The Warmer days of spring will quickly be upon us.  It seemed as if winter just would not end!  Outdoor recess will be a breath of fresh air for the children.   Here are some reminders for this month.

Classes resume on Monday, April 8^th.  I hope you had a wonderful Easter recess!

An Open House for prospective parents only is scheduled for Monday, April 15^th.  If you know of anyone who might be interested in enrolling their child(ren) for the upcoming school year, please let them know!  Tours of the school will be conducted between 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM.

The Parents Association is busy planning Supermarket BINGO scheduled for Saturday, April 20^th, in the School Auditorium.  This is an adult only fundraiser and more fun than you can imagine!  Information regarding ticket sales was sent home via the children.  If you wish to purchase tickets you can send payment and tear off to Mrs. Kelly’s attention.  Your request will be forwarded to the Parents Association to fulfill your request.

Scholastic Book Fair visits St. Sebastian School on Tuesday, April 23^rd.  The children will have the opportunity to shop for books and other related reading materials during the school day.  Many thanks to Mrs. Beattie for organizing the sale.

Students in Grades 4, 6 and 8 will take the New York State English Language Arts Test on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday,  April 16^th, 17^th and 18^th.

Students in Grades 4, 6 and 8 will take the New York State Math Test on  Wednesday, Thursday,  and Friday,     April 24^th, 25^th and 26^th.

On behalf of the faculty and staff, we wish you a joyous Easter.

Sincerely,

JoAnn Dolan,

Principal

Winter will be over in just a few short weeks and I think we are all ready for the beautiful season of spring. The children are engaged in projects and activities during this Lenten season which include Mass, Stations of the Cross and the Lenten Mite Boxes. Here are some reminders for this busy month.

Thanks to all who have reregistered for the 2013-2014 school year. If we have not heard from you, we will assume that your child is not returning for the upcoming school year. Registration is on a first come, first served basis until classes are filled.

Blessings to our students receiving the sacrament of First Penance on Saturday, March 2nd. The ceremony will begin promptly at 10: 30 AM. Please keep the children in your prayers as they take this important step in their faith journey.

The Primary Math Bee is scheduled for Tuesday, March 5th, at 1 PM in the school auditorium. The top math students of grades 1, 2 and 3 will compete. The winner will represent St. Sebastian School in the Regional Math Bee later in the month.

The children were given information about the Yankee Candle Fundraiser which will begin on March 7th. This is an optional fundraiser but should you decide to participate the ordered items will be received before Mother’s Day!

Lifetouch photographers will take Spring photos of your gorgeous children on Wednesday, March 6th. Students should dress up on that day. All of the children will be photographed but purchasing the photos is optional.

The Parents Association is planning a Family Fitness Night for students and parents on Monday, March 11th. The fun begins at 6:30 PM in the school auditorium and ends at 8:00 PM. Admission is free! Students must be accompanied by a parent/guardian in order to participate.

Report Card distribution is scheduled for Tuesday, March 19th, from 3:00 PM until 4:00 PM and again from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. More information will be sent home with your child. The Honors Assembly for students in grades 5-8 will take place on Wednesday, March 20th,, in the school auditorium at 8:30 AM. Parents are welcome to attend.

The Elizabeth Ann Seton Service Volunteers are sponsoring a Dress Down Day for charity on Thursday, March 21st. Participation is optional but thank you for considering this request.

The children will be dismissed at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, March 27th. Extended Day is not available on that day. Easter recess begins on Holy Thursday, March 28th. Classes resume on Monday, April 8th.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th, and Happy St. Joseph’s Day, March 19th!

On behalf of the faculty and staff, blessings to you during the holy season of Lent. God bless you all for your continued cooperation and support.

Peace,

JoAnn Dolan, Principal

Can it be February already?  Where does the time go?  Permit me to remind you about school closing procedures in the event of inclement weather.  First, if the public schools are closed, then we will be closed.  You can tune into Channel 2 (WCBS) Morning News of Channel 11 (WPIX) Morning News.  School closings should be posted on the bottomo of the television screen.  If they are not listed, please go to their websites and look for the School Closing list for St. Sebastian School information.  Please do not call the school.  You will receive a ONECALLNOW message alerting you of the school closure.  Hopefully, we will not use any “snow” days this year.

