriculum and see what makes us special! Please make your friends aware of this recruitment effort.

It would help us enormously if you would register your child for the 2019-2020 school year before the Easter break. Student enrollment numbers dedicate how we budget for next year.

Your child can begin wearing their summer uniforms beginning April 15^th.

Thank you so much for your support of the OLV Tricky Tray Event! It was a great fundraiser and appeared that everyone had a great time! Special thanks to all who worked so hard, HSA committee, parents, volunteers, etc., to make it a profitable fundraiser and wonderful social. All proceeds go into the HSA account which helps our school tremendously! God Bless you!

May you be blessed with a home filled with harmony, joy and love.

Easter brings fun, Easter brings Happiness, Easter brings God's endless blessings,

Easter brings love and the freshness of spring.

Happy Easter to you and your family!

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

March 15, 2019

Re: Misc. Happenings

Dear Parents,

Bishop Checchio

I want to inform you that Bishop Checchio will be leading the 12:00 mass at OLV Church on March 24^th. Please make an effort to attend the noon mass and have your child attend mass wearing their OLV School uniform. A labeled section of pews will be held for OLV students wearing their uniforms so that they can sit together.

National Geographic GeoChallenge Bake Sale

There will be a special “bake sale” planned the weekend of March 23^rd and March 24^th for our students who are finalists in the National Geographic GeoChallenge. Money raised will assist the students and Mrs. Hocenkjos for their March 29^th trip. You can help them by either dropping off baked goods before the 5pm mass on Saturday and/or 7:30 am mass on Sunday or by just purchasing some baked goods! Please keep the students and Mrs. Hocenkjos in your prayers for a successful trip! We Congratulate them for making the final round of competition and wish them the very best of luck! They are winners!

Our Lady of Guadalupe- “Year of Awakening”

There is a special mass and Our Lady of Guadalupe drama experience beginning at 7:00 pm in OLV Church planned for April 8^th. A Covered Dish Dinner will be served in the church basement on April 9^th. Check the OLV Church website for all the details of the dinner. The Diocese of Metuchen is presenting an “Evening of Awakenings” in OLV Church on April 10^th beginning at 7:00 pm along with time for you to go to confession.

Easter Break

Finally, we will have an early dismissal of school on April 18^th, Holy Thursday, and there will be no after-care on that day. I know you are making your Easter vacation plans, so I wanted to give time to plan accordingly.

I hope this short letter gives you an opportunity to plan for the upcoming events! The regular monthly principal letter will be written and posted on the website on April 1^st.

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

January 28, 2019 - February Parent Letter

Dear Parents,

We kicked off the CSW with a bang! OLV School parents, students, teachers and alumni shared Holy Eucharist together at the 9:00 mass. Then everyone gathered in our OLV Maker Space to enjoy a light breakfast! I am delighted to say that we had a good number of new families touring the school. We had a great time at our annual Polar Plunge! A special thank you to all the brave students, parents and teachers who came out to the Polar Plunge! I look forward to seeing you all this week!!!

The home visitation of Our Lady of Guadalupe begins February 17^th as part of the “Lighting Hearts of Fire”. During this Year of Preparation for Consecration of ourselves individually and our school and parish, we are offering an opportunity for parents to sign up for a week long home visitation. More information on this will be given at a later time.

It’s that time of year to re-register your child(ren) for the next school year. Please register as soon as you are able to ensure a seat for your child(ren). The 2019-2020 enrollment number allows our staff to properly plan for upcoming school year. The FGAA program (Financial Aid program) is now open for parents who need to apply for financial assistance. You may apply by going to https://online.factsmgt.com/aid. Please be aware that all required supporting documentation must be submitted to FGAA by March 31, 2019 and the application fee is $30 and must be paid online at the time you submit your application. Forms of payment include debit cards, most major credit cards, or electronic check. If you have any questions, please call Mrs. Connors at the main office or go to: https://diometuchen.org/schools/tuition-assistance/ for additional information. All families who are currently registered through FACTS will be automatically registered for next year.

