Dear St. Michael Families,

Today I had the wonderful opportunity to become a time traveler! Our amazing fifth graders invited us on a journey through the Qin, Han, and Ming Dynasties as they shared their learning about ancient China. Students taught us about inventions, agriculture, unique economies, beautiful works of art, and even delicious foods from each era. It was incredible to see their enthusiasm, creativity, and knowledge on display. We are so proud of the hard work our students and teachers put into making this experience so meaningful. Please keep an eye on our St. Michael social media pages for pictures from our time-traveling adventures!

This week we also celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week, and it was a joyful reminder of how blessed we are to have such dedicated teachers and staff at St. Michael. Every day  they pour their hearts into our students, working tirelessly to help them grow academically, spiritually, and emotionally. Their love, patience, and commitment make our school community truly special. We are also incredibly grateful to our PTO for the thoughtful ways they celebrated our faculty and staff this week. Their generosity, kindness, and hard work made everyone feel appreciated and loved. We are thankful for the partnership and support they provide throughout the year.

It was also Nurses Appreciation Week and we would like to recognize our wonderful school nurse, Mrs. Thurman. Whether caring for everyday bumps and bruises or helping students through bigger hurts and worries, Mrs. Thurman always provides comfort, compassion, and care. Her calm presence and loving heart are a gift to our school community, and we are deeply thankful for the many ways she takes care of all of us each day.

Last night we celebrated our annual St. Michael Hall of Fame ceremony, honoring students who exemplify excellence in our community. Congratulations to our recipients: Academic Excellence - Kaylee Ruckriegel; Creative Arts - Alyssa Lee; and Knights Christian Athletes - Mavyn Hasch and Tavis Powell. We are very proud of each of these students and the outstanding ways they represent our school through their talents, leadership, faith, and character. We know they will continue to accomplish amazing things in high school and beyond. We also proudly recognized our Teacher of the Year, the wonderfully talented Mrs. Laura Shircliff. Mrs. Shircliff is an exceptional educator who lifts up everyone around her and makes certain her students know they are valued and loved. We are so thankful she is part of the St. Michael community!

As we move into next week, we ask that you keep the St. Michael Class of 2026 in your prayers as they prepare for their Graduation Mass and ceremony on Wednesday, May 13. Graduation is a special milestone, and while we will miss our eighth graders dearly, we are excited for all that lies ahead for them. We pray that God continues to guide and bless them as they begin this next chapter of their journey.

Finally, with so many people to celebrate and honor, we would also like to wish a very Happy Mother’s Day to all those in our community who love, nurture, guide, and care for others so selflessly. In the Catholic tradition, we look to Mary, the Blessed Mother, as a beautiful example of faith, compassion, and unconditional love. We are grateful for all mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, and mother figures who reflect that same loving spirit in the lives of our students and families each day. May God bless you abundantly this Mother’s Day weekend.

Very Respectfully,

Mrs. Conliffe