Dear HFCS Families & Friends,
As we reflect on this week’s Gospel, we’re reminded of Jesus’s profound message of acceptance and transformation. Just as He called His disciples despite their imperfections, He invites each of us to follow Him through our faith communities, daily prayer, and scripture reading.
With the Lenten season approaching, we have a wonderful opportunity to deepen our children’s connection to their faith. Consider taking a few moments each day to read and discuss the daily Gospel with your family, helping our young ones understand how these timeless teachings relate to their lives today.
This weekend, we’re excited to host our annual Parents Night Out & Chili Cook-Off! We’re particularly honored to welcome representatives from our local Police Department who will share valuable insights on school safety protocols and emergency preparedness. This informative session will help ensure our community remains safe and prepared. Childcare will be provided, allowing parents to fully engage with our guest speakers.
Staff Transitions
With mixed emotions, we share news of upcoming changes to our school family. We will be bidding farewell to two beloved staff members at the end of this academic year. Mrs. Kim Johnson will be retiring after years of dedicated service to our middle school, where she has consistently inspired students to excel not only in their writing but also in their character and community involvement. Miss Meghan Sanchez will be pursuing her master’s degree and hopes to teach in Europe – her leadership of our Student Council and her engaging approach to Social Studies and Religion classes have left an indelible mark on our school community.
While we will deeply miss these exceptional educators, we are excited to welcome Mrs. Emily Sundholm and Mrs. Theresa Stommes to our staff. We look forward to the unique gifts and perspectives they will bring to our school community in the coming academic year. Both of these women come to us as experienced credentialed educators. Brief biographies will be included in next week’s newsletter.
In Memoriam
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Mr. Christopher Hicks, a beloved member of our school community. Through our Grandparents Program, Mr. Hicks touched countless young lives as a dedicated tutor, helping our primary and intermediate students develop their reading and mathematics skills. His service on our school advisory committee further demonstrated his unwavering commitment to our school’s mission.
Mr. Hicks’s warm presence, dedication to our students, and wonderful sense of humor made him a cherished member of our school family. His funeral Mass was celebrated today at St. Thomas the Apostle Church. As we remember Christopher and his lasting impact on our community, we ask that you please keep the Hicks family in your prayers during this difficult time.
Heavenly Father, as I navigate through changes in my life, I come to you seeking your guidance and strength. Help me to trust that even when things feel uncertain, your plan for me is good and your love remains constant. Open my eyes to understand the mission you have for me in this new season, and give me the courage to embrace the unknown with faith. May I use these transitions as opportunities to grow closer to you and serve others in a way that aligns with your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pax et bonum,
Sue Styren, M.Ed.