LS WIT June 4, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, June 5

Fifth Grade goes to Kings Dominion

Monday, June 8

Last day of school

LS Dress down day - Declared in honor of our Lower School Head of the School for the Day - Rivet Spelman

Fifth Grade Pizza Party with Mrs. Adams

Tuesday, June 9

Fifth Grade Recognition Breakfast (Macan Field) - 8:30-9:00 a.m.

Fifth Grade Recognition Ceremony (Macan Field)- 9:00-10:00 a.m.

UPCOMING LS DRESS DOWN DAY

In honor of the LS Division head for the day, Rivet Spelman, we will have a dress-down day on June 8, 2026.

LOST AND FOUND

All items not claimed by the end of the day on Friday, June 5, will be donated.

SRCA MEETING RE: TRAFFIC CHANGES TO DUKE STREET

Many of our SSSAS families have indicated they are looking for more information about the proposed increases in building density and traffic changes for Duke Street. On Wednesday, June 10, at 7:30 p.m., the Seminary Ridge Civic Association (SRCA) is hosting a neighborhood meeting at the SSSAS Upper School to discuss these topics. More information, including how to join the meeting remotely, is available in this flyer from the SCRA.

REMINDERS

Dear Families,

As we close another school year, I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude and appreciation for this community. This year marked my third year as Director of the Lower School, and with each passing year, I feel more connected to the students, families, faculty, and traditions that make this school special.

The Lower School continues to be our little oasis of joy! It is a place where curiosity is encouraged, confidence is nurtured, and children are valued and celebrated for who they are. Each day, I am inspired by your children. I love their laughter, creativity, resilience, kindness, and eagerness to learn. They bring energy into every classroom, hallway, and playground, reminding us of the beauty, wonder, and innocence of childhood.

I continue to be grateful for our talented and dedicated faculty and staff whose care and commitment shape the daily experiences of our students. The work that they do goes above and beyond classroom instruction. They work hard to create spaces where students feel seen, valued, and heard.

I also want to thank you all for your continued partnership, trust, and encouragement. The connection between home and school is important, and I am thankful for the many ways you support and uplift the Lower School each day.

As summer begins, I hope your days are filled with rest, renewal, laughter, adventure, and meaningful time with loved ones! Thank you for sharing your children with us this year. It is a privilege and joy to walk alongside them during these important years of growth.

Warmly,

LaNessa West

Lower School Director

FIFTH GRADE RECOGNITION CEREMONY & ATTIRE

We are excited to celebrate our annual Fifth Grade Recognition Ceremony on Macan Field at 9:00 a.m. The event will be live-streamed so that family members can choose to watch the ceremony virtually in real time away from campus. Please tune in at 9:00 a.m. to view the live ceremony. Please feel free to share the information with family members and special friends. We will share the recording of the service in the coming days.

END-OF-THE-YEAR TRANSPORTATION

Please review the campus schedules for end-of-the-year transportation. Note that special intercampus shuttles will be available for our Middle School students on select days. You can find all campus-specific details via the link below.

View the Transportation Department's end-of-the-year schedule

If you have any questions, please contact Jim Supple, Transportation Director, at jsupple@sssas.org.

Lower School

LS WIT May 28, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, May 29

ES-5 Field Day

Fourth Grade Bake Sale

Wednesday, June 3

Third Grade Futuristic Civilization

Thursday, June 4

Final Chapel

ES-4 Fly-up Day

Friday, June 5

Fifth Grade goes to Kings Dominion

Monday, June 8

Last day of school

LS Dress down day - Declared in honor of our Lower School Head of the School for the Day - Rivet Spelman Fifth Grade Pizza Party with Mrs. Adams

Tuesday, June 9

Fifth Grade Recognition Breakfast (Macan Field) - 8:30-9:00 a.m.

Fifth Grade Recognition Ceremony (Macan Field) - 9:00-10:00 a.m.

Dear Families,

As we close another school year, I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude and appreciation for this community. This year marked my third year as Director of the Lower School, and with each passing year, I feel more connected to the students, families, faculty, and traditions that make this school special.

The Lower School continues to be our little oasis of joy! It is a place where curiosity is encouraged, confidence is nurtured, and children are valued and celebrated for who they are. Each day, I am inspired by your children. I love their laughter, creativity, resilience, kindness, and eagerness to learn. They bring energy into every classroom, hallway, and playground, reminding us of the beauty, wonder, and innocence of childhood.

I continue to be grateful for our talented and dedicated faculty and staff whose care and commitment shape the daily experiences of our students. The work that they do goes above and beyond classroom instruction. They work hard to create spaces where students feel seen, valued, and heard.

I also want to thank you all for your continued partnership, trust, and encouragement. The connection between home and school is important, and I am thankful for the many ways you support and uplift the Lower School each day.

As summer begins, I hope your days are filled with rest, renewal, laughter, adventure, and meaningful time with loved ones! Thank you for sharing your children with us this year. It is a privilege and joy to walk alongside them during these important years of growth.

Warmly,

LaNessa West

Lower School Director

UPCOMING LS DRESS DOWN DAYS

In honor of the LS Division head for the day, Rivet Spelman, we will have a dress-down day on June 8, 2026.

FIFTH GRADE RECOGNITION CEREMONY & ATTIRE

We are excited to celebrate our annual Fifth Grade Recognition Ceremony on Macan Field at 9:00 a.m. The event will be live-streamed so that family members can choose to watch the ceremony virtually in real time away from campus. Please tune in at 9:00 a.m. to view the live ceremony. Please feel free to share the information with family members and special friends. We will share the recording of the service in the coming days.

END-OF-THE-YEAR TRANSPORTATION

Please review the campus schedules for end-of-the-year transportation. Note that special intercampus shuttles will be available for our Middle School students on select days. You can find all campus-specific details via the link below.

View the Transportation Department's end-of-the-year schedule

If you have any questions, please contact Jim Supple, Transportation Director, at jsupple@sssas.org.

REMINDERS

MESSAGE FROM LS NURSE - MEDICATION PICK UP

Please pick up all prescription and over-the-counter medications that have been signed into the health office. A parent or an adult must pick up the medication.

Note: Any leftover medication will be discarded

Pick-up dates in the health office (Sinclair Building) are:

Monday, June 8, 2026, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

If you have questions, please contact Kim Brown, RN, Lower School Nurse, kbrown@sssas.org.

LOST AND FOUND

We are cleaning out the Lost and Found!

Items are currently located in the MacKinnon and McBride lobbies.

From June 1 to June 5, all unclaimed items will be in the MacKinnon lobby. On Wednesday, June 3, from 7:45 a.m. - 8:30 a.m., we will put out all clothing and items from the MacKinnon and McBride lost and found closets in the paved area by Sinclair Library. All items not claimed by the end of the day on Friday, June 5, will be donated. Photos of items currently in Lost and Found can be found here; new items are added daily to the Lost and Found areas, so please stop by MacKinnon and McBride to claim your items.

CUB SCOUT PACK 1515 WRAPS UP AMAZING YEAR!

On May 12, Cub Scout Pack 1515 held its annual crossover ceremony, awarding six fifth graders with their Arrow of Light and sending them off into Scouts BSA with Troop 1515. The Arrow of Light is the highest honor in Cub Scouting. Well deserved, Scouts!

The pack had a ... packed year (pun fully intended) of activities. Highlights included camping trips to Prince William Forest and Camp Snyder, the Pinewood Derby car race and Raingutter Regatta boat race, marching in the Alexandria St. Patrick's Day Parade, and a visit to the National Museum of the Army to meet with its chief historian. Many thanks to SSSAS for letting the Pack use their facilities.

Interested in signing up your child? Pack 1515 takes the summer off, but we'll resume meeting in September and would love to have you join! Boys in grades K-5 are welcome - no special skills required! Just send an email to Pack1515cubmaster@gmail.com to get connected.

