Dear Families of Holy Name Catholic School,

It has been a snowy week. I hope the extra time off has allowed some of the colds, flus, and other miscellaneous illnesses to subside.

I want to thank everyone who has re-enrolled. We are over 70% re-enrollment. When we reach 90% re-enrollment, we can issue teacher contracts, per diocesan policy. It puts our school in a good position should we need to find additional staff if we can post those jobs now. Many teachers across the state are beginning their job search process and the time for attracting quality candidates is now. If you have not re-enrolled, please do so today so we can take our next steps in the hiring process.

Speaking of enrollment, Jeff and Rachel Sierpien are hosting a “Chesterton Chat” on Monday, March 10, at 6:30pm. The Holy Name High School is a special place that is intentionally fostering discipleship. Each day, students grow in virtue, engage spiritually and academically in a socratic and integrated environment. This is a great opportunity for our 6th and 7th grade families to hear the good things happening there. If you have younger children, and would like more information on Holy Name High School, you are more than welcome to attend. Please contact the school if you are interested and we can give you more information about Monday’s event. Scott and Tricia Pendergraft are graciously hosting one on March 24 at 6:30pm at their home as well.

We have entered Lent, a time to reflect on our relationship with Jesus. Every family has its traditions and each person is on a unique journey. My family is trying something new this year. We are reading the Gospel of Luke as a family throughout Lent. We are asking our younger children to narrate what we read and the older ones are sharing their insights. Ash Wednesday was our first attempt. It took 30 minutes. It was a simple and beautiful time together exploring God’s Word. Something I have grown to understand is God wants to spend time with us. It does not matter how you engage in your Lenten journey, but I personally find that God wants just a little more. In John 3:30, John the Baptist says, “He must increase; I must decrease.” My encouragement is to find something that works for you and the family. You will not be disappointed as Jesus increases in your life.

Peace and joy,

Nathan Vande Hey
Principal