Congratulations to Aly Tantawy (Grade 7-1) who took First Place in the Middle School Math Bee and to Jackie Alvarez (Grade 8-1) who took Second Place. Aly will represent St. Sebastian School in the Diocesan Math Bee!

The students in Grades 5 through8 will attend Mass on Friday, February 1st.  There will be an 11:30 AM dismissal on that day.  Extended Day is available until 6:00 PM.

Re-registration ends on February 10th.  This determines tuition, class size, materials and teacher assignments.  It is imperative that we know your intentions for the upcoming school year in order for us to move forward with our planning.

We are planning many wonderful events to celebrate Catholic Schools Week.  information on various activities will be sent home via the children.

The children in Grades K through 8 will attend the 9:00 AM Mass on Ash Wednesday, February 13th.  All are welcome to attend.

The school will be closed during the week of February 18th through February 22nd.  Enjoy the Winter Recess!  Classes will resume on Monday, February 25th.

Registration for new students Grades Nursery through 7 begins on February 26th.

Thank you for your continued generosity and support of our school.  Let’s pray that the winter weather is mild.  There is only a few short weeks left before Spring!

Sincerely,

J. Dolan, Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians,

The security of our buildings is one of our foremost concerns because it directly impacts the security of our students and staff.  Some of you may know that in 2011 we upgraded our internal and external security by adding 28 cameras in and around the building; these cameras digitally record all activity 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  The cameras are monitored throughout the school day.  Several weeks ago we decided to have several additional cameras installed; these new cameras will be in place shortly.

There is an additional camera at the front door which is monitored to permit access to the building.  We are in the process of upgrading that system as well by adding an additional monitor and two-way voice communication capability.

In October, we began the process of upgrading the public address system that facilitates communication throughout the building.  We are awaiting an installation date.

Several years ago we instituted a practice that required all faculty members to carry two-way radios that are monitored during the day; these radios facilitate communication with teachers and staff.

New doors were installed earlier this year from the school yard to the early childhood wing of the building.

An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) has recently been installed in the school auditorium for the safety of all who use the facility.

Each year the school revises and updates a Crisis Management Plan that is filed with the 108^th Police Precinct and the Fire Department.  This details actions which would engage in the event of an evacuation, intruder, lock down, fire, or other anticipated emergency.

As parents, you should be aware that, in the event of an evacuation, two sites have been approved , one here on the campus in the Parish Center Basketball Court on the second floor, and a second, off site at P.S. 11 located at 56^th Street and Skillman Avenue.

Some weeks ago we began to engage an architect to advise us on a plan for greater security at the front entrance and lobby.

As a result of recent events, we are evaluating our policy on visitors to the school. Visitors are not let into the school during school hours without an appointment and are never left unescorted.  However, parents/guardians are those who most frequently come to the school.  I am asking that you make sure your child is here by 8AM each morning and that you call in advance for an appointment, to assist us in keeping the school a secure place.

Sincerely,

Ms. J. Dolan, Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Christmas is just a few short weeks away!  The children will be engaged in many Advent projects as we attempt to keep them focused on the real reason for the season.  Each Monday morning, we will light a candle on the Advent wreath as we await the celebration for the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Congratulations to David Anderson and Nicholas Kaminski, both in grade 6. They came in first and second place, respectively, in the Intermediate Math Bee (grades 4-5-6). David Anderson represented St. Sebastian School in the Regional Bee on November 20^th.

Thank you to Mrs. Beattie and the parent volunteers for all of the work you did in tallying the returns from the Candy Sale.

The Parents Association had a successful Breakfast with Santa in the auditorium on Saturday, December 1^st.   Our thanks to all who helped and attended the festivities.

