QUE PASA 5/13/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       As we continue through the Easter Season and this month of Mary, let us pray to our Blessed Mother for continued strength.  We must keep our faith and be reminded of the joy of new life after a time of great difficulty, as we learned from the glory of Jesus’s resurrection.   Together we can reflect on this prayer from Pope Francis:

O Mary,
You always shine on our pathas a sign of salvation and of hope.
We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick,who at the cross took part in Jesus' pain, keeping your faith firm.
Youknow what we need,
and we are sure you will provideso that, as in Cana of Galilee,we may return to joy and to feasting
after this time of trial.
Help us, Mother of Divine Love,
to conform to the will of the Father
and to do as we are told by Jesus,

who has taken upon himself our sufferings
and carried our sorrows
to lead us, through the cross,
to the joy of the resurrection.                                                      

Under your protection, we seek refuge, Holy Mother of God … deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin.  Amen.

Take care and stay safe!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

STUDENT COUNCIL UPDATES

Student Council is proud to announce SHELTER-IN -PLACE SPIRIT WEEK, happening every day next week!  A Spirit Week flyer will soon be posted. Below is a list of the themes for each day:

May 18 – Sports Madness Monday

May 19 – Tired Tuesday

May 20 – Wacky Wednesday

Thursday May 21 – Thrilling Thursday

Friday May 22 – Aztec Fun Friday 

Remember to see the flyer for more details about each day.  Show your school spirit, and participate in the activities for each day!

* The Student Council virtual elections have been cancelled, and instead elections will take place when we return to the school building.  Thank you to all the students who were planning to run for office—we will continue with the process when we are together again in person at school!

BVCC UPDATE

The BVCC Summer Program is awaiting guidelines and approval about hosting a summer program at St. Peter’s School.  Confirmation or cancellation of the program may not be announced until June. However, if guidelines are available at an earlier time, the announcement will be made as soon as possible. If you have questions about the BVCC Summer Program, please contact Rochelle at rochelle.bvcc@gmail.com or 415-713-0625.Thank you for your patience during this uncertain time.

LIFETOUCH PHOTOS UPDATE

- If you ordered Lifetouch Spring Pictures, they have been delivered to the school.  You may pick up your order while the office is open, from Monday - Thursday, 12:00 - 3:00.  If you’re not able to pick them up, the photos will safely be kept in the school office.

- 8th graders and 8th grade parents -- We are still waiting for your graduation portraits to arrive. Once they arrive at school, you will be informed.  

- If you ordered the school panoramic photo, those have not yet been delivered. 

- The shelter-in-place has delayed all photo orders and shipments.  The Lifetouch photo company greatly appreciates our patience as we wait for our photo orders.

RE-REGISTRATION AND TUITION

If you have not yet returned the yellow re-registration form, please phone the school office (415-647-8662) Monday-Thursday between 12:00-3:00, and Ms. Ticas can fill out a form for you, with parent authorization.  

For registration or tuition payments, Ms. Ticas will accept any credit card payments over the phone, or parents may drop in the office at those times (Monday-Thursday from 12:00-3:00) to submit a payment in person.

Payments may also be submitted via Venmo, by searching @SPeters-School.  In the comments section, please write your child’s full name and “Tuition” or “Registration.” 

If you have questions about registration or tuition, please call the office or email  tuition-office@sanpedro.org

FREE COVID-19 TESTS

Through the San Francisco Department of Public Health, the City and County of San Francisco is offering free COVID-19 tests for people who work or live in San Francisco.  

- You do not need medical insurance to get tested. You do not need a doctor's note to schedule a test.

- You must make an appointment. Walk-thrus or drive-thrus are available at various locations throughout the City.

- For additional details, to find the testing location nearest you, and to make an appointment, visit the website:  https://sf.gov/find-out-how-get-tested-coronavirus

* Spanish translation available by clicking on “Translate” or on the globe icon on the website.

FOOD BANK SERVICES

During these uncertain times, you or someone you know may need assistance with basic needs such as daily meals.  Here are some resources that could be helpful: 

SF/Marin Food Bank Pop-up Pantries

https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/find-food/

(Available in Spanish by clicking on the Globe icon on the website)

https://sf.gov/get-food-resources

(Available in Spanish by clicking on “Translate” on the website)

https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/blog/calfresh-responds-to-unprecedented-need/

(Available in Spanish by clicking on the Globe icon on the website)

QUE PASA 5/6/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       This Sunday, we celebrate Mother’s Day. We recognize the important role that mothers, aunts, grandmothers, and all mother-figures play in our lives!  We are thankful for the love they show us and sacrifices they make for us.  During this month of May, we also dedicate time to pray to our Blessed Mother Mary.  Especially as we face our current challenges, we look to Mary as an example of faith, love, and courage as she said YES to God!  Let us pray in thanksgiving for our Blessed Mother Mary and for all mother-figures in our lives.

Heavenly Father, 

We Praise You and we thank You for the gift of our mothers, through whom You give us life and through whom we experience love. We thank You for Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, a mother so gracious and a woman of example in motherhood for all of us.  May our prayer warm the hearts of all mothers. May they know that they are loved and precious. May mothers all over the world feel in their heart the joys of being called a mother and in all their goodness and all their failings, be blessed in Your love and forgiveness.  We pray in Grace they belong close to You Lord Jesus Christ, AMEN.

(Prayer by Geevetha Mary Samuel)

Take care and stay safe!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

As mentioned during Monday morning assembly on Class Dojo, it’s Teacher Appreciation Week! Take some time to send your teacher a message of “thanks” for the different ways that they teach you and care for you.  We’re not in the school building together, but teachers are thinking about and praying for students and families every day, and growing with students through Distance Learning. Thank you, teachers!

SCHOOL EVENTS UPDATE

As announced last week, the Archdiocesan mandated school closures have been extended until the end of this school year in June. 

With the extended school closure, some important school events have been postponed:

- First Reconciliation and First Communion will be postponed until Fall 2020.  No date will be set until school is re-opened.  Depending on guidelines/restrictions on social gatherings, these events may be further postponed until Spring 2021.

- Confirmation at St. Mary’s Cathedral is postponed until July 12, but is subject to change again depending on guidelines/restrictions on social gatherings.

- Currently planning for a modified 8thgrade graduation ceremony for June.  (Date, time, and location yet to be determined)

STUDENT COUNCIL

Even though we are not in the school building, we are continuing with teaching and learning.  We are also moving forward with our Student Council elections!

Students in Grades 5, 6, and 7 – We need new student leaders for the next school year!  As stated in your Class Story on Class Dojo, please reach out to your homeroom teacher if you are interested in running for Student Council office.  Let’s see your school spirit and leadership.  GO AZTECS!

LIFETOUCH PHOTOS UPDATE

If you ordered Lifetouch Spring Pictures, they have been delivered to the school.  You may pick up your order while the office is open, from Monday - Thursday, 12:00 - 3:00.  If you’re not able to pick them up, the photos will safely be kept in the school office.

8th graders and 8th grade parents -- We are still waiting for your graduation portraits to arrive. Once they arrive at school, you will be informed.  

If you ordered the school panoramic photo, those have not yet been delivered. 

The shelter-in-place has delayed all photo orders and shipments.  The Lifetouch photo company greatly appreciates our patience as we wait for our photo orders.

RE-REGISTRATION AND TUITION

If you have not yet returned the yellow re-registration form, please phone the school office (415-647-8662) Monday-Thursday between 12:00-3:00, and Ms. Ticas can fill out a form for you, with parent authorization.  

For registration or tuition payments, Ms. Ticas will accept any credit card payments over the phone, or parents may drop in the office at those times (Monday-Thursday from 12:00-3:00) to submit a payment in person.

Payments may also be submitted via Venmo, by searching @SPeters-School.  In the comments section, please write your child’s full name and “Tuition” or “Registration.” 

If you have questions about registration or tuition, please call the office or email  tuition-office@sanpedro.org

FOOD BANK SERVICES

During these uncertain times, you or someone you know may need assistance with basic needs such as daily meals.  Here are some resources that could be helpful: 

SF/Marin Food Bank Pop-up Pantries

https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/find-food/

(Available in Spanish by clicking on the Globe icon on the website)

https://sf.gov/get-food-resources

(Available in Spanish by clicking on “Translate” on the website)

https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/blog/calfresh-responds-to-unprecedented-need/

(Available in Spanish by clicking on the Globe icon on the website)

QUE PASA 4/29/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       As the month of April draws to a close, I reflect on what our school community has experienced in a relatively short amount of time—our school accreditation visit, the school closure, Distance Learning, shelter-in place.  Simultaneously, we transitioned from Lent to the joy and new life of the Easter season.  God reminds us that after enduring a challenge, we can emerge stronger and even more grateful for the blessings that we have.  I feel we are learning and growing from facing challenges, and I am grateful for the hard work and support of everyone—teachers, staff, parents, students—especially over these past several weeks.

       I continue to keep our entire school community in my prayers, and together, we can turn to God for strength and guidance as we face the effects of the pandemic.  Here is a prayer (from the Kildare and Leighlin Diocese) that we can offer together:

Loving and healing God, we stand before you as people of hope, trusting in your care and protection. May your faithful love support us and soothe the anxiety of our hearts. Generous God, fill us with compassion and concern for others, that we may look after one another in these challenging days.  Bring healing to those who are sick with the virus.  May those who have died rest in your eternal embrace.  Comfort their family and friends. Strengthen and protect all medical professionals caring for the sick and all who work in our medical facilities. Give wisdom to leaders in healthcare and governance, that they may make the right decisions for the well-being of all people.  We pray in gratitude for those who continue to work in the days ahead in so many fields of life for the sake of us all.  Bless them and keep them safe.  AMEN.

Take care and stay safe!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

SCHOOL EVENTS UPDATE

As announced last week, the Archdiocesan mandated school closures have been extended until the end of this school year in June. 

With the extended school closure, some important school events have been postponed:

- First Reconciliation and First Communion will be postponed until Fall 2020.  No date will be set until school is re-opened.  Depending on guidelines/restrictions on social gatherings, these events may be further postponed until Spring 2021.

- Confirmation at St. Mary’s Cathedral is postponed until July 12, but is subject to change again depending on guidelines/restrictions on social gatherings.

- Currently planning for a modified 8th grade graduation ceremony for June.  (Date, time, and location yet to be determined)

CLASSES ON ZOOM

Since last week, we have increased the frequency of class meetings on Zoom.  By now, teachers have notified parents and students of the regular Zoom meetings on Class Dojo.  (Middle school students may have also received the schedule via their school email.)  

Please make sure that you and your child are aware of these regular Zoom meetings, and be prepared with the learning materials as directed by the teacher.  Participation in Zoom sessions is very important!  If you have any questions about Zoom meetings or any Distance Learning assignments, contact your child’s teacher via Class Dojo or email.

LIFETOUCH PHOTOS UPDATE

If you ordered Lifetouch Spring Pictures, they have been delivered to the school.  You may pick up your order while the office is open, from Monday - Thursday, 12:00 - 3:00.  If you’re not able to pick them up, the photos will safely be kept in the school office.

8th graders and 8th grade parents -- We are still waiting for your graduation portraits to arrive. Once they arrive at school, you will be informed.  

If you ordered the school panoramic photo, those have not yet been delivered. 

The shelter-in-place has delayed all photo orders and shipments.  The Lifetouch photo company greatly appreciates our patience as we wait for our photo orders.

RE-REGISTRATION AND TUITION

If you have not yet returned the yellow re-registration form, please phone the school office (415-647-8662) Monday-Thursday between 12:00-3:00, and Ms. Ticas can fill out a form for you, with parent authorization.  

For registration or tuition payments, Ms. Ticas will accept any credit card payments over the phone, or parents may drop in the office at those times (Monday-Thursday from 12:00-3:00) to submit a payment in person.

Payments may also be submitted via Venmo, by searching @SPeters-School.  In the comments section, please write your child’s full name and “Tuition” or “Registration.” 

If you have questions about registration or tuition, please call the office or email  tuition-office@sanpedro.org

FOOD BANK SERVICES

During these uncertain times, you or someone you know may need assistance with basic needs such as daily meals.  Here are some resources that could be helpful: 

SF/Marin Food Bank Pop-up Pantries

https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/find-food/

(Available in Spanish by clicking on the Globe icon on the website)

https://sf.gov/get-food-resources

(Available in Spanish by clicking on “Translate” on the website)

https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/blog/calfresh-responds-to-unprecedented-need/

(Available in Spanish by clicking on the Globe icon on the website)

QUE PASA 4/22/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       We are now in the Easter season, but what does living the spirit of the Easter season mean? Here are three suggestions from, “Be Fearless, Be Joyful, Be Renewed: Living the Spirit of Easter” (www.loyolapress.com). I feel that as we endure the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, these Easter reminders can also help us to stay hopeful and positive!

Live With Joy.  The Passion and Resurrection of Jesus teach us that suffering is transformed through faith in the Risen Christ. With this faith, we are able to hold on to an enduring sense of joy even in the midst of the sadness we experience from the loss of a loved one, a failure to achieve an important goal, or a setback during recovery from an illness.

Live Without Fear.  The Resurrection teaches us that God can overcome anything, even death. When the Risen Christ appears to the women at the tomb and later to his disciples, his first words are “Do not be afraid!” (Mt 28:5). These words speak to our hearts, helping us cope with fear. Our faith allows us to trust that God can overcome our most serious problems.

Live With New Eyes.  Just as the return of spring makes us feel like the whole world is new, the Resurrection of Jesus makes “all things new” (Rev. 21:5).  The Easter spirit is a spirit of renewal that enables us to show up at work with a positive attitude, to renew relationships that have been taken for granted, and to express appreciation and affection to those closest to us. It means to see the world through new eyes—God´s eyes!

The Resurrection reminds me to stay faithful.  Let’s do our best to help each other keep the faith and not lose hope!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

SCHOOL CLOSURE

As I shared on Monday via Class Dojo and SchoolSpeak (email), Superintendent Pam Lyons has officially announced that the Archdiocesan school closures and Distance Learning will extend until the end of the school year.  (For St. Peter’s School, our last day of school is Friday, June 12.)  Therefore, Distance Learning will continue until the end of this school year.

Teachers and school administration will keep parents updated regarding events such as First Holy Communion, Confirmation, and Graduation.  We are working with our pastor, Father Moises, to see how we will proceed with these events.  With the restrictions on large gatherings, it is difficult to predict and plan at this time, so your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated!

CLASSES ON ZOOM

This week, we have begun more frequent class meetings on Zoom.  By now, teachers have notified parents and students of the regular Zoom meetings on Class Dojo.  (Middle school students may have also received the schedule via their school email.)  

*For Middle School students, there may be two sessions on one day, depending on their subject area teacher.

Please make sure that you and your child are aware of these regular Zoom meetings, and be prepared with the learning materials as directed by the teacher.  If you have any questions about Zoom meetings or any Distance Learning assignments, contact your child’s teacher via Class Dojo or email.

LIFETOUCH PHOTOS

If you ordered any Lifetouch Photos—8th grade graduation portraits, Spring pictures, or school Panoramic pictures—all orders have been put on hold.  Production and deliveries to and from the Lifetouch photo lab are suspended, and Lifetouch will contact the school once the photos are shipped out. 

Lifetouch apologizes for the inconvenience and is grateful for our understanding on this matter.