Our HSA is busy planning for their next big event which is the OLV Handbag Bingo on February 22^nd. Please mark your calendar and plan to come out for a great time! It is a fantastic excuse to get out and have some fun with OLV friends! I appreciate all of your support!!

“New” there is a “Kindergarten Open House” scheduled on Feb. 21^st from 6:45 - 7:15 A.M. for new families. Please help us get the word out about this recruitment effort!

Finally, Ms. Vivian Deibert, first grade teacher has resigned from her position to pursue a professional opportunity. We thank Ms. Deibert for her two years of teaching at OLV School and wish her well. I am excited to announce that Mrs. Joann Keefe is our new first grade teacher effective January 28^th. Mrs. Keefe brings with her a wealth of talent and knowledge. She has been an Early Childhood educator for over ten years. Mrs. Keefe is a very faith-filled person who loves children and has a great sense of humor. I know she will be a great fit for our school and feel very blessed to have found her!

May the words we speak and the words we receive bring God’s peace, joy and hope to our families, school, parish and world.

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

January 7, 2019

Happy New Year! I hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas break. Thank you for all of your Christmas gifts and treats! Your acts of kindness and thoughtfulness are overwhelming. As we begin this New Year, keep in mind Pope Francis’ words on the importance of a mother’s love. Below is a segment of his comments: “from ROME - Pope Francis started the New Year heaping praise not only on the Virgin Mary but on all mothers, saying their love is the foundation of humanity and the cure for a world often divided and filled with bitterness. He praised mothers for the “heroism” they show “in self-giving, strength in compassion, wisdom in meekness,” saying they are people who know how to take their children by the hand and “lovingly introduce them to life.” Click link below to read the entire article: https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2019/01/01/on-new-years-day-pope-says-theres-nothing-like-a-mothers-love/

As we enter the winter season, just a reminder to dress your children with coats/jackets, gloves and hats when needed and if the temperature is forecasted to drop below 32 degrees, for the entire day, your children may wear their gym uniform to school. School will be closed on Monday, January 21^st, for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Let us continue to pray for those cities in our country where there is racial tension. We welcome Mrs. Connors back to OLV School; she returns mid-January. We thank Mrs. Bagwell for her professionalism and her sense of humor!

The HSA committee has an important General HSA meeting scheduled for January 16^th to talk about the Tricky Tray fundraiser and other events being held this year. Your attendance and input are greatly appreciated. Don’t forget to sign up for the upcoming OLV “Mother and Son Dance” held on January 18^th and make the pledge to participate in the CSW “Polar Plunge” on January 27^th. Please make an effort to participate in our monthly HSA activities. Your support is greatly treasured and it helps us build a sense of community which is one of the many things that makes OLV School special.

Catholic Schools Week begins on Sunday, January 27^th. The theme for this year is Catholic Schools is “Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed”. The CSW (Catholic School Week) schedule is listed on the opposite side of the letter. We ask that you and your child, in full uniform, attend the January 27^th opening CSW mass at 9:00, breakfast at 10:00 and open house ending at 12:00. Don’t forget about the Polar Plunge at Municipal Beach – Sea Bright, which begins at 2:00. Additional information is on the OV School website.

Please note: ALL CHILDREN WILL GO HOME THE WAY THEY NORMALLY GO HOME ON PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS DAY. IF IT IS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY FOR YOUR CHILD TO BE DISMISSED IN A DIFFERENT WAY, HE OR SHE MUST HAVE A WRITTEN OR EMAILED NOTE – PRIOR TO 9:00 AM – STATING WHO IS PICKING HIM/HER UP. AGAIN, WE HOPE ALL CHILDREN GO HOME AS THEY ALWAYS DO. THIS BECOMES A SAFETY ISSUE AND THIS DAY SHOULD BE SEEN AS FULL DAY OF SCHOOL (it’s not a half day of school).

Thank you for promoting OLV where Faith, Knowledge and Service are our top priority. You are our best representatives in our community. Please proclaim the Good News about OLV wherever you go and invite friends to our open house. Don’t forget to read the CSW Schedule - it is printed on the opposite side of this letter.

May you be peaceful, and grateful, for God’s love!

