From the Principal December 6, 2023
Feast Day of Saint Nicholas
(Past newsletters are posted on the website under “quick links”)
· A Special Thank You to Michael & Angela Arnold for all the work they did coordinating the Luxury Raffle. Aided with their team of volunteers, the 2023 raffle was a success in raising $155,000.00 for Saint John School. Thank you.
Thank you also to the Knights of Columbus and volunteers for the Spaghetti Dinner prior to the drawing.
· Before & After Care Help Needed – We are in need of temporary help to assist with our Before Care program (7 – 8:45 am) and our After Care program (2:45 – 5:30 pm). This paid position would require completing the Safe Environments training. If you are interested in either or both of these openings and earning some extra money, please contact the front office.
· Report Cards were issued Friday, December 1. Report cards need to be signed by parents and returned to your child’s homeroom teacher by Friday, December 8.
· THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY HOLY DAY MASS SCHEDULE - Friday, December 8, 2023 at 9:15 am at Saint John Church, 161 Main Street, Old Saybrook.
Families are welcome to join Saint John School students at this 9:15 am Mass. Our second graders are sponsoring the Mass.
· Torch Light Parade – Saturday, December 9 – 6 pm Saint John School is walking in the Torch Light Parade this Saturday.
Saint John School's presence in the parade serves as a reminder to all attending what the true meaning of the season is. We ask that you please consider marching with your child with St. John School. Saturday's predicted weather is clear skies.
We muster no later than 5:45 pm by Liberty Bank, 90 Main Street, Old Saybrook, CT. Please look for the Knights of Columbus Float with a manger scene on the trailer.
Once we reach St. John Church we'll leave the parade and gather on the steps of the church. Our students and Schola members will sing Christmas Carols from the steps of St. John Church. Hot cocoa and cookies are being served to our students and parents. Please email the church if you are interested in participating so we can prepare for our refresments.
· Lessons and Carols – Thursday, December 21 – 6:30 pm at Saint Mark Church, 222 McVeigh Rd, Westbrook, CT.
Lessons and Carols is Saint John School's annual Advent performance. It is a unique and special way to remember the true meaning of the Advent and Christmas season.
This year Lessons and Carols takes place at St. Mark's Church in Westbrook. Students are to arrive no later than 6:15 pm and will sit with their class. Please reach out to your child's teacher with any questions you may have.
Dress Code
Girls: White top/black appropriate length skirt or pants.
Boys: White shirt, red tie, black pants.
· Art Class – Sister Gabriel is looking for the donation of empty oatmeal boxes with lids. Oatmeal boxes are being used for making drums.
· Small World Gift Shop is coming December 14 – 22. This is an opportunity for students to purchase gifts for family members for Christmas. More details to come.
· Safe Environments – Just a reminder volunteers working with children need to be Safe Environment approved by the Diocese of Norwich. Please contact to the office to begin the process of training. Once you are approved to volunteer it is effective through the years so long as you are involved with St. John School. An occasional refresher course and Mandated Reporter recertification needs to be completed every few years.
· SMS (Text) Messaging is here! Our goal is to use this for emergency notifications, weather delays or cancellation of school. Click here for early opt-in instructions
· Walk Around Wednesdays! If you know anyone who is interested in visiting our school please have them register here (seelink).
Upcoming Events - Save the Date
Friday, December 8 – Immaculate Conception Mass
Saturday, December 9 – Torch Light Parade
Thursday – Friday, December 14-22 – Small World Gift Shop
Thursday, December 21 – Lessons and Carols at St. Mark Church
Parent Teacher Organization
Supportive Link:
PTO E-mail: pto@saintjohnschoolos.org
From the Principal November 29, 2023
(Past newsletters are posted on the website under “quick links”)
· School Photo Retakes – TOMORROW, November 30 is our school photo retake day. Whether your child missed our first take or you’d like to return your current packet for a new one, please have your child dress accordingly.
Grades Pre-K 3 – Kindergarten, please have your student wear dress clothes (not their sweatpants, t-shirts and sweatshirts).
Grades 1 – 8 should wear their formal uniform
· PTO Meeting – TOMORROW, November 30.
We look forward to working together! The PTO is for all parents of Saint John School students. The class with most parents at the “in-person” meetings receive an ice cream party (4 parties per school year). Babysitting is available at these meetings. Our Pre-K 4 & 6th Grade parents are asked to bring the refreshments for this meeting.