RE-REGISTRATION AND TUITION

If you have not yet returned the yellow re-registration form, please phone the school office (415-647-8662) Monday-Thursday between 12:00-3:00, and Ms. Ticas can fill out a form for you, with parent authorization.  

For registration or tuition payments, Ms. Ticas will accept any credit card payments over the phone, or parents may drop in the office at those times (Monday-Thursday from 12:00-3:00) to submit a payment in person.

Payments may also be submitted via Venmo, by searching @SPeters-School.  In the comments section, please write your child’s full name and “Tuition” or “Registration.” 

If you have questions about registration or tuition, please call the office or email  tuition-office@sanpedro.org

FREE COVID-19 TESTS

The organization Unidos en Salud/United in Health is offering a helpful service for a limited time.  Through a partnership between UCSF, the Latino Task Force for COVID-19, and SF Department of Public Health, they are offering free COVID-19 testing for all persons age 4 years and older in part of the Mission.

To qualify, you must live or work within a certain area of the Mission AND pre-register for the test.  Registration is now open online.  Testing will occur from April 25-28, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.

To check if you (through your address) are eligible for this test and to register, please visit this website, available in both English and Spanish: https://www.unidosensalud.org

FOOD BANK SERVICES

During these uncertain times, you or someone you know may need assistance with basic needs such as daily meals.  Here are some resources that could be very helpful.

The Food Bank will be distributing bags of groceries on a weekly basis: 

- Thursdays near Mission High School (Dolores Street between 18th and 19th Street)

- Fridays outside of Lincoln High School on 24th Avenue

* Both places will be operating from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  

The SF-Marin Food Bank also has a “Locator” tool to find food assistance (such as weekly groceries or one-time emergency food) in San Francisco.  One of their locations is our own St. Peter’s Church. To access this information and to enroll in their programs, visit the SF-Marin Food Bank website, in both English and Español:

https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/find-food/

QUE PASA 4/8/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

     During Lent, we have been faced with a variety of unexpected challenges due to COVID-19.  Such difficulties may have tested our faith, but the season of Lent also provided us all an opportunity and a reminder to talk to God, reflect, and take action.  These challenges could then be seen as opportunities for us to learn and grow stronger in different ways--spiritually, socially, emotionally, and academically. 

     Our Lenten journey, with all its twists and turns, has now brought us to Holy Week, and I hope that we all can continue to grow and learn amidst these challenges.  As a school family and a family at home, we can share the love that God the Father has shown us.  Remember Jesus’ gift of the Eucharist on Holy Thursday, and the ultimate sacrifice he made for us on Good Friday so that our sins could be forgiven. Together, take time to say a prayer of thanksgiving for God’s love as we await Jesus’ resurrection on Easter. 

We pray:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of everlasting life brought about by the resurrection of your son from the dead! This dark night is enlightened by a glimpse of the greatest mystery.  Our minds could never have conceived how you would save us, Lord, nor can we ever fully understand the depths of your love in choosing to do so.  We thank you for all that you have done for us throughout Lent. Now, throughout Easter, grant us the fullness of life.  AMEN.

(Adapted from “The Joy of Lent: Encouragement and Daily Prayers”)

I pray that you all have a joyous Easter.  Take some time to safely enjoy the outdoors and take in some spring air! Take care!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez  

LIFETOUCH PHOTOS

If you ordered any Lifetouch Photos—8th grade graduation portraits, Spring pictures, or school Panoramic pictures—all orders have been put on hold.  Production and deliveries to and from the Lifetouch photo lab are suspended, and Lifetouch will contact the school once the photos are shipped out. 

Lifetouch apologizes for the inconvenience and is grateful for our understanding on this matter.

DISTANCE LEARNING

During the school closure, students should be completing their daily work.  Teachers are posting assignments, links, videos, and Zoom invitations regularly on Class Dojo.  Please follow their directions on how to submit student work each day and how to check-in for student attendance.  Please contact your child’s teacher if you have any questions.

This Friday, there is no school for Good Friday, and from April 13-17 is Easter Vacation.  Therefore, from Friday, April 10 through Friday, April 17, there will be no new assignments or Zoom classes for Distance Learning.  Assignments and Zoom classes will resume on Monday, April 20.

RE-REGISTRATION AND TUITION

If you have not yet returned the yellow re-registration form, please phone the school office (415-647-8662) Monday-Thursday between 12:00-3:00, and Ms. Ticas can fill out a form for you, with parent authorization.  

For registration or tuition payments, Ms. Ticas will accept any credit card payments over the phone, or parents may drop in the office at those times (Monday-Thursday from 12:00-3:00) to submit a payment in person.

Payments may also be submitted via Venmo, with the QR code or by searching @SPeters-School.  In the comments section, please write your child’s full name and “Tuition” or “Registration.” 

** The Venmo Code is available on the PDF Que Pasa posted for parents on Class Dojo. You can also find the school on Venmo with the school's username: @SPeters-School

If you have questions about registration or tuition, please call the office or email  tuition-office@sanpedro.org

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

Please complete the application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant on mytads.com by APRIL 15. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).   If your 2019 taxes or income information are not yet prepared, you may temporarily submit income information from 2018.  If possible, please submit your application early so there is enough time to review all documents.  The Archdiocese is not granting any extensions for the Family Grant applications.

BASIC FUND

The BASIC Fund renewal application links have been emailed to parents.  This email will include instructions on how to successfully complete the renewal application.  The deadline to complete the renewal application is Friday, APRIL 17.

If you have questions about this process, please email Myrna at msoberanis@sanpedro.com

FOOD BANK SERVICES

During these uncertain times, you or someone you know may need assistance with basic needs such as daily meals.  Here are some resources that could be very helpful.

The Food Bank will be distributing bags of groceries on a weekly basis: 

- Thursdays near Mission High School (Dolores Street between 18th and 19th Street)

- Fridays outside of Lincoln High School on 24th Avenue

* Both places will be operating from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  

The SF-Marin Food Bank also has a “Locator” tool to find food assistance (such as weekly groceries or one-time emergency food) in San Francisco.  One of their locations is our own St. Peter’s Church. To access this information and to enroll in their programs, visit the SF-Marin Food Bank website, in both English and Español:

https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/find-food/

QUE PASA 4/1/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       Happy April! Spring blessings to you and your family as we begin a new month.  Even though we are sheltering in place and are not venturing outside as much as usual, I hope you and your family are safely able to go out and take in some fresh spring air together! 

       We are fast approaching the beginning of Holy Week this coming Sunday, which is Palm Sunday.  Though the Gospel reading for Palm Sunday recalls a sad time in Jesus’ life, we must also remember that after the sadness and hardship came miraculous joy! Perhaps this can be a reminder to us that while we are experiencing challenges now, we will overcome these challenges and we will have learned from all of our new experiences, with Jesus by our side.  We continue our Lenten reflections, and at home, we can prepare our hearts for Jesus through prayer and service for our loved ones.  Even doing helpful little tasks around the house can show great love! During your Lenten journey, I pray that you and your family have grown closer to God, and strengthen your faith and service towards God during Holy Week and throughout the year.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we enter into Holy Week so that we might accompany you through your passion to your death. We have to remember that your story does not end in sadness. Rather, your story is the greatest love story that we could ever know. Holy Week gives us an opportunity to participate in that love story in a profound and personal way. We pray that you give us a special attentiveness during Holy Week, Lord. Shower us with your grace!  AMEN.

(Adapted from “The Joy of Lent: Encouragement and Daily Prayers”)

Take care, everyone!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

SCHOOL CALENDAR 

With San Francisco’s Shelter-in-Place order, the school closure has been extended through Easter vacation, which takes us to April 20.  At this time, it is undecided that the school building will re-open on April 20 or if we will continue with Distance Learning.

Because of this uncertainty, the restrictions on large social gatherings, and recommendations on social distancing, school events that were originally on the school calendar will either be postponed or cancelled.  We appreciate your patience while we wait for further guidelines and instructions. 

DISTANCE LEARNING

During the school closure, students should be completing their daily work.  Teachers are posting assignments, links, videos, and Zoom invitations regularly on Class Dojo.  Please follow their directions on how to submit student work each day and how to check-in for student attendance.  Please contact your child’s teacher if you have any questions.

If your family is in need of Internet connection at home, Comcast is offering two free months of service, and Sonic is offering 3 free months of service.  Click on the links below for more information:

COMCAST – (English) https://www.internetessentials.com

COMCAST (Español) https://es.internetessentials.com

SONIC – https://www.sonic.com/cov19

RE-REGISTRATION AND TUITION

The yellow re-registration form for the upcoming school year is now due.  If you have not yet returned this form, please phone the school office (415-647-8662) Monday-Thursday between 12:00-3:00, and Ms. Ticas can fill out a form for you, with parent authorization.  

For registration or tuition payments, Ms. Ticas will accept any credit card payments over the phone, or parents may drop in the office at those times (Monday-Thursday from 12:00-3:00) to submit a payment in person.

Payments may also be submitted via Venmo.  In the comments section, please write your child’s full name and “Tuition” or “Registration.” 

** The Venmo Code is available on the PDF Que Pasa posted for parents on Class Dojo. You can also find the school on Venmo with the school's username: @SPeters-School

If you have questions about registration or tuition, please call the office or email  tuition-office@sanpedro.org

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

Please complete the application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant on mytads.com by APRIL 15. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).   If possible, please submit your application early so there is enough time to review all documents. 

BASIC FUND

The BASIC Fund renewal application links have been emailed to parents.  This email will include instructions on how to successfully complete the renewal application.  The deadline to complete the renewal application is Friday, APRIL 17.

If you have questions about this process, please email Myrna at msoberanis@sanpedro.com

FOOD BANK SERVICES

During these uncertain times, you or someone you know may need assistance with basic needs such as daily meals.  Here are some resources that could be very helpful.

The Food Bank will be distributing bags of groceries on a weekly basis: 

- Thursdays near Mission High School (Dolores Street between 18th and 19th Street)

- Fridays outside of Lincoln High School on 24th Avenue

* Both places will be operating from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  

The SF-Marin Food Bank also has a “Locator” tool to find food assistance (such as weekly groceries or one-time emergency food) in San Francisco.  One of their locations is our own St. Peter’s Church. To access this information and to enroll in their programs, visit the SF-Marin Food Bank website, in both English and Español:

https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/find-food/

QUE PASA 3/25/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

        I hope that you and your loved ones are staying safe and healthy during our shelter-in-place.   Even though the school building is closed, please know that the teachers and I are keeping all of our students and families in our thoughts and prayers every day.

       For reflection, I’d like to share an excerpt of an article, “A Faith Response to the Coronavirus” by Paul Canavese (2020).  During these trying times, we should remind ourselves to connect with our Faith, especially during this season of Lent, as we remember Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for us.

“This health crisis is challenging many of us to make sacrifices in our lives. Some are huge, such as those made by health care workers around the world, trying to help patients while avoiding the illness themselves.

Other sacrifices fall more in the category of inconveniences.  It is inconvenient when events are canceled, when travel is limited.  

But this kind of sacrifice is at the very center of our faith.  Every time we gather around the Lord’s Table, we celebrate the powerful way Christ showed us how to love others. He sacrificed everything in self-giving love for us, and he invited us to do the same. 

Ultimately, as are called to live out the four cardinal virtues:

Prudence: Carefully discern the best course of action, not just for ourselves, but for the good of all.

Justice: Seek fairness for everyone, especially those who need it most.

Temperance: Find a healthy balance between self-care and care for others.

Fortitude: Persevere in times of trial and difficulty.”

       During these difficult and unusual times, we continue to move forward, knowing that God’s love can give us the guidance strength, and courage to carry on. 

Take care, everyone!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

SCHOOL CALENDAR 

With San Francisco’s Shelter-in-Place order, the school closure has been extended through Easter Vacation.  School will then resume on April 20.  However, at this time, it is still undecided if schooling will continue via Distance Learning or if the school buildings will re-open for classes.  The Superintendent’s letter (in English and Spanish) has been shared via Class Dojo. Please take a few moments to read this information on your Class Dojo account. 

I will continue to keep families updated on the school closure situation.  Thank you for your support and understanding as we navigate through these challenging times.

DISTANCE LEARNING

During the school closure, students should still be completing their daily work.  Teachers are posting assignments, links, and videos daily on Class Dojo.  Please follow their directions on how to submit student work each day and how to check-in for student attendance.  Please contact your child’s teacher if you have any questions.

**Middle School students – Please also check your school email daily! In addition to posting on Class Dojo, your teachers will email you your assignments and directions.

If your family is in need of Internet connection at home, Comcast is offering two free months of service, and Sonic is offering 3 free months of service.  Click on the links below for more information:

COMCAST – (English) https://www.internetessentials.com

(Español) https://es.internetessentials.com

SONIC – https://www.sonic.com/cov19

A second parent survey (previously shared on Class Dojo and SchoolSpeak) is open for parents to share their feedback on the Distance Learning experience.  If you have not done so already, please click on the link to complete this survey- https://forms.gle/3zLwTLCmH3jS8qJn9

Your input is very important as we move forward with our Distance Learning plans, so please complete the survey today.  Thank you!

FOOD BANK SERVICES

During these uncertain times, you or someone you know may need assistance with basic needs such as daily meals.  Here are some resources that could be very helpful.

The Food Bank will be distributing bags of groceries on a weekly basis: 

- Thursdays near Mission High School (Dolores Street between 18th and 19th Street)

- Fridays outside of Lincoln High School on 24th Avenue

* Both places will be operating from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  

The SF-Marin Food Bank also has a “Locator” tool to find food assistance (such as weekly groceries or one-time emergency food) in San Francisco.  One of their locations is our own St. Peter’s Church. To access this information and to enroll in their programs, visit the SF-Marin Food Bank website, in both English and Español:

https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/find-food/

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2020-2021

The yellow re-registration form for the upcoming school year is now due.  If you have not yet returned this form, please phone the school office (415-647-8662) between 12:00-3:00 on the following days, and Ms. Ticas can fill out a form for you, with parent authorization.  She will also accept any credit card payments over the phone.

-        Wednesday, March 25

-        Tuesday, March 31

-        Wednesday, April 1

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

Please complete the application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant on mytads.com by APRIL 15. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).   If possible, please submit your application early so there is enough time to review all documents. 

BASIC FUND

An application link will be emailed to renewing families by the end of March.  This email will include instructions on how to successfully complete the renewal application.  The deadline to complete the renewal application is Friday, APRIL 17. 

QUE PASA 3/18/2020 (English)

Dear Parents,

        I hope you and your families are staying safe and healthy during our school closure.  Let’s continue to do our best to practice social distancing and avoid large crowds as much as possible so that we can help stop the spread of the Coronavirus.

       Below, I’d like to share an adapted reflection and prayer written by Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops:

“With the worldwide outbreak of the coronavirus, we are confronted once more with the fragility of our lives, and again we are reminded of our common humanity—that the peoples of this world are our brothers and sisters, that we are all one family under God. … United with our Holy Father Pope Francis, let us pray in solidarity for our brothers and sisters here and around the world who are sick. Let us pray for those who have lost loved ones to this virus. May God console them and grant them peace. … We pray also for doctors, nurses, and caregivers, for public health officials and all civic leaders. May God grant them courage and prudence as they seek to respond to this emergency with compassion and in service to the common good.

