May 2023 News & Notes

St. Joseph’s School Prayer

Glorious Saint Joseph, spouse of the Immaculate Virgin and Foster-Father of Jesus Christ; obtain for me and all the members of my family, a pure, humble, and charitable mind, and perfect resignation to the Divine Will. Be my guide and model throughout life that I may merit to die as you did in the arms of Jesus and Mary. Help us, Saint Joseph, in our earthly strife, to fulfill our responsibilities and ever to lead a pure and sinless life.

From the Head of School

Greetings from St. Joseph’s Catholic School!

Parent volunteers have always provided support for so many good things that happen at the school. Gala and Prom (both were awesome again this year!), School Store, Grandparents’ Day, Athletic and Arts Special Events (think Golf Tournament and Jubilate Knight for the Arts) and purchases to enhance programs (think new bus and band equipment), Household and sports teams coordination. You name it, if it’s happening at St. Joseph’s and it’s done well, there’s generally a group of parents helping to make it so.

School Branding Refresh

The Saint Joseph’s school community was recently fortunate to have Josh Lane, parent of senior Tru Lane, and co-founder of award-winning marketing firm FerebeeLane, offer his professional expertise to address a need at the school. In an extraordinary display of generosity, Josh and his team offered to update the school’s branding free of charge. As the school approaches the end of its third decade, it was an opportune time to freshen up the school’s seal, wordmark, Knight, and athletic logos, while maintaining continuity with the past.

Under the guidance of FerebeeLane, the school underwent a very instructive and helpful process, resulting in exciting new branding that we are eager to share with the community. Students will have a sneak peek of the new branding and athletic spirit wear logos during an assembly on Team Day. Lucky students will even have the chance to snag one of the free t-shirts or hats that will be tossed into the crowd.

In addition to design changes, the school’s color palette has been updated to include royal blue, silver (gray), black, and white. Notably, navy has been dropped from the school’s official color scheme. Going forward, a new branding guide will be established to establish what is permitted and what is not.

It’s worth noting that Carolina Salgado, an alumna of St. Joseph’s class of 2018, also contributed to the project as an intern. The St. Joseph’s community is immensely grateful to Josh Lane and FerebeeLane for their incredible contribution to our school’s branding.

Introducing New Uniform Colors in 2023-24 (While Grandfathering in All Current Uniform Items)

Changing the school’s logos and color scheme naturally led to discussions about incorporating the new logos and color scheme into the uniform options for 2023-24 school year. So, beginning next year, we are adding royal blue, black, and gray uniform items to the existing uniform choices To be clear, every uniform item allowed in the current school year will continue to be permitted during the 2023-24 school year . We are planning to phase out navy polos and outwear, khaki pants, and the plaid skirt after next school year, when gray pants, shorts, and skirts will replace khaki pants, shorts, and the plaid skirt respectively. The only navy colored item that will remain after next year is the navy blazer. The current green/navy striped tie will be worn next year as well. At some point next year, we hope to introduce a new tie that better coordinates with the new color scheme.

We realize that introducing new items while allowing the current uniforms for one more year will lead to a less than “uniform look” next year. We’re okay with this as a potential cost saving measure for families. We are giving current school families one full year of lead time before students will be required to be in the new color scheme. Lands’ End has already stopped selling navy polos and outerwear, khaki pants, and the plaid skirts to SJCS families and instead is only selling the new uniform items with the updated logo. A full electronic Lands’ End/SJCS Uniform Catalogue is being produced and will be shared with you in the coming weeks. For those families who want to stick with navy, khaki, and the plaid skirt next year, St. Joseph’s does have a “uniform closet” of new and used uniform items that it will make available at very significantly discounted prices.

Security Update

Finally, but yet of utmost importance, I want to provide you with a security update. The tragic school shooting at a Christian school in Nashville along with the near weekly reports of mass shootings across the country has schools including St. Joseph’s on heightened alert. Desiring expert advice regarding how to best protect our students in today’s environment, SJCS contracted with the Nelson Strategies earlier this year to conduct a full security audit and review of our campus and safety procedures. That site visit and audit took place on March 6.

We received the results of the study in early April. The report outlines several things that we are doing well along with some recommendations of things that should be implemented. Positively, it was noted that although SJCS sits on an open campus, the school is located in a safe, low-crime area. Fencing around the perimeter was not recommended, but the report indicated that increasing our inner line of defense is important to keeping our faculty, staff, and students safe. Communications, the school’s 15-camera system, and lighting all received positive comments in the assessment.