· Report Cards are being issued this Friday, December 1.
Parents are asked to review, sign and return the report card to their student’s homeroom teacher.
· Early Dismissal – Friday, December 1
School is dismissed at 12:55 PM on the First Friday of each month. This Friday please make the necessary arrangements for your child’s pick-up. After Care is available through 5:30 PM. Please use the Home to Office Communication form on the school’s website to sign up your child for After Care.
· After Care Pick-up
Children attending After Care are picked up using either the PreK3 door or gymnasium side door both of which are located behind the school off Lynde St. Please remind those picking-up your child to bring their driver’s license with them to the door.
A neon-yellow sign is being posted on the window of the PreK3 door indicating the children are either in the classroom or the gymnasium.
· Luxury Raffle – The final countdown is here, 3 days till Saint John School’s big drawing on December 2nd.
First Prize: 2023 Corvette Stingray Coupe
Second Prize: $10,000 Visa Gift Card
Third Prize: $2,500 Grocery Gift Card
Fourth Prize: $2,000 Gas Card
Following the 4 PM Mass at St. John Church on Sat., Dec. 2, everyone is invited to a FREE Spaghetti Dinner hosted by Saint John School Middle Schoolers and the Knights of Columbus. Come join the fun and excitement in the school gymnasium with dinner and the big raffle drawing.
We are looking for volunteers to help with the set-up and clean-up of the Spaghetti Dinner. Just a reminder families need to perform volunteer hours to meet their PTO Assessment. PreK families need 15 hours and Grades K-8th need to complete 30 hours. Register here to volunteer to help.
Parents: Remember to complete the SJS Luxury Raffle Volunteer Form located on the SJS Website and email it to the PTO Representative for verification to receive credit for tickets sold on behalf of your student(s).
· Intramural Basketball – Tuesdays & Thursday, 3-4 PM
Ends Feb. 29, 2024 Registration Fee: $35
Basketball has begun and students in grades 4-8 are asking if they can still sign up. Yes, registration is still open for basketball. Complete the registration form, verify the nurse has your child’s physical dated within the last 13 months is on file, and send in the form and fee to the office.
· Art Class – Sister Gabriel is looking for the donation of empty oatmeal boxes with lids. Oatmeal boxes are being used for making drums.
· Middle School News
· Safe Environments – Just a reminder volunteers working with children need to be Safe Environment approved by the Diocese of Norwich. Please contact to the office to begin the process of training. Once you are approved to volunteer it is effective through the years so long as you are involved with St. John School. An occasional refresher course and Mandated Reporter needs to be completed every few years.
· SMS (Text) Messaging is here! Our goal is to use this for emergency notifications, weather delays or cancellation of school. Click here for early opt-in instructions
· Walk Around Wednesdays! If you know anyone who is interested in visiting our school please have them register here (seelink).
Upcoming Events - Save the Date
Thursday, November 30 - School Photo Retakes
Thursday, November 30 - PTO Meeting
Saturday, December 2 – Luxury Raffle Drawing
Saturday, December 9 – Torch Light Parade
Thursday – Friday, December 14-22 – Small World Gift Shop
Thursday, December 21 – Lessons and Carols at St. Mark Church
Parent Teacher Organization
Supportive Link:
PTO E-mail: pto@saintjohnschoolos.org
From the Principal November 22, 2023
(Past newsletters are posted on the website under “quick links”)
Happy Thanksgiving
· Luxury Raffle – in just 10 days Saint John School is holding the big drawing on December 2nd. You are invited to a spaghetti dinner prior to the drawing.
First Prize: 2023 Corvette Stingray Coupe
Second Prize: $10,000 Visa Gift Card
Third Prize: $2,500 Grocery Gift Card
Fourth Prize: $2,000 Gas Card
Following the 4 PM Mass at St. John Church on Saturday, December 2, 2023, everyone is invited to a FREE Spaghetti Dinner hosted by Saint John School Middle Schoolers and the Knights of Columbus. Come join the fun and excitement in the school gymnasium with dinner and the big raffle drawing.
Parents: Remember to complete the SJS Luxury Raffle Volunteer Form located on the SJS Website and email it to the PTO Representative for verification to receive credit for tickets sold on behalf of your student(s).