In this time of need, I invite all the faithful to seek together the maternal intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and I share this prayer with you:  

Holy Virgin of Guadalupe,
Queen of the Angels and Mother of the Americas.
We fly to you today as your beloved children.
Pray for us, loving Mother,
and gain for our nation and world,
and for all our families and loved ones,
the protection of your holy angels,
that we may be spared the worst of this illness.                         

For those already afflicted,
we ask you to obtain the grace of healing and deliverance.
Hear the cries of those who are vulnerable and fearful,
wipe away their tears and help them to trust.                               

In this time of trial and testing,
teach all of us in the Church to love one another and to be patient and kind.
Help us to bring the peace of Jesus to our land and to our hearts.                                                                                    Shelter us under the mantle of your protection,
keep us in the embrace of your arms,
help us always to know the love of your Son, Jesus. Amen.”

Take care, everyone!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

SCHOOL CALENDAR 

With San Francisco’s Shelter-in-Place order, the school closure will be extended past the original date of March 25.  However, we are still awaiting a school return date from our Superintendent of Catholic Schools.  

Because of this uncertainty, the restrictions on large social gatherings, and recommendations on social distancing, school events that were originally on the school calendar will either be postponed or cancelled.  (This include all CYO Athletic games.)  We appreciate your patience while we wait for further guidelines and instructions.  Once I know more information, including school dates and re-scheduling of events, I will communicate with parents via Class Dojo and/or SchoolSpeak.

DISTANCE LEARNING

During the school closure, students should still be completing their daily work.  Teachers are posting assignments, links, and videos daily on Class Dojo.  Please follow their directions on how to submit student work each day and how to check-in for student attendance.  Please contact your child’s teacher if you have any questions.

**Middle School students – Please also check your school email daily! In addition to posting on Class Dojo, your teachers will email you your assignments and directions.

A very short parent survey was shared via Class Dojo, and is also available by clicking https://forms.gle/BGW23FFdiE3QNWCn7

Your input is very important as we move forward with our Distance Learning plans, so please complete the survey today.  Thank you!

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2020-2021

The yellow re-registration form for the upcoming school year is now due.  If you have not yet returned this form, please phone the school office on Wednesday, March 18 between 12:00-3:00 or Thursday, March 19 between 11:00-1:00, and Ms. Ticas can fill out a form for you, with parent authorization. 

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

Please complete the application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant on mytads.com by APRIL 15. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).   If possible, please submit your application early so there is enough time to review all documents. 

BASIC FUND

An application link will be emailed to renewing families by the end of March.  This email will include instructions on how to successfully complete the renewal application.  The deadline to complete the renewal application is Friday, APRIL 17.

QUE PASA 3/11/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

        With all the different responsibilities we have as parents, it is very easy for us to feel overwhelmed and tired. This week has been especially full—with our school accreditation visit, our children’s report cards going home, and the worries about the Coronavirus.  Yet let’s not forget how Jesus can be a source of strength and a loving comfort to us, and how we can follow his example to spread that love and be a positive example for our children. 

How true are Jesus’ words, which invite those who are tired and weary to come to Him to find rest! His arms outstretched on the cross show that no one is excluded from his love and his mercy, not even the greatest sinner: no one!

-Pope Francis

Heavenly Father, your son’s death on the cross stands as a testament to your endless love and care for all of us. No one who seeks you out is excluded from your love, no matter what we have done. No one is cut off from your mercy, no matter how great our suffering. Give me the courage, Lord, to always look to Christ crucified as the promise of mercy for me. In this Lenten season, give me the confidence to trust that your love for me will never die. AMEN.

(from “The Joy of Lent: Encouragement and Daily Prayers”)

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE

Letters were sent home and a “School Story” was posted on Class Dojo regarding the closure of all schools in the Archdiocese, from March 12 through March 25.  No one in our school community has tested positive for COVID-19 (Coronavirus), but we are following the direction of the Superintendent of Catholic Schools.

The plan is for schools to re-open on Thursday, March 26.  Until then, teachers will be sending home schoolwork beginning today, and then sharing further assignments and directions via Class Dojo.  All students are taking their textbooks home, and these textbooks must be returned when we all return to school.  The expectation is that children continue their work and studies daily, so it is VERY IMPORTANT that parents check Class Dojo each school day. There will be due dates (set by the teachers) during the 2-week school closure when students/parents will need to submit proof of completed work. 

Middle school students should also check their school emails daily to see updates from their subject-area teachers regarding assignments.

**Since Friday, March 12 was already scheduled as a student holiday to accommodate the faculty retreat, no assignments will be assigned for that day.

CHROMEBOOK / TABLET LOANS

Since there will be online assignments for students (such as on ST Math, Lexia, and Mathletics) during the school closure, students will need access to the internet and a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. 

If your family does not have a device at home, you may borrow a device from school.  (One device per family.)  To borrow a device, please stop by the school office today (Wednesday, March 11) by 5:30 PM.  Tomorrow, the school office ONLY will be open (Thursday, March 12) from 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM.  Parents must be present to pick up the device for their children, and must sign a Device Loan Agreement before taking the device home.  Devices will NOT be released to students without a parent present.

CANCELLED EVENTS

The following events have been cancelled:

- Parent-Teacher Conferences (March 17-20)

     *Teachers will contact parents to schedule a conference if

       necessary.

- Aztec Trek Walk-a-Thon and Game Day (March 20)

     *Aztec Trek will be re-scheduled for a different date.

- Parent First Communion Meeting (March 18)

- All CYO Athletic games, until further notice

REPORT CARDS

As scheduled, report cards will be going home with each student today.  Please go over the report card with your child.  The report card must be signed and returned when school reopens, so please keep the report card in a safe place until then!

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2020-2021

The yellow re-registration form for the upcoming school year is now due.  Re-registration payments are due on March 27.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

Please complete the application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant on mytads.com by APRIL 15. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.). 

BASIC FUND

New and returning students for the 2020-2021 school year must go online to www.basicfund.org and complete a NEW BASIC Fund Application no later than March 18, 2020.  All student tuition accounts must be current with no past due balances.

QUE PASA 3/4/2020 (English)

Dear Parents,

        As parents, we strive to be role models of open hearts and open minds for our children.  Here at school, we encourage each other to develop a growth mindset and live our St. Peter’s School KEYS so that we can open our hearts and minds.  Lent pushes us to dig out of our souls all the things that have clogged our hearts, the little sins that we clench in our fists, keeping us from opening our hands, hearts, and minds freely. God is offering to not only lift the burden from our shoulders, but also to help in rebalancing our load in the future. Tossing those small bad habits, pushing aside bitterness and resentment so that we might love God with our whole heart, and with all our strength.

        Such reflections during Lent are closely connected to our five core values to Grow, Accomplish, Love, Serve, and Unite.  Similarly, they tie in with our upcoming WCEA/WASC Accreditation 3-day visit next week, from Tuesday through Thursday.  Throughout our preparation process, our school community has identified not only our academic, social, and spiritual accomplishments, but also areas where we can grow and improve.  As we hope and pray that our Lenten journey brings us closer to Jesus, we hope that our accreditation journey brings our school community to continued success and overall growth—spiritually, academically, socially—so that we can continue our Mission:  St. Peter’s Catholic School community nurtures the whole child to develop a lifelong passion for learning and to live out the Works of Mercy.

       Please keep the faculty, staff, and students in your prayers during these last few days of preparation of the 3-day visit  We thank you, parents, for your participation and support!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

If your child has not yet turned in the minimum $100 collection for the Aztec Trek fundraiser, please submit this collection to the office immediately. This money is now overdue. Thank you for your cooperation on this matter! 

The field trip permission form (for the off-campus Aztec Trek walk-a-thon) is being sent home with this Que Pasa.  Please return this completed form by Thursday, March 12.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Going home with each child today is a Parent-Teacher Conference time request.  Spring Parent-Teacher Conferences are mandatory for all students and are being held from Tuesday, March 17 through Friday, March 20.  These days are all 12:30 dismissals to accommodate conferences. 

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2020-2021

The yellow re-registration form for the upcoming school year, along with the new tuition rates for 2020-2021, were sent home with Que Pasa.  Extras are available in the office. Please return the re-registration form by March 12, 2020 in order to help plan for the new school year.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

Please complete the application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant on mytads.com by APRIL 15. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  

BASIC FUND

New and returning students for the 2020-2021 school year must go online to www.basicfund.org and complete a NEW BASIC Fund Application no later than March 18, 2020.  All student tuition accounts must be current with no past due balances. 

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - Happy March! During this first week of Lent and as we honor Dr. Seuss, I have a good way for us to continue our Lenten Promise. Let's get Epic! on our phones or tablets. It's free, easy and provides a world of books to read or books that will read to you! We are already using this in the classroom, but you can use it at home too. It is free for everyone! Go to www.getepic.com or download the Epic! App from the App Store. The more you read, the more you'll know! The more you'll learn, the more places you'll go! 

1A - This week, we are reading, writing, and learning about how people work with animals. We are working on the long e sound, with the ey and y spellings (as in key and funny). In religion, we are learning about the importance of the Lenten season. In math, we are continuing our work with place value. In science, we are continuing our study of light and translucency. In social studies, we are continuing our study of American symbols. 

2A – We are reading “Once Upon a Baby Brother.” We are learning some new strategies for solving word problems (adding and subtracting 2-digit numbers). We have been visiting the garden with this beautiful weather. We are really practicing our prayers! We are talking about our small acts of kindness during the Lenten season. What are some Lenten activities your family does together? 

3A – This week, 3A will continue to focus on Lent and our Lenten promises. We are challenging ourselves to see who can donate the most money to the MCA (Missionary Childhood Association). We know that our donations will go to help poor schools and orphanages in Nigeria, India and the Philippines. This week in Social Studies, we will begin a unit on American symbols and monuments. Please help your child find pictures and explanations of our famous monuments and American symbols on the internet. 3A continues to practice language, reading, and math by using STMath and Lexia on our tablets to improve critical skills needed in future grades. Thank you for having your children practice these skills on their home devices. 

4A - Welcome to March! Thank you for all your help and support during our busy February month. During the season of Lent, 4th grade will be praying for one classmate each day. This is a way for us to ask God to guide our friends closer to Jesus and to grow in faith during this season. In Reading, we will finish our novel study of Frindle. After we have concluded this novel study, we will move into our next novel BFG. In Math, we will continue to focus on multiplication and division. We will be taking our mid-module assessment this week. In Social Studies, we will learn about our Missions project! In Science, we will continue with our unit on Energy. Thank you!

5A - 5th graders are beginning our first fractions unit in math this week. We'll start by learning about equivalent fractions. In reading, we're using close reading skills to dig deeper into informational texts. In religion, we're thinking about how we can show kindness to others throughout this Lenten season. 

6A  Religion – 6th grade is continuing their Lenten Journal Reflections each day and will be comparing different stories in the Gospels that are related to the Lenten season. This week, they will compare: Jesus is tempted in the desert in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.  Language Arts – Students have completed their advertising Shoe Posters and they are quite persuasive. This week, we'll have a gallery walk to identify all of the techniques students used and to vote for our favorites. We'll also dive into the art of debate and the best strategies to win an argument.   Math – Students have been working with decimals, had an assessment on Tuesday (March 3), and will have a test to be signed this week by a guardian and returned. Please review with your students when you are counting money with change at home so they can practice their adding and subtracting with decimals.   Social Studies – Students will end their Ancient Hebrews Unit with their comparison of Christianity and Judaism.  Science – Scientists will continue landforms and rocks learning and explore various Earth systems (geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere).

7A  Religion – 7th grade will continue reflecting in their Lenten Journal with the four types of prayer: Praise, Thanks, Sorrow, and Petition. Students will also complete the Schoolwide Learning Expectations Test and explore St. Peter's for an SPS scavenger hunt!   Language Arts - Students are finalizing their reading of Freak the Mighty. They will continue to respond to a series of comprehension questions to ensure understanding of the overall content. They will also participate in post-reading activities to end the novel.   Math - Students have been busy working with integers, converting fractions to decimals by long division or by making equivalent fractions with a base ten number. They had an assessment on Tuesday, March 3rd and will be getting those back soon to be signed by a guardian.   Social Studies – Students will complete a Document Based Question assignment. They will use documents from Medieval Europe as evidence to answer the question: How did the Black Plague change life in Europe?   Science – Students review genetics and heredity as we look forward to show our growth in knowledge around these topics. Next up: genetic disorder research!

8A   Religion - Students will continue to identify the meaning and importance of Lent.  Language Arts - Students are well into Zoot Suit--they have completed Act 1 and will begin Act 2 next week. Will the Pachucos win the appeal or continue to suffer unfair punishment? Students will also interpret the role of Pachuco, is he real or an imaginary character to Henry Reyna?   Math –Students have been working with angles and triangles and finding missing angles and lengths. They have been busy working with the Pythagorean Theorem and solving multi-step equations and will be getting tests passed back soon that will need to be signed by a guardian.  Social Studies – Students will end Trimester 2 by giving their 2-minute amendment speech to the class, convincing Congress to pass their amendment into law. They will also have a special lesson about immigration history taught by Ms. Hanley, our USF Partner who supports 8th grade history class.   Science - After studying the mechanics of mousetrap cars, students begin engineering their machines! Tentative race date: March 12.

REMINDERS

Mar. 6             END OF TRIMESTER 2

Mar. 10-12      WCEA/WASC 3-day School Accreditation Visit

Mar. 11           Report Cards sent home

Mar. 13           NO SCHOOL, Faculty Retreat

Mar. 17-20     12:30 Dismissal days for Parent-Teacher Conferences

Mar. 18           5:45 PM First Communion Parent Meeting in  Church

Mar. 19           8:30 AM Lenten Reconciliation for Grades 3-4

Mar. 20           Aztec Trek Walk-a-Thon and Game Day

QUE PASA 2/26/2020 (English)

Dear Parents,

        Today, Ash Wednesday, marks the beginning Lent. This is a special liturgical season when we take time to pray, reflect, repent, and renew so that we can grow closer to God as we prepare for the death and resurrection of Jesus.  Here is a reflection (from Daily Reflections for Lent: Not By Bread Alone 2019) to help us begin our journey through Lent with each other and with our children.  

Ash Wednesday is marked with a somber sign of our faith.  The cross on our forehead is meant to leave a lasting imprint deep within, like a spiritual tattoo that will linger long after we complete the 40-day course.  The sacrifices and prayers of the season help us clear a path, but we can’t stop there, not if we want to experience real transformation. God wants nothing less than our hearts broken open so that he might find a resting place within and make us whole. Yes, the exterior practices are important, but what matters most is what happens unseen within our hearts and souls. 

Heavenly Father, guide us in the right ways as we begin our Lenten journey. Give us the courage to allow ourselves to be transformed by your love. Help us to use our Lenten sacrifices to dig deeper into our spiritual center and carve out a space for you alone.  AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

THANK YOU!

Thank you to all the loving parent volunteers and donations that made our Annual Family Dinner and Dance a successful event last Saturday!  Special school events like these would not be possible without the help of parent volunteers. If you’d like to help plan future school community events, please contact Mrs. Jimenez through Class Dojo or email sjimenez@sanpedro.org. 

AZTEC TREK

If your child has not yet turned in the minimum $100 collection for the Aztec Trek fundraiser, please submit this collection to the office immediately. This money is now overdue. Thank you for your cooperation on this matter! 

