From the Principal's desk
From the desk of Sister Joanne
November 2011
Dear SHA Parents and Guardians,
November is a month that is rich for us in many respects both as Christians and Americans. The beautiful feast of All Saints Day reminded us of the holy men and women - some who have been singled out by the Church as models of gospel living and others we have known in our lifetimes as family members and friends - who we believe now enjoy the peace of heaven. On Friday, Veteran’s Day, we will pause to recognize the contributions and personal sacrifices that have been made and continue to be made by men and women who protect human freedom at home and all over the world. And at the end of this month we will stop and celebrate the feast (literally!) of Thanksgiving, a holiday unique to us as Americans.
We have also reached the time in the academic year when it can be said that life at SHA is “in full swing.” Our Seniors are busily engaged in applying to colleges, or for some, awaiting word of early decisions and acceptances to favorite universities and colleges. And, the entire student body is clearly steeped in producing end of trimester projects and papers, and preparing for quizzes and trimester exams. We have experienced some minor glitches with our transition to “continuous progress” through Edline, but we believe that for the most part it is working well and provides you with a picture of your daughters performance in each of her courses. Please note that each teacher will use this service in a way that reflects the nature and content of the course.
Our newly launched re-modeled website continues as in the past to provide countless glimpses of day to day life at SHA.I hope you are frequent (perhaps daily!) visitors since it will give you up to the minute SHA news and reminders of calendar changes as well as general information. Currently on display in our News section are pictures of favorite SHA events which contribute to our vibrant life as a community whether we are receiving honors, giving service, dressing up for SHAlloween, or dancing the night away with our Dads!
For me, the website is a continuous reminder of the many reasons we have to be grateful within our SHA community. The giftedness and generosity of our young women, faculty, staff, alumnae and benefactors is evident each day, both on and off campus, and continues to point me in the direction of our CSJ charism calling us to “inclusive love, unity, and reconciliation” as we strive to make this world a peaceful and just place for all its inhabitants.
As we bow our heads at our own Thanksgiving feasts, may we also recognize the personal blessings of family and friends, our faith, our health, meaningful work and the support of colleagues, and our gift of citizenship in a country that regards freedom and liberty as a birthright. May we offer grateful praise to our Creator and continue to reach out to those around us who count on our generous response to their needs. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family and blessings in abundance!
Lovingly,
S. Joanne CSJ