The study recommended that the school increase the number and type of drills it conducts each year. Specifically, the study reiterated the importance of maintaining a regimented schedule of monthly fire and evacuation drills, including two active shooter/intruder drills and two severe weather drills per school year, specifying that some of these drills should be unexpected and occur under varying conditions to simulate unusual circumstances. The study also recommended that evacuation maps around campus be updated to make clear the most direct route out of the building from that room. The school also needs to train its employees in how to use the fire extinguishers, which should be inspected by school employees monthly to ensure they are in working condition.

Other opportunities noted in the study include: expanding the school’s safety committee to include those who work in the most vulnerable locations in the school. The report also said the school should consider options for additional safeguards at the main entrance to deter and delay a potential intruder. New directional signage on the school grounds that clearly indicate that all visitors to campus must check-in at the front office is also needed. It was also recommended that the school install window coverings over all interior classroom door windows so that students cannot be seen by an intruder from the hallway. The report calls for updating the school’s handbook to provide more complete instructions for how to report bullying. SJCS should also provide school bus safety information with each travel event and make sure all exits in the school building are unobstructed as well as place emergency supplies in designated evacuation areas.

Finally, the report stressed some habits members of the school community should develop to better keep its students safe such as making sure all vendors, guests, parents, and alumni who visit the school check-in at the front desk with a driver’s license. Visitors should never be let in a back or side door, and doors should never be

propped open. The school should also continue to insist that all volunteers, including parents and coaches receive background screening before being permitted to be around our students. And perhaps most importantly of all: staff members should consider potential threats from within the community by disclosing any family issues (domestic abuse, volatile divorce situations, etc.) to human resources or school supervisors. All members of the community should see themselves as safety promoters by practicing a “see something, say something” mentality at all times.

In closing, please pray for SJCS custodian, Nolan Keefe, for his leg to be infection free and restored to full health as well as for the following members of the SJCS family: for student Cristian Urbina on the passing of her grandmother; for students Hampton and Preston (’21) Norwood on the passing of their grandmother; for students Sean and Ty Gilroy on the passing of their grandfather

With Love and Prayers,

Keith F. Kiser Head of School

Things You Need To Know

Exam Schedules for AP, Senior, & Final Exams

Please see the Exam section of this News & Notes for full details of exams. Please avoid taking students out for appointments on exam days and remember that exams may not be taken early.

New Student Night, May 1

All newly enrolled students (students new to SJCS for fall 2023) and their parents are strongly encouraged to attend this important and informative night on campus. Personalized student packets will be available for pick up , and a checklist covering a number of important topics will be reviewed. Students will split out into grade level meetings, and teachers will be on hand. Doors open at 6:30 PM, and the general session for all new students begins promptly at 7:00 PM in our JPII Center. Over 140 new students and their parents have been invited, so please arrive early to allow time to park and get seated. The evening will conclude by 8:30 PM, and more information about this event was included in all acceptance packets. Questions? Contact Barbara McGrath in the Admissions Office.

Calling All St. Joseph Artists, Deadline is May 1

The Jubilate Arts Guild is now accepting artwork for the 2023 ornament. This year’s art design theme is “Madonna & Child.” The ornament will be a square NanoBrite translucent, yet opaque, stained glass-like ornament. Use of Bright and Deep colors is recommended for the best light effect on the finished product. Artwork can be hand sketched, painted, or digitally designed with a digital process of High Res 300-600 dpi, jpeg, pdf required; no png or gif accepted. Submissions should be emailed to Teresa McGrath by Monday, May 1.

Senior College T-Shirt Day, May 2

Seniors are invited to wear a college t-shirt from their chosen college on Tuesday, May 2. Seniors should wear their t-shirt with uniform bottoms. We will also have cookies and a group photo of all seniors in the JP II Center during the afternoon household on this day.

Middle School Open Mic Night, May 5

The Fine Arts Department will be sponsoring a MS Open Mic Night in the Cafeteria on Friday, May 5 from 5:00-6:30 PM. All MS students are encouraged to participate in this event, and we invite MS families to attend (any younger siblings must be accompanied by their parents). Lemonade and goodies will be available, along with time for fellowship and open-mic entertainment. Equipment will be available for those interested in performing a favorite poem, song, or monologue. Entrance is through the Cafeteria/MS parking lot door, and admission is $5.00 per person, to be paid by cash/check at the door.

Senior & Parent Dodgeball Tournament, May 5

Calling all seniors and senior parents! Mark your calendars for the 4th annual seniors vs. senior parents dodgeball and dinner on Friday, May 5 at 6:00 PM in the gym. Parents, come dressed in the decade you graduated high school. Be on the lookout for the Google sign-up form. Questions? Contact Lisa Ireland at 864-553-2943.