RE-REGISTRATION FOR 2020-2021

Last week, the yellow re-registration form for the upcoming school year, along with the new tuition rates for 2020-2021, were sent home with Que Pasa.  Extras are available in the office. Please return the re-registration form by March 12, 2020  in order to help plan for the new school year.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2020-2021 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 15, 2020

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2020-2021 school year must go online to the by visiting www.basicfund.org and completing a NEW BASIC Fund Application no later than March 18, 2020. 

Renewal families will be renewing their BASIC Fund scholarship online in March   All student tuition accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  

FEBRUARY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Homeroom teachers identify Students of the Month at the end of each month.  We celebrate these students because they have exemplified living the St. Peter’s KEYS:

Knowledge feeds GROWTH. 

Every ACCOMPLISHMENT needs courage.

You are LOVE.

SERVICE UNITES.

KINDER - Jayla Delgado has the keys to open any door she likes! And she is so kind, she will open up a door for you too! She has been working very hard to earn the honor of being SOTM. Her neatness and ability to finish her work have wowed us! We are also wowed by her word reading power! Keep buzzing Jayla, and you will reach the highest skies!

1A – Alani Alas is a student who constantly works to embody the values of St. Peter's KEYS. Alani comes into class smiling and ready to learn. She is such a positive and compassionate member of our community, who is always willing to support those in need. She has been working extremely hard and it shows in all of her academic accomplishments. 

2A - Dominic Leonor is dedicated to learning all he can in every subject. He especially enjoys challenging himself with math! He pays attention to what is going on and contributes to classroom discussions. He's determined to grow his brain!   

3A - Xavier Reyes has worked hard this year to ACCOMPLISH many goals.  He joined the basketball team so that he can learn how to UNITE with his 3rd grade classmates. In class, he is practicing math to move ahead and prepare for  the fourth grade. He is moving forward with his phonics, reading and grammar to increase his knowledge by working on Lexia daily. Keep up with your positive growth mindset! 

4A - Mariah Ibarra-Febo is an effective communicator who collaborates with her classmates! She continues to challenge herself to grow academically and has shown great growth and determination this year. She comes into school each day with a smile and makes sure everyone feels that they are an important member of the 4th grade community! She is a great story tell and has been doing a great job in our writing assignments. 

5A – Cecilia Farias Tietze is incredibly hard-working, organized, and compassionate to everyone she meets. She embraces new challenges with an open heart and an open mind. Her determination and focus in the classroom has already paid off big-time in her STAR growth this year. Keep up the good work, Cecilia! 

6A - Brisia Castillo is a wonderful example of a student with the KEYS in 6th grade.  She has grown as a learner and a leader in the classroom. Brisia shows service by supporting her teachers and classmates.  Thank you, Brisia, for always bringing positivity and joy to our classroom community!

7A - Cristian Contreras continues to grow by approaching new experiences with positivity and hope. He leads the class through his example of facing challenges with faith and an open heart and mind. He shows appreciation for others and he supports our school community by encouraging others to also try their best. He is focused on his future and he persists in his learning in order to achieve his goals.  

8A - Fernanda Cruz has grown and accomplished so much this year. She genuinely wants to reach her academic potential by asking questions and seeking help whenever faced with an area of difficulty. She is willing to work hard in order to be successful. Fernanda is embracing these new experiences and challenges with such positivity and enthusiasm. 

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - As we walk into the Lenten Season together, let's unite in a promise to reduce our screen time (tablets, phones and TV).  We can enhance our Lenten Season by spending more time reading together. So instead of reaching for a device, reach for a book the next 40 days! 

1A - This week, we are reading, writing, and learning about insects and how they are alike and different. We are working on the long i sound with: i, y, igh, and ie spelling patters, in words like: hi, fly, night, and pie. In religion, we are celebrating the start of Lent. In math, we are continuing to use the read, draw, write strategy to solve addition and subtraction word problems. In science, we are experimenting with light and the transparency of different objects. In social studies, we are testing our knowledge of the Pledge of Allegiance. 

2A – We are reading “Grace for President” this week. We are working with patterns in math and counting up and down by 1's, 10's & 100's. We are also going to be adding and subtracting within 200 with word problems to 100. We started a classroom science project involving decomposing materials. Please help your child prepare for First Reconciliation by reciting the Act of Contrition and talking with them about this sacrament so they are not nervous.

3A – 3A is beginning a lesson on polygons in Math. In Religion, we'll continue studying The Apostles Creed. For Reading, we will move back into our textbook, Journeys. We have completed our chapter assessment on Stone Fox. We also compared and contrasted the book to the movie. Parents, please be on the lookout for all of the students' work which will be coming home to you March 11 with the report card. Please sign and return the report card and keep their work. 

4A - In Religion, we will be preparing our hearts for the season of Lent. Not only will we be celebrating the beginning of Lent during Ash Wednesday, but we will also be learning about the importance of this day in our faith. In Reading, we will continue to read our novel Frindle. We will continue to concentrate on the skill of understanding character traits and the strategy of summarization when we read. In Math, we will focus on solving multiplication problems using partial products and standard algorithms. In Social Studies, we will be learning about our Missions project. In Science, we will begin to focus on our next unit: Energy. Thank you for all that you do!

5A - This week, 5th graders are working to conceptually understand what it means to divide decimal numbers. We're going to be doing a lot of word problems with real world examples. In ELA, we're focusing on finishing our biography essays and our Harry Potterprojects. We'll also be applying our strategies for comprehending informational texts to an article about Ruby Bridges! 

6A  Religion – Students will be preparing for the Lenten season as we set a Lenten promise and make a Lenten Journey journal.  Language Arts – We have begun our persuasive writing unit and we are practicing looking at writing and advertisements with a critical eye. This week, we'll continue practicing our rhetorical techniques by creating our own advertisements for a fictional product.  Math – Students are working with decimals this week: adding, subtracting, multiplying using partial products, and dividing. They will have a test next Tuesday on these skills of working with decimals.   Social Studies – Students will continue to explore the beginnings of Judaism in order to later compare Judaism to the beliefs and traditions of Christianity.   Science – Scientists will learn about the Powell Expedition of the Grand Canyon and dive into Earth's early geological history.

7A  Religion – Students will continue to prepare for the season of Lent by putting together a Lenten Prayer journal for daily reflections during Lent.   Language Arts - Students are continuing to read Freak the Mighty and answering Comprehension Questions. Additionally, they are discovering the unique bond between Max and Kevin. The constant reference of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table has been the foundation of their friendship, seeking quests to “…rescue fair maidens and slay dragons!”   Math - Students will be continuing working with rational numbers and convert positive and negative fractions to decimals as well as converting decimals to fractions. They will have a test next Tuesday on transforming decimal and fraction equivalents as well as on multiplying and dividing integers.  Social Studies – Students will now begin to compare Feudalism in Medieval Japan to Feudalism in Medieval Europe, moving our focus over to Europe in the Middle Ages for the month of March.   Science – Students continue to learn about genetics and heredity as they prepare for their genetic mutation project.

8A   Religion - Students will identify the meaning and importance of Lent as they enter into the Lenten Season. Language Arts - Students have presented their Poetry Portfolio with each other to officially end their unit on Poetry. They are also well into Act 1 of the play Zoot Suit. The overarching themes of Culture Clash and Racial Discrimination the Chicanos faced during the 1940's are stirring up lively discussions. Students are finding similarities of past and present examples in their own society. They are continuing to record their thoughts of tone and mood in their Reporter's Notebook.   Math – Students will be working with the Pythagorean Theorem this week as they continue to learn about triangles. They will have test next Tuesday on finding missing angles and lengths of triangles and angles on a plane.   Social Studies – Students will begin to outline their two-minute amendment speech where they will prepare to convince their audience to pass their amendment idea into law.   Science - Students get to know the anatomy of a mousetrap as we prepare to begin our exploration of energy and motion through the mousetrap project.

REMINDERS

Mar. 3            8:10 AM School Mass

Mar. 4            Free Dress for No Tardies in February

Mar. 6            END OF TRIMESTER 2

Mar. 10-12     WCEA/WASC 3-day School Accreditation Visit

Mar. 11          Report Cards sent home

Mar 13           NO SCHOOL, Faculty Retreat

QUE PASA 2/19/2020 (English)

Dear Parents,

       For our school’s re-accreditation, our 3-day visit for the Western Catholic Educational Association / Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WCEA / WASC) is drawing near—on March 10-12. The process of preparing for this visit has given both teachers and students opportunities to reflect--to identify our accomplishments as well as our areas for growth. Throughout the process we’ve reflected upon and examined evidence for each part of our school’s philosophy:

At St. Peter’s School, we believe that…

·       All students and educators will learn and grow academically, physically, spiritually, emotionally, and socially.

·       Every child is capable of success.

·       God is in all things and calls each of us to grow in His love.        

·       We are called to serve others and our world.

·       We are a family--somos una familia--with parents, students and educators working together.

        In these last few weeks of preparation before our visit, please keep the school in your prayers! And of course, if you have any questions about the process, or would like to see the Improving Student Learning document required for accreditation (written by the teachers), please stop by the office.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

Please remember that the due date to submit the mandatory $100 Aztec Trek collection is this Friday, February 21.  The more money a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  Thank you in advance for your support!

FAMILY DINNER AND DANCE
Our annual Family Dinner and Dance is this Saturday, February 22.  In addition, to dinner and dancing, raffle tickets will be on sale for various prizes. Dance tickets are limited, so purchase your tickets now! Order forms are available in the office, and payments by Venmo are accepted. Volunteers to help prepare food are also needed, so stop by the office if you’d like to volunteer.

LIFETOUCH PANORAMIC PHOTO

Our school panoramic photo will be taken TOMORROW, February 20.  All students must be in complete uniform for this school-wide picture.

FAMILY MASS

This Sunday, February 23 is our Sunday Family Mass at 11:00 AM.  Students who attend mass in full uniforms will receive a free dress pass for the following Monday.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2020-2021 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 15, 2020

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2020-2021 school year must go online to the by visiting www.basicfund.org and completing a NEW BASIC Fund Application no later than March 18, 2020. 

Renewal families will be renewing their BASIC Fund scholarship online in March   All student tuition accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  

UNIFORM CHECK-IN

Let’s remember to stay UNITED as we wear our school uniform. All undershirts, even long sleeve undershirts, must be white. If girls wear tights, they must be solid black or white and extend to the ankle. Continue to wear solid black or solid white school shoes, no boots. Thank you for your cooperation! 

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - I hope you all enjoyed a nice long weekend! And thank you for all of the love you shared with me and the class for Valentine's day. It was such a treat to celebrate in so many ways. Now let's celebrate learning! In this week's homework, I have included the alphabet as we really need to be able to read, write and use together all of the letters. Thank you so much! 

1A - This week, we are reading and learning about how animals survive in nature. We are working on the long o sound with the o, oa, ow, and oe spellings in words like no, boat, low, and toe. In religion, we are continuing to work on our prayer books. In math, we are working on subtraction word problems. In science, we are looking at inclined planes and how we use them to help us.

2A – We are reading poetry this week from Langston Hughes. This is a challenge, but a lot of fun! We are continuing our work with comparing 3-digit numbers as well as finding 1, 10, and 100 more or less than a number. We have been talking about Reconciliation in the classroom. Please talk with your child so they are not nervous about receiving this sacrament.

3A – This week, students are continuing to learn about arrays as they relate to multiplication.  We are also practicing related facts by skip-counting objects in array models.  We are beginning our Lincoln log cabins in art.  We will make them from pretzel sticks, 4-ounce milk cartons, and construction paper. We continue practicing our Mass responses.  PARENTS: Please help the kiddos out by practicing with them.  I am sending the responses home for more studying. 

4A - Welcome back from a long weekend! In Religion, we will begin to focus on the season of Lent. Next Wednesday begins our Lenten journey with Ash Wednesday! In Reading, we will be reading Frindle and working on locating answers with the text. We will continue to focus on our skills of summarizing and identifying character traits. In Math, we will be focusing on multiplying in a partial product form and in a standard form. In Social Studies, we will complete our online program. We will be starting to discuss our Missions project! In Science, we will investigate weathering on mountains. 

5A - This week, 5th graders are expanding their long division practice to even larger dividends and getting ready to tackle division problems with decimals. We're focusing on informational text structures in ELA. 5th graders will be presenting their books talks and finishing their biography reports this week.  

6A  Religion and Social Studies - Students will make connections this week as we learn about the Ancient Hebrews and Judaism in history class. We will study the traditions and core beliefs of Judaism and will then compare and contrast Christianity and Judaism in a short essay by the end of this week.   Language Arts – Students completed their first novel study and now we move on to an in-depth look at non-fiction text. We'll be focusing primarily in persuasive writing and the rhetorical techniques writers use to sway their audiences. We'll study the nuances between biased and neutral writing to become more mindful readers and consumers!   Math – Students are reviewing various decimal concepts this week. Science - Scientists will complete learning about large weather patterns worldwide, assess their learning, and have some time at the end of the week to work on their STEAM fair projects.

7A   Religion – Students will begin to prepare for the season of Lent.   Language Arts - Students are continuing to read Freak the Mighty. In addition to their reading, students are also responding to a series of comprehension questions to ensure understanding of the overall content.   Math – Students are reviewing multiplying and dividing fraction this week.   Social Studies – Students will be studying the different levels of Japanese Society and Feudalism in the Middle Ages.   Science – Students continue to set the groundwork to begin researching about genetics and genetic disorders. 

8A   Religion - Students will continue to look into the ACRE Test Preparation and complete the test this week.   Language Arts - Students are finalizing their Poetry Unit by creating a Poetry Portfolio of all the poems they have composed over the last few weeks. They will move on to the introduction of their next text, Zoot Suit by Luis Valdez. They will participate in a series of pre-reading activities: Gallery Walk and Culture Research.   Math - Students will be exploring various concepts in geometry, including parallel lines and vertically opposite angles.   Social Studies – Students will begin an amendment art project and will begin to prepare a two-minute amendment speech to present next week.   Science - Students continue to learn about energy and motion as they prepare to learn the mechanics around the mousetrap car.

REMINDERS

Feb. 19        5:45 PM, Parent First Communion Meeting

Feb. 20        School Panoramic Photo (Complete uniform!)

Feb. 21        AZTEC Trek Money Due

Feb. 22        5:00-8:00 PM, Family Dinner & Dance

Feb. 23        11:00 AM Sunday Family Mass

Feb. 24        12:30 Dismissal

Feb. 25        4A Field trip to Creativity Museum

Feb. 26        9:30 AM, Ash Wednesday Mass

QUE PASA 2/12/2020 (English)

Dear Parents,

     Today, we had our 100th day of school celebration.  It’s a day to celebrate our accomplishments, but also an opportunity to reflect on our learning.  We continue to promote and practice a Growth Mindset--to model to our children to challenge ourselves and show how we can grow by learning from our mistakes and to reflect on how “Knowledge feeds GROWTH.”  Yet let’s not neglect our spiritual growth.  I offer these petitions to help keep our spirits strong and faithful:

We lay our prayers before the Lord, who gives us strength.

We pray that those who lead us in faith and serve our Church, Pope Francis, our bishops, and pastors continue to be guided by the Holy Spirit.

We pray for national, state, and local leaders, that their work is focused on their desire to serve.

We pray for the students, families, faculty, and staff of our school, that we never forget our call to discipleship.

Guide us so that we may grow closer to you, O Lord.

In the power of your Spirit and in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, we pray.  AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

Please remember that the due date to submit the mandatory $100 Aztec Trek collection is Friday, February 21. 