Report Card distribution is scheduled for Thursday, December 6^th, from 3 PM until 4 PM and again from 5 PM until 8 PM.  We ask that you arrive no later than 7:30 PM.   Please note – if your child(ren) attends the teacher conference, they must remain with their parents.  Conferences are limited to 5 minutes maximum.  Should you desire a longer meeting, please schedule an additional one after you receive your child’s Report Card.  Parents/Guardians of students in grades 3-8 will also receive results of the Terra Nova Testing-please keep these results in a safe place for future reference

The Awards Ceremony is scheduled for Monday, December 10^th, at 8:30 AM in the school auditorium.  Students in grades     5 to  8 will receive awards for Principal’s List, First Honors, Second Honors as well as Effort Awards.  Parents are welcome to join us on that morning.

Children in grades 3 through 8 will attend at Penance Service on Tuesday, December 11^th.

Santa’s Workshop will visit the school auditorium on Tuesday, December 11^th.  There will be a variety of inexpensive items on sale.  This is a great opportunity for the children to pick up a small Christmas present for parents, grandparents, etc for a reasonable price.  Some items cost as little as 50 cents.  Children will be permitted to go “shopping” during the school day.  This is an optional fundraiser organized by Mrs. Beattie.

Students in grade Kindergarten through grade 2 will have the opportunity to work with a Professional Ballet Company on Wednesday, December 12^th.  Each class will learn a part for the Nutcracker to be performed on that very afternoon at 1:30 PM in the school auditorium.  Parents are most welcome to attend at 1:30 PM- more to follow!

On the morning of December 14^th, at 8 AM, we welcome the Veteran’s of Foreign Wars for an assembly honoring the winners of the Patriot’s Penn Essay Contest.  Winners will include students from other schools as well. Our winners are- 1^st Place, Mallaigh Ashton, 2^nd Place, Andria Padilla, 3^rd Place, Michele Younger, and  4^th Place,  SagineThingue

The 7^th and 8^th grade dance is scheduled for Friday, December 14^th from 7 PM until 10 PM.

Please save the date for our annual Christmas Program scheduled for Friday, December 21^st, at 9:30 AM.  All are invited to attend! After the show, the children will be dismissed at 11:30 AM- Extended Day is not available. NO yellow bus service is scheduled at dismissal.

On behalf of the faculty and staff, peace to you and your loved ones during the season of Advent and Christmas and blessings for a Happy New Year.  Thank you for all you do and for your continued support.

Sincerely,

J. Dolan, Principal

I hope this letter finds you in good health and anticipating the Thanksgiving holiday.  What a wonderful time to celebrate our blessings and enjoy time with family.  Please take a few moments to review the events scheduled for the month of November.    Please note-after school activities are always canceled when school is closed.

The school will be closed on Thursday, November 1^st, in observance of All Saints Day- a holy day of obligation.  Classes resume on Friday, November 2^nd which is a full day of school-dismissal at 2:45 PM.

The school will be closed on Tuesday, November 6^th, for Election Day.  Classes resume on Wednesday, November 7^th.

Lifetouch Photographers will take group pictures of the children on Wednesday, November 7^th.  Al children must be in uniform on that day-no gym suits. Individual photos are scheduled for Thursday, November 8^th. Children my dress up on that day or wear their school uniform.

Our 8^th graders will take the TACHS Test for Admission to Catholic High Schools on Saturday, November 10^th.  Best of luck, boys and girls!  We will keep you in our prayers.

The school will be closed on Monday, November 12^th, in observance of Veterans Day.  Classes will resume on Tuesday,       November 13^th.

We will be collecting various items for the Little Sisters of the Poor.  They are scheduled to visit on November 15^th.  A list with items you may wish to donate will be sent home via the children.

The CASCON Cheesecake Fundraiser begins on Monday, November 5th.  Delivery is scheduled for Tuesday, November 20^th, just in time for Thanksgiving.  There is nothing better than CASCON cheesecake unless you’ve tasted the pies!!  More information will follow.

On Wednesday, November 21^st, we will have our annual Thanksgiving prayer service in the school auditorium.  What a beautiful way to begin the holiday!  The children will be dismissed at 11:30 AM- Extended Day is not available.  Please make arrangements for your child to be picked up on time.

