On August 18th, 500 students entered the gates of Holy Spirit School to begin the new academic year. This is great news.  Certainly, good things are being said about our school.  Everyone was very happy to be back to see their peers after the summer break. The campus was once again filled with the beautiful voices of children talking, singing, praying, and learning. It is nice to have them back! 

As we have some new students, we also have a few new teachers that joined the faculty. I met with each one of the new teachers and assured them of my prayers and support. I also welcomed new parents during the back-to-school night. I thanked them for allowing us to be a part of their children’s journey in their academic and spiritual formation. And we are sure happy to have all of them as part of our community.  

The commencement of the school year comes to us at a time when there are still many uncertainties. There are questions and concerns about the Covid guidelines and of course the safety of the children. I can assure you that Mr. Greg Vohs, Mrs. Lisa Coulter and I continue to work together with the diocesan department of education to ensure that we follow all the guidelines from the State and the County. Our school custodians, Benito and Veronica are working doubly hard to make sure that we provide a clean, sanitized, and safe environment for our children.  

Only “essential” people are allowed to visit the school to limit the number of those who are on campus. All visitors must check in at the school office. No one who is sick whether it is Covid related or not is allowed to enter school grounds. Again, keep in mind that our top priority is the safety of our students and the school staff.  

Weekly mass, for now, is celebrated on the school courtyard with all members of the school community wearing masks. We are very happy that we can gather once again with the children to celebrate the Eucharist.  

In addition to the school office, the parish office is also open for parents, parishioners and anyone who needs assistance. Please keep in mind that beginning, Tuesday, September 7th, our parish office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 9:00am-1:00pm. Although we have limited hours, you may make an appointment to see me, Fr. Edgar or any of the parish staff. Know that we are more than happy to see and help you.  

Finally, I once again ask you to pray for our school community including the parents. These Covid times have been extremely challenging for everyone. Let us pray that the Holy Spirit continues to lead as we journey through these unprecedented times. May, Mary, our Mother, shield us under her maternal care.