· Intramural Basketball – Tuesdays & Thursday 3-4 PM
Begins in just 2 weeks - November 28, 2023 – February 29, 2024 Fee: $35
Basketball is for all students in grades 4-8. Learn or improve the skills needed to play the game all while having fun.
· Art Class – Sister Gabriel is looking for the donation of empty oatmeal boxes with lids. Oatmeal boxes are being used for making drums.
· November Service Project – Together Saint John students and staff once again made a difference! All donated food collected to aid the Sisters of Charity: Holy Family Food Pantry in Baltic collected filled a van and was delivered in time for Thanksgiving pick-up. Students and staff also donated $250 with their donations for “Dress in Blue for Mother Mary” as a monetary fund-raiser for the Food Pantry.
· School Photo Retakes – Thursday, November 30 is our school photo retake day. Whether your child missed our first take or you’d like to return your current packet for a new one, please have your child dress accordingly.
Grades Pre-K 3 – Kindergarten, please have your student wear dress clothes (not their sweatpants, t-shirts and sweatshirts).
Grades 1 – 8 should wear their formal uniform
· December Lunch Menu – Sandwiches, Pasta & Pizza prepared and delivered by TJ’s Restaurant & Pizzeria. Please note with the volume of orders served, we can only fill orders as noted. Orders are accepted through Wednesday, November 29. All lunch orders need to be accompanied with payment in order to be processed.
· PTO Meeting - Our next in-person PTO meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 30, 2023. Please plan to join our Parent Teacher Organization. Please attend the meetings. We look forward to working together! Students from the class with most parents at the “in-person” meetings will receive an ice cream party (4 parties per school year). Babysitting will be available at these meetings. Our Pre-K 4 & 6th Grade parents are asked to bring the refreshments for this meeting.
· Safe Environments – Just a reminder volunteers working with children need to be Safe Environment approved by the Diocese of Norwich. Please contact to the office to begin the process of training. Once you are approved to volunteer it is effective through the years so long as you are involved with St. John School. An occasional refresher course and Mandated Reporter needs to be completed every few years.
· SMS (Text) Messaging is here! Our goal is to use this for emergency notifications, weather delays or cancellation of school. Click here for early opt-in instructions
· Walk Around Wednesdays! If you know anyone who is interested in visiting our school please have them register here (seelink).
Upcoming Events - Save the Date
Tuesday, November 28 – Intramural Basketball
Thursday, November 30 - PTO Meeting
Friday, December 1 – Uniform Swap
Saturday, December 2 – Uniform Swap
Saturday, December 2 – Luxury Raffle Drawing
Saturday, December 9 – Torch Light Parade
Thursday – Friday, December 14-22 – Small World Gift Shop
Thursday, December 21 – Lessons and Carols
Parent Teacher Organization
Supportive Link:
PTO E-mail: pto@saintjohnschoolos.org
From the Principal November 15, 2023
(Past newsletters are posted on the website under “quick links”)
· Luxury Raffle – Saint John School is in the final weeks of selling tickets before the big drawing on December 2nd.
LESS THAN 200 TICKETS REMAINING!
Place your orders before we run out!
First Prize: 2023 Corvette Stingray Coupe
Second Prize: $10,000 Visa Gift Card
Third Prize: $2,500 Grocery Gift Card
Fourth Prize: $2,000 Gas Card
Following the 4 PM Mass at St. John Church on Saturday, December 2, 2023, everyone is invited to a FREE Spaghetti Dinner hosted by Saint John School Middle Schoolers and the Knights of Columbus. Come join the fun and excitement in the school gymnasium with dinner and the big raffle drawing.
To receive credit for tickets sold on behalf of your student(s), complete the SJS Luxury Raffle Volunteer Form located on the SJS Website and email it to the PTO Representative for verification.
· Catholic Schools Week – November 13-17, 2023
Students are to wear their uniforms on Thursday for Catholic Schools Week. These are the last two events of the week
v Thursday, Nov. 16 – Crazy Sock Day
v Friday, Nov. 17 – Mother House Soup Kitchen Food Drive and $3 Dress in Blue for Mary & Freeze Dance Party
You can make a difference by supporting our Food Drive. All food is being delivered to the Mother House on Saturday.
· Thanksgiving Break – Wednesday, November 22 – Friday, November 24
AfterCare is available on Tuesday, November 21.
