February, 2012

Many people think February is the worst month of the year. It is cold and dark and can be very snowy (nineteen inches in 2011). The excitement of the November, December, and January holidays has faded to be followed by Groundhog Day on the 2nd, “Send a Card to a Friend Day” on the 7th, and Organ Donor Day on the 14th. There is of course the other holiday on the 14th, Valentine’s Day, the day in the year set aside for everyone to say “I love you” to the special person in one’s life. But aren’t we supposed to do that everyday? Yes, February can be a very bleak 28 or 29 days. For members of the Saint Clement School Community, however, February is a time for celebration. It is Catholic Schools Month, when we can reflect on our great heritage, rejoice in our successful present, and anticipate our bright future. We have planned a week of special activities to mark the month and to remember and be grateful for all the students who have benefitted from Catholic schools and for all the parents, faculty, and benefactors who have made Catholic education possible.

As we begin the month of February we also start the second part of the school year. This time is very important for seniors who must now start to finalize plans for their future. It is also vital for all our students, pre-k through high school, to stay focused so they can finish the school year in strong fashion. I encourage you to talk to your child and reinforce the importance of academic preparation. As always, if there is anything that any member of the faculty can do to help in this, please do not hesitate to call. Please take note of all the monthly activities here at Saint Clement as listed on the calendar.

I would like to thank all the students and parents who helped make the Calendar Drive very successful this year. Your dedication and loyalty to Saint Clement is outstanding. You might not have won a cash prize, but, because of your effort, all of our students are winners.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops writes, "Like the mission and message of Jesus Christ, the Church's educational mission is universal - for all men, at all times, in all places. In our world and in our nation, the mission of Christian education is of critical importance. The truth of Jesus Christ must be taught; the love of Jesus Christ must be extended to persons who seek and suffer." (To Teach as Jesus Did, 1972, #13) With this thought to guide us, how can we think of February as anything but a wonderful month?



Sincerely,

Robert G. Chevrier '76 Principal