Thanks to all who donated to the toy drive sponsored by Third Class! The students did a marvelous job coordinating the toy drive efforts. According to Mrs. Beckemeier, “The students really enjoyed presenting to the other classes, collecting the toys from all the homerooms, and loading them for the charity organization that distributes them to the needy in time for Christmas.” Wearing pajamas to school was an added perk for all students who took part in the toy drive!

One more way you can help those in need this holiday season… If you have any gently used winter apparel such as coats, hats, scarves, or gloves, or blankets, our Social Justice Leadership Council is collecting them through Tuesday, Dec. 8th.  Thank you!

Plans are underway for our annual Trivia Night on Saturday, January 23. It’s taking a new twist this year, with a totally ’90s theme. Entry fee for a team of eight is $200, or $25 per person. Beer and soda provided, with 50/50 raffle, silent auction, table decorating and attire competitions. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. with play beginning at 7:15.

Watch for more information starting December 3.

Fourth Class students recently lent a hand at Santa’s Helpers, a  non-profit agency that helps bring Christmas cheer to needy children. As described on the Santa’s Helpers website:

“Santa’s Helpers began in 1968 when founder Rita Swiener heard from a professor about a poor family that had fallen through the cracks of social support, and would not be helped over Christmas. She and a few friends sprang into action with gifts for every member of that family. Since that day, thousands of children have had a Christmas visit from Santa, bearing personalized gifts for them and their family.”

Our Middle School students started the week by gathering in the Shrine for Prayers and Reflections for our World. The Fifth Class offered the following prayer:

We pray for all whose lives have been touched by tragedy, whether by accident or a deliberate act.
For those who mourn, immerse them in your love and
Lead them through this darkness into your arms and light.
For those who comfort, be in both the words they use and all that’s left unspoken;
Fill each heart with love.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, whose own suffering brought us life, here and for eternity. Amen.
                                                                                                                                  ©John Birch

In honor of St. Philippine Duchesne’s Feast Day on Wednesday, Nov. 18, the Social Justice Leadership Council is organizing a Food Collection for New Hope Food Pantry. Especially appreciated are dry boxed items such as cereal, noodles, granola bars, crackers, cake/brownie mixes., etc.

New Hope is not supported by any government agency and relies solely on donations from schools and food drives. Social Justice member Berkeley said, “We are hoping for lots of items since New Hope is in need of items, especially with the holidays coming up!”

We’re looking forward to our Fall Open House for prospective families on Thursday, Nov. 19! If you know family, friends, neighbors or co-workers who are interested in learning more about the Academy, Open House is the perfect opportunity to see our school in action! The presentation begins at 9 a.m. with an overview of our mission as a Sacred Heart school, our unique educational philosophy, our curriculum and programs. Seventh and Eighth Class Student Ambassadors will lead tours, which are always a highlight for prospective families. Everyone is welcome to attend, and an RSVP is appreciated to help us plan. Please contact Lisa Tebbe, Admissions Director, at ltebbe@ash1818.org.

Did you know that Johnny Appleseed was a missionary—and a war hero? Sixth Class students do! They recently learned a lot about that larger-than-life character using Fun-n-Facts for Brain-iacs, a syndicated feature penned by their Literature and Writing teacher, Mrs. Laura Craig. Fun-n-Facts appears each week in the Webster-Kirkwood Times.