· Intramural Basketball – Tuesdays & Thursday 3-4 PM
Begins in just 2 weeks - November 28, 2023 – February 29, 2024 Fee: $35
Basketball is for all students in grades 4-8. Learn or improve the skills needed to play the game all while having fun.
· Art Class – Sister Gabriel is looking for the donation of empty oatmeal boxes with lids. Oatmeal boxes are being used for making drums.
· Winter After-School Programs – Registration closes Nov. 20
Programs are held from 3 – 3:45 PM unless otherwise noted.
v Holiday Magic with Sister Gabriel – Grades K-5 Free
Mondays, Dec. 4 & 11 and Feb. 5 & 12
v Challenge Island – Grades K-5 $175
Wednesdays, Dec 6, 13, 20, Jan. 3, 10, 24, 31
v Cookie Decorating – Grades K-8 $25.50 3:00 – 4:00 PM
Tuesdays, Dec. 19 and Feb. 13
v Snapology – Grades PreK4 – Grade 2 $175
Thursdays, Dec 7 & 14, Jan. 4, 11, 18 & 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
v Snapology – Grades 3 – 8 $175.00
Fridays, Dec. 8 & 15, Jan. 12, 19 & 26, Feb. 9, 16 & 23, Mar. 8, 15 & 22
Please have your license with you at the time of signing out your child. Students not picked up 10 minutes after the end time of class are brought to After Care.
· October Service Project – Together we made a difference!
· December Lunch Menu – Sandwiches, Pasta & Pizza prepared and delivered by TJ’s Restaurant & Pizzeria. Please note with the volume of orders served, we can only fill orders as noted. Orders are accepted through November 29. All lunch orders need to be accompanied with payment in order to be processed.
· PTO Meeting - Our next in-person PTO meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 30, 2023. Please plan to join our Parent Teacher Organization. Please attend the meetings. We look forward to working together! Students from the class with most parents at the “in-person” meetings will receive an ice cream party (4 parties per school year). Baby sitting will be available at these meetings. Our Pre-K 4 & 6th Grade parents are asked to bring the refreshments for this meeting.
· Safe Environments – Just a reminder volunteers working with children need to be Safe Environment approved by the Diocese of Norwich. Please contact to the office to begin the process of training. Once you are approved to volunteer it is effective through the years so long as you are involved with St. John School. An occasional refresher course and Mandated Reporter needs to be completed every few years.
· SMS (Text) Messaging is here! Our goal is to use this for emergency notifications. Click here for early opt-in instructions
· Walk Around Wednesdays! If you know anyone who is interested in visiting our school please have them register here (seelink).
Pray With Mother
Upcoming Events - Save the Date
Tuesday, November 28 – Intramural Basketball
Thursday, November 30 - PTO Meeting
Friday, December 1 – Uniform Swap
Saturday, December 2 – Uniform Swap
Saturday, December 2 – Luxury Raffle Drawing
Saturday, December 9 – Torch Light Parade
Thursday – Friday, December 14-22 – Small World Gift Shop
Parent Teacher Organization
Supportive Link:
PTO E-mail: pto@saintjohnschoolos.org
From the Principal November 8, 2023
(Past newsletters are posted on the website under “quick links”)
· Catholic Schools Week – November 13-17, 2023
Students are to wear their uniforms on Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday for Catholic Schools Week.
v Monday, Nov. 13 – No School for Students
v Tuesday, Nov. 14 – Hat Day
v Wednesday, Nov. 15 – Sports Team t-Shirt or Jersey Day
v Thursday, Nov. 16 – Crazy Sock Day
v Friday, Nov. 17 – Mother House Soup Kitchen Food Drive & $3 Dress in Blue for Mary & Freeze Dance Party
· Winter After-School Programs – Registration currently is open for our after-school programs for the winter. Please note some programs have a maximum number of students allowed. All programs are held from 3 – 3:45 PM unless otherwise noted.
vHoliday Magic with Sister Gabriel – Grades K-5 Free
Mondays, Dec. 4 & 11 and Feb. 5 & 12
vChallenge Island – Grades K-5 $175
Wednesdays, Dec 6, 13, 20, Jan. 3, 10, 24, 31
vCookie Decorating – Grades K-8 $25.50 3:00 – 4:00 PM
Tuesdays, Dec. 19 and Feb. 13
vSnapology – Grades PreK4 – Grade 2 $175
Thursdays, Dec 7 & 14, Jan. 4, 11, 18 & 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
vSnapology – Grades 3 – 8 $175.00
Fridays, Dec. 8 & 15, Jan. 12, 19 & 26, Feb. 9, 16 & 23, Mar. 8, 15 & 22
· Intramural Basketball – November 28, 2023 – February 29, 2024
Tuesdays & Thursday 3:00 – 4:00 PM Fee: $35
Co-ed Students in Grades 4-8 are welcome to join our Intramural Basketball program. All players need to have had a physical within the last 13 months and have it on record with the nurse. Registration forms available in the office.