The more money a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  Thank you in advance for your support!

FAMILY DINNER AND DANCE
See the attached flyer and ticket order form for our annual Family Dinner and Dance!  This year, it will be held on Saturday, February 22.  Tickets are limited, so purchase your tickets early!

LIFETOUCH PHOTOS

Spring pictures will be taken tomorrow, February 13.  These photos are optional.  If your child will be taking Spring pictures, they may come to school in appropriate free dress.  Your child may bring in their order form and payment tomorrow, or you can also place your photo order on www.mylifetouch.com using the following Picture ID: EVT3PBD4B

Our school panoramic photo will be taken on February 20.  All students must be in complete uniform for this school-wide picture.

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2020-2021 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 15, 2020

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2020-2021 school year must go online to the by visiting www.basicfund.org and completing a NEW BASIC Fund Application no later than March 18, 2020. 

Renewal families will be renewing their BASIC Fund scholarship online in March   All student tuition accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - Happy 100th and Valentine's Day to everyone! What another lovely week to bless all of us! We are growing and learning fast. To help support all the work that we are doing in the classroom, I have included more activities in the homework to help us stretch our brains! And I am delighted to see the effort being put into completing the additional activities. Please remember to now sign your homework packet each week. We need love to grow and we grow by showing our love!

1A - This week, we are learning about how animals work together and help each other. We are focusing on the long e sound (as in me, keep, seat). In religion, we are continuing to word on our lapbooks and perfecting our prayers. In math, we are working on subtracting from larger numbers by using the count on or take from ten methods. In science, we are being engineers and building structures out of different materials.

2A - We are reading the story “How the Beetle got its Colors.” We are comparing 3-digit numbers as well as finding 1, 10, and 100 more or less than a number. Use those 100's charts! We are starting to talk about what Reconciliation is. Please mark your calendars for our next First Communion parent meeting on Wednesday, February 9 at 5:45 p.m. in St. Peter's Church. 

3A – Today we celebrated the 100th day of school and tomorrow we celebrate St. Valentine's Day. We have our classroom party on the 13th in honor of St. Valentine because we have no school on Friday, the 14th.  For the 100th day of school, many fun and educational activities have been planned for the students.  Let's show our school spirit and be 100 for the day!

4A - We have many exciting celebrations this week! Today, we celebrate the 100th day of school! 100 days of challenging our brains and growing academically, socially and spiritually. On Thursday, we will celebrate Valentine's Day. This week, we will focus on learning about St. Valentine's and various forms of kindness in Religion. In Reading, we will continue to focus on our novel Frindle. We will also be completing our next two paragraph writing assignment. We will continue to learn about important African American activists in our history and in the present day who helped make and continue to make the world we live in better. In math, we will continue to progress through our multiplication and division unit by focusing on multi-digit problems. In Science, we will conclude our weathering unit.

5A - This week, 5th graders are preparing to help lead activities at the K-5 100th Day of School celebration! We are continuing to practice division with 2-digit divisors and reviewing a variety of reading strategies in preparation for the next round of STAR assessments. 

6A  Religion – Students are completing their Growing in Love Bible Verse project and will visit their 2nd grade buddies for a Valentines Project.   Language Arts – Students will be finishing our novel this week and we will be discussing several of the book's themes, centered around justice, family, and hope. Students will continue to work on their characterization charts as we prepare for our final comprehension test on the novel.   Math - Students are converting fractions to decimals and then adding, subtracting, and multiplying decimals this week. 6th grade students received their math tests from last week. Test corrections and parent signatures are due Thursday, February 13.   Social Studies – Students will present their Ancient Dynasty Research Projects.   Science - Scientists will be presenting their solution to an environmental problem in 6th Grade Science's "Environmental Tank."  We will be learning about large-scale weather patterns, like el Niño.

7A   Religion – Students will show their martyr research in a gallery walk.   Language Arts - Students have finalized their Poetry Unit by creating a Poetry Portfolio of all the poems they have composed over the last few weeks. They have moved on to the introduction of their next novel, Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick. They will participate in a series of pre-reading activities: the author and various themes/topics to ensure comprehension.   Math - Students are continuing to review adding and subtracting integers and are learning how to multiply and divide integers. 7th grade students received their math tests from last week. Test corrections and parent signatures are due Thursday, February 13.   Social Studies – Students are creating a medieval China or Japan outline flipbook.   Science – Students prepare to talk about genetics and begin their genetic disorder project. 

8A   Religion - Students will continue to gain knowledge about the Crusades and previous notions of salvation. They will also look into the ACRE Test Preparation before completing the culminating test next week.   Language Arts - Students are continuing to explore and exercise their creativity in their Poetry Unit. They have finished elegy poems and are moving on to romanticism poems.   Math - Students are learning how to find missing degrees in triangles and other missing angle configurations with transversals and parallel lines. 8th grade students received their math tests from last week. Test corrections and parent signatures are due Thursday, February 13.   Social Studies – Students will begin learning about the roles and responsibilities of the Judicial Branch.    Science - Students begin to explore the laws of physics as we look to begin our mousetrap car project.

REMINDERS

Feb. 13        LifeTouch Spring Picture Day

Feb. 14        NO SCHOOL, Presidents’ Day Holiday

Feb. 17        NO SCHOOL, Presidents’ Day Holiday

Feb. 19        5:45 PM, Parent First Communion Meeting

Feb. 20        School Panoramic Photo

Feb. 22        5:00-8:00 PM, Family Dinner & Dance

Feb. 23        11:00 AM Sunday Family Mass

Feb. 24        12:30 Dismissal

QUE PASA 2/5/2020 (English)

Dear Parents,

       February is already upon us!  Since Valentine’s Day is in February, I often associate the month of February with one of our school’s core values—LOVE.  February is also the month of the Holy Family, a family that we could look towards as an example of unconditional love.  Below is a prayer the we can offer together, to remind us of our love for our family, and to remind us that we are a school family working together to help our children open their hearts and minds.  As stated in our school philosophy: We are a family--somos una familia--with parents, students and educators working together.

JESUS, Son of God and Son of Mary, bless our family. Graciously inspire in us the unity, peace, and mutual love that you found in your own family in the little town of Nazareth.

MARY, Mother of Jesus and Our Mother, nourish our family with your faith and your love. Keep us close to your Son, Jesus, in all our sorrows and joys.

JOSEPH, Foster-father to Jesus, guardian and spouse of Mary, keep our family safe from harm. Help us in all times of discouragement or anxiety.

HOLY FAMILY OF NAZARETH, make our family one with you. Help us to be instruments of peace. Grant that love, strengthened by grace, may prove mightier than all the weaknesses and trials through which our families sometimes pass. May we always have God at the center of our hearts and homes until we are all one family, happy and at peace in our true home with you.   AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

Tomorrow (February 6), is the second deadline for prizes for the Aztec Trek.  Turn in your mandatory $100 collection by tomorrow, and receive a KEY, a raffle ticket for a prize, and extra points towards your class total!

The more money a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  The due date for all money to be turned in is Friday, February 21. Thank you in advance for your support!

FAMILY DINNER AND DANCE
See the attached flyer and ticket order form for our annual Family Dinner and Dance!  This year, it will be held on Saturday, February 22.  Tickets are limited, so purchase your tickets early!

TOMORROW! -- CYO CAMP SIGN-UP NIGHT

It’s time for CYO SUMMER CAMP SIGN-UPS for grades 3-8.  This is an optional summer camp experience in Occidental, CA, and this is the 4th summer that St. Peter’s students are attending camp at a discounted price.  To support you in getting your child enrolled for one of the six camp sessions, we will be hosting a SUMMER CAMP SIGN-UP NIGHT on Thursday, February 6 from 4:00-6:00 in the Faculty Meeting Room. We only have space to sign up 12 St. Peter’s students PER camp session.  

The total discounted cost to attend summer camp is $180.  Families must pay $50 cash or check to CYO Camp at the sign-up night in order to hold their child’s spot. If you cannot attend the camp sign-up night, it is possible that there will not be space in your first choice session this summer.

The camp sessions are listed here:

Session One                   June 21 – June 27

Session Two                   June 28 – July 4

Session Three                 July 6 – July 12

Session Four                  July 14 – July 20

Session Five                   July 22 – July 28

Session Six                    July 30 – August 5

For more camp information, please visit Ms. Land or send her a ClassDojo message. 

100th DAY OF SCHOOL CELEBRATION

Next Wednesday, February 12, we’ll be having our 100th Day of School Celebration! Join in the fun and come to school dressed like you’re 100 years old!

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2020-2021 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.com to begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 15, 2020

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2020-2021 school year must go online to the by visiting www.basicfund.org and completing a NEW BASIC Fund Application no later than March 18, 2020. 

Renewal families will be renewing their BASIC Fund scholarship online in March /April.  All student tuition accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - It was heartbreaking to see the Forty-Niners come short of a victory! But I know we are all proud of the hard work it took for them to get there! Let's use this as a learning opportunity to always aim high and work hard! That's what really matters, especially in Kindergarten!

1A - This week we are reading, writing, and learning about how animals' bodies help them. We are also working on the long a sound with the a, ai, and ay spellings. In religion, we are making our prayer books and celebrating all the prayers we have learned so far. In math, we are continuing our work on subtraction.

2A – We will be finishing up My Cousin Primo! 2nd graders are such good reading detectives, noticing the similarities and differences between the boys in the story! We are going to continue working on modeling numbers within 1,000 using drawing, and using waffles/french fries/tater tots to do this. We're going to focus on all the families we belong to (such as at home, school, sports, and BVCC). 

3A – This week, we will finish reading Stone Fox and watch the movie. After both the book and the movie, we will have an assessment, journal reflection, and comparison of the book and the movie. In Religion, we will practice our Mass responses, attend Mass, and read, discuss and use our Gospel booklet to prepare for Sunday's Mass. 3A will begin a cursive writing text called Writing Our Catholic Faith.    

4A - This week, we will continue our focus on the Sacraments, moving to Reconciliation and Holy Orders. In Reading, we will continue our novel study of Frindle. We are focusing on the skill of summarizing, building in our paragraph writing skills. We will also focus on expanding our vocabulary through dictionary skills and identifying character traits. In Math, we will continue our multiplication unit through area and perimeter then transition to double-digit word problems. In Science, we will be focusing on volcanoes as a form of weathering. In Social Studies, we will continue to learn about the Missions and the mission life of California Native peoples.  

5A - This week, 5th graders will be starting research for their "spiritual hero" biography project in religion. Feel free to share any ideas for "spiritual heroes" with your child during this brainstorming stage. In math, we'll be working on dividing with decimals. See Class Dojo for more updates! 

6A  Religion – Students are beginning a Growing in Love Bible Verse Project.   Language Arts – 6th grade is at the climax of our novel Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry, and we will soon find out if the Logans will achieve the justice they're fighting for. We'll continue to analyze the theme, using textual evidence to support our arguments.   Math - Students are dividing complex fractions and adding and subtracting decimals.   Social Studies – Students will continue with the physical geography of China and will begin an Ancient Empire Research Project.   Science – Scientists will be reflecting on the importance of the movie Hidden Figures and Black History Month in relation to science and society. They will also learn the reasons why we are called the Water Planet.

7A   Religion -  Students will research a martyr and create a Google Slideshow project to teach the class about the martyr they research.  Language Arts - Students are continuing to explore and develop their creativity in their Poetry Unit. They have finished their metaphorical and ballad poems and will move on to their final poems, cinquain and limerick.    Math - Students are working with adding and subtracting integers and learning about percentages and strategies to estimating tax and tip amounts.   Social Studies –Students are exploring a curiosity they have about Medieval Japan or China with a Passion Project Presentation this week.   Science - After performing their mitosis dance, students prepare to learn about meiosis before testing their knowledge at the end of the week.

8A   Religion - Students will gain knowledge about the Crusades and previous notions of salvation. They will also use this as a platform to view injustices in the world today.   Language Arts - The students are continuing to exercise their creativity as they progress in their Poetry Unit. This week they have finished ode poems and will move along with elegy poems.   Math – Students are translating images, reviewing adding and subtracting integers, and finding degrees of angles in triangles.   Social Studies – Students continue to explore the roles and responsibilities of the Executive Branch of government.   Science - Students prepare to turn in their first post lab analysis and test their knowledge of the chemistry content we have covered thus far.

REMINDERS

Feb. 3-13     STAR Testing, Window #3

Feb. 5          WCEA/WASC Accreditation Visiting Committee Pre-visit

Feb. 6          4:00-6:00 PM, CYO Summer Camp Sign-ups in the Faculty Meeting Room 

Feb. 11        8:10 AM, School Mass

Feb. 12        100th Day of School Celebration

Feb. 13        LifeTouch Spring Picture Day

Feb. 14        NO SCHOOL, Presidents’ Day Holiday

Feb. 17        NO SCHOOL, Presidents’ Day Holiday

Feb. 19        5:45 PM, Parent First Communion Meeting

QUE PASA 1/29/2020 (English)

Dear Parents,

       Happy Catholic Schools Week!  This week, we’ve been taking the time to reflect on Catholic education and all the ways that we learn to grow, accomplish, love, serve, and unite here at St. Peter’s School. We are thankful that here, both our faith and our minds can grow.  In gratitude, I offer this prayer (adapted from www.thereligionteacher.com): 

Almighty Father,

You sent forth your Son as a beacon of hope for all people.  As Teacher, he has given us the prime example of the importance of education.  As disciples, we look to him for inspiration and strength.  Thank you for the many sisters, brothers, priests, and laypeople who have dedicated their lives in service to our Catholic schools.  Thank you for the teachers and administrators who sustain our schools today.  Thank you for the parents who have given support and witness to the importance of Catholic education in their daily lives.  Thank you for the students who work hard to further their education.

Bless St. Peter’s School and the many people who advance our mission.  May our building be a home for those who seek to grow in faith, knowledge, and service of others.  May our community always support one another and exhibit hospitality to newcomers.  Fill our minds with knowledge and wisdom.  May our understanding of the world help us to grow in appreciation for it.  Fill our hearts with gladness.  May we always turn to you in times of need.  Fill our hands with the tools we need to serve others.  May we show them your unceasing love through our actions.  AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

For the rest of this week, we celebrate Catholic Schools Week with:

Thursday, 1/30– Thankful Thursday

Friday, 1/31 – Fundraiser Friday (Hot Cocoa Sale)

AZTEC TREK

Tomorrow (January 30), is the first deadline for prizes for the Aztec Trek.  Turn in your mandatory $100 collection by tomorrow, and receive a KEY, a free dress pass, and a raffle ticket for a prize!

The more money a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  The due date for all money to be turned in is Friday, February 21. Thank you in advance for your support!

CYO CAMP SIGN-UP NIGHT

It’s time for CYO SUMMER CAMP SIGN-UPS for grades 3-8.  This is an optional summer camp experience in Occidental, CA, and this is the 4th summer that St. Peter’s students are attending camp at a discounted price.  To support you in getting your child enrolled for one of the six camp sessions, we will be hosting a SUMMER CAMP SIGN-UP NIGHT on Thursday, February 6 from 4:00-6:00 in the Faculty Meeting Room. We only have space to sign up 12 St. Peter’s students PER camp session.  

The total discounted cost to attend summer camp is $180.  Families must pay $50 cash or check to CYO Camp at the sign-up night in order to hold their child’s spot. If you cannot attend the camp sign-up night, it is possible that there will not be space in your first choice session this summer.