Spring Concerts, May 9, 10, & 11

Celebrate the end of the year at the Fine Arts Spring Concerts:

• Tuesday, May 9 - Band Ensembles

• Wednesday, May 10 - Choral Ensembles

• Thursday, May 11 - Strings Ensembles

All concerts will begin at 7:00 PM in the JPII Center. Admission is free. Jubilate Arts Guild members will receive priority seating based on their membership level. Seating will not be assigned, but doors will open to Jubilate Guild members only at 6:30 PM, followed by general admission at 6:45 PM. Be sure to pick up your Jubilate Arts Guild member tag at check-in. Additionally, the Fine Arts Department decals will be available for purchase in the HS Commons.

New Student High School Makeup Placement Testing Dates May 9 & 11

Newly accepted and enrolled high school students who are entering grades 9-12 and who are currently completing high school courses in math and/or any level of world language for high school credit at their current

school and wish to advance to the next level at St. Joseph’s will need to take SJCS Placement Tests. For those students who were not able to make the April testing dates, makeup testing dates will be offered on Tuesday, May 9 (Math) and Thursday, May 11 (World Language). The tests will be held at SJCS beginning at 3:30 PM. Information regarding these tests was sent home in all new high school student acceptance packets. Parents of new high school students can expect an email from Jenny Starks to register your child for placement testing. Questions? Contact Jenny Starks in the Admissions Office.

HS Academic Awards & Senior Red Door Ceremony, May 12

The HS Academic Awards Ceremony will be held on Friday, May 12 in the JPII Center at 2:00 PM. All seniors should wear their dress uniform that day. All senior parents are invited to attend, and you will be notified, in advance, if your child is receiving an award. The Academic Awards Ceremony will conclude with the Class of 2023 processing through the Red Door in the school’s annual Red Door Farewell Ceremony. This program marks the end of one spiritual journey and the beginning of a new one for our seniors. Parents should park in the sophomore parking lot (by the baseball dugout) and enter through the front lobby.

Senior Sunset, May 12

Senior Sunset will be Friday, May 12 from 7:00-9:00 PM on campus. There will be dinner, yard games, and the chance to gather one last time on campus before you graduate. An invitation will be sent out soon with all of the details. We hope to see all seniors there!

First Day of Tryouts/Practice for Fall Sports Begin May 16

NOTE: May tryout dates are reserved for current SJCS students.

• JV & Varsity Cheer: May 16 from 3:30-5:00 PM, May 17 from 1:30-3:30 PM, May 18 from 3:30-5:00 PM

• JV & Varsity Football: Friday, July 28 – time TBD

• Boys & Girls Swimming: Friday, July 28 from 7:00-8:30 PM at Spaulding Farms Pool: 7:00-8:30 AM

• Girls & Boys Cross-Country: Monday, July 31 from 7:30-9:00 AM

• JV & Varsity Volleyball: Monday, July 31 from 1:30-3:30 PM

• JV Girls Tennis: Monday, July 31 from 7:30-9:00 AM

• Varsity Girls Tennis: Monday, July 31 from 9:00 -11:00 AM

• Girls Golf at The Preserve at Verdae: Monday, July 31 – time TBD

• Middle School Football: Monday, July 31 – time TBD

• Middle School Volleyball: Wednesday, August 9 from 4:30-6:00 PM

• Middle School Cheer: Thursday, August 10 from 3:30-5:30 PM

Schedule Change/12:05 PM Dismissal on May 17

Due to the 8th Grade Convocation & Awards Ceremony, all students (except for 8th graders) will be dismissed at 12:05 PM.

Eighth Grade Convocation Mass & Awards Ceremony, May 17

The Eighth Grade Convocation Mass and Awards Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, May 17 at 12:15 PM and last approximately 90 minutes. Families are invited to attend. All other students will be dismissed at 12:05 PM that day; however, any student is welcome to stay and join us for the celebration.

8th Grade Social, May 17

The 8th Grade Social will be held on Wednesday, May 17 from 5:30-8:00 PM. There will be dinner, dancing and the 8th Grade Superlative Awards! Please RSVP HERE so we can order the correct amount of food.

Improvisation Knight, May 18

• The SJCS Theatre Department will sponsor an Improvisation Knight on Thursday, May 18. Join us for an entertaining evening of Improvisation as the students compete against each other on stage, using only their quick-wit and humor. The show will start at 7:00 PM. Admission is $5 at the door and concessions will be available for purchase.

• Jubilate Arts Guild members will receive priority seating based on their membership level. Be sure to pick up your Jubilate Arts Guild member tag at check-in. Seating will not be assigned, but doors will open to Jubilate Guild members only at 6:30 PM, followed by general admission at 6:45 PM.

St. Joseph the Worker Day, May 19

We look forward to serving our community as a school. Please plan to provide your own transportation. Site information will be finalized and communicated by Household Deans soon. The permission slip was due April 19, so please turn in your permission form immediately, if you have not done so already. The permission form can be found HERE.