· School Start Time – 8:45 AM Our doors for regular drop off open at 8:20 AM (Early Drop Off at 7:00 AM). Please arrive on time for school with your child. Late arrivals prevent your child the ability to organize themselves before class begins and also creates a disruption for the teacher and class. Give your child the best start to their day as possible.
· Flu Shots – All Pre-Kindergarten students must submit proof of having received their flu shot. Students have until the end of December to receive this shot, otherwise they cannot return to school in January until they do. Please contact our school nurse with any questions.
· December Lunch Menu – We are excited to announce the addition of Pasta Thursdays. In addition to Sandwiches on Tuesday and Pizza on Fridays, TJ’s Restaurant & Pizzeria has added Pasta to our menu. Buttered Pasta is $6 and Pasta with sauce and one meatball is $8. Each of these come with a bottle of water. Please note with the volume of orders served, we can only fill orders as noted. Look for the email with the December lunch menu. Orders are accepted through November 29.
· Luxury Raffle – We are in the final weeks of selling tickets before the big drawing of the Luxury Raffle.
First Prize: 2023 Corvette Stingray Coupe
Second Prize: $10,000 Visa Gift Card
Third Prize: $2,500 Grocery Gift Card
Fourth Prize: $2,000 Gas Card
Visit Saint John School Quick Links/2023 Luxury Raffle Updates for information on how to purchase your tickets using a credit card. Tickets are also available in the school office payable with cash or check. All tickets sold benefit Saint John School.
Families who purchase or sell 5 or more Luxury Raffle Tickets receive full credit against their assessment commitment. To receive your credit, complete the SJS Luxury Raffle Volunteer Form located on the SJS Website and email it to the PTO Representative for verification.
· Safe Environments – Just a reminder volunteers working with children need to be Safe Environment approved by the Diocese of Norwich. Please contact to the office to begin the process of training. Once you are approved to volunteer it is effective through the years so long as you are involved with St. John School. An occasional refresher course and Mandated Reporter needs to be completed every few years.
· SMS (Text) Messaging is here! Our goal is to use this for emergency notifications. Click here for early opt-in instructions
· Walk Around Wednesdays! If you know anyone who is interested in visiting our school please have them register here (seelink).
Upcoming Events - Save the Date
Friday, November 10 – Veteran’s Day Assembly
Tuesday, November 28 – Intramural Basketball
Friday, December 1 – Uniform Swap
Saturday, December 2 – Uniform Swap
Sunday, December 10 – Torch Light Parade
Thursday – Friday, December 14-22 – Small World Gift Shop
Parent Teacher Organization
Supportive Link:
PTO E-mail: pto@saintjohnschoolos.org
From the Principal November 1, 2023
(Past newsletters are posted on the website under “quick links”)
· Winter After-School Programs – Registration currently is open for our after-school programs for the winter. Please note some programs do have a maximum number of students allowed. All programs are held from 3 – 3:45 PM unless otherwise noted. Please check your child’s backpack for the registration form.
Holiday Magic with Sister Gabriel – Grades K-5 Free
Mondays, Dec. 4 & 11 and Feb. 5 & 12
Challenge Island – Grades K-5 $175
Wednesdays, Dec 6, 13, 20, Jan. 3, 10, 24, 31
Cookie Decorating – Grades K-8 $25.50 3:00 – 4:00 PM
Tuesdays, Dec. 19 and Feb. 13
Snapology – Grades PreK4 – Grade 2 $175
Thursdays, Dec 7 & 14, Jan. 4, 11, 18 & 25, Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Snapology – Grades 3 – 8 $175.00
Fridays, Dec. 8 & 15, Jan. 12, 19 & 26, Feb. 9, 16 & 23, Mar. 8, 15 & 22
· Wizard of Oz – Youth Edition
If your child would like to participate in the school drama production of the Wizard of Oz – Youth Edition, it’s not too late. Students in grades 3 – 8 are still welcome to join. Please reach out to our Drama Director, Mrs. Kelly at drama@saintjohnschoolos.org and she’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.