The camp sessions are listed here:

Session One                   June 21 – June 27

Session Two                   June 28 – July 4

Session Three                 July 6 – July 12

Session Four                  July 14 – July 20

Session Five                   July 22 – July 28

Session Six                    July 30 – August 5

For more camp information, please visit Ms. Land or send her a ClassDojo message. 

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2020-2021 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.comto begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 15, 2020

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2020-2021 school year must go online to the by visiting www.basicfund.org and completing a NEW Basic Fund Application no later than March 18, 2020. 

Renewal families will be renewing their BASIC Fund scholarship online in March /April.  All student tuition accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

JANUARY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Homeroom teachers identify Students of the Month at the end of each month.  We celebrate these students because they have exemplified living the St. Peter’s KEYS:

Knowledge feeds GROWTH. 

Every ACCOMPLISHMENT needs courage.

You are LOVE.

SERVICE UNITES.

KINDER - Alberto Elizalde is testimony that knowledge feeds growth, and we are so proud of the growth he has shown in the new year! From writing his name, to coloring in the lines with more than one color, and learning to be a better listener, Alberto is on the path to success! Keep growing Betito and aim for the stars!  

1A - Itzel Villasenor is a student who has worked extremely hard and has shown immense growth due to her effort and perseverance. She isn't afraid to make a mistake and she never shies away from a challenge. Itzel is a very caring student, who is always going out of her way to help others in need.

2A – Aaliyah Gonzalez always tries her best and works on a problem until she not only solves it, but understands it. She is a super reader and reading detective, always rereading and locating important facts in stories. She loves to challenge and grow her brain. Keep up the good work! 

3A - Alejandra Nava-Gomez is always willing to SERVE her fellow students by helping them when they are having trouble solving problems.  She is very focused on her classwork and strives to complete all of her digital and written assignments. Let's keep up those great habits as we are moving along into 2020. Great job, Alejandra! 

4A - Isela Diaz comes to school each day with a positive attitude and ready to work. She uses her critical thinking skills to solve complex math equations. She faces any challenge in the classroom as an opportunity to grow her brain.  She is a friend to all of her classmates and a true bucket filler. Way to go, Isela!

5A – Isaac Leonor communicates effectively in both social and academic environments, faces challenges with optimism, and is kind to everyone! Isaac's hard work has allowed him to grow tremendously already this year. Plus, his goofy sense of humor and great jokes bring cheer to our 5th grade family. Keep up the good work, Isaac! 

6A - Andrea Velasco has been Serving and Uniting 6th grade classmates and teachers throughout the whole school year.  Her willingness to stay behind and help teachers with everyday tasks and the support that she gives to her classmates is such a gift! Andrea's enthusiasm in the classroom and her love of learning is contagious.  She is a wonderful example of a student with the KEYS to Open Hearts and Open Minds. Thank you for all that you do, Andrea!  

7A - Not only has Alysia Pelayo shown diligence and persistence in her learning, but she also uses technology responsibly and exercises self-control in every situation. She shows appreciation for others and goes throughout her day spreading kindness and positivity. She's been such a welcome addition to our school and we're grateful for what she brings to our community.

8A - Elijah Langlois has demonstrated what it means to serve, by sharing his time, gifts and joy within our school community as a leader, student council officer, classmate and friend. He is also constantly embracing new experiences with an open heart and open mind, by tackling his 8th grade year with enthusiasm and diligence. Elijah has proved he knows how to live out the KEYS! Keep up the good work! 

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - So exciting to be sharing in Kindergarten's very first Catholic Schools Week! And I know we can put the SPIRIT in the week and carry it forward! And let's use this energy to rally for the Aztec Trek so we can come close to being winners! Remember to turn in your envelopes! 

1A This week, we are reading, writing, and learning about how we get our food. We are working on words with -ood, and -ookendings (as in good, look). Please help your child practice reading the Unit 3 sight words. They will be tested on them on Friday. In religion, we are celebrating Catholic Schools Week by writing letters of thanks. In math, we are assessing our use of the 10+ trick in addition. In social studies, we are finishing up our unit on mapping skills. 

2A - We will be reading one of 2nd grade's favorite stories, “My Cousin Primo!” We are going to work on building numbers within 1,000. We'll use modeling, drawing, and using waffles, french fries, and tater tots to do this. We'll continue talking about forgiveness and what “I’m sorry” means. 

3A – This is a very exciting week!  It is Catholic Schools Week and there are many fun-filled and exciting activities planned for the students. You received the flyer in Que Pasa last week so please check the list and talk to your children so that we will all be ready to participate and have a grand time.  

4A - Happy Catholic Schools Week! This week, we will celebrate St. Peter's and all other Catholic schools across the nation. We will begin our first novel study in class. We will be reading Frindle, and working on our comprehension strategy of summarizing. We will begin our next module on multiplication and division. We will start this week with area and perimeter problems involving multiplication. In Social Studies, we will be learning about the Missions in California. We will be going on our field trip to the Old Mission Dolores tomorrow! 

5A - In math this week, 5th graders will be doing measurement conversions and then taking our mid-module assessment. We're continuing our figurative language unit in English/Language Arts by learning about idioms! We will also celebrate Catholic Schools Week with a special Works of Mercy related service project on Wednesday. 

6A  Religion – Students are participating in Catholic Schools Week and will be visited by Paula Pardini for Building Bridges.   Language Arts – The Logan family is trying to find ways to stand up against the injustice of their community. 6th graders will identify ways they can feel empowered to make changes in their own lives. In connection with Catholic School's Week, we'll also study the history of Catholic involvement in the fight against racisms during the Civil Rights movement and throughout history.   Math – Students will continue working with division of fractions, including dividing mixed fractions.  Social Studies – Students will continue to compare and contrast Christianity to Buddhism and Hinduism through a compare and contrast essay.   Science – Scientists will continue working on their STEAM packets in their STEAM fair groups, complete an air worksheet, and kick-off Black History Month by watching Hidden Figures.

7A   Religion -  Students are participating in Catholic Schools Week activities with a focus on a reflection on a Work of Mercy.   Language Arts - Students are continuing their poetry unit. They enjoyed writing their “When I...” poem, describing something that makes them happy or alive. They will now continue writing a ballad and metaphorical poem, as they construct a poetry portfolio.   Math - Students will be adding and subtracting integers and rational numbers.   Social Studies – Students will begin learning about Medieval Japan and China.   Science – Students continue to learn about the cell cycle and its important parts as they prepare their mitosis dance! 

8A   Religion - Students will celebrate Catholic Schools Week, its meaning and significance.   Language Arts - Students are continuing their poetry unit. They enjoyed writing and sharing about themselves and their heritage in their "Where I'm From" poems. Now they are writing ode and elegy poems as they continue to create their poetry portfolio.   Math - Students will be rotating images 180 degrees on a coordinate plane and translating shapes along a vector.   Social Studies – Students are beginning to study the roles and responsibilities of the Executive Branch.   Science - Students have completed their rocket flight and have set new records. Good job! Now they begin their post-lab analysis of data and evaluate their performance.

REMINDERS

Jan. 30         4A Field Trip to Mission Dolores

Jan. 31         Hot Cocoa Sale (during recess times)

Feb. 3-13     STAR Testing, Window #3

Feb. 5          Free Dress for No Tardies in January

Feb. 5          WCEA/WASC Accreditation Visiting Committee Pre-visit

Feb. 6          4:00-6:00 PM, CYO Summer Camp Sign-ups in the Faculty Meeting Room 

Feb. 12        100th Day of School Celebration

Feb. 13        LifeTouch Spring Picture Day

Feb. 14        NO SCHOOL, Presidents’ Day Holiday

Feb. 17        NO SCHOOL, Presidents’ Day Holiday

QUE PASA 1/22/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       We are nearly halfway through the school year, and only two weeks away from our pre-visit from the Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) visiting committee! As mentioned before, 2020 is a re-accreditation year for our school.  The teachers continue to gather evidence of student learning, have analyzed student work and input from parent and student surveys, and have completed writing the document, “Improving Student Learning,” which is required for accreditation.

       As we prepare for this visit, let’s not forget our growth mindset, and remember that we can be positive examples of growth for our children. There’s still much more we can learn, and there’s still plenty of time in this school year to be challenged, to ask questions, and to live out our core value: GROW! United, let’s not be afraid to try new things and learn from our mistakes; because, like our St. Peter’s KEYS state: Every accomplishment needs courage and Knowledge feeds growth.  Every day, with our children, we’ll keep on growing!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

Last week, your child received a collection envelope and flyer for the AZTEC TREK.  Students and families can help support our school by collecting pledges for our walk-a-thon and game day.  This is our only mandatory school fundraiser, and it helps to keep St. Peter’s School’s tuition the lowest among the SF Archdiocesan schools.  The minimum mandatory amount to be collected by each student is $100, but the more money that a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  The due date for all money to be turned in is Friday, February 21. Thank you in advance for your support!

SUNDAY FAMILY MASS and CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

To show our appreciation for our Catholic Schools, we will be celebrating Catholic Schools Week next week, from January 26-31.  Please see the attached flyer for details on the special events of the week!  Below is a brief list of events:

Sunday, 1/26 – 11:00 AM Family Mass

Monday, 1/27 – Matching Monday

Tuesday, 1/28 – Grandparents Day Mass at 8:30 AM

Wednesday, 1/29 – Works of Mercy Wednesday

Thursday, 1/30– Thankful Thursday

Friday, 1/31 – Fundraiser Friday (Hot Cocoa Sale)

REGISTER NOW FOR AZTEC SPORTS!

Until this Friday, January 24, we are accepting registration for GIRLS CYO BASKETBALL for grades 3-8.  You can now register for St. Peter’s sports using your Venmo account.  Please make sure to include the following in your memo: Student name, grade, full academic year, season, sport, registration, and/or uniform

Example:  Ryan Suárez 8A 2019-2020 Fall Soccer Registration and Uniform

*Note: If a student already paid registration and will only be paying uniform, the memo should read:  Ryan Suárez 8A 2019-2020 Fall Soccer Uniform

ARCHDIOCESE ELEMENTARY FAMILY GRANT

The application process for the Archdiocese Family Grant for the 2020-2021 school year has now begun.  Please go on to mytads.com to begin the application process. Be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Please be sure you have completed the total process by the Archdiocese deadline—April 15, 2020

BASIC FUND

New students entering for the 2020-2021 school year must go online to the by visiting www.basicfund.org and completing a NEW Basic Fund Application no later than March 18, 2020. 

Renewal families will be renewing their BASIC Fund scholarship online in March /April.  All student tuition accounts must be current with no past due balances. Please be sure you have your 2019 income tax information or 2019 income information (Calworks, social security, food stamps, etc.).  Contact the school office if you have any questions.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - The days are moving faster than ever I could expect! And the weather is taking a toll on all of us! It's very important for all Kindergarteners to get a good night sleep and wash their hands regularly! Also, we need to remember to brush our teeth morning and night! Staying healthy will keep us on the right learning path!

1A - This week, we are reading, writing, and discussing how life is different today than in the past. We are working on the long o and e sounds with the silent e spelling pattern (hope, cute). In religion, we are reading about how Catholics are followers of Jesus. In math, we are continuing to use our 10+ strategy to add larger numbers. In social studies, we are continuing to work on our mapping skills.

2A - Students will practice identifying consonant blends (as in hand, string, and mask). They will also continue a writing project, using Martin Luther King, Jr. as inspiration. In math, they will practice place value using base-10 discs.

3A – This week, we will complete our Social Studies unit on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  We will then begin a unit on the Lunar New Year which begins on January 25 with celebrations running through January 30. In Language Arts, we continue working on possessive pronouns, compound words, and reviewing short vowel sounds. In Religion, we are learning about ways to stay healthy and safe.

4A - Way to go, Niners! We will bring this joy and enthusiasm into our work this week! In Religion, we will continue to focus on the Sacraments of Initiation and how God invites us into the Church. We will begin our first novel study of Frindle by completing some pre-assessments about our story. In Math, we will begin our new module on Multiplication and Division. We will use area and perimeter to help us recall multiplication steps and skills. In Social Studies, we will work with a partner to create posters for California Native people’s tribes. In Science, we will focus on chemical and physical weathering.

5A - Last week, 5th graders finished reading the first Harry Potter together! Now that we know the ending, we’re going to do some larger analysis of the plot and major themes. In math this week, we're tackling measurement word problems with decimal multiplication. These can be tricky, but I know the 5th graders will rise to this challenge!

6A  Religion – Students will be presenting their Chapter lessons with their groups this week.   Language Arts – The tension is rising in our novel Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry and we're learning more about the injustices that the Logan family face and their persistent courage in facing them. 6th graders will also have their third Unit Spelling test this Friday.   Math - Students will be interpreting and computing division of a fraction by a fraction using models. They will demonstrate understanding of division of fractions by creating their own word problems. They will also be working on graphing ordered pairs.   Social Studies – Students will continue to explore the differences and similarities between Hinduism and Buddhism in Ancient India.   Science – 6th Grade Scientists will deepen their understanding of the Engineering Design Process. They will apply it to solving problems or improving solutions.

7A   Religion – Students will be teaching a lesson from the Blest Are We book to their classmates.   Language Arts - Students have finished their “When I...” Poem, describing something that makes them happy or alive. They will have an opportunity to share their creations with the class. Students will also apply the unique characteristics of poetry by reading and annotating poems.   Math - Students will be adding and subtracting integers as well as reviewing graphing ordered pairs.   Social Studies – Students are constructing essay responses about their novel study of A Long Walk to Water.   Science – Students get to know the intricacies of the cell cycle as they prepare their mitosis dance.

8A   ** REMINDER: 8th Grade Graduation Photo Day TOMORROW, Thursday, January 23. Students must come in their formal attire and change back to their school uniform once photo has been taken. **

Religion - Students will examine the role that the early Church played in the affairs of the empire and will discuss the pros and cons of the connection of church and state.   Language Arts - Students have begun their Poetry Unit. They have reviewed the different techniques, characteristics and forms. They are now beginning the creative process by composing a "Where I'm From" Poem. Students also thoroughly enjoyed the Holocaust Guest Speaker last Thursday. The presentation allowed them to put a face to the experiences they read in the novel, Night.   Math -  Students will be rotating figures on a plane and reviewing graphing ordered pairs on a plane.   Social Studies – Students will be learning about the Legislative Branch of government this week, including researching their representatives, reading about the 2020 census, and learning the process of how an idea becomes a law.   Science - Students are adjusting and improving their rocket designs as we prepare to launch rockets this Thursday.

REMINDERS

Jan. 23         8th Grade Graduation Photo Day

Jan. 23         3A Field Trip to Exploratorium

Jan. 26         11:00 AM Catholic Schools Week Sunday Family Mass

Jan. 26-31    CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Jan. 27         12:30 Dismissal, Teachers In-Service

Jan. 28         8:30 AM Mass for Grandparents Day

Jan. 31         Hot Cocoa Sale (during recess times)

Feb. 3-13     STAR Testing, Window #3

Feb. 5          Free Dress for No Tardies in January

QUE PASA 1/15/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       This Friday, we look forward to celebrating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as we have a special school prayer service in his honor.  He is a role model for us and our students as we discuss how others should be treated with dignity and love.  We can reflect on how Dr. King is an example of thinking critically, living out the KEYS, and taking action for social justice.  It’s a perfect opportunity to apply our growth mindset along with the children, and to take action through service!