Lower School

^{LS WIT May 21, 2026}

^{UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS}

^{Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!}

^{Friday, May 22}

^{Second Grade Cultural Connections}

^{Fourth Grade Kids For Kids Reveal/Picnic}

^{Tuesday, May 26}

^{Early Saints Showcase}

^{Friday, May 29}

^{ES-5 Field Day}

^{Fourth Grade Bake Sale}

^{Wednesday, June 3}

^{Third Grade Futuristic Civilization}

^{Thursday, June 4}

^{Final Chapel}

^{FOURTH GRADE BAKE SALE, FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2026}

^{The fourth graders are excited to host the annual Bake Sale on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 1:00-2:30 p.m.}

^{The bake sale will take place in the fourth-grade classrooms. All Lower School students, faculty, and staff are invited to come and purchase some delicious goodies!}

^{The proceeds will go to support local organizations that have been selected as part of the Fourth Grade Kids For Kids philanthropy program. Please send your child in with money ($5.00 recommended max) to purchase items at the bake sale.}

^{If you have any questions, please contact Leigh Angulo at langulo@sssas.org.}

^{MESSAGE FROM LS NURSE - MEDICATION PICK UP}

^{Please pick up all prescription and over-the-counter medications that have been signed into the health office. A parent or an adult must pick up the medication.}

^{Note: Any leftover medication will be discarded}

^{Pick-up dates in the health office (Sinclair Building) are:}

^{Monday, June 8, 2026, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.}

^{Tuesday, June 9, 2026, between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.}

^{If you have questions, please contact Kim Brown, RN, Lower School Nurse, kbrown@sssas.org.}

^{LOST AND FOUND}

^{We are cleaning out the Lost and Found!}

^{Items are currently located in the MacKinnon and McBride lobbies.}

^{From June 1 - June 5, all unclaimed items will be in the MacKinnon lobby. On Wednesday, June 3, from 7:45 a.m. - 8:30 a.m., we will put out all clothing and items from the MacKinnon and McBride lost and found closets in the paved area by Sinclair Library.}

^{All items not claimed by the end of the day on Friday, June 5, will be donated. Photos of items currently in Lost and Found can be found here; new items are added daily to the Lost and Found areas so please stop by MacKinnon and McBride to claim your items.}

^{CUB SCOUT PACK 1515 WRAPS UP AMAZING YEAR!}

^{On May 12, Cub Scout Pack 1515 held its annual crossover ceremony, awarding six fifth graders with their Arrow of Light and sending them off into Scouts BSA with Troop 1515. The Arrow of Light is the highest honor in Cub Scouting. Well deserved, Scouts!}

^{The pack had a ... packed year (pun fully intended) of activities. Highlights included camping trips to Prince William Forest and}

^{Camp Snyder, the Pinewood Derby car race and Raingutter Regatta boat race, marching in the Alexandria St. Patrick's Day Parade, and a visit to the National Museum of the Army to meet with its chief historian. Take a look at some photos.}

^{Many thanks to SSSAS for letting the Pack use their facilities.}

^{Interested in signing up your child? Pack 1515 takes the summer off, but we'll resume meeting in September and would love to have you join! Boys in grades K-5 are welcome - no special skills required! Just send an email to Pack1515cubmaster@gmail.com to get connected.}

^{MIDDLE SCHOOL SAINTS ACTING GUILD PRODUCTION OF SHREK THE MUSICAL KIDS! We are delighted to announce the upcoming Middle School Saints Acting Guild production of Shrek The Musical KIDS! Based on the beloved DreamWorks film and Broadway musical, Shrek KIDS is a "big bright beautiful world" where everyone’s favorite ogre leads a cast of fairytale misfits on a hilarious and heartwarming adventure. When Shrek’s swamp is overrun by outcasts banished by Lord Farquaad, he sets off with a wisecracking donkey to rescue Princess Fiona—and along the way, discovers friendship, love, and the true meaning of acceptance.}

^{Filled with humor, unforgettable characters, and a powerful message, Shrek The Musical KIDS is a fun and uplifting show for the whole family.}

^{This performance is on Friday, May 22, at 5 p.m. in the Chapel/Performing Arts Center at the Upper School. Seating will be first-come, first-served, and free tickets can be reserved through this Google Form! Please print your form confirmation for entry.}

^REMINDERS

^{LAST DAY OF SCHOOL}

^{Please note that the last day of the 2025-2026 school year for all Lower School students is Monday, June 8.}

^{ES - Fifth-grade students will be dismissed at 3:00 p.m.}

^CHAPEL

^{Student birthdays will be read at Chapel on the following dates.}

^{May 28 - August birthdays}

^{EXTENDED DAY Monday, June 8, 2026, is the last day for Morning Care and Extended Day.}

^{Questions: Please contact Mary Kelley at mkelley@sssas.org.}

^REMINDERS

^{TRANSPORTATION SERVICE - JUNE 8, 2026}

^{There will be shuttle and/or commuter bus services available for Lower School students on the last day of school, Monday, June 8, 2026.}

^{CHAPEL PRELUDES - Mrs. Gehlhoff}

^{Thank you to all of the amazing fourth and fifth-grade student musicians who shared their musical talents this year by playing a prelude during chapel!}

^{Beau Barton, Summer George, Lina Werdel, Zoe Merrifield, Bea Hendriksen, Zoe Nelson, Catherine Lee-Harang, Kieran Leddy, Everly Guest, Bare Banjo, Eden Rose McGill, Daniel Grider, Navya Williams, Alia Zilemba, Ayan Leddy, Marie Muino, Henry Hodgson, Hudson Vinci, Hunter Hill, Julia Strickland, Alice Smalligan, Natalie Sandhu, Sloane Harrison, Olivia Annewanter-Schirripa}

^{STEAM DAY FALL 2026}

^{We are excited to invite parents to be part of an engaging learning opportunity with our students! As part of next year’s STEAM Day (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) centered on the theme of “Underwater,” we are seeking volunteers to share their knowledge, experiences, or skills.}

^{If you have a background, hobby, or interest related to marine science, ocean engineering, environmental conservation, underwater robotics, aquatic art, or any related field, we would love for you to speak to our students or host a hands-on workshop. You can help bring real-world connections to the classroom and inspire curiosity and creativity.}

^{Whether it’s a short presentation, demonstration, or interactive activity, your contribution can make a meaningful impact. Please reach out to Leigh Angulo at langulo@sssas.org, and let us know how you’d like to participate. We look forward to collaborating with you. Thank you so much!}

^{MIDDLE SCHOOL SAINTS ACTING GUILD PRESENTS SHREK KIDS!

Based on the beloved DreamWorks film and Broadway musical, Shrek KIDS is a "big bright beautiful world" where everyone’s favorite ogre leads a cast of fairytale misfits on a hilarious and heartwarming adventure. When Shrek’s swamp is overrun by outcasts banished by Lord Farquaad, he sets off with a wisecracking donkey to rescue Princess Fiona—and along the way, discovers friendship, love, and the true meaning of acceptance.}

^{Filled with humor, unforgettable characters, and a powerful message, Shrek The Musical KIDS is a fun and uplifting show for the whole family.

This performance is on Friday, May 22 at 5PM in the Chapel/Performing Arts Center at the Upper School. Seating will be first-come, first-served, and free tickets can be reserved through this Google Form! Please print your form confirmation for entry.}

Lower School

LS WIT May 14, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, May 15

First Grade's Saintsville

Monday, May 18

Child Family Network Center Presentation for Fifth Grade

Friday, May 22

Second Grade Cultural Connections

Fourth Grade Kids For Kids Reveal/Picnic

Friday, May 29

ES-5 Field Day

Fourth Grade Bake Sale

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

Please note that the last day of the 2025-2026 school year for all Lower School students is Monday, June 8.

ES - Fifth-grade students will be dismissed at 3:00 p.m.

EXTENDED DAY

Monday, June 8, 2026, is the last day for Morning Care and Extended Day.

Questions: Please contact Mary Kelley at mkelley@sssas.org.

CHAPEL

Student birthdays will be read at Chapel on the following dates.

May 14 - June birthdays

May 21 - July birthdays

May 28 - August birthdays

TRANSPORTATION SERVICE - JUNE 8, 2026

There will be shuttle and/or commuter bus services available for Lower School students on the last day of school, Monday, June 8, 2026.

CHAPEL PRELUDES - Mrs. Gehlhoff

Thank you to all of the amazing fourth and fifth-grade student musicians who shared their musical talents this year by playing a prelude during chapel!