Happy New Year! Sincerely in Christ! Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

Catholic School Week - 2019

Our Lady of Victories School

January 27^th Sun.

9:00 Opening Mass

10:00 Breakfast

10:30 - 11:30 – Open House Tours

Polar Plunge 2:00 Municipal Beach, Sea Bright

January 28^th Mon.

Student Appreciation: Student/Teacher Turn around Day, 8^th grade students dress like teachers and teachers dress like students

Movie Day – all students select from a lineup of movies

January 29^th Tues.

Grandparent Visitations and Lunch Times

Session I Grades PreK , 3, PreK 4, K, 1, 2, 3,

Visit classrooms from 9:45 – 10:15

PreK 3, PreK 4, K, 1, 2, 3 - Lunch in cafeteria from 10:30 – 11:15

Session II Grades 4,5,6,7,8,

Visit classrooms from 10:45 – 11:15

Grades, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 - Lunch in cafeteria from 11:20 – 12:05

January 30^th Wed.

Parent Visitations and Lunch Times

Session I Grades PreK 3, PreK 4, K, 1,2,3,

Visit classrooms from 9:45 – 10:15

PreK 3, PreK 4, K, 1, 2, 3 - Lunch in cafeteria from 10:30 – 11:15

Session II Grades 4,5,6,7,8

Visit classrooms from 10:45 – 11:15

Grades 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 - Lunch in cafeteria from 11:20 – 11:55

OLV Parents vs 8^th Grade Volley Ball Tournament 12:00

January 31^st Thurs.

12:20 – 12:45 Lunch Senior Citizen Appreciation Day

9:30 Viking Bowl - Students wear your Blue and Gold!

(All parents are welcome to attend)

Parent Conferences 2:00 – 5:00 (assigned times)

Feb. 1^st Friday

8:15 CSW Closing Mass, Full uniform, Teacher Appreciation Day

11: 40 Dismissal

Student Skating Party @ South Amboy Roller Magic Rink

Teacher Appreciation Luncheon

(No Aftercare)

++++ Scholastic Book Fair Monday – Thursday (schedule to follow)

Please note: ALL CHILDREN WILL GO HOME THE WAY THEY NORMALLY GO HOME ON PARENTS DAY GRANDPARENTS DAY. IF IT IS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY FOR YOUR CHILD TO BE DISMISSED IN A DIFFERENT WAY, HE OR SHE MUST HAVE A WRITTEN OR EMAILED NOTE – PRIOR TO 9:00 AM – STATING WHO IS PICKING HIM/HER UP. AGAIN, WE HOPE ALL CHILDREN GO HOME AS THEY ALWAYS DO. THIS BECOMES A SAFETY ISSUE AND THIS DAY SHOULD BE SEEN AS FULL DAY OF SCHOOL (it’s not a half day of school).

THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING ON THIS ISSUE!

November 12, 2018

Dear Parents,

I am sending this letter home because I need to inform you that our secretary, Mrs. Bernadette Connors, will be out longer than expected. She will be out till sometime after the Christmas Break. It appears that she needs an extended length of time for her ankle to heal properly. During this time, please keep Mrs. Connors in your daily prayers.

We are blessed to have Mrs. Jackie Bagwell as our temporary office secretary during Mrs. Connors’ absence. Mrs. Bagwell was the school secretary at Sacred Heart School and is knowledgeable with all of the communication systems that our school uses: PowerSchool, Honeywell, etc. You will communicate with her the same as you did with Mrs. Connors by using the same email address bconnors@olvnj.con

As I told you in the previous principal letter, we are beginning the AdvancED process and a series of surveys must be completed by our parents, students and teachers in a short window of time. As soon, I get the proper links for the surveys, I will forward them to you so that you can fill it out. It is critical that we get parents to complete the survey.

Next week, all lunch orders must be completed and handed in by Wednesday, November 21^st because of Thanksgiving. Please remind yourself that there is no after care next week on Wednesday, November 21^st which happens to be a half day dismissal.

This past Sunday OLV students presented the parish with the “Wreaths Across America” program that our OLV Dynamic Kids are working on. Wreaths that are purchased will be placed on veterans’ graves on December 15^th. Please refer to the letter that is being sent home today. This information is also posted on our OLV School website for further information.