       At the same time, we pray for peace in our world.  I am reminded of Jesus’ words: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you.”  Like Jesus and Dr. King, let us remember to be examples of respect and peace for our children.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

AZTEC TREK

On Monday, we had a special assembly to introduce the AZTEC TREK, our annual mandatory fundraiser. Going home with each child today is the collection envelope for the AZTEC TREK.  Students and families can help support our school by collecting pledges for our walk-a-thon and game day.  This is our only mandatory school fundraiser, and it helps to keep St. Peter’s School’s tuition the lowest among the SF Archdiocesan schools.  The minimum mandatory amount to be collected by each student is $100, but the more a student collects, the more prizes and class points can be earned!  The due date for all money to be turned in is Friday, February 21.  See the attached flyer for more details. Thank you in advance for your support!

NO SWEATS THIS FRIDAY

Since we will be attending a school prayer service this Friday in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., all children must be in complete uniform, and not in the gray school sweats.  Also, no free dress passes may be used on this day.

REGISTER NOW FOR AZTEC SPORTS!

We are currently accepting registration for GIRLS CYO BASKETBALL for grades 3-8/  You can now register for St. Peter’s sports using your Venmo account.  Please make sure to include the following in your memo:

Student name, grade, full academic year, season, sport, registration, and/or uniform

Example:  Ryan Suárez 8A 2019-2020 Fall Soccer Registration and Uniform

*Note: If a student already paid registration and will only be paying uniform, the memo should read:  Ryan Suárez 8A 2019-2020 Fall Soccer Uniform

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

To show our appreciation for our Catholic Schools, we will be celebrating Catholic Schools Week from January 26-31.  Please see the attached flyer for the various themes of each day!

SCHOOL ACCREDITATION UPDATE

St. Peter’s School is currently accredited by the Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).  As mentioned before, 2020 is a re-accreditation year for our school.  The teachers continue to gather evidence of student learning to present to the WCEA/WASC visiting committee, who will be at St. Peter’s on February 5 and from March10-12.  In addition, the teachers have analyzed student work and input from parent and student surveys, and have completed writing the document, “Improving Student Learning,” which is required for accreditation.  If you would like to see this document or have questions about the school accreditation process, please contact the school office.

UNIFORM CHECK-IN

As the winter weather continues and you bundle up your child, please ensure that he/she follows uniform policy as posted by the school office and stated in the school handbook.  All undershirts, including long-sleeve undershirts, should be white.  If your daughter wears tights, they should be solid black or white and extend to the ankle.  Socks must be black or white and extend above the ankle.  School shoes must be solid black or white, and boots may not be worn.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - As the Christmas Season has come to a close, we are now refreshed with the Baptism of Jesus! Let us bring him into our minds and hearts! We need to remember the importance of coming to school ready to learn so that we can be as sharp as our pencils!

1A - This week, we are reading and discussing folktales. In phonics, we are focusing on the soft /c/, /g/, and /dge/ sounds in words like: nice, page, and wedge. In religion, we are continuing our study of the sacrament of Baptism. In math, we are continuing to work on making 10 before adding on, in addition. In social studies, we are continuing our work on mapping skills.

2A - We will be reading one of 2nd grade's favorite stories about volcanoes! We are going to work on trading 10 ones for 1 ten, 10 tens for 1 hundred, and 10 hundreds for 1 thousand in math. We'll continue talking about forgiveness, especially God's forgiveness this week in preparation for reconciliation.

3A – This week 3A begins reading their second chapter book, Stone Fox by John Reynolds Gardiner.  It is a wonderful, heart-warming story of friendship, perseverance, and hard work. In Science, we are completing a unit on recycling.  In Social Studies, we will study the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. Finally, in Math class, we continue practicing multiplication and division using arrays to understand these operations.

4A - Thank you for a great first week back! This week in Religion, we will focus on the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Communion and Confirmation. In Literacy, we will focus on the comprehension skill of fact and opinion. We will use this skill in our writing as we write a two-paragraph essay this week! In Math, we will conclude our unit on Metric Measurement and begin our next unit on Multiplication. In Social Studies, we will focus on California Native peoples and researching the Ohlone tribe. In Science, we will focus on chemical and physical weathering.

5A - This week, 5th graders will continue our figurative language unit by learning about hyperboles and personification. In math, we will focus on multiplying decimals.

6A  Religion – Students will work with a chapter group to teach a chapter of Blest Are We to the class, including important vocabulary words and figures from the Old Testament.   Language Arts – We've begun reading our novel, Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry and we're already hooked on the plot! This week we'll continue to learn about the injustices facing the Logan family and how they try to rise above it all. We'll also learn how to support and refute claims using evidence from the novel.    Math - 6th grade students are using models to divide fractions.   Social Studies – Students continue with Ancient India and will begin learning about the differences and similarities between Hinduism and Buddhism.   Science - Scientists will explore latitude and its effects on weather around the globe. Students will then dive into another type of energy transfer, radiation, and the sun's effect on it.

7A   Religion – Students will get back into their Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) lessons with topics this week of If-Then Plans and Values and Decisions.   Language Arts - Students are continuing their Poetry Unit. They have completed their Selfie Poem and will begin their “When I...” Poems.   Math - Students are working with number lines to solve integer problems.  Social Studies – Students are finishing their novel study of A Long Walk to Water! They will begin a group project on the book.   Science – Students have shown their knowledge of the cell and now it's time to highlight how cells make more of themselves: Mitosis!

8A   Religion - Students will continue to make comparisons between the Eastern and Western churches and make suggestions on how to build bridges between the two today. They will also prepare for their MLK Prayer Service, which 8A students are leading this Friday.  Language Arts - Students have finalized their Night Literary Analysis Essay. To officially end their unit on Night, they will have a Holocaust Guest Speaker come in this Thursday. The presentation will hopefully allow them to put a face to the experiences they read in the novel. As they wrap up Night, students will also transition to the introduction of their next units, Poetry and Speech.    Math –Students are creating translations and rotations on planes.   Social Studies – Students will begin learning the details of the Legislative Branch.   Science - Students are completing their rockets and having their first round of flights this Thursday!

REMINDERS

Jan. 15         AZTEC TREK Fundraiser begins

Jan. 17         8:30 AM, Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Service

Jan. 20         Dr. MLK, Jr. Holiday, No School

Jan. 23         8th Grade Graduation Photo Day

Jan. 23         3A Field Trip to Exploratorium

Jan. 26         11:00 AM, Sunday Family Mass,

Jan. 26-31    CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Jan. 27         12:30 Dismissal, Teachers In-Service

QUE PASA 1/8/2020 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       Happy New Year!!!  I pray that everyone enjoyed Christmas and new year celebrations filled with lots of love and laughter.  I am looking forward to another blessed year filled with hope, challenges, and growth.  Together as a school family, let us start 2020 with a prayer:

Lord, You make all things new.

You bring hope alive in our hearts

And cause our Spirits to be born again.

Thank you for this new year,

For all the potential it holds.

Come and kindle in us a mighty flame

So that in our time, many will see the wonders of God

And live forever to praise Your glorious name.  

AMEN.

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

** CALENDAR CHANGE REMINDER! **

The second round of Parent-Teacher Conferences has been moved to March 17-20, 2020.  These were originally scheduled for January 28-31. 

Now, January 28-31 (Tuesday-Friday) will be regular 3:00 dismissal days (except for the usual 2:15 dismissal on Wednesday).  March 17-20 (Tuesday-Friday) will be changed to 12:30 dismissal days to accommodate Parent-Teacher Conferences. 

If you have any questions, please contact the school office.  Thank you for your understanding with this change in our school calendar.

HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE

Our annual holiday food drive was a great success and we collected a total of 1,150 pounds of food for the SF/Marin Food Bank.  THANK YOU for answering Jesus' call to serve the poor. 

We need to recognize two classes in particular that lived out our KEYS to LOVE and SERVE. 6A collected 417 pounds (12.6 pounds per student).  And the class that collected the most food per student was 3A with a whopping 17.5 pounds per student!  Both classes will receive a special prize to celebrate being leaders in generosity!

REGISTER NOW FOR AZTEC SPORTS!

You can now register for St. Peter’s sports using your Venmo account.  Please make sure to include the following in your memo:

Student name, grade, full academic year, season, sport, registration, and/or uniform

Example:  Ryan Suárez 8A 2019-2020 Fall Soccer Registration and Uniform

*Note: If a student already paid registration and will only be paying uniform, the memo should read:  Ryan Suárez 8A 2019-2020 Fall Soccer Uniform

GIRLS CYO BASKETBALL GRADES 3-8
If you would like your 3rd through 8th grade daughter to play basketball for the spring of 2020, please keep the following details in mind:
- January 13-17: Basketball practice schedules are created
- January 24: FINAL registration deadline

**A student is considered “registered” when both permission slip AND all sports fees (uniform fee and registration fee) have been turned in. Please see Mr. Suárez to request extensions on payments or to create a payment plan.
- March 6: Basketball regular season begins
- May 10: Basketball regular season ends
- May 13-16: Basketball playoffs
- May 17-22: Basketball championships

If you are unsure about your registration status, please check in with Mr. Suárez.
Thank you,
--St. Peter’s Athletics Committee  

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - Happy New Year to Everyone! I hope the break brought us all good blessings! Thank you for all the hard work your children did on their activity book. As we come back to school, it is important to be a good citizen in our classroom. Your child can be a good citizen by following the rules, listening carefully, being kind and helpful, and sharing. We have a lot of academic ground to cover, so I would encourage a good night's sleep and a breakfast in the morning. Be sure to come to school with a snack and a reusable leak-proof water bottle! I pray that we can start 2020 in the right way!

1A - Welcome back! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas break. This week, we are working on words with the long i sound and silent e. We are reading, writing, and discussing how plants change as they grow. In religion, we are learning about the sacrament of Baptism. In math, we are finishing up our work on subtraction. In social studies, we are learning about cardinal directions and how to use a compass rose.

2A - We will be reading a story about rainforests, and students especially love learning about the various animals that live there. We are going to count up and down from 90-1,000 so that we know place value inside and out! We are beginning to talk about choices (good and not so good) in preparation for Reconciliation. I hope you continue to make time for family and prayer.

3A – A brand new year, a fresh start, and SO much to look forward to in our new year of 2020. I hope that everyone had a restful and fun-filled vacation. 3A will begin the new year with a new reader with loads of fun and exciting stories. In Lexia, we will focus on many different types of comprehension and grammar problems. In Math class, we will be concentrating on multiplication and division. The kiddos should be studying these basic facts through the 12's. They can use flashcards, tablet applications, or worksheets that you download for free from many different websites. Remember that in order to GROW our brains, we must practice our various school subjects with a lot of studying!!!

4A - Welcome back to school! We are excited to get back into the swing of things and will be setting some New Year’s resolutions for both academic goals and life goals. We will be refocusing on our classroom community by reviewing our classroom rules, procedures, as well as core values. It will be a busy week ahead, but with a new attitude with can accomplish it all!

5A - Happy 2020! 5th graders are starting the new decade with some goal setting. We're starting to learn about figurative language in ELA and reviewing multi-digit multiplication strategies in math.

6A  Religion – Happy New Year! Feliz Año Nuevo! This week students will be scoring themselves on the SLE self-assessment and using it to set a New Year’s resolution in a short essay project.   Language Arts – A new year brings exciting new things to learn and skills to practice! This week we begin our first novel unit, with a reading of the historical fiction story Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry. We will begin by exploring the social context of the Jim Crow era and how it influences the themes of equality and justice.   Math – Students are using models to divide fractions.  Social Studies – Students will begin learning the physical geography and natural boundaries of India.  Science – 6th Grade Scientists will be reflecting on their time away and diving back into density and convection in the atmosphere.

7A   Religion – Students will be using the SLE self-assessment to set a New Years resolution.    Language Arts - Welcome back! Students have ended their Unit on A Christmas Carol. They are now moving on to the introduction of their next unit, Poetry.   Math – This week, students are learning about integers and how to combine them as well as finding discounts and new costs of items that are on sale.   Social Studies – Students will continue the final half of their novel study for A Long Walk to Water, connecting the story to the themes of geography and water as a resource in their Africa Unit.   Science – Students review organelles as they prepare to test their knowledge of cells.

8A   Religion – Welcome back, Class of 2020! Students will discover and discuss the Epiphany, Three Kings’ Day. They will also be able to make comparisons between the Eastern and Western churches and make suggestions on how to build bridges between the two today.   Language Arts - Students are closing their Night unit with a Literary Analysis Essay, interpreting the significant events, topics, and themes in the novel.   Math – This month 8th grade will be learning about geometry. This week we are focusing on congruence, transformations, translations, and reflections on a plane.  Social Studies – Students will be pairing an art project with an opinion writing assignment about the writing of the US Constitution.  Science - Students work away on their rockets as they prepare to use SAFE chemical reactions to power their rockets!

REMINDERS

Jan. 17         8:30 AM Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Service

Jan. 20         No School; Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

Jan. 23         8th Grade Graduation Portrait Day

Jan. 26-31   Catholic Schools Week

Jan. 26        11:00 AM Sunday Family Mass

Jan. 27        12:30 Dismissal, Teachers’ In-Service

QUE PASA 12/18/2019 (ENGLISH)

Dear Parents,

       I share this prayer (written by Christine Sine) with you all:

The coming of our Lord is near,
And we wait in joyful expectation.
Draw close, Lord Jesus Christ,
Shed your light on all that is filled with darkness.
The coming of our Lord is near,
And we wait with hope filled hearts.
Draw close, God’s beloved son,
Teach us the wonder of your all-embracing love. 

AMEN.

       During this Advent and Christmas, I keep the entire St. Peter’s School family in my prayers--I am grateful to be a part of this loving community.  I pray that everyone has a safe and relaxing winter break.  Have a joyous Christmas and a happy new year!  See you in 2020!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

CHRISTMAS PRAYER SERVCE & PROGRAM

This Friday, December 20, we will have our school Christmas Prayer Service at 9:00 AM in church.  Immediately after the prayer service, we will have our Christmas program, and each class will be performing a Christmas carol. Parents and family members are welcome to join us in this celebration!

ST. PETER’S CHURCH CHRISTMAS MASSES

You are invited to join in the Eucharistic celebrations on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at St. Peter’s Church!

December 24 – 7:00 PM  Mass

December 25 – 9:30 AM Mass (English), 12:00 PM Mass (Spanish), and 5:30 PM Mass (Spanish)

BVCC WINTER CAMP

BVCC is open for Winter Camp on the following dates: December 23, 26, 27 for Week 1; and December 30, January 2, 3 for week 2.  To register, please go to the BVCC office after school.

TUITION POLICY

All student tuition accounts must be up to date and paid through December 2019 in order for your child to return to class on January 6, 2020. If your tuition is not up-to-date before leaving for Christmas vacation, your child will not be able to return to class on Monday, January 6, 2020. 

Please plan ahead so your tuition is received on time.

If you have any questions, please call the Tuition Office at (415) 647-8662.

*** CALENDAR CHANGE! ***

The second round of Parent-Teacher Conferences has been moved to March 17-20, 2020.  These were originally scheduled for January 28-31. 

Now, January 28-31 (Tuesday-Friday) will be regular 3:00 dismissal days (except for the usual 2:15 dismissal on Wednesday).  March 17-20 (Tuesday-Friday) will be changed to 12:30 dismissal days to accommodate Parent-Teacher Conferences. 