Beau Barton, Summer George, Lina Werdel, Zoe Merrifield, Bea Hendriksen, Zoe Nelson, Catherine Lee-Harang, Kieran Leddy, Everly Guest, Bare Banjo, Eden Rose McGill, Daniel Grider, Navya Williams, Alia Zilemba, Ayan Leddy, Marie Muino, Henry Hodgson, Hudson Vinci, Hunter Hill, Julia Strickland, Alice Smalligan, Natalie Sandhu, Sloane Harrison, Olivia Annewanter-Schirripa

STEAM DAY FALL 2026

We are excited to invite parents to be part of an engaging learning opportunity with our students! As part of next year’s STEAM Day (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) centered on the theme of “Underwater,” we are seeking volunteers to share their knowledge, experiences, or skills.

If you have a background, hobby, or interest related to marine science, ocean engineering, environmental conservation, underwater robotics, aquatic art, or any related field, we would love for you to speak to our students or host a hands-on workshop. You can help bring real-world connections to the classroom and inspire curiosity and creativity.

Whether it’s a short presentation, demonstration, or interactive activity, your contribution can make a meaningful impact. Please reach out to Leigh Angulo at langulo@sssas.org, and let us know how you’d like to participate. We look forward to collaborating with you. Thank you so much!

MIDDLE SCHOOL SAINTS ACTING GUILD PRESENTS SHREK KIDS!
Based on the beloved DreamWorks film and Broadway musical, Shrek KIDS is a "big bright beautiful world" where everyone’s favorite ogre leads a cast of fairytale misfits on a hilarious and heartwarming adventure. When Shrek’s swamp is overrun by outcasts banished by Lord Farquaad, he sets off with a wisecracking donkey to rescue Princess Fiona—and along the way, discovers friendship, love, and the true meaning of acceptance.

Filled with humor, unforgettable characters, and a powerful message, Shrek The Musical KIDS is a fun and uplifting show for the whole family.

This performance is on Friday, May 22 at 5PM in the Chapel/Performing Arts Center at the Upper School. Seating will be first-come, first-served, and free tickets can be reserved through this Google Form! Please print your form confirmation for entry.

REMINDERS

STRATEGIC PLAN PARENT SURVEY

In November of 2024, SSSAS parents completed a survey that was instrumental in developing our Strategic Plan. In partnership with MehtaCognition, we have developed this follow-up survey which will provide an up-to-date snapshot of parent perceptions about the mission of the school, its programs, and your child’s experience. This new information will enable us to learn if/how feelings and perceptions have changed and will help us to continue to improve and thrive as an institution. This survey is being administered by MehtaCognition to ensure security, anonymity, and confidentiality of the information that is shared.

We are asking that all SSSAS families access and complete this brief 15 minute survey by Tuesday, May 19. Please note that the survey should only be completed once per family. (There are opportunities within the survey to fill it out regarding multiple children.) If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at jdesautels@sssas.org. Thank you for your partnership!

FIELD DAY VOLUNTEERS

The P.E. Department needs volunteers for students in grades ES and 5. The success of the event depends on parent volunteers.

Please register using the link below if you are interested in volunteering: FIELD DAY VOLUNTEERS!

Thank you so much for your support!

HELP US BE GOOD NEIGHBORS

The end of the year is filled with events that bring people onto campus, which means that there is a lot of traffic on Fontaine Street during drop-off, pickup, and throughout the day. This is a very narrow street (especially when cars are parked on both sides), and more than 40 young children live on it. As you drive down the street, it is critical that you do so:

slowly (the speed limit is 25 mph but even that can feel too fast given its narrowness)
safely (keep your eyes open for pedestrians and pets, and do not look at your phone or otherwise be distracted)
Courteously (let neighbors back out of their driveways and get down the street; do not park in front of driveways; if a neighbor asks you to slow down, please do so)

Please make sure to share this information with caregivers and others who may be on campus, and thank you for helping us to show our respect and appreciation to our Lower School neighbors.

Lower School

LS WIT May 7, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, May 8

Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day

11:30 a.m. Dismissal

There is no Extended Day or afternoon bus service

Friday, May 15

First Grade's Saintsville

Monday, May 18

Child Family Network Center Presentation for Fifth Grade

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL
Please note that the last day of the 2025-2026 school year for all Lower School students is Monday, June 8.

ES - Fifth-grade students will be dismissed at 3:00 p.m.

EXTENDED DAY

Monday, June 8, 2026, is the last day for Morning Care and Extended Day.

Questions: Please contact Mary Kelley at mkelley@sssas.org.

CHAPEL

Student birthdays will be read at Chapel on the following dates.

May 14 - June birthdays

May 21 - July birthdays

May 28 - August birthdays

STRATEGIC PLAN PARENT SURVEY

In November of 2024, SSSAS parents completed a survey that was instrumental in developing our Strategic Plan. In partnership with MehtaCognition, we have developed this follow-up survey which will provide an up-to-date snapshot of parent perceptions about the mission of the school, its programs, and your child’s experience. This new information will enable us to learn if/how feelings and perceptions have changed and will help us to continue to improve and thrive as an institution. This survey is being administered by MehtaCognition to ensure security, anonymity, and confidentiality of the information that is shared.

We are asking that all SSSAS families access and complete this brief 15 minute survey by Tuesday, May 19. Please note that the survey should only be completed once per family. (There are opportunities within the survey to fill it out regarding multiple children.) If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at jdesautels@sssas.org. Thank you for your partnership!

Instructure (Canvas) Security Incident Information for Families

We want to make our families aware of a recently reported cybersecurity incident involving Instructure, the company that provides the Canvas learning management system.

Canvas is not an official platform used by St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School. However, some members of our community may use Canvas through outside organizations, such as external academic programs, professional groups, or extracurricular activities.

Note that this notice is NOT related to Canva, the graphic design platform that our school uses. Canva is a separate company and is not part of this incident.

Our School’s Status

We have no evidence that school systems or data were affected
We have identified limited external use of Canvas within our community
This use appears to be independent of school systems

What happened

Instructure reported a cybersecurity incident impacting parts of its platform
The issue involves unauthorized access to some Canvas accounts and/or data
The full scope is still under investigation, but has already impacted millions of students

What information may be involved
Based on current reporting, impacted data may include:

Names
Email addresses
User IDs
Course content or messages

There are no reliable reports of financial data exposure, but this depends on how the accounts were used.

What families should do
If you or your student uses Canvas through an outside organization:

Be cautious of unexpected emails related to those accounts
Avoid reusing school passwords on external sites
Update passwords for those accounts as a precaution
Encourage students to report anything suspicious to the institution associated with their Canvas account

Questions
If you have questions, please contact helpdesk@sssas.org for further assistance.

FIELD DAY

Homeroom teachers will receive their students’ Field Day team colors in advance.

Students are encouraged to be as creative as possible when dressing in their assigned Field Day colors, think fun accessories, face paint, and school-appropriate flair!

As students will spend time outdoors, please apply sunscreen to exposed areas before school. We also strongly recommend sending your child with a water bottle to help them stay hydrated throughout the day.

If you have any additional questions, please email Mr. Finch (ES-5) at afinch@sssas.org.

Thank you so much for your support!

FIELD DAY VOLUNTEERS

The P.E. Department needs volunteers for students in grades ES and 5. The success of the event depends on parent volunteers.

Please register using the link below if you are interested in volunteering:

FIELD DAY VOLUNTEERS!

HELP US BE GOOD NEIGHBORS

The end of the year is filled with events that bring people onto campus, which means that there is a lot of traffic on Fontaine Street during drop-off, pickup, and throughout the day. This is a very narrow street (especially when cars are parked on both sides) and more than 40 young children live on it. As you drive down the street, it is critical that you do so:

slowly (the speed limit is 25 mph but even that can feel too fast given its narrowness)
safely (keep your eyes open for pedestrians and pets, and do not look at your phone or otherwise be distracted)
Courteously (let neighbors back out of their driveways and get down the street; do not park in front of driveways; if a neighbor asks you to slow down, please do so)

Please make sure to share this information with caregivers and others who may be on campus, and thank you for helping us to show our respect and appreciation to our Lower School neighbors.

REMINDERS

PE DEPARTMENT ANNUAL FIELD DAY

Happy Spring!

The P.E. Department is excited for our annual Field Day, which is quickly approaching! This is a fun, culminating event for our students, and its success depends greatly on the support of our amazing parent volunteers.