Thank you to our HSA Team for doing a fantastic job with our Christmas Bazaar and thank you to all of the parents who came out and made this day a huge success! We are most grateful for your support!

By now, you should have signed up for a time for your parent/teacher conference which takes place on Thursday, November 15^th. It’s a great time to find out how your child is doing, teacher expectations and learn more about our curriculum.

Finally, December 2^nd is the Breakfast with Santa after the 9:00 mass, which also begins our Advent journey. A letter is going home today with all of the details. I want to take this time to thank you for unwavering support and wish you all a Blessed Thanksgiving! Here’s a parent prayer from www.lords-prayer-words.com.

Thanksgiving Prayer for Children

(a prayer for parents)

Thank you for our children.

Bless them with your love and peace,

Protect them with your truth and strength,

Engage them with your hope and vision.

Thank you for our children.

Amen.

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts principal

October 25, 2018 November parent letter

Dear Parents,

Well, here we are quickly approaching November and it’s time to get our homes ready for the fall/winter weather, making Thanksgiving Day plans, and getting our flu shots, etc. I love this time of year when the school is bustling! All of the students and teachers are involved in creative lessons. It’s wonderful to see them using the Maker Space. Thank you again for your help!

Also, I need to report that the emails are back to normal. Please keep Mrs. Bernadette Connors, school secretary, in your prayers as she recovers from a broken ankle. We hope and pray that she will return to us mid-November. We miss her lovely smile and quick wit! Mrs. Colleen Ach will be in her place until she returns.

Beginning November 1^st, all students should be in their fall/winter uniforms. If you know your child gets cold easily, he/she should wear the OLV School sweater. Students will not be allowed to wear their own hoodies during class time.

You may not know that November 1^st is also known as All Hallows’ Day Hallowmas, Feast of the Saints or Solemnity of All Saints. One way to honor this day is to pray for the deceased. Students will attend mass at 8:15 and later that morning, our 8^th grade students will visit all the classrooms dressed in saint costumes. This event has been a long standing tradition that everyone looks forward to each year.

On Friday, November 2^nd, the 5^th graders will lead our monthly Student Assembly and it will open with a JDRF special presentation talking about Juvenile Diabetes beginning at 10:00 in Msgr. Dalton Hall. Since it will be a special Tag Day, students are encouraged to wear blue in honor of Juvenile Diabetes and donate a dollar. All are welcome to attend!

Everyone is also looking forward to the Annual OLV Veteran’s Day Celebration, led by Mrs. Joanne Hockenjos and the 8^th grade students, which will be held on November 7^th. All students must bring their own lunch to school that day because the cafeteria is being occupied by the veterans - it is a brown bag day for all students (the lunch calendar was revised… see website). All parents are welcome to attend the celebration beginning at 12:15. After the celebration all students go back to his/her classroom. If you want to take your child home early that day you must come to the office and sign your child out after the ceremony. Don’t forget we have Brown Bag Days on Nov. 7^th, 8^th and 9^th because of all of the festivities.

Buddy Day is scheduled for November 8^th for children who do not attend OLV. This day is a great way to recruit our school to your friends’ children in grades K – 6. If they have any interest in learning more about our school, and their child can be in our school for a day, they just need to fill out the form on the website and hand it to the office. We also have an open house planned on November 30^th for new families.

Mark your calendars and come out to the OLV Christmas Bazaar on November 10^th! There will be lots of vendors, fun activities for your children and delicious food! It’s a great way to officially begin your Christmas shopping! The HSA worked very hard to make this day one of the biggest fundraiser events for our school. We appreciate all of their dedication and your support!

Parent conferences are held on November 15^th from 2:00 – 7:00 by appointment. Your child’s teacher will contact you to set up an appointment time. This is a very important time for you to talk with your child’s teacher about the progress your son or daughter is making in school. It is also a wonderful time to learn more about the curriculum, teacher expectations and upcoming projects, etc.