If you have any questions, please contact the school office.  Thank you for your understanding with this change in our school calendar.

DECEMBER STUDENTS OF THE MONTH!

Homeroom teachers identify Students of the Month at the end of each month.  We celebrate these students because they have exemplified living the St. Peter’s KEYS:

Knowledge feeds GROWTH.

Every ACCOMPLISHMENT needs courage.

You are LOVE.

SERVICE UNITES.

Kinder - As Jesus is the light in our world, Andrew Contreras is the light in our classroom. He shines bright in all that he does and shows us how service unites when he helps his tablemates with love and care each day. Andrew is a champion when it comes to Lexia and ST Math striving to reach ultimate heights! Shine on, Andrew!

1A - Angel Raygoza Robles is a wonderful example of a student who is always striving to live out the values of Jesus. She goes out of her way to help those in need and always makes sure that she is including others. Angel is a hard worker and takes pride in her work and it shows. She loves to learn and make her brain grow. For these reasons, Angel is first grade's student of the month.

2A - Second-grade's student of the month is Angel Robledo. His bright smile lights up the room. He participates in class with carefully thought-out answers. He tries to challenge himself whenever he can. He follows classroom and playground rules, and is very dependable. He always tries his best and has a positive attitude. He is going to grow and accomplish a great deal this year! Congratulations! 

3A – Christopher Chirino is a very enthusiastic student.  He enjoys and loves learning new things.  He is a whiz at Math and loves the challenge of new problems. He has a true gift for helping others whenever he can.  He is a role model for all of us when it comes to SERVICE.  Congratulations, Chris! 

4A - Congratulations to our Classmate of the Month, Angelo Moctezuma Bocanegra! Angelo has grown so much this year. He works diligently in the classroom to produce high quality work. He uses his critical thinking skills to solve complex math problems. He models love on a daily basis by treating others with respect and kindness. He is using his growth mindset to improve every day. Way to go, Angelo!

5A – Zinara Fuentes Cruz is 5th grade's December Student of the Month! She is always enthusiastic about learning and works hard in all subjects. She also sets a great example for others by being willing to embrace challenges with an open heart and open mind. Our class community is grateful that she shares her gifts and joy with us! Go Zinara Go!    

6A - We have been very lucky to have Jesse Reina Vasquez as part of our 6th grade class this year.  Jesse sets a great example of a student with the KEYS! Jesse has grown in his learning, is joyful when celebrating his and others' accomplishments, and supports his classmates and teachers when they need help.  He is a positive light in the classroom and we are lucky to have him at St. Peter's! Great work, Jesse! 

7A - Alaysha Flores lives out St. Peter's core values through her kindness towards those around her. She finds opportunities to grow when facing new challenges and she always seems to have a smile on her face, showing gratitude and spreading joy and positivity. In class, she tries her very best to continue to grow and meet her learning goals, always with an open heart and open mind. Alaysha leads by example and we appreciate all she brings to our community!  

8A - Jazmin Gamez has continued to grow and accomplish so much this year! Her focus and attention to detail has come through in every new experience she encounters. She is willing to go above and beyond what is asked of her and has stepped out of her comfort zone. Jazmin has shared her gifts as a student, a student council officer, and a friend. Keep up the awesome work, Jazmin!

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a new year full of blessings! As we spend time with our families, remember that they are the best gift of all!

1A - This week, we are reviewing what we have learned up to this point. We are continuing our trip around the world, visiting other countries, and learning about their Christmas traditions. In religion, we are continuing to celebrate the season of Advent. We are also trying to help those in need by working towards our Food Drive goals. Thank you for all of your support. Have a very Merry Christmas!  

2A - We will be learning how deaf people enjoy rock concerts by reading “Many Ways to Enjoy Music.” We'll compare measurements with centimeters (relating addition and subtraction). We visited the garden and cleaned it up! During the season of Advent, I hope you are able to make time for family and prayer.

3A – 3A is preparing for baby Jesus this week.  We have our rose-colored candle lit on our Advent wreath, our tree is decorated, and we are making ready for our Christmas vacation.  We are working on Lexia and ST Math to strengthen our ELA and Math skills.  Please don't forget to have the kiddos practice daily on their tablets or other devices.  Many of you have already downloaded these programs—thank you.  Keep them busy with learning activities during our vacation.  I want to wish all of you a joyous time with family and friends.  Remember what Mrs. Jimenez always tells us "JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON.”  I hope to see you at some of the special Masses during the next two weeks. God Bless All!

4A - This week, we will continue to focus on the season of Advent and working to prepare our hearts for Jesus' birth. It is Christmas Around the World in Literacy Block. Each day, we will focus on holidays in two different countries. This is a great time for us to work on our compare-and-contrast skills as well as learn about our cultures and traditions. In Math, we will be applying our addition and subtraction knowledge to multi-step word problems. In Science, we will be completing two Christmas STEAM activities. We will be working to spread our Christmas cheer!

5A - Have a blessed Christmas holiday with your families! If your family has access to Lexia and ST Math, please encourage your child to continue using those programs over break. See you in the new year!

6A  Religion – 6th Grade will be completing their Jesse Tree Project and preparing for the Christmas Program on December 20th by practicing "Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree."   Language Arts – 6th grade is continuing to type out their final drafts, while making edits along the way. Our final stage of publishing will be to write the Dedication, About the Author, and Preview for our books!   Math - Hello families! Students took a test on Tuesday. All students will be taking STAR tests to track their progress in math on Wednesday. On Thursday students will be exploring mathematical patterns.  Science – 6th Grade Scientists have had an inquisitive and explorational year so far. They will take an end of the year test and will explore some concepts that they have been wondering about all trimester.

7A   Religion - Students will be making an Advent Trivia Board Game to learn more about the Advent Season. Language Arts - Students have wrapped up their reading on A Christmas Carol.  They will participate in a Change of Heart Activity, focusing on Scrooge’s BEFORE and AFTER character transformation. Through this, they will be able to identify how and why he leads to a "change of heart."  Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!   Math – Hello families! All students will be taking STAR tests to track their progress in math on Wednesday. On Thursday students will be exploring mathematical patterns.  Social Studies – Students will be continuing their novel study of A Long Walk to Water.  Science - We welcome the 7th graders back to school and get right back at our study of the cell. This week the seventh graders make an extended analogy between a cell and something of their choosing.

8A   Religion - Students will examine and analyze the Nativity of Jesus as HE is the REASON for this Christmas SEASON!   Language Arts - Students have finalized their reading on Night. They will create a culminating Tear Art Visual to represent their feelings and reactions to an event in the novel. In doing so, they will be able to illustrate how mood and symbolism can convey a message to the reader. More importantly, students will be able to highlight the devastation in which the main character and other Jewish prisoners endured, while capturing the human emotion that is so vivid in the novel. Have a very Merry Christmas! See you in 2020, class of 2020!   Math -  Hello families! Students took a test on Tuesday. All students will be taking STAR tests to track their progress in math on Wednesday. On Thursday students will be exploring mathematical patterns.   Social Studies - Students will be having their own 'Constitutional Convention' where they will be debating important issues that were discussed at the Constitutional Convention in 1787.   Science - Students continue to learn to use the tools necessary to measure mass, volume, and area. These skills will be necessary as they prepare their rockets!

REMINDERS

Dec. 20        9:00 AM, Christmas Prayer Service and Program

Dec. 20       12:30 PM Dismissal

Dec. 21-Jan. 5     CHRISTMAS VACATION

Jan. 6           Classes Resume  (Regular day, 7:55-3:00)

Jan. 7           8:10 AM School Mass

Jan. 17         8:30 AM Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Service

Jan. 20         No School; Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday

QUE PASA 12/11/2019 (English)

Dear Parents,

      This week, we celebrate two feasts of Mary: the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.  It’s very appropriate that we celebrate Mary during the season of Advent as we prepare for the coming of Jesus, because without Mary, and without her faith, strength, and love, we wouldn’t have Jesus.  And after all, Jesus is the reason for the season.

      Pope Francis wrote an Advent reflection a few years ago that reminds us of how Mary is a role model for us today.  Mary also reminds me of our Sisters of Mercy, past and present--like Sr. Marian Rose, Sr. Lucy, Sr. Paulina, and Sr. Toni Lynn--who answered the call of Mercy at St. Peter’s.  As Pope Francis describes, Mary is a loving mother who inspires us all to put God first in our lives.  Here’s a part of what Pope Francis wrote:

     “We bet on hope, on the hope of peace, and it will be possible! The journey is never finished. Just as in each of our own lives, there is always a need to restart and to rise again. Mary is a model of this spiritual attitude, to this way of being and of journeying in life.Although she was just a simple girl, she carried in her heart the hope of God.  In her womb, the hope of God took flesh, became man, and made history: Jesus Christ.  Let us be guided by her, she who is mother, she is a ‘mama’ and knows how to lead us. Let us be guided by her in this time of waiting.”                                                                                                 

      So let’s remember Mary, during Advent and every day, and how she is a role model for us to have courage, to put God first in our lives, and to have open hearts and open minds.  And when we do that, GREAT things can happen!

--Mrs. Sandra Jimenez

SCHOOL MASS AND PRAYER SERVICE

Tomorrow, Thursday December 12, we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with a school mass at 9:30 AM. Next week on Friday, December 20, we will have our Christmas Prayer Service and Program beginning at 9:00 AM in the church.  Parents are welcome to join in these celebrations!

ST. PETER’S FOOD DRIVE

The 8th graders are leading the school in a SERVICE project of collecting dry or canned foods and cash donations for the SF Marin Food Bank to show LOVE to the thousands of hungry families who live in the Bay Area.  Last year, we collected 1,000 pounds of food.  Let’s UNITE to match or beat that goal!  The homeroom that collects the most donations will win a special prize.  

TUITION POLICY

All student tuition accounts must be up to date and paid through December 2019 in order for your child to return to class on January 6, 2020. If your tuition is not up-to-date before leaving for Christmas vacation, your child will not be able to return to class on Monday, January 6, 2020.  Please plan ahead so your tuition is received on time.

If you have any questions, please call the Tuition Office at (415) 647-8662.

*** CALENDAR CHANGE! ***

The second round of Parent-Teacher Conferences has been moved to March 17-20, 2020.  These were originally scheduled for January 28-31.  

Now, January 28-31 will be regular 3:00 dismissal days (except for the usual 2:15 dismissal on Wednesday).  March 17-20 will be changed to 12:30 dismissal days to accommodate Parent-Teacher Conferences.  

If you have any questions, please contact the school office.  Thank you for your understanding with this change in our school calendar.

IN THE CLASSROOM

KINDER - “Hark! The herald Angels sing, Glory to the newborn King!” Please help our little “Angels” stay healthy to celebrate this joyous moment on December 20th! As illness is being passed around Kindergarten, it is important that we fortify ourselves by getting plenty of sleep, staying warm, hydrating, eating healthy and washing our hands! Thank you for your help!

1A - This week we are beginning our study of long vowels, specifically working on the long “a” sound, in words such as gate and take. In religion, we are celebrating Mary. In math, we are continuing our work on subtraction and related addition facts. In social studies, we are continuing our study on maps and globes. 

2A - We will be reading about some wild weather with the story, “Tornado!” We will continue measuring with centimeters and especially solving word problems using addition and subtraction. During the season of Advent, I hope you are able to make time for family and prayer.

3A – 3A is celebrating the 2nd week of Advent with many activities. We did some Christmas shopping on Monday in our very own Christmas shop. We received our Advent Sacrament of Reconciliation to help us prepare for Jesus' coming as well as attend our special Mary Masses. We led the school in the Immaculate Conception Mass on Monday, and on Thursday, we will honor Our Lady of Guadalupe with a 9:30 Mass. We are spending much of our curriculum time learning about the traditions, colors and beliefs associated with the season of waiting for Jesus. Each of these celebrations UNITE us with our school community and show LOVE for our Catholic faith and each other. God bless us, every one!

4A - We continue to prepare our hearts for Jesus' birth. As we enter into the second week of advent, we will be focusing on the important feast days during this season including the Immaculate Conception and the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. We also celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation on Tuesday. In Reading, we will conclude our story and create a comparison paragraph on our fairytales. In Math, we will focus on subtracting multi-digit numbers using tape diagrams, place value charts, and regular algorithms. In Science, we will have our December STEM project. We are off to the public library on Thursday! 

5A - This is a busy week for 5th grade! We'll be continuing to work on our fictional narrative gingerbread cookie writing project, learn mental strategies for attacking multi-digit multiplication problems, and focus on figurative language in the next chapters of our Harry Potter novel study. Our class field trip to 826 Valencia will be this Friday, December 13th. Please make sure your child comes with a bag lunch! 

6A  Religion – Students will be learning about the Immaculate Conception and the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. They will be leading the mass for Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12th.   Language Arts – Students will continue proofreading and editing their short stories as we get ready for the "publishing" stage. We will practice our typing and formatting skills as we convert our rough drafts into their final book form.   Math – Hello families! Students will be working mostly with solving and comparing unit rates from word problems, as well as finding equivalent fractions, decimals and percents, and solving problems involving percents. Students will have an exam next Tuesday on lessons 20-27 from their workbook, (excluding lesson 22).   Social Studies – Students will be learning about the beliefs of the Ancient Egyptians.   Science – Scientists will expand their understanding of other forms of heat transfer other than convection. They will take a test on Friday.

7A   After having to reschedule because of the fires, 7th graders are visiting Caritas Creek at CYO camp up in Occidental, California. This week they will focus on ecology!  They will do a variety of community building activities, nature hikes and explorations.  They will also reflect on their faith and on God!  They will return this Friday afternoon.

8A   Religion – Students will conclude the meaning of Advent, the wreath and its purpose. They will also examine December feasts days, the Immaculate Conception of Mary and Our Lady of Guadalupe.    Language Arts - Students are continuing to read Night. Many lively discussions have already taken place as they learn of Elie's journey through the concentration camps. They will focus next on answering what it means to be a bystander or an upstander.   Math – Hello families! In 8th grade will be working on operating with integers and will have an exam next Tuesday. Students will also be familiarizing themselves with high school entrance exams. We will be discussing strategies as well as practicing how to solve problems.   Social Studies – Students are working on a "Whose more perfect Union?" project.  They are studying about the groups of people who were not invited to the Constitutional Convention and learning of ways that the Constitution could have been written differently to support different interest groups.    Science - Students are working hard to learn the skills necessary for their first project of the year: balancing equations, measuring mass, and calculating area. Good luck!

REMINDERS

Dec. 9-13     7th grade retreat, Caritas Creek at CYO Camp

Dec. 11        Free Dress for No Tardies in November

Dec. 12        9:30 AM School Mass, Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Dec. 12        12:45 PM, 4A Field trip to Mission Branch Library

Dec. 13        9:00 AM, 5A Field trip to 826 Valencia

Dec. 13        6:00-8:00 PM, BVCC La Posada in the Gym

Dec. 17        Holiday Hat Day

Dec. 18        Christmas Sweater Day

Dec. 19        Winter Gear Day  (Beanies, earmuffs, scarves, mittens)

Dec. 20        9:00 AM, Christmas Prayer Service and Program

Dec. 20       12:30 PM Dismissal

Dec. 21-Jan. 5     CHRISTMAS VACATION

Jan. 6           Classes Resume