Field Day will take place on Friday, May 29, on the Lower School campus from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for students in grades JK–5. ES students will participate on the sports court from 9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. If there is inclement weather, the rain date is Monday, June 1st.

If you are available to volunteer with either ES–2 or 3–5, we would greatly appreciate your time and support in helping make this event a success.

Please register using the link below if you are interested in volunteering:

FIELD DAY VOLUNTEERS!

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out: Mr. Finch (ES–5): afinch@sssas.org

Thank you so much for your continued support!

Best,

Anthony Finch

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO SERVE ON STEVE & AGGIES COMMITTEE

Dear Saints Families,

On behalf of the Saints Athletics Club, we want to thank everyone who has volunteered at Steve & Aggies this past school year. We have one final ask: We are looking for volunteers to serve on the Steve and Aggies Committee for the 2026-2027 school year. This is a great way to get involved in the athletic community at school, to support our students and coaches, and to connect with other families. Positions are available for Co-Chair as well as volunteers overseeing specific roles on the Committee.

No prior experience with Steve and Aggies is required—We will provide training as well as resources to help guide you.

If you’re interested or have any questions about the responsibilities, please reach out to Dina Koch (dinaokoch@gmail.com) or Traci Leonardo (traci.leonardo72@gmail.com).

Sign up HERE!

Thanks & Go Saints!

Dina Koch (P ’24, ’26) & Traci Leonardo (P ’24, ’27),

Steve & Aggies Coordinators

Lower School

April 30, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, May 1

1C & 1K Read on the Green

SPRING FESTIVAL DRESS DOWN DAY

Friday, May 8

Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day

11:30 a.m. Dismissal

There is no Extended Day or afternoon bus service

Friday, May 15

First Grade's Saintsville

GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS’ EVENT INFORMATION We are one week away from welcoming over 500 Grandparents and Special Friends to the Upper and Lower Schools!

May 7 Reception honoring Grandparents of all SSSAS students (ES-12)

6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Upper School - 1000 St. Stephen’s Road
Cocktails and heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served
The event is for adults only
Suggested attire - business

May 8 Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day at the Lower School

8:00 - 11:30 a.m. at the Lower School - 400 Fontaine St.
9:00 a.m. - remarks and program begin
9:50 - 11:30 a.m. - classroom visits, campus tours, and photo opportunities
Suggested attire - Sunday best/business - keep in mind the weather forecast and dress accordingly

Important things to know:

Please check the list of attendees on the landing page (drop-down menu for each event) and let us know if your grandparent(s) or special friend(s) are not registered.
Due to the volume of guests expected on Friday, only registered guests may attend. All parents are invited to attend the rehearsal on May 7 at 9:00 a.m. in Daniel Gym.

Detailed information is on the Grandparents and Special Friends’ Landing Page. Please email gsfday@sssas.org with any questions.

Attire for students

Students are expected to be in the school dress code/daily dress.

Extended Day

There will be no extended day on Friday, May 8; school closes at 11:30 a.m. All students are expected to depart with a grandparent, special friend, or parent.

Parking

There will be no parking on the Macan Field. We are asking that all of our guests either carpool to school with their student or park off-site at Del Ray Baptist Church (2405 Russell Road) unless the guest has a mobility issue. Buses will be available to transport guests to the Lower School.

If a guest has indicated that they need accessible parking, a placard will be emailed the week of the event.

Schedule for the morning

8:00 a.m. - Doors to Daniel Gym open - light refreshments will be served in the cafeteria, which is located on the lower level of Macan Hall.
8:00 a.m. - 8:20 a.m. Carpool drop-off for students and guests
8:20 a.m. - Guests continue to arrive, enjoy refreshments, and find seating
9:00 a.m. - Remarks and student performances (Early Saints-Fifth grade)
10:00 a.m. - Classroom visits, Specials visits, and Photo Booths
Please note: guests and students may leave when they are ready to do so.
11:30 a.m. - Dismissal - guests and students (Early Saints-Fifth grade) who have not already left will need to be picked up in the MacKinnon carpool line

Afternoon Carpool logistics

All guests and students may leave when they are finished visiting classrooms, touring the campus, and taking photos. For those guests and students who will be leaving before dismissal and being picked up, the “early pick-up” location will be in front of Lloyd House.

For those guests and students (Early Saints-Fifth grade) being picked up at 11:30 a.m., pick-up will be at the MacKinnon carpool line.

Guests with mobility issues

For those Grandparents and Special Friends with mobility issues, please be aware that there are no elevators in any of the Lower School buildings. We will be providing golf carts to transport guests from the parking area and between buildings, as well as seating throughout our campus. Please note that there is a ramp for access to Daniel Gym.

PE DEPARTMENT ANNUAL FIELD DAY

Happy Spring!

The P.E. Department is excited for our annual Field Day, which is quickly approaching! This is a fun, culminating event for our students, and its success depends greatly on the support of our amazing parent volunteers.

Field Day will take place on Friday, May 29, on the Lower School campus from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for students in grades JK–5. ES students will participate on the sports court from 9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. If there is inclement weather, the rain date is Monday, June 1st.

If you are available to volunteer with either ES–2 or 3–5, we would greatly appreciate your time and support in helping make this event a success.

Please register using the link below if you are interested in volunteering:

FIELD DAY VOLUNTEERS!

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out: Mr. Finch (ES–5): afinch@sssas.org

Thank you so much for your continued support!

Best,

Anthony Finch

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO SERVE ON STEVE & AGGIES COMMITTEE

Dear Saints Families,

On behalf of the Saints Athletics Club, we want to thank everyone who has volunteered at Steve & Aggies this past school year. We have one final ask: We are looking for volunteers to serve on the Steve and Aggies Committee for the 2026-2027 school year. This is a great way to get involved in the athletic community at school, to support our students and coaches, and to connect with other families. Positions are available for Co-Chair as well as volunteers overseeing specific roles on the Committee.

No prior experience with Steve and Aggies is required—We will provide training as well as resources to help guide you.

If you’re interested or have any questions about the responsibilities, please reach out to Dina Koch (dinaokoch@gmail.com) or Traci Leonardo (traci.leonardo72@gmail.com).

Sign up HERE!

Thanks & Go Saints!

Dina Koch (P ’24, ’26) & Traci Leonardo (P ’24, ’27),

Steve & Aggies Coordinators

REMINDERS

FIFTH GRADE GIRL SCOUT TROOP 60220 Fifth-grade Girl Scout troop 60220 is asking for donations to benefit Vola Lawson Animal Shelter as part of their Bronze Award. Donations will be collected April 27- May 1 with collection boxes in Macan, McBride and MacKinnon. They are asking for pet supplies, but also household items like paper towels, hand sanitizer, paper cups, and peanut butter. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

SPRING FESTIVAL DRESS DOWN DAY – FRIDAY, MAY 1

As we look forward to celebrating our Spring Festival, Friday, May 1, will be a dress-down day for the Lower School.

Students are welcome to wear their Spring Festival shirts if they have one. If not, they may come dressed comfortably and appropriately for a fun and festive day after school.

We look forward to a joyful celebration together!

Lower School

April 23, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, April 24
ES-5 Lockdown Drill
Spring chorus Concert Grades 5-12

Monday, April 27

1G &1H Read on the Green

Wednesday, April 29

Junior Kindergarten Tinkering Exploration with Parents

Thursday, April 30

Grades JK-2 Author Visit: Brittany Mazique

Friday, May 1

1C & 1K Read on the Green
SPRING FESTIVAL DRESS DOWN DAY

Friday, May 8

Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day

11:30 a.m. Dismissal

2026-2027 ENROLLMENT CONTRACTS REMINDER

As a reminder, the 2026-2027 enrollment contract binding date is May 1. This is a change from previous years. If you have any questions, please contact contact Donna O’Connell doconnell@sssas.org or Brandon Baker bbaker@sssas.org in the Business Office. We are looking forward to another great year together! Go Saints!

FIFTH GRADE GIRL SCOUT TROOP 60220

Fifth grade Girl Scout troop 60220 is asking for donations to benefit Vola Lawson Animal Shelter as part of their Bronze Award. Donations will be collected April 27- May 1 with collection boxes in Macan, McBride and MacKinnon. They are asking for pet supplies, but also household items like paper towels, hand sanitizer, paper cups, and peanut butter. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

IN HONOR OF EARTH WEEK:

Visit World Wildlife Foundation's "Give an Hour for Earth" site for ideas on how to engage with nature at home. Log your activity in their "National Hour Count" by April 30th to join the movement!