All of the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Metuchen are beginning the AdvancED reaccreditation process. Sometime this month, I will send you a link to complete a parent survey. More information will be given to you as we move forward.

Please be aware that Mrs. Namrata Singh, art teacher, will be out for the month of November because of plans she made before attaining the position. We wish her safe travels as she visits her family in India. Therefore, there will be no yearbook meetings for this month. No need to worry! The missing yearbook meetings will be made up. Ms. Jamie Wojcik will be the art substitute teacher during her absence.

If I don’t see you, I wish you a blessed Thanksgiving Day with your family and friends!

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

Principal

October 1, 2018

Dear Parents,

Finally, we are getting some autumn cool mornings! We are beginning the month wtih lots of excitement! On October 1^st and 5^th, the 7^th and 8^th grades students will have several Catholic High Schools come to OLV to highlight their programs. The local Fire Department is coming to visit our primary grade students on October 2^nd which should be a lot of fun! The Student Government Installation mass will take place on Friday, Oct. 12^th at 8:15 and all parents welcome to attend! Mission Rosary beads will be made by our 3^rd and 4^th grade students led by our senior citizens which we are very thankful to them for sharing their expertise!

This month we will begin the monthly student led assemblies. The 8^th graders will lead our first assembly on October 12^th which will feature the first of the Beatitudes series! I am looking forward to seeing the 8^th grade students’ creativity and I am sure their assembly will be great! Student of the Month award will also be given out to the students during the assembly which emphasizes our Spiritual theme, “Love One Another as I Have Loved You”.

The STOPiT has been launched and students downloaded the app onto their devices. I will keep you informed as this program moves forward. The Diocese of Metuchen School’s Office is sending a photographer to the school next week to take pictures of the students for printed materials and advertising which will help us brand our school.

Parents are asking about Halloween costumes. We will do the same as last year; all students are invited to wear a costume that represents either the class saint or a character from the bible (no Satan’s costumes) and the 8^th graders will continue the tradition of walking down the hallways for the Saint Parade! Your child’s teacher will give you additional information.

October 25^th is a student dress down. All monies collected will be held to help the poor and needy and on occasion help with special treats for both students and teachers.

The family dinner was a big success! Thank you parents for supporting our efforts. Please make sure your get your raffle tickets which begins on October 3^rd. The Boscov’s shopping discount day is held for October 16^th – it’s a great way to help OLV and begin your Christmas shopping. I am extremely grateful to our HSA committee for their continued support and all their work.

Our new Maker Space is in full bloom and is filled with materials because of your generous contributions. Today I witnessed the 7^th graders working in the room while Mrs. Hockenjos helped a student with the 3D printer. Very exciting to watch! The money raised from the September Family Dinner is going to allow us to purchase additional items such as Code-A-Pillar. Thank you again for your generosity! I’m looking forward to attending our general HSA meeting held on October 10^th at 7:00.

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

Principal

April 2018

Dear Parents,

Welcome back from your Easter break! May the spirit of the Lord fill your hearts with the promises of Easter blessings of joy, happiness and unwavering faith for the rest of your days!

IOWA standardized testing will begin on April 12^th and end on or before April 25^th for students in grades 1-8. The IOWA Testing is originated from the University of IOWA which provides an assessment for student achievement in Reading, Written Expression, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Language and students in grades 3, 5 and 7 will take an additional test called the CogAT Test (Cognitive Abilities Test). Parents will receive a Home Report that will indicate the testing result of their child. The new testing norms are a guide for both the administration and faculty to evaluate our current learning objectives and develop instructional strategies as well as teaching and learning objectives that will meet the students’ potential. After we received the test results, administration and faculty will access the students’ results over the course of the next few weeks. The results will allow teachers to make adjustments to the curriculum and target learning using the Lexile scale for individual reading levels. Please make sure your child(ren) get plenty of sleep and eat a healthy breakfast during these testing times.

