Back to School

Hello St. Mary Families,
 
August is here and this is when the excitement for the start of the new school year begins. This is my 16th year in education and I can honestly say that I’ve never been more excited than I am this year.  The first year of leadership at a new school is very much centered around watching, listening, and learning.  Although I still very much plan on continuing these practices, I’m happy to embrace much more of the “doing” aspect for all of you that I serve now that I have a better understanding of the history and culture of the community.
 
One of my main goals this year is to increase communication and engagement with parents.  I plan on having dedicated open slots in my weekly schedule that parents can use to schedule meetings with me to discuss anything that you feel I need to hear. Written communication will also increase as I plan on continuing the principal’s column weekly rather than on a monthly basis.  I will use this opportunity to keep you fully informed about why we make the decisions you see here at St. Mary.   
 
Last year my main goal was to get everyone on the same page in understanding that we exist as a Catholic school to make saints. Heaven is our ultimate goal for everyone and our job is to help each and every person get there.  Now that we have that in place, we’ll return to the fundamentals: focusing on a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  Working with Fr. Lewis, we’ll now have a monthly adoration option for every student on First Fridays.  Students will have the opportunity to sit in the presence of our Lord, pray, and grow in trust and love with him.  
 
I hope you are able to take these final weeks of summer and relax by spending as much time as possible with family and friends. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with questions, ideas, or concerns.  
 
God bless,
Stephen Hart
Principal
St. Mary Catholic School
[email protected]
(509) 924-4300 x202