SAVE THE DATE: 2026 LOWER SCHOOL SPRING FESTIVAL

The annual Lower School Spring Festival is set for Friday, May 1 from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. The event will feature inflatables, a climbing wall, food trucks, sand art, airbrush tattoos, games, prizes, and more! Registration is still open with discounted advance purchase rates available through April 28. We are actively seeking adult and student (MS/US) volunteers to help out at the event. The shifts are short and the roles are fun! Contact springfestsssas@gmail.com with any questions.

SPRING FESTIVAL DRESS DOWN DAY – FRIDAY, MAY 1

As we look forward to celebrating our Spring Festival, Friday, May 1 will be a dress down day for the Lower School. Students should come dressed comfortably and appropriately for a fun and festive day after school.

We look forward to a joyful celebration together!

REMINDERS

GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY INFORMATION

We are weeks away from welcoming over 500 Grandparents and Special Friends to the Lower School!

All parents are invited to attend the rehearsal on May 7, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in Daniel Gym.

We are also thrilled to welcome Grandparents of all SSSAS students (Early Saints - Twelfth Grade) the evening before at our reception in their honor at the Upper School. Details have been sent to attendees.

Detailed information is on the Grandparents and Special Friends’ Landing Page. Please email gsfday@sssas.org with any questions.

Attire for students

Students are expected to be in the school dress code/daily dress.

Extended Day

There will be no extended day on Friday, May 8, school closes at 11:30 a.m. All students are expected to depart with a grandparent, special friend, or parent.

Parking - TBD

Parking There will be no parking on the Macan Field. We are asking that all of our guests either carpool to school with their student or park off-site at Del Ray Baptist Church (2405 Russell Road) unless the guest has a mobility issue. Busses will be available to transport guests from the church to the lower school.

Parents who indicated that a guest has mobility issues will be sent a reserved parking placard shortly.

Schedule for the morning:

8:00 a.m. - Registration begins in Macan Circle and the doors to Daniel Gym open - light refreshments will be served in the cafeteria, which is located on the lower level of Macan Hall.
8:00 a.m. - 8:20 a.m. Carpool drop-off for students and guests
8:20 a.m. - Guests continue to arrive, enjoy refreshments, and find seating
9:00 a.m. - Remarks and student performances (Early Saints-Fifth grade)
10:00 a.m. - Classroom visits, Specials visits, and Photo Booths
Please note: guests and students may leave when they are ready to do so.
11:30 a.m. - Dismissal - guests and students (Early Saints-Fifth grade) who have not already left will need to be picked up in the MacKinnon carpool line

Afternoon Carpool logistics

All guests and students may leave when they are finished visiting classrooms, touring the campus, and taking photos. For those guests and students who will be leaving before dismissal and being picked up, the “early pick-up” location will be in front of Lloyd House.

For those guests and students (Early Saints-Fifth grade) being picked up at 11:30 a.m., pick-up will be at the MacKinnon carpool line.

Guests with mobility issues

For those Grandparents and Special Friends with mobility issues, please be aware that there are no elevators in any of the Lower School buildings. We will be providing golf carts to transport guests from parking and in between buildings as well as seating throughout our campus. Please note, there is a ramp for access to Daniel Gym.

To request parking for guests with mobility issues, please email gsfday@sssas.org.

KNOW THE ROPES: READING AND WRITING

Wednesday, May 6, Academic Support Parent Coffee, 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.

Join us for an in-person session with our Lower School Academic Support team to explore the Reading Rope and Writing Rope frameworks. Families will learn about the different "strands" that weave together to develop proficient reading and writing skills. Practical strategies designed to help strengthen each strand at home will also be shared. Coffee and tea will be provided, and this event will be hosted on our Lower School campus in the Macan Hall conference room. Please use this form to RSVP.

Questions: Please contact Kate Roessler, Director of Lower School Academic Support, at kroessler@sssas.org.

BOOK DRIVE

Book drive! As part of my capstone project I will be hosting a book drive at the Lower School from April 23 through Friday May 15. The books collected will go to Inspire Lit, a local organization that helps provide books to kids without access in the area. They are looking for books that are new or lightly used for kids ages 4-12 and especially appreciate any graphic novels. Here are some books they are looking for specifically: Early chapter books, Activity books, Interactive books and books on this list. Thanks! - Pendleton ‘30

BABY GOATS

We are excited to share that our Lower School students will have another special visit from Browsing Green Goats. This year, instead of grazing goats, they will be bringing some baby goats to campus. This hands-on experience is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about animals, agriculture, and responsible interaction with living things. If they feel comfortable, students will have the opportunity to pet and interact with the baby goats under supervision. They will visit with us on April 23 and 24 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. *This is a change. Please contact Christina at cgraham@sssas.org with any questions.

Lower School

April 16, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Monday, April 20-Friday, April 24
Earth Week

Monday, April 20
Presenter: Bryan Gomes visiting Jr. Kindergarten (Who Polluted the Chesapeake)

Wednesday, April 22
Second Grade Author Visit: Ada Ari

Thursday, April 23
First Grade Del Ray Walking Trip
Kindergarten Animal Olympics with MS Students

Friday, April 24
ES-5 Lockdown Drill
Spring chorus Concert Grades 5-12

Monday, April 27
1G &1H Read on the Green

Wednesday, April 29
Junior Kindergarten Tinkering Exploration with Parents

Thursday, April 30
Grades JK-2 Author Visit: Brittany Mazique

Friday, May 1
1C & 1K Read on the Green

GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY INFORMATION

We are weeks away from welcoming over 500 Grandparents and Special Friends to the Lower School!

All parents are invited to attend the rehearsal on May 7, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in Daniel Gym.

We are also thrilled to welcome Grandparents of all SSSAS students (Early Saints - Twelfth Grade) the evening before at our reception in their honor at the Upper School. Details have been sent to attendees.

Detailed information is on the Grandparents and Special Friends’ Landing Page. Please email gsfday@sssas.org with any questions.

Attire for students

Students are expected to be in the school dress code/daily dress.

Extended Day

There will be no extended day on Friday, May 8, school closes at 11:30 a.m. All students are expected to depart with a grandparent, special friend, or parent.

Parking - TBD

We are closely monitoring the weather forecast; as of now, the weather is looking favorable, and the parking location will be communicated to all families and guests next week.

If a guest has indicated that they need accessible parking, a placard will be emailed to them early next week.

Schedule for the morning

8:00 a.m. - Doors to Daniel Gym open - light refreshments will be served in the cafeteria, which is located on the lower level of Macan Hall.
8:00 a.m. - 8:20 a.m. Carpool drop-off for students and guests
8:20 a.m. - Guests continue to arrive, enjoy refreshments, and find seating
9:00 a.m. - Remarks and student performances (Early Saints-Fifth grade)
10:00 a.m. - Classroom visits, Specials visits, and Photo Booths
Please note: guests and students may leave when they are ready to do so.
11:30 a.m. - Dismissal - guests and students (Early Saints-Fifth grade) who have not already left will need to be picked up in the MacKinnon carpool line

Afternoon Carpool logistics

All guests and students may leave when they are finished visiting classrooms, touring the campus, and taking photos. For those guests and students who will be leaving before dismissal and being picked up, the “early pick-up” location will be in front of Lloyd House.

For those guests and students (Early Saints-Fifth grade) being picked up at 11:30 a.m., pick-up will be at the MacKinnon carpool line.

Guests with mobility issues

For those Grandparents and Special Friends with mobility issues, please be aware that there are no elevators in any of the Lower School buildings. We will be providing golf carts to transport guests from parking and in between buildings as well as seating throughout our campus. Please note, there is a ramp for access to Daniel Gym.

To request parking for guests with mobility issues, please email gsfday@sssas.org.

PARENTS OF STUDENTS OF COLOR SPRING RECEPTION

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

If you have a child or children at SSSAS who identify as a person of color*, and did not receive an invitation by email and would like to attend the following event, you may RSVP HERE.

In order to confirm catering for this event, RSVPs are required by Friday, April 10, 2026. If you have already responded, there is no need to complete the form again.