Textbook Purchasing List Posted, May 19

Textbook lists for 2023-2024 will be posted on St. Joseph’s website by May 19. The school’s official textbook vendor is BNC Services. Their online book store can be accessed HERE . Summer reading titles may be purchased through them starting June 5, 2023, and all other textbooks will be available beginning July 10, 2023. BNC Services carries the majority of our textbooks and is a straightforward and easy way to secure the books needed. They offer books in new and used condition as well as a chance to sell books back at the end of the year. If you choose to use another vendor, please make sure to order by ISBN to ensure you have the correct edition and format. Also note that class schedules will not be finalized until mid-July and will be issued via email. If you choose to purchase books early, please note that you may be required to purchase additional books or different books based on your student’s actual schedule. From July 24-30, BNC offers St. Joseph’s discount shipping week. Orders over $149 qualify for free shipping that week only.

Commemorative Red Door Ornaments for Sale, Order by May 20

Senior parents, Graduation will be here soon, and your student will be walking through the Red Door one last time. Be sure to order your commemorative Red Door ornament HERE for them to cherish the memory of their days at St. Joseph’s. We also have a very limited number of this year’s Knight ornaments available which can make a great Confirmation gift! If interested in the Knight ornament, please contact Christine Balts directly, since quantities are limited.

Community Service Hours Due by May 22

All students are required to complete and submit their community service hours in x2vol prior to exams. The requirements by grade level are as follows: Freshmen-10 hours, Sophomores-15 hours, Juniors-20 hours, and Seniors-20 hours. Click HERE for the SJCS Service Committee Website. Questions? Contact Catherine Showghi or Greshan Charlton.

6th and 7th Grade Schedule, May 22-24

All students will be dismissed at 12:15 PM on exam days from May 22-24. 6th graders will not have exams, and 7th graders will have exams in Math and Literature only. They will have two extended classes each day, matching the 8th grade and HS Exam schedule, except for the following: since their Related Arts classes will not meet, 6th graders will meet with their 7th period class at the 1st period exam time, and 7th graders will meet with their 7th period class during 3rd period exam time. There will be no MS classes on Thursday, May 25.

8th Grade Semester Exams, May 22-24

Eighth graders will follow the exam schedule and guidelines detailed in this edition of News and Notes except for the following: their 7th period exam will take place at 10:20 AM on May 22 during the 2nd period exam time since there is no Related Arts exam. There will be no 8th grade exam on Thursday, May 25 and 8th graders do not need to come to school that day unless they have a makeup exam. Please avoid taking students out for appointments on exam days and remember that exams may not be taken early.

Late Stay, May 22-24

We will have Late Stay on Monday through Wednesday (May 22-24) after the 12:15 PM dismissal, but there is NO Late Stay on Thursday, May 25, which is the last day of school, with a 10:00 AM dismissal.

No Middle School Classes, May 25

Middle school students will not have school on Thursday, May 25. The high school will be dismissed at 10:00 AM on that day after their last exam.

Graduation Practice, May 25

Graduation practice will begin promptly at 1:00 PM at St. Mary Magdalene Church. This is a required event for ALL seniors, and they should plan to be at practice from 1:00–3:00 PM. All seniors must be present and arrive on time at this practice in order to walk at Commencement.

Baccalaureate Mass & Commencement, May 26

The Class of 2023 will graduate at 2:00 PM at St. Mary Magdalene Church on Woodruff Road. The doors will open for seating at 1:00 PM.

School Office Closed, May 29

The school and school offices will be closed on Monday, May 29 for Memorial Day.

Summer Office Hours Begin May 30

Beginning Tuesday, May 30, summer office hours are 8:00 AM-1:00 PM Monday-Thursday. The office will be closed on Fridays, as well as the week of July 3-7. The office re-opens July 10 and summer hours continue until August 4.

Final Report Cards, June 6

Quarter 4/Final Report Cards will be emailed on June 6 after 4:00 P.M. Please remember to check your spam email. If you do not receive a report card link, please email Carol Curry If you have any questions regarding your student’s grade, please contact the teacher directly.

Rising Senior College Essay Workshop, July 17-20

The College Counseling Office will hold a college application essay workshop for rising seniors July 17-20. College Admission Counselors will be present throughout the week to lead and assist students through the brainstorming and revision process. There are only a few spots remaining, so if you would like to attend, please register as soon as possible. Please click HERE for the times, cost, and registration.

Rising Senior Application Boot Camp, August 2 & 3

The College Counseling Office will host a free college application boot camp for rising seniors on August 2 and 3 at SJCS. All rising seniors are welcome. More details, including the specific times and registration link, will follow in an email later this summer.