· Grandparents’ Day – Friday, November 3, 9 AM - Noon
Grandparents are an important part of your children’s lives. Grandparents’ Day is a special time for them to spend with your child(ren) here at St. John School. This is a memorable day for students and Grandparents alike. Please contact the office by Noon on Thursday, November 2, 2023 to make a final registration.
· Veteran’s Day Assembly – Friday, November 10, 2:15 - 3 PM
Family members of our students who are serving or have served in our military are welcome to attend Saint John School for a special Veteran’s Day Assembly. Please send in the registration form so we can register and recognize them.
· Intramural Basketball – November 28, 2023 – February 29, 2024
Tuesdays & Thursday 3:00 – 4:00 PM Fee: $35
Co-ed Students in Grades 4-8 are welcome to join our Intramural Basketball program. Miss Bridget Rosikiewicz, our physical education teacher, is heading up this intramural program. All players need to have had a physical within the last 13 months and have it on record with the nurse.
· To communicate absences, early pick-up, Aftercare or change in who picks up your child, please use the “Home to Office Communication” form found on our website. This can be found under Quick Links. When using a mobile device, scroll to the bottom of the website to find this link. Please submit your requests by noon on full days of school and by 10:30 AM on early release days.
· AfterCare – Students attending AfterCare should be dressed for the cooler weather (jackets and hats) as there is outdoor play time.
· Luxury Raffle – We are in the final weeks of selling tickets before the big drawing of the Luxury Raffle.
First Prize: 2023 Corette Stingray Coupe
Second Prize: $10,000 Visa Gift Card
Third Prize: $2,500 Grocery Gift Card
Fourth Prize: $2,000 Gas Card
Visit Saint John Quick Links/2023 Luxury Raffle Updates for information on how to purchase your tickets using a credit card. Tickets are also available in the school office payable with cash or check. All tickets sold benefit Saint John School.
Families who purchase or sell 5 or more Luxury Raffle Tickets receive full credit against their assessment commitment. To receive your credit, complete the SJS Luxury Raffle Volunteer Form located on the SJS Website and email it to the PTO Representative for verification.
· Safe Environments – Just a reminder volunteers working with children need to be Safe Environment approved by the Diocese of Norwich. Please contact to the office to begin the process of training. Once you are approved to volunteer it is effective through the years so long as you are involved with St. John School. An occasional refresher course and Mandated Reporter needs to be completed every few years.
· SMS (Text) Messaging is here! Our goal is to use this for emergency notifications. Click here for early opt-in instructions
· Walk Around Wednesdays! If you know anyone who is interested in visiting our school please have them register here (seelink).
Upcoming Events - Save the Date
Friday, November 3 - Grandparent's Day
Friday, November 10 – Veteran’s Day Assembly
Tuesday, November 28 – Intramural Basketball
Parent Teacher Organization
Supportive Link:
PTO E-mail: pto@saintjohnschoolos.org
From the Principal October 25, 2023
(Past newsletters are posted on the website under “quick links”)
- Trunk or Treat – Friday, October 27
This Friday, come out with your family to Saint John School at 6 PM for a fun filled evening of games, trunk or treating at 7 PM, and Halloween treats. Park in the main school lot off Lynde St. behind the school and enter through the gym doors. We look forward to seeing everyone.
- Wizard of Oz – Youth Edition
If your child missed the auditions for the school drama production of the Wizard of Oz – Youth Edition, it’s not too late. Students in grades 3 – 8 are still welcome to audition. Please reach out to our Drama Director, Mrs. Kelly at drama@saintjohnschoolos.org and she’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.
- Dress Down Day – Tuesday, October 31
A fundraiser for St. John School’s Service Project. With a $3 donation, students can wear Orange and Black on the 31st.
- Grandparents’ Day – Friday, November 3, 9 AM - Noon
Grandparents are an important part of your children’s lives. Grandparents’ Day is a special time for them to spend with your child(ren) here at St. John School. This is a memorable day for students and Grandparents alike. Please complete the registration form to submit the names of the grandparents attending.