*The National Association of Independent Schools defines a person of color as identifying with one or more of the following Racial/Ethnic Groups: Black/African American, Asian American/South Asian, First Nation/Native American, Latino/Hispanic American, Middle Eastern American, Multiracial American, and Pacific Islander.

KNOW THE ROPES: READING AND WRITING

Wednesday, May 6, Academic Support Parent Coffee, 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.

Join us for an in-person session with our Lower School Academic Support team to explore the Reading Rope and Writing Rope frameworks. Families will learn about the different "strands" that weave together to develop proficient reading and writing skills. Practical strategies designed to help strengthen each strand at home will also be shared. Coffee and tea will be provided, and this event will be hosted on our Lower School campus in the Macan Hall conference room. Please use this form to RSVP.

Questions: Please contact Kate Roessler, Director of Lower School Academic Support, at kroessler@sssas.org.

BOOK DRIVE

Book drive! As part of my capstone project I will be hosting a book drive at the Lower School from April 23 through Friday May 15. The books collected will go to Inspire Lit, a local organization that helps provide books to kids without access in the area. They are looking for books that are new or lightly used for kids ages 4-12 and especially appreciate any graphic novels. Here are some books they are looking for specifically: Early chapter books, Activity books, Interactive books and books on this list. Thanks! - Pendleton ‘30

BABY GOATS

We are excited to share that our Lower School students will have another special visit from Browsing Green Goats. This year, instead of grazing goats, they will be bringing some baby goats to campus. This hands-on experience is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about animals, agriculture, and responsible interaction with living things. If they feel comfortable, students will have the opportunity to pet and interact with the baby goats under supervision. They will visit with us on April 23 and 24 from 11:00am - 1:00pm. Please contact Christina at cgraham@sssas.org with any questions.

REMINDERS

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

Please note that the last day of the 2025-2026 school year for all Lower School students is Monday, June 8.

ES - Fifth-grade students will be dismissed at 3:00 p.m.

FIFTH GRADE RECOGNITION SERVICE

The Fifth Grade Recognition Service will be held on Tuesday, June 9 at 9:00 a.m.

We’re looking forward to celebrating this important milestone with you and your children.

We are putting the final touches on plans for other end-of-year events (like class parties) and will include them in an upcoming WIT.

SPRING CHORUS CONCERT

Friday, April 24, Upper School CPAC

Fifth-grade students will be participating in this concert with the Middle and Upper School choruses.

All fifth-grade students need to be at Upper School CPAC by 5:45 p.m.

Please be on time because students will meet the accompanist on stage at 5:45 p.m., to warm-up.

The concert runs from 7:00 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.

Student dress options are:

spring dress (any color)
spring skirt and top (any color)
long pants (please no shorts)
solid or patterned spring color or white collared shirt (short or long sleeved, polo style or button down, any color)
spring ties and blazers are optional but not necessary

dress shoes (please no backless sandals or athletic shoes)

All Lower School families are invited to join us in the audience during this joyful evening of music!

Questions? Contact Mrs. Gehlhoff rgehlhoff@sssas.org for further information.

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS - EARTH DAY

On Thursday, April 23, students are encouraged to wear blue and green as we honor Earth Day and show our commitment to caring for the planet.

SCHOOL STORE SPRING SALE!

Don't miss our School Store Spring Sale happening April 13 through April 19. Enjoy 15% off all apparel and gifts during our Spring Sale. Stop by one of our campus stores or shop online at sssasstore.com. We've got amazing discounts on all your favorite school gear. It's the perfect time to refresh your spirit wear, grab some graduation gifts or alumni swag.

To shop online please use code SUNNYDAYS at checkout. Opt for Shipping or On-Campus pick-up on any one of our three campuses. If you have any questions, please contact Kim Speed, School Store Manager, at kspeed@sssas.org.

SCHOOL STORE HOURS

Lower School Store (Youth Size Gear Only)

Thursdays - 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Upper School Store (Adult Size Gear Only)

Monday - Friday - 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY VOLUNTEERS

Would you like to volunteer at Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day? Grandparents and Special Friends' Day cannot happen without the help of our parent volunteers. Volunteer roles include helping at registration, directing guests to classrooms and buildings, assisting with photobooths, and more. This year we also need volunteers to assist on May 7 with filling gift bags for our grandparents and special friends.

Sign up to volunteer!

Please email Karen Tolusic with questions about volunteering.

SAVE THE DATE: 2026 LOWER SCHOOL SPRING FESTIVAL

The annual Lower School Spring Festival is set for Friday, May 1 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The event will feature inflatables, a climbing wall, food trucks, sand art, airbrush tattoos, games, prizes, and more! Registration will open April 13 with discounted advance purchase rates available through April 28. We are actively seeking adult and student (MS/US) volunteers to help out at the event. The shifts are short and the roles are fun! Contact springfestsssas@gmail.com with any questions.

Anne Graham | anne.wein@gmail.com | 410-459-2863

Lower School

April 9, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday April 10

Saints Mission Day (Attire for Saints Mission Day is SAINTS spirit dress down)

Monday, April 13

KG Spotlight on Learning - Math

Tuesday, April 14

KR Spotlight on Learning - Math

Wednesday, April 15

KW Spotlight on Learning - Math

Monday, April 20-Friday, April 24

Earth Week

Monday, April 20

Presenter: Bryan Gomes, visiting Jr. Kindergarten (Who Polluted the Chesapeake)

Wednesday, April 22

Second Grade Author Visit: Ada Ari

Thursday, April 23

First Grade Del Ray Walking Trip

Kindergarten Animal Olympics with MS Students

SAINTS MISSION DAY

On Friday, April 10, we will participate in Saints Mission Day.

This is a special day when students, faculty, and staff across our three campuses will come together in celebration of our mission. This annual event is an opportunity to bring everyone together to connect across divisions and engage in activities that highlight our mission to pursue goodness as well as knowledge.

In honor of our time together we will have a SAINTS Spirit dress down day!

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

Please note that the last day of the 2025-2026 school year for all Lower School students is Monday, June 8.

ES - Fifth-grade students will be dismissed at 3:00 p.m.

FIFTH GRADE RECOGNITION SERVICE

The Fifth Grade Recognition Service will be held on Tuesday, June 9 at 9:00 a.m.

We’re looking forward to celebrating this important milestone with you and your children.

We are putting the final touches on plans for other end-of-year events (like class parties) and will include them in an upcoming WIT.

SPRING CHORUS CONCERT

Friday, April 24, Upper School CPAC

Fifth-grade students will be participating in this concert with the Middle and Upper School choruses.

All fifth-grade students need to be at Upper School CPAC by 5:45 p.m.

Please be on time because students will meet the accompanist on stage at 5:45 p.m., to warm-up.

The concert runs from 7:00 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.

Student dress options are:

spring dress (any color)
spring skirt and top (any color)
long pants (please no shorts)
solid or patterned spring color or white collared shirt (short or long-sleeved, polo style or button-down, any color)
spring ties and blazers are optional but not necessary
dress shoes (please no backless sandals or athletic shoes)

All Lower School families are invited to join us in the audience during this joyful evening of music!

Questions? Contact Mrs. Gehlhoff rgehlhoff@sssas.org for further information.

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS - EARTH DAY

On Tuesday, April 23, students are encouraged to wear blue and green as we honor Earth Day and show our commitment to caring for the planet.

WELCOME TO MIDDLE SCHOOL

The Middle School Team is excited about the “Welcome to Middle School” event next Thursday, April 16, and the opportunity to discuss the sixth-grade transition, curriculum highlights, and our approach to social-emotional learning.

DATE: April 16, 2026

TIME: 6:30 p.m., for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres; 7:00 p.m., formal program

LOCATION: Middle School Gym

GET READY FOR THE SCHOOL STORE SPRING SALE!

Don't miss our School Store Spring Sale happening April 13 through April 19. Enjoy 15% off all apparel and gifts during our Spring Sale. Stop by one of our campus stores or shop online at sssasstore.com. We've got amazing discounts on all your favorite school gear. It's the perfect time to refresh your spirit wear, grab some graduation gifts, or alumni swag.

To shop online, please use code SUNNYDAYS at checkout. Opt for Shipping or On-Campus pick-up on any one of our three campuses.