Fourth Annual SJCS Athletic Department Golf Tournament, August 4

Save the date for the fourth annual SJCS Athletic Department Golf Tournament at The Preserve at Verdae golf course on August 4. The Athletic Department will be hosting this fundraiser for all sports teams. These funds will be used to support all the teams that make up St. Joseph’s athletics. This has replaced many of the individual fundraisers that each team has done in the past. We strongly encourage the whole St. Joseph’s Community to participate in the golf tournament. All alumni, families, and friends are welcome! The Knights Athletic Booster Club is the all-sport Booster Club for SJCS. Thank you for your generous support of all SJCS athletes.

SJCS Transition to New Software

We are very excited to announce that we will be transitioning all of our student and parent software to Blackbaud (replacing FACTS). We have started this process already with enrollment and admissions and will continue moving the rest of the systems through the summer. Please be on the lookout for emails relating to these changes as we will keep you updated as we transition. This is a learning curve for all of us and we are hoping for as smooth a transition as possible but please be patient with us. Questions? Contact Mary Cummings.

BNC Textbook Buyback

Parents who wish to sell books back to BNC may do so online. BNC Services will buy back textbooks that meet their condition requirements and send the money directly to you. You do not have to have purchased your books through BNC Services to participate. You may also sell your books back to BNC Services through their website. They will cover shipping costs. This short video (found HERE) will provide you with complete instructions.

Used Textbooks

As the school year comes to a close, please consider donating any unwanted used textbooks to St. Joseph’s. These textbooks are distributed to our scholarship students and/or used in the classroom at the teacher's discretion.

Important Dates for 2023-2024

Please click HERE for important dates for the 2023-2024 school year.

Student IDs for 2023-24 School Year

IDs are used to purchase lunch and items at the School Store as well as check in/out for Late Stay. Students are issued one ID free of charge when they enter the school as a new student. Students who attend middle school at SJCS are also given a new (free) ID when they enter the high school as freshmen. Outside of these times, ID replacements cost $5.00. Students should keep their ID’s from year to year and returning students should show up on the first day of school with their ID. New ID’s for the 2023-24 school year will be issued to all new students and all freshmen about a week or two after Yearbook Photo Day. Replacement IDs can be requested from Mrs. Hawkins in the front office.

Has Your Information Changed?

If you have had a change of address, phone number, or email, please email your updates to Mary Cummings.

AP Exam Schedule

Exam Schedules

Monday, May 1 7:40 AM: US Government & Politics 11:40 AM: Chemistry

Wednesday, May 3 7:40 AM: English Literature & Composition

Thursday, May 4 11:40 AM: Statistics

Friday, May 5

Monday, May 8

Tuesday, May 9

Wednesday, May 10

AM: European History

AM: United States History

AM: Art History

AM: Calculus AB

AM: English Language & Composition

AM: Spanish Language & Culture

AM: Biology

Thursday, May 11 7:40 AM: French Language & Culture 11:40 AM: Physics 1: Algebra-Based

Students must report to the Meeting Room at the times listed above. AP students are excused from all of their classes on any day they have an AP exam, and they may arrive later or leave campus early. However, if it is beneficial to attend other classes on that day, they should do so. If students stay on campus after an exam, they must check in at the front office before reporting to class. They may not leave campus after a morning exam and return to school for a later class.

Thursday, May 18

AM: Theology

10:20 AM–12:15 PM: English

Make-ups as needed

Final Exam Schedule, Grades 8-11 for Non-AP Courses

Monday, May 22 8:05–10:00 AM: Period 1 Exam

10:20 AM–12:15 PM: Period 2 Exam

Tuesday, May 23 8:05–10:00 AM: Period 3 Exam

10:20 AM–12:15 PM: Period 4 Exam

Wednesday, May 24 8:05–10:00 AM: Period 5 Exam

10:20 AM–12:15 PM: Period 6 Exam

Thursday, May 25 8:05–10:00 AM: Period 7 Exam 10:20 AM–12:15 PM: Make-up Exams

Exam Guidelines

• Students are not allowed to test early.

• SJCS Exemption Policy: Excepting math courses, juniors and seniors can exempt exams in year-long courses if they have a 90 average in the course by the Friday before final exams are scheduled to begin. Exemption averages are calculated by averaging the fall semester grade with the third and fourth quarter grades. Students on probation or those who have certain disciplinary actions may not be eligible.

• High school students should report directly to their exam room and must be seated by 8:00 AM. Anyone not in attendance after 8:00 AM will be considered tardy. No students are to be admitted to the exam once the exam has been distributed. Likewise for the second exam, students should be seated and attendance taken by 10:15 AM, and no student will be admitted after the exam has been distributed.

• Students should bring review materials for other exams and study quietly if they finish an exam before the end of the exam period. Silence should be maintained from the moment exams are distributed until all exams are collected at the end of the exam period. Students with questions should raise their hands quietly.