- Veteran’s Day Assembly – Friday, November 10, 2:15 - 3 PM
Family members of our students who are serving or have served in our military are welcome to attend Saint John School for a special Veteran’s Day Assembly. Please send in the registration form so we can register and recognize them.
- Intramural Basketball – November 28, 2023 – February 29, 2024
Tuesdays & Thursday 3:00 – 4:00 PM Fee: $35
Co-ed Students in Grades 4-8 are welcome to join our Intramural Basketball program. Miss Bridget Rosikiewicz, our physical education teacher, is heading up this intramural program. All players need to have had a physical within the last 13 months and is on record with the nurse.
- Car Raffle – Families who purchase or sell 5 or more Luxury Raffle Tickets receive full credit against their assessment commitment. To receive your credit, complete the SJS Luxury Raffle Volunteer Form located on the SJS Website and email it to the PTO Representative for verification.
- Safe Environments – Just a reminder volunteers working with children need to be Safe Environment approved by the Diocese of Norwich. Please contact to the office to begin the process of training. Once you are approved to volunteer it is effective through the years so long as you are involved with St. John School. An occasional refresher course and Mandated Reporter needs to be completed every few years.
- SMS (Text) Messaging is here! Our goal is to use this for emergency notifications. Click here for early opt-in instructions
- Walk Around Wednesdays! If you know anyone who is interested in visiting our school please have them register here (seelink).
Upcoming Events - Save the Date
Friday, October 27 - Trunk or Treat
Tuesday, October 31 – Dress Down Day
Friday, November 3 - Grandparent's Day
Friday, November 10 – Veteran’s Day Assembly
Tuesday, November 28 – Intramural Basketball
Parent Teacher Organization
Supportive Link:
PTO E-mail: pto@saintjohnschoolos.org
From the Principal October 18, 2023
(Past newsletters are posted on the website under “quick links”)
- NO GO TELL is an Abuse Prevention and Awareness Curriculum for children and teens. The NO GO TELL curriculum has been developed to teach children and young people how to identify and understand the following concepts:
- Appropriate behavior based on personal dignity and respect for others
- Personal safety and critical skills to remain safe
- Appropriate boundaries
- Assertive response in potentially dangerous situations
- Identify trusted persons
- What harassment and abusive situations look like
Saint John School is presenting the NO GO TELL curriculum to our students the week of October 23.
- Credit Card Payments – Our office is now able to accept in-house credit card and debit card payments. Payments can be made for tuition payments, outstanding book & lab fess, lunch and afterschool activities. Processing fees are added to the amount of the purchase.
- PTO Fundraiser - Pearls and Plaid, Old Saybrook on Saturday, October 21
- Wizard of Oz – Youth Edition Auditions – Monday, October 23 - 3:15 PM Saint John School Drama Production is looking for students to audition for roles in this year’s play. Monday after school students in grades 3-8 are welcome to audition with specific speaking lines and singing. Please register for auditions.
- Scarecrow Fest – Saint John School has entered the Scarecrow Fest in Old Saybrook. Please take time to vote for Saint John School’s display either on Facebook or using the links below. You may vote once this week through Oct. 20 and again Oct. 21 – 28.
10/13-10/20 Google Form: https://forms.gle/LNNfMgVnPujvXsL56
10/21-10/28 Google Form: https://forms.gle/cc8wPHeVAk55AJeb7
- Holiday Magic with Sister Gabriel - Grades: K-8 Mondays, October 23 & 30, November 6 & 20, 3:00-3:45 pm Come “Deck Our Halls” with Sister Gabriel! Together you will create and decorate our school for all the fall holidays. Help make Saint John School festive for Fall & Thanksgiving! Free of Charge – registration is necessary.
- Trunk or Treat – Friday, October 27 Adult Volunteers who have completed Safe Environment training are needed to assist with games at 6 PM in the gymnasium prior to Trunk or Treating at 7 PM. Use this link to Sign-Up Genius for the Trunk or Treat. Register also to provide decorated vehicles. Donations of candy are needed to assist these vehicles with candy to hand out.
- Grandparents Day – Friday, November 3, 9 AM - Noon We are seeing an increase of grandparents being signed up for Grandparents Day on Friday, November 3. Please continue to send in your registration forms. This is a very special day for students and Grandparents alike.