If you have any questions, please contact Kim Speed, School Store Manager, at kspeed@sssas.org.

SCHOOL STORE HOURS

Lower School Store (Youth Size Gear Only)

Thursdays - 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Upper School Store (Adult Size Gear Only)

Monday - Friday - 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY VOLUNTEERS Would you like to volunteer at Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day? Grandparents and Special Friends' Day cannot happen without the help of our parent volunteers. Volunteer roles include helping at registration, directing guests to classrooms and buildings, assisting with photobooths, and more. This year we also need volunteers to assist on May 7 with filling gift bags for our grandparents and special friends.

Sign up to volunteer!

Please email Karen Tolusic with questions about volunteering.

SAVE THE DATE: 2026 LOWER SCHOOL SPRING FESTIVAL

The annual Lower School Spring Festival is set for Friday, May 1, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The event will feature inflatables, a climbing wall, food trucks, sand art, airbrush tattoos, games, prizes, and more! Registration will open on April 13 with discounted advance purchase rates available through April 28. We are actively seeking adult and student (MS/US) volunteers to help out at the event. The shifts are short, and the roles are fun!

Contact springfestsssas@gmail.com with any questions.

Anne Graham | anne.wein@gmail.com | 410-459-2863

REMINDERS

LET’S KEEP OUR STREAM CLEAN!

Join Lower School families and friends for a Stream Clean-Up at Timber Branch Stream on Saturday, April 18, from 9:00–10:30 a.m.

Location: Intersection of E. Timberbranch Parkway and Timberbranch Dr.

This is a wonderful opportunity to care for our local environment and show students that small actions make a big difference. We’ll provide all the tools and supplies — you just bring your enthusiasm. Stop by anytime to lend a hand!

Questions? Contact Leslie Williams lwilliams@sssas.org

SPRING WEATHER ATTIRE REQUEST

Please send your child with a jacket or raincoat and an extra pair of rain boots or shoes to keep at school.

CARPOOL REQUEST

With sports practices starting up again, this is a reminder to please make the changes in Schoolpass by 2:00 p.m. if your child(ren) is going home with another family.

CHAPEL

Student birthdays will be read at Chapel on the following dates.

April 2 - April 1-15

April 16- April 16-30

April 30 - May birthdays

May 14 - June birthdays

May 21 - July birthdays

May 28 - August birthdays

GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS' EVENTS - MAY 7 and MAY 8

We are thrilled to launch the landing page for Grandparents and Special Friends' Day.

Please check the website for detailed information, which includes an attendee list for both the Thursday night reception and Friday events that will be updated weekly.

Reminder: Registrations are due April 24. If the name of your guest(s) is not on the list(s), please register them here.

Please email gsfday@sssas.org if you have any questions.

Lower School

^{April 2, 2026}

^{UPCOMING EVENTS}

^{Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!}

Friday, April 3

Good Friday No School

Wednesday, April 8

KO Spotlight on Learning - Math

Third Grade Author Visit with Mary Amato

Friday April 10

Saints Mission Day

Monday, April 13

KG Spotlight on Learning - Math

Tuesday, April 14

KR Spotlight on Learning - Math

Wednesday, April 15

KW Spotlight on Learning - Math

An Evening with Devorah Heitner
April 13, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Upper School Chapel & Performing Arts Center (CPAC)

St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School parents are invited to join a special session with digital citizenship expert Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise and Growing Up Digital. She will be sharing valuable insights for parents on navigating the digital world and supporting students in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

RSVP today!

LET’S KEEP OUR STREAM CLEAN!

Join Lower School families and friends for a Stream Clean-Up at Timber Branch Stream on Saturday, April 18, from 9:00–10:30 a.m.

Location: Intersection of E. Timberbranch Parkway and Timberbranch Dr.

This is a wonderful opportunity to care for our local environment and show students that small actions make a big difference. We’ll provide all the tools and supplies — you just bring your enthusiasm. Stop by anytime to lend a hand!

Questions? Contact Leslie Williams lwilliams@sssas.org

SPRING WEATHER ATTIRE REQUEST

Please send your child with a jacket or raincoat and an extra pair of rain boots or shoes to keep at school.

CARPOOL REQUEST

With sports practices starting up again, this is a reminder to please make the changes in Schoolpass by 2:00 p.m. if your child(ren) is going home with another family.

CHAPEL

Student birthdays will be read at Chapel on the following dates.

April 2 - April 1-15

April 16- April 16-30

April 30 - May birthdays

May 14 - June birthdays

May 21 - July birthdays

May 28 - August birthdays

GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS' EVENTS - MAY 7 and MAY 8

We are thrilled to launch the landing page for Grandparents and Special Friends' Day.

Please check the website for detailed information, which includes an attendee list for both the Thursday night reception and Friday events that will be updated weekly.

Reminder: Registrations are due April 24. If the name of your guest(s) is not on the list(s), please register them here.

Please email gsfday@sssas.org if you have any questions.

^{LOST AND FOUND}

^{Please visit the lost and found in MacKinnon and McBride Halls to check for lost items.}

^{We have many water bottles, lunch bags, coats, and sweatshirts without names in our lost and found. Please remember to label all items that students might leave behind, like coats/jackets, sweaters, hoodies, boots, backpacks, water bottles, and lunch boxes.}

^{We are cleaning out the Lost and Found! On Wednesday, April 8, from 7:45 am - 8:30 am, we will put out all clothing and items from the MacKinnon and McBride Lost and Found in the paved area by Sinclair Library. You can also go to MacKinnon (lobby) or McBride (first floor) to claim lost items any time before April 6. From April 6 to April 10, all unclaimed items will be in the MacKinnon lobby. All items not claimed by the end of the day on Friday, April 10, will be donated.}

^{Photos of items currently in Lost and Found can be found here. Photos of SSSAS sweatshirts, sweaters, and jackets are not included in these photos, so please stop by Mackinnon and McBride to claim your SSSAS-branded items.}

^{Thanks to parent volunteers who sort and organize the lost and found areas, we have regularly been able to return items with names on them. If your child is missing something, please come look for it on April 8 at drop off or stop by the school by April 10 at your convenience!}

REMINDERS

SCHOOLPASS ATTENDANCE ABSENCE/LATE ARRIVAL DESIGNATIONS

Please make sure that when notifying us in SchoolPass that your child(ren) will be absent or arriving late, list the reason, such as sickness, travel, a family commitment, or an appointment. If your child arrives late, they must be checked in at the Lower School office before heading to class.

LOST AND FOUND

Please visit the lost and found in MacKinnon and McBride Halls to check for lost items.

We have many water bottles, lunch bags, coats, and sweatshirts without names in our lost and found. Please remember to label all items that students might leave behind, like coats/jackets, sweaters, hoodies, boots, backpacks, water bottles, and lunch boxes.

SCHOOL DRESS CODE REMINDER

In the Lower School, students are required to abide by a dress code.

Daily Dress Attire: Students are expected to wear the following:

• navy blue or khaki bottoms (shorts, long pants, capri pants, skirts, skorts). Note: leggings are permitted under skirts but not by themselves unless it is a dress-down day

• collared shirts or turtlenecks in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white; collared shirts or turtlenecks should not have any logos except for the Saints logo if desired

• collared polo-style dresses in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white

• sweatshirts (with no logo except “Saints”) or sweaters in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white; gray “Saints” sweatshirts are permissible

• jumpers or skirts in the school's plaid

• Shoes or sneakers that provide substantial foot support for walking, recess, outdoor play and learning, and physical education classes

Students should not wear:

• skirts or skorts shorter than 4” above the knee

• athletic shirts, shorts, skirts, or pants • tank tops

• flip-flops or slides

• variations of the colors specified i.e. turquoise, pink, light, or lime green

• sweatshirts with logos other than “Saints” If a student is out of compliance with the dress code, a teacher and/or administrator will connect with the student and family with a reminder of the proper attire for the next school day.

DRESS DOWN DAY ATTIRE

During the school year, some days are designated as “Dress Down Days” and students can wear casual attire and not the daily dress attire. Sometimes these days are themed or include Saints spirit wear.

P.E. Attire

Students at every grade level should wear proper shoes (or bring them to school) for physical education classes, including shoes that have laces that tie and are typically designed for running and active play.