The Diocese of Metuchen is undertaking a new marketing initiative designed to build enrollment in grades PreK – Kindergarten which will begin on April 10^th. This campaign will use multiple media platforms – digitally printed in social media. Once new families click on our link, we will have the opportunity to reach out to the new families and recruitment them to our school. As you already know, parents are our best marketers - word of mouth is still the most effective tool for recruitment. This past Buddy Day brought in seven children two of which registered for next year. When we return form our break. I want to create an OLV Parent Ambassador Group to help with talking with new families. If you are interested, please contact me. Thank you parents for your support!

We are excited to announce that OLV School has a new website, using the same domain, which has the same features as well as additional features. Please be patient with the site as we continue to build the website over the next few weeks. The hope is to add additional features such as online giving for possible donors and student videos, etc. If for some reason the website is down, the teachers will email any necessary information to you. As you already know, parents are our best marketers - word of mouth is still the most effective tool for recruitment.

Please mark your calendars and plan to participate in the “Designer Bag Bingo” on April 13^th and the Father Daughter Dance on April 20^th. The HSA has been working very hard in planning these events for you! I look forward to seeing you there! And don’t forget to get sponsors for the Walk-A-Thon for scheduled on May 4^th! Our families make us a special place! Thank you for your dedication to OLV School!!!

Parents are asking about our last day of school. We had to adjust our calendar because of the snow days we needed to take. Therefore, if there are no other reasons to close the school building, the last day of school will be June 20^th. The last three days of school will be half days. I understand some of you want to make your early vacation plans so I hope this helps you. Also, the first day of summer uniforms is April 16^th !

Lastly, on a more serious note, I need to remind parents to be very diligent and careful when you pick up your child in the parking lot. There is one way to enter the lot and one way to exist the lot. Cars must go at a very slow speed while they are in the parking lot because we have both children and parents there at this time. Don’t try to be the first car out of the lot by going out quickly. One of our staff members had a big dent on her car while she was parked in the parking lot. I appreciate your understanding.

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts

February 1, 2018

Dear Parents,

I want to begin this letter by acknowledging and thanking all of our parents for their constant support to OLV School. We kicked off the CSW with a mass which many of our current students and alumni attended to give witness of their love and dedication to OLV School. Thank you to all who came out to the Polar Plunge and to all of the grandparents and parents who attended the visitations days, Viking Bowl and volley ball matches, etc. Bishop Checchio enjoyed his visit with us yesterday! He talked with teachers, students and parents and left the school with a basket filled with students’ cards, saint prayer cards, chocolates, nuts, an OLV School Tee shirt and OLV video which the 8^th graders made especially for him. I’m sure he enjoyed the OLV School visit! He left the school with a big smile and the experience warmed his heart!

Well, we are now entering the Lenten Season beginning with Ash Wednesday where we reflect, repent and prepare ourselves for Easter. During the holy season, students will participate in more service projects, prayers, and Stations of the Cross. I made a Lenten Parent Resource page for you to utilize during the forty days of Lent. https://sites.google.com/olvnj.com/cynthia-casciola-kitts/lenten-parent-resource-page

It’s that time of year to re-register your child(ren) for the next school year. Please register as soon as you are able to ensure a seat for your child(ren). The 2018-2019 enrollment number allows our staff to properly plan for upcoming school year. The FGAA program (Financial Aid program) is now open for parents who need to apply for financial assistance. You may apply by going to https://online.factsmgt.com/aid. Please be aware that all required supporting documentation must be submitted to FGAA by March 31, 2018 and the application fee is $30 and must be paid online at the time you submit your application. Forms of payment include debit cards, most major credit cards, or electronic check. If you have any questions, please call Mrs. Connors at the main office or go to: https://diometuchen.org/schools/tuition-assistance/ for additional information.

The last HSA event, the Mother and Son Dance, had a great turn out and the dance was a blast! Our HSA is busy planning for their next big event which is the OLV Steak Dinner held on February 24^th. Please mark your calendar and plan to come out for a great time! It is a fantastic excuse to get out and have some fun with OLV friends! I appreciate all of your support!!

Finally, some parents had questions about the dress code during frigid days so I need to clarify the gym uniform usage. Your child can wear his/her gym uniform on days when the temperature remains at 32 degrees or below in temperature throughout the day (not just the morning hours).

Sincerely in Christ,

Cynthia Casciola-Kitts