- Veteran’s Day Assembly – Friday, November 10, 2:15 – 3:00 PM Family members of our students who are serving or have served in our military as welcome to attend Saint John School for a special Veteran’s Day Assembly. Complete a registration form
- Mystic Aquarium Afterschool Enrichment Program – November 14 for Kindergarten – 5th Grade has reached its max enrollment.
- Intramural Basketball – Co-ed Students in Grades 4-8 are welcome to join our Intramural Basketball program being held Tuesdays & Thursday 3:00 – 4:00 PM, November 28, 2023 – February 29, 2024. The fee to play is $35.00. Our physical education teacher, Miss Bridget Rosikiewicz in heading up this intramural program. All players need to have a physical on record with the nurse that is dated within the last 13 months.
- Car Raffle – Families who purchase or sell 5 or more Luxury Raffle Tickets receive full credit against their assessment commitment. To receive your credit, complete the SJS Luxury Raffle Volunteer Form located on the SJS Website and email it to the PTO Representative for verification.
- Safe Environments – Just a reminder volunteers working with children need to be Safe Environment approved by the Diocese of Norwich. Please contact to the office to begin the process of training. Once you are approved to volunteer it is effective through the years as you are involved with St. John School. An occasional refresher course needs to be completed every few years.
- SMS (Text) Messaging is here! Our goal is to use this for emergency notifications. Click here for early opt-in instructions
- Walk Around Wednesdays! If you know anyone who is interested in visiting our school please have them register here (seelink).
Upcoming Events - Save the Date
Monday, October 23 - Wizard of Oz Youth Production Auditions
Friday, October 27 - Trunk or Treat
Friday, November 3 - Grandparent's Day
Friday, November 10 – Veteran’s Day Assembly
Tuesday, November 28 – Intramural Basketball
From the Principal October 11, 2023
(Past newsletters are posted on the website under “quick links”)
- America Needs Fatima – October 14, Noon Join the Rosary Rally for the conversion of the United States with special intention for peace in our days. Meet at the Prayer Labyrinth behind St. Marks Church, 222 McVeagh Rd., Westbrook. In the event of rain, the Rosary will be prayed indoors. Saint John School families are invited.
- Formal Uniforms – Effective October 15, we resume our formal uniform requirements for students in Grades 1- 7. See your school Handbook for the details on what constitutes a formal uniform.
- Parent Teacher Conferences – October 17 & 18 Reminder these are early release days from school.
- Wizard of Oz – Youth Edition Auditions – October 23 at 3:15
- Scarecrow Fest – Saint John School has prepared and entered the Scarecrow Fest in Old Saybrook. A special thank you to Andrew, Chris, Jack, Sophia, Dakota, Makenzie, Lauren, Nicholas, Devon, Preston, Ellie, Violet, Sophia's mom for all their hard work on creating our scarecrows and the display. Please take time to vote for Saint John School’s display either on Facebook or using the links below.
Voting will occur via Google Form once from 10/13-10/20 and once from 10/21-10/28.
10/13-10/20 Google Form: https://forms.gle/LNNfMgVnPujvXsL56
10/21-10/28 Google Form: https://forms.gle/cc8wPHeVAk55AJeb7
- Trunk or Treat – October 27 at 6PM. Use this link to Sign-Up Genius for the Trunk or Treat. Volunteers are needed to assist with games in the gymnasium prior to Trick or Treating. Register to provide a decorated vehicles.
- Grandparents Day – November 3
- Intramural Basketball – We need 2 volunteers to assist our Phys-Ed Teacher, Bridget Rosikiewicz, with our Intramural Basketball program for students in grades 4-7. Please contact the office to arrange for Safe Environment training.
- Car Raffle – Families who purchase or sell 5 or more Luxury Raffle Tickets will receive full credit against their assessment commitment. To receive your credit, complete the SJS Luxury Raffle Volunteer Form located on the SJS Website and email it to the PTO Representative for verification.
- Safe Environments – Just a reminder volunteers working with children need to be Safe Environment approved by the Diocese of Norwich. Please contact to the office to begin the process of training. Once you are approved to volunteer it is effective through the years as you are involved with St. John School. An occasional refresher course needs to be completed every few years.
- SMS (Text) Messaging is here! Our goal is to use this for emergency notifications. Click here for early opt-in instructions
- Walk Around Wednesdays! If you know anyone who is interested in visiting our school please have them register here (seelink).