• Once an exam begins, students are not permitted to leave the room. Restroom trips should be for emergencies only and then only after the student has turned in their exam.

• Students with only one exam on a given day need be present only for that exam. If they do not have a 10:20 AM exam, they may leave at the end of the 8:00 AM exam period. Similarly, if students do not have an 8:00 AM exam, they do not need to report until the 10:20 AM exam period (by 10:15 AM). All students leaving or arriving between the exam times should enter/exit through the front office.

From the Middle School Director

“Only in Christ can men and women find answers to the ultimate questions that trouble them. Only in Christ can they fully understand their dignity as persons created and loved by God.”

Saint Pope John Paul II

It was the last weekend before school started this past August, and I distinctly remember thinking that Thanksgiving would be here in record time. My husband could recognize my anxious expectation for the New Year - not because I didn’t want to return to the full-time, all-persons-in-the-building schedule, but because I had so many hopes, dreams, and desires for our Saint Joseph’s community as we embarked on a new year. H e told me, “Wanda, keep your focus on the one thing. Discard distractions. Remove obstacles. Stay your course.” I would often refer to John’s advice, particularly as it aligned so perfectly with our theme for the year: There is Need of Only One Thing - the story of Martha and Mary from the Gospel of Luke 10: 38 - 42.

Well, Thanksgiving came and went. So did many other events and happenings. And now we find ourselves with just a few weeks remaining in another remarkable year. Distractions and detours were present; however, repeated reminders continued to pursue me, bringing back my focus to the one thing. Even over the last few mornings, as my randomly selected Christian music playlist helped me get through morning workouts, an incredibly beautiful song made its way to me … First Things First by the group Consumed By Fire. The words in the refrain are so powerful:

First thing's first / I seek Your will

Not my own / Surrender all my wants to you

Keep the first thing first

To live Your truth / Walk Your ways

Set my eyes / Lord I fix my face on you

All my desires reversed

To keep the first thing first

As we reflect on this year, there is lots of evidence of significant growth in our students. It’s revealed in their works, their writings, their presentations, their decisions, their prayers, and the questions they ask. And all of this growth is really only fully possible because of our desire to help our students, and all of our community members, grow in a relationship with Christ. And while this kind of growth cannot be objectively measured, we catch glimpses of His hand at work, and we trust that it happens in accordance with His will, in His time. This is what makes the Saint Joseph’s experience compelling and unique.

I continue to ask for your prayers for our students, our staff and our families. Please ask our Lord for holistic health and protection for all of us, a deep desire to live in His truth, and the will to follow Him.

From the High School Director

The fall semester of 2023 will be the start of my eleventh year at St. Joe’s. Officially, that’s my longest tenure at any school. Assuming the third floor renovations go as planned this summer (and we covet your prayers on that front!), I will be in my new office on the second floor of the high school. By my count, this will be my sixth office in eleven years. That’s a lot of lugging boxes around, so much so that a few years ago I just took all the books home. Traveling light is much easier!

Truth be told I don’t mind moving offices, because the action of my day really takes place in hallways, classrooms, and the cafeteria. My best days are when I’m moving around, interacting with students and teachers, opening the gym for a few minutes of lunchtime basketball, and seeing our kids laughing with their friends. For trusting us with the formation of your children, I can only say thank you. They really are a blessing for me. True, sometimes they bless me in “unpredictable” ways, but even then, it’s a gift to work with the Knights.

I’m convinced that our mission is more important than ever. Our students need the St. Joseph’s Way, and our communities need people steeped in this kind of formation. My hope is to send our students out into their communities ready to do great, and good, things.

My best to all of you for a great summer.

From the Academic Support Services & College Counseling Office

Course Schedules Available Mid-July

HS students and parents will be notified via email in mid-July when schedules are available online. Students will have an opportunity to make limited change requests once they receive their schedules. MS students will receive their schedules when school begins in August.

High School Summer School Courses for Credit

There are a few spots in the Government class for this summer; however, Economics is full. Please see the class information HERE if you are interested in taking the Government class.

Senior Graduation Surveys

All seniors must complete their Graduation Survey in Scoir as soon as possible. Completing this survey is essential in your college receiving your final transcript.

Senior Final Transcripts

We will send final transcripts to the college(s) that you indicate on your Graduation Survey. Please note that this also includes the NCAA. Final transcripts will be sent out the first and second week of June. If your college requires a form to be included with the transcript, please make sure the College Counseling Office has this form. Please continue to bring in all college acceptance letters and scholarship offers to us.

Teacher Letter of Recommendation Request Forms for Juniors

All juniors should stop by the College Counseling Office to pick up their Letter of Recommendation Request Forms and then take them to their teachers to ask them for a letter of recommendation. This should be done before the end of the school year. If you have any questions, please contact the College Counseling Office.

