For a while it looked like we were getting an early spring. Trees were starting to bud. Then, regression. But have faith! Spring is really on the way! Soon!
Our virtues of the month for April are Gentleness and Humility. These are important virtues, but hard ones to teach in a culture that values self-assertion and ambition. We can find dozens of great stories for children exemplifying such virtues as courage, diligence, and perseverance. There are also many good stories justifying the quest for human rights. It is much more difficult to find stories that speak to the importance of saying “forgive me,” “after you,” or “I was wrong.”
Please note that spring break begins this week on Good Friday, March 29, and continues next week. Report cards for the third marking period will be sent out after the spring break on Friday, April 12. The Wednesday and Thursday, April 17-18, following spring break parent-teacher conferences will be scheduled to give you a chance to consult with your children’s teachers about their progress this school year.
In addition, note that Terra Nova tests are scheduled for April 23-25. This annual standardized test helps us to see how our students are doing academically in comparison with children all over the country. They also provide you with an understanding of your child’s academic development year-by-year. Be sure your child gets a good night’s sleep and a nourishing breakfast the morning preceding each day of the test. He/she needs to bring to school two number 2 pencils (mechanical pencils are not allowed).
As you know, our spring fundraiser Race for Education has begun. This year we are seeking to raise funds generally in order to continue to provide a quality education for your children while keeping tuition rates down. As mentioned in the letter you received, students will receive various prizes according to the number of donations received. The actual Race Day will be Friday, April 26. We expect Clifton’s mayor, Ray Grabowski, to be on hand for the event. Parents are invited!
Finally, don’t forget to re-register your child for the next school year! You will receive a 50% reduction in the registration fee if you do so by April 30. Please read an important announcement attached to this newsletter regarding a change in our location for the 2024-25 school year.
May God bless you and keep you safe and healthy!
New Hope School Staff
“Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.”
C. S. Lewis