School will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 22^nd and 23^rd.  Classes resume on Monday, November 26^th.

Parents and guardians of children receiving the sacrament of Confirmation – Fall – 2013 must attend a meeting of proximate preparation  on Tuesday, November 27^th, at 7 PM in the school auditorium.

On behalf of the faculty and staff, blessings on Thanksgiving and always.  In the spirit of Thanksgiving, let us continue to pray for and help one another in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.  So many relatives and friends have lost so much.  Let us continue to help those in need and remain strong in faith and pray that all affected areas will recover from the devestation.

Enjoy the long weekend as we prepare to enter the season of Advent.

Sincerely,

JoAnn Dolan

Principal

Happy October everyone!  Where did September go?  Thank you all so much for attending the Parent Orientation Meetings that were scheduled last month.  It was wonderful to see everyone.  Let’s continue working together for another successful year.  Here are some reminders for the month of October.

First, many thanks to all of you for a very successful Magazine Drive.  It is one of our major fundraisers and I cannot thank you enough for your participation.  Thanks to Mrs. Beattie, the volunteer mothers, and our friends from Great American for organizing the sale.

On Friday, October 5^th, the 8^th graders will receive their school ring/pin during the 9:00 AM Mass.  A celebration will follow in the school auditorium.  Parents and family members are invited to attend.  Children in grades 1 to 7 will attend the Mass, but not the celebration!

Paul Effman Band service begins on Tuesday, October 2^nd, immediately following dismissal.  If you are interested in music lessons for your child, please contact me for more information.

School is closed on Monday, October 8^th in observance of Columbus Day.  Enjoy the long weekend.

Please join the Parents Association for their first meeting of the year scheduled for Tuesday, October 9^th. They have some wonderful ideas for the upcoming year.  Come and have a cup of coffee and enjoy a relaxing evening.  We will begin promptly at 7:00 PM and end by 8:00 PM.  Hope to see you there!

The Elizabeth Ann Seton Service Volunteers will sponsor a Dress Down Day scheduled for Friday, October 12^th.  Proceeds will benefit the Make A Wish Foundation.  Participation is optional – a minimum of $1.00 donation.

Parents of students receiving the sacrament of Penance and First Holy Communion must attend a mandatory meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 16^th, at 7:00 PM in the school auditorium.  The meeting will conclude at 8:00 PM – no other sessions are scheduled.

Our Annual Rosary Rally is scheduled for Wednesday, October 17^th.  We will be in the school yard if weather permits – please join us at 1:00 PM.

The Intermediate Math Bee (grades 4-5-6) is scheduled for October 24^th, at 1:00 PM in the school auditorium.  Thank you to Mrs. Moran for organizing the competition!  Parents are welcome to attend.

Our Candy Sale begins on October 18^th.  More information will be sent home via the children.

Our annual Halloween Parade is scheduled for Wednesday, October 31^st, at 1:00 PM in the school yard.  Let’s hope the weather cooperates so the children in grades Pre-K through 3 can enjoy the fun!  The Parents Association is planning a Halloween party for children in grades Nursery through 3 on the evening of October 26^th in the school auditorium.  The fun begins at 6:00 PM.  Information about tickets will be sent home under separate cover from the Parents Association.  Children attending must be students of the school – younger siblings are invited!

Looking ahead – There are no classes for the students on All Saints Day, Thursday, November 1^st. Classes resume on Friday, November 2^nd  which is a full day of school.   Dismissal is at 2:45 PM.  The school will be closed on Tuesday, November 6^th, for Election Day – NO SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ON THAT DAY.

Sincerely,

JoAnn Dolan

Principal

• Dues are $20 per year and can be sent to Bette Beattie at St. Sebastian School, 39-76 58th Street, Woodside, NY 11377. Checks should be made payable to: St. Sebastian Alumni Association.
• If you know of any Alumni of St. Sebastian School, email us at staff@stsebastianschool.org. Don’t forget to send full name/s (include maiden name/s), addresses and year of graduation.

We would love to update our Alumni list and keep in touch.