September 16, 2024

Dear St. Raphael Families,

We hope this newsletter finds you well as we venture into another exciting week at St. Raphael School. There’s so much to share, so let’s dive right in!

As we help our children navigate an increasingly hectic world, I want to share a valuable resource with you. I recently read Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt, which highlights the challenges of shifting from a play-based childhood to one centered on smartphones. Here at St. Raphael School, we emphasize the importance of movement and play for all our students. One key takeaway from the book is the lost opportunities for social interaction when children and adolescents spend excessive time on smartphones. 

I encourage you to consider joining the “End of 8th Grade Pledge”, a commitment to delay giving your children smartphones until after eighth grade (while still allowing for basic phones or watches). This pledge activates when 10 families from the same grade or school commit to it. In light of the rising mental health challenges in young people, it’s crucial that we find ways to support their healthy development. You can learn more and sign the pledge here. 

Our school programs are continuing to take shape as the new year unfolds. Our fifth graders are diving into the Wilderness Youth Program, where they’re learning to bike together in preparation for nature-based adventures. Physical education is underway, grades 5-8 are beginning their Spanish lessons, and our music program kicks off this week. St. Raphael is truly abuzz with active and engaged learners!

We’ve also launched our Annual Fund Campaign, with a goal of raising $50,000 to support the unique programs that make our school so special. We ask that you prayerfully consider making a donation during our campaign’s kick-off. Together, we can reach this goal and continue to enrich our students’ learning experiences! Make your donation here. 

Please mark your calendars for Friday, September 25th, at 10:45 am, when we will hold our first school Mass of the year. We’ll have the privilege of joining Father Rolly for this beautiful event, where we’ll bless our Student Council and celebrate the start of another incredible school year. Your presence will make this occasion even more special, and we hope to see you there!

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in shaping the future of our students. If you have any questions or would like to get more involved in our school’s activities, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Wishing you a blessed and joyful week ahead!

Important Dates:

August 29 – September 27: STAR Testing Window

September 16: Jeans for Jesus

September 25: School Mass at 10:45 am

October 2: Pizza Begins

October 7: Picture Day

October 14: No School. Teacher In-Service

In Mary’s Love,

Ms. Michelle Limb, Principal 

Please pray this prayer with your child/ren this week as we prepare for the Feast Day of St. Raphael:  

St. Raphael, of the glorious seven who stand before the throne of Him who lives and reigns, Angel of health, the Lord has filled your hand with balm from heaven to soothe or cure our pains.  Heal or cure the victim of disease and guide our steps when doubtful of our ways.   Amen.