Rising Senior/Junior Families

If you would like to have a follow-up meeting, please contact the College Counseling Office to set one up. All students should try to meet with their College Counselor at least one more time before the end of the school year or in June.

From the Athletic Department Summer Sports Training

Please keep in mind that any student participating in a sport for the 2023-2024 school year at SJCS must have a physical dated after April 1, 2023, and complete the required forms ONLINE at Big Teams (found HERE) prior to the first tryout or practice (this includes Off Season Practices and Weights). No paper forms will be accepted, NO EXCEPTIONS! Returning athletes, please use your existing login. All Physicals submitted to participate in the 20222023 school year are valid until the last day of school. The required forms that must be filled out online prior to the first practice (including summer practices) are: Pre- Participation History and PreParticipation Sports Physical Exam (please print and take with you to your doctor, and then upload), Parent Consent Form, Concussion Form, a copy of your athlete’s birth certificate, and Steadman Hawkins form. All required athletic forms must be submitted through Student Central at Big Teams.com found HERE. Information for new athletes on how to create the parent and student login at Big Teams will be available on the SJCS website HERE. Please note that you must login to the SJCS website first. Be sure to type St. Joseph’s Catholic School in the search line when looking for our school. This website is available in any language. To change the language, click on the person icon in the top right

corner. Also, there is a new Big Teams feature where you can toggle between the athlete account and parent accounts once linked. To do this, click My Profile and Linked accounts.

From the Booster Club

Thank you to all our Boosters for helping make 2022-2023 a success. Our final board meeting of the year will be Wednesday, May 10 at 5:30 PM in the Boardroom. ALL are welcome! If you'd like to get a better sense of all that the Booster Club does, and are looking for opportunities to serve (there are many), we invite you to attend.

Our annual Coaches Appreciation Dinner is coming up in May. We look forward to celebrating the tremendous work of our dedicated coaches.

Friday, August 4 is the Fifth Annual Athletic Department Golf Tournament. Proceeds from this event directly benefit all teams, and sponsorship opportunities are available. Please contact Kevin Meyer in the Development Office or Fundraising Chair Joe Eilers for more information on sponsorship packages and benefits.

And as always, please help us honor those athletic volunteers who go above and beyond in their service and dedication to the Knights. Please send nominations for our Knights Athletic Volunteer All Stars to Kelly Gillespie

From the Business Office

Non-Returning Students

If your child does not plan to return to SJCS for the 2023-24 school year, as per the Withdrawal Policy in the ParentStudent Handbook, please notify the Admissions Office, in writing (via email) on or before June 30, 2023. After July 1, 2023, as noted in the signed Enrollment Contract (a legal and binding document) that parents complete each year to re-enroll their child, a family’s obligation to pay tuition for the upcoming academic year is unconditional, and that the school, in assigning a place for this student, relies upon the parent’s promise to pay the tuition.

Re-Enrollment and Flexible Tuition Deadline

The deadline to re-enroll and apply for Flexible Tuition for the 2023-2024 sch ool year has passed. If you have not yet re-enrolled your student, please contact Jenny Starks in the Admissions Office to see if there are any remaining spots. Any Flexible Tuition applications not yet complete are in danger of losing Flexible Tuition.

Tuition Accounts

• In order to participate in Baccalaureate Mass and Graduation, all senior tuition and fees must be paid in full, except for June tuition, by May 19, 2023

• All other student’s tuition and fee accounts must be paid in full before they will receive their 2023-2024 class schedule.

Tuition Recruitment Credit

In an effort to recruit more families like yours to St. Joseph’s Catholic School, and reward our best customers to help us with this endeavor, the school offers a $500 Tuition Credit Program. Based on parent feedback, we have learned that “Word-of-Mouth” is our most effective advertising medium for attracting families. When a new family applies for admission, they have the opportunity to name the St. Joseph’s family on their application who recommended SJCS. After the new student(s) attends school for one quarter, the recruiting family receives a $500 credit on their next tuition bill, usually in November. Click HERE to read more about the program qualifications.

Annual Fund

From the Development Office

Our goal this fiscal year (July 2022 – June 2023) is to engage the financial support of 100% of our school families, faculty, and staff in giving to the Annual Fund. As of March, an impressive 43% of our school families have contributed. Congratulations to the 6th grade, which is leading with a grade level participation of 54%! We will continue to track these participation numbers through the Spring.

Helping families afford a St. Joseph’s education is a foundational principle to our identity as a Catholic school. The Annual Fund fulfills this responsibility by providing approximately 6% of the school’s overall budget. It accounts for 75% of the funding that is not covered by tuition. These dollars are raised every year through the generosity of our community. Our Annual Fund goal for this year, which includes proceeds from the Gala, is $550,000. The Annual Fund total through March was $371,000! Please contact Kevin Meyer with any questions. Download your Annual Fund Donation Form today or make an online donation!

From the Fine Arts Department

Theatre Summer Camps

• June 5-8: High School Improvisation (Rising 8th-12th Graders) from 3:00-5:00 PM. Cost is $75.

• June 5-9: Rising Stars (Rising 3rd-8th Graders) from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM. Cost is $150. Click HERE for additional camp details and registration

Advertise in our Fine Arts Programs

Attention business owners! Want to reach a larger audience? The Jubilate Arts Guild Sponsorship program is a great value. We are offering our corporate sponsors a chance for promotion with advertising in the printed programs of our six main Fine Arts events over the course of the school year. The size of the ad depends on the level of sponsorship. In addition to an ad in our programs, our sponsors will get further promotion through social media, the Fine Arts’ website, and special signage in the lobby of our events. Click HERE for more information on sponsorship levels and benefits. Questions? Contact Brandon Cabaniss.

Jubilate Arts Guild Board Openings for 2023-2024

Have you been wondering what the Jubilate Arts Guild is? Have you been wondering how you can get involved in an organization that impacts all the students here at SJCS? JAG is the place for you! We are the Fine Arts booster club and we have a position for you, no matter how much or how little time you have to invest. We meet once a month, before school for those with busy work schedules. All middle school students partake of the fine arts programs and the majority of our high school students participate in band, strings, chorus, dance, theater, and/or visual arts. If you would like to join a fun group of parents who support the Fine Arts here at SJCS, JAG is where you need to be! Contact Cindy Davis for more information.

Thank you from the Fine Arts Department!

• Thank you to all who have supported the Jubilate Arts Guild and Fine Arts programs this year. Your support enables the Guild to assist our students and faculty in their creative efforts in music, art, theatre, and dance and in doing so, reflect God’s beauty and goodness. Our school year began with the summer production of All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten and drew to a close with our successful spring concerts and Improvisation Knight! As our Fine Arts programming has grown and our students have enjoyed classroom instruction throughout middle school and into high school, it is a joy to see the progress of our talented students throughout the school year.

• A sincere thanks to the following talented and enthusiastic parents who served on the Jubilate Arts Guild this year, supporting the SJCS Fine Arts: Christine Balts, Sue Bannio, Erin Brasington, Brandon Cabaniss, Cindy Davis, Nikki Hamby, Meg Lanza, Katie Orbon, Kelly Quesnelle, and Melanie Wills.

• Lastly, if you’ve thought of becoming more involved but were uncertain of possible roles, responsibilities, and commitments, now is the time to ask questions. We would love to know how your gifts of talent, ideas, enthusiasm, and time might benefit the arts programs by helping you to find a role that best meets your schedule and

commitment level; there are a variety of ways to begin your involvement for next year. Contact Cindy Davis for details and more information.

From the Parents Guild

Thank You

Thank you to Jill Sullivan and Amy Ryberg-Doyle for organizing our recent Fish Fry. The food was delicious, and the entire event set-up was fantastic!

Keep the Donations Coming!

Did you know that SJCS receives a check every month from Amazon? Plus, we receive funds from Publix, Harris Teeter, and Lowe’s Foods. We need these funds to continue our efforts in improving the school. In just a few minutes you can set up your account and help us start gaining rewards.

From the Technology Services Department

Senior Chromebook Return Information

• All seniors are required to return their Chromebooks to the Library on May 18, immediately following the end of the last senior exam.

• Chromebooks may be returned to the library earlier than May 18 if the Chromebook is no longer needed for classes or exams.

• Chromebooks are to be returned with the charger and case. The case should be emptied of all items except the Chromebook and charger.

• Your student account will be charged for any items not returned or for any damages.

• The charges for non-returned items are: Chromebook $350, Charger $20, and Case $30. The damage charge is $30.

• Damaged/lost fees must be paid at the time of return via check or cash

Grades 6-11 Chromebook Return Information

• All students in grades 6-8 are required to return their Chromebooks to the Library at the end of the school day on Wednesday, May 24 as there are no MS classes on May 25.

• All students in grades 9-11 are required to return their Chromebooks to the Library on May 25, immediately following the end of the last exam at 10:00 AM.

• Chromebooks may be returned to the library early if no longer needed for classes or exams.

• Chromebooks are to be returned with the charger and case. The case should be emptied of all items except the Chromebook and charger.

• Your student account will be charged for any items not returned or for any damages.

• The charges for non-returned items are: Chromebook $350, Charger $20, and Case $30. The damage charge is $30.

• If requested, students will be given a receipt at turn-in. If damages are found, they will be noted, and the appropriate fee can be paid at the time of turn-in or billed to your student account.