Special Attire

There may be occasions where students are asked to wear special attire, such as for the Christmas Concert or Fifth Grade Recognition Day.

PREPARING AND SUPPORTING LEARNERS WITH THE TRANSITION TO MIDDLE SCHOOL

Wednesday, April 22, Academic Support Parent Coffee, 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.*

Join us for an in-person session with our Lower and Middle School Academic Support team. Our Middle School learning specialists will provide information to families of our 5th-grade learners about the different ways students can be supported on our middle school campus. General strategies for success will also be shared. Coffee and tea will be provided, and this event will be hosted on our Lower School campus in the Macan Hall conference room. Please use this form to RSVP.

*This session will be recorded for those who cannot attend. If you are interested in watching the recording, please RSVP so our team can share the recording with you.

Questions: Please contact Kate Roessler, Director of Lower School Academic Support, at kroessler@sssas.org.

Lower School

^{March 12, 2026}

^{UPCOMING EVENTS}

^{Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!}

^{Wednesday, March 18}

^{3:00 pm Dismissal}

^{ARTStravaganza}

^{LS SAINTS Dress Down Day in honor of ARTStravaganza! Wear your favorite SAINTS gear!}

^{Thursday, March 19}

^{Spring Break Begins}

^{Monday, March 30}

^{School Resumes}

^{ARTStravaganza SAINTS DRESS DOWN DAY}

^{Wednesday, March 18, 2026}

^{Wear your favorite SAINTS gear!}

^{LS SAINTS Dress Down Day in honor of ARTStravaganza!}

^{VOICEMAIL/EMAIL OVER SPRING BREAK}

^{Please note that faculty and administrators will be away from the Lower School campus for spring break at the same time as the students.}

^{SCHOOLPASS ATTENDANCE ABSENCE/LATE ARRIVAL DESIGNATIONS}

^{Please make sure that when notifying us in SchoolPass that your child(ren) will be absent or arriving late, list the reason, such as sickness, travel, a family commitment, or an appointment. If your child arrives late, they must be checked in at the Lower School office before heading to class.}

^{LOST AND FOUND}

^{Please visit the lost and found in MacKinnon and McBride Halls to check for lost items.}

^{We have many water bottles, lunch bags, coats, and sweatshirts without names in our lost and found. Please remember to label all items that students might leave behind, like coats/jackets, sweaters, hoodies, boots, backpacks, water bottles, and lunch boxes.}

^{We are cleaning out the Lost and Found! On Wednesday, April 8, from 7:45 am - 8:30 am, we will put out all clothing and items from the MacKinnon and McBride Lost and Found in the paved area by Sinclair Library. You can also go to MacKinnon (lobby) or McBride (first floor) to claim lost items any time before April 6. From April 6 to April 10, all unclaimed items will be in the MacKinnon lobby. All items not claimed by the end of the day on Friday, April 10, will be donated.}

^{Photos of items currently in Lost and Found can be found here. Photos of SSSAS sweatshirts, sweaters, and jackets are not included in these photos, so please stop by Mackinnon and McBride to claim your SSSAS-branded items.}

^{Thanks to parent volunteers who sort and organize the lost and found areas, we have regularly been able to return items with names on them. If your child is missing something, please come look for it on April 8 at drop off or stop by the school by April 10 at your convenience!}

^{SCHOOL DRESS CODE REMINDER}

^{In the Lower School, students are required to abide by a dress code.}

^{Daily Dress Attire: Students are expected to wear the following:}

^{• navy blue or khaki bottoms (shorts, long pants, capri pants, skirts, skorts). Note: leggings are permitted under skirts but not by themselves unless it is a dress-down day}

^{• collared shirts or turtlenecks in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white; collared shirts or turtlenecks should not have any logos except for the Saints logo if desired}

^{• collared polo-style dresses in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white}

^{• sweatshirts (with no logo except “Saints”) or sweaters in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white; gray “Saints” sweatshirts are permissible}

^{• jumpers or skirts in the school's plaid}

^{• Shoes or sneakers that provide substantial foot support for walking, recess, outdoor play and learning, and physical education classes}

^{Students should not wear:}

^{• skirts or skorts shorter than 4” above the knee}

^{• athletic shirts, shorts, skirts, or pants • tank tops}

^{• flip-flops or slides}

^{• variations of the colors specified i.e. turquoise, pink, light, or lime green}

^{• sweatshirts with logos other than “Saints” If a student is out of compliance with the dress code, a teacher and/or administrator will connect with the student and family with a reminder of the proper attire for the next school day.}

^{DRESS DOWN DAY ATTIRE}

^{During the school year, some days are designated as “Dress Down Days” and students can wear casual attire and not the daily dress attire. Sometimes these days are themed or include Saints spirit wear.}

^{P.E. Attire}

^{Students at every grade level should wear proper shoes (or bring them to school) for physical education classes, including shoes that have laces that tie and are typically designed for running and active play.}

^{Special Attire}

^{There may be occasions where students are asked to wear special attire, such as for the Christmas Concert or Fifth Grade Recognition Day.}

^{PREPARING AND SUPPORTING LEARNERS WITH THE TRANSITION TO MIDDLE SCHOOL}

^{Wednesday, April 22, Academic Support Parent Coffee, 8:30 - 9:30 am*}

^{Join us for an in-person session with our Lower and Middle School Academic Support team. Our Middle School learning specialists will provide information to families of our 5th-grade learners about the different ways students can be supported on our middle school campus. General strategies for success will also be shared. Coffee and tea will be provided, and this event will be hosted on our Lower School campus in the Macan Hall conference room. Please use this form to RSVP.}

^{*This session will be recorded for those who cannot attend. If you are interested in watching the recording, please RSVP so our team can share the recording with you.}

^{Questions: Please contact Kate Roessler, Director of Lower School Academic Support, at kroessler@sssas.org.}

^REMINDERS

^{EASTER MONDAY}

^{As a reminder, since we had a real snow day this winter, Easter Monday (April 6) will be a REGULAR school day with an on-time start.}

^{ARTSTRAVAGANZA}

^{Wednesday, March 18, 2026}

^{ARTStravaganza is a full day of education dedicated solely to the performing and visual arts, where students attend a variety of interactive arts workshops taught by professional musicians, dancers, and artists. Students in grades ES-5 will attend hands-on workshops where professionals bring their passion and craft to the classrooms. This year, we have more than 29 talented artists, musicians, dancers, and storytellers joining us for the day. Here are just a few workshops to highlight the variety of the 2026 roster:}

^{“The Beautiful Oops”}

^{“U.S. Army String Duo”}

^{“Superhero Creators”}

^{“Black and White Monoprinting”}

^{“Shadow Puppetry”}

^{“Escape to the Caribbean with Steel Pan”}

^{“Let’s Make a Picture Book!”}

^{“See Music: Abstraction with Alma Thomas”}

^{“Discover the Circus Arts”}

^{“Explore the World of Graphic Design”}

^{“Theater Improv”}

^{“Hip Hop Dance and Culture”}

^{“A Musical Journey to Latin America”}

^{“Sumi Ink and Japanese Calligraphy”}

^{The entire Lower School will come together as a community at the end of ARTStravaganza for a concert of Taiko, Japanese ensemble drumming. If you have any questions, please contact Rebecca Gehlhoff rgehlhoff@sssas.org.}

^{THE SAINTS ATHLETICS CLUB Calling all Saints Fans! Looking for a fun way to get involved at SSSAS? Sign up to volunteer to sell concessions at Steve & Aggies. Steve & Aggies will be operating out of the trailer next to Moss Field this spring. It is a great way to support Saints athletes and coaches while watching a game or a track meet! If interested, sign up HERE. Go Saints!}

Lower School

March 5, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, March 6

Parent/Teacher Conference Day, No School

Monday, March 9
SAINTS GIVING DAY SUCCESS

All school dress down day

March 9-13

LS Book Fair, Sinclair Library

March 9 - 13

ERB Milestones Testing

Thursday, March 12

Fifth Grade Kindergarten Buddy Plays

Wednesday, March 18

LS ARTStravaganza

3:00 pm Dismissal

Thursday, March 19

Spring Break Begins

Monday, March 30

School Resumes

EASTER MONDAY
As a reminder, since we had a real snow day this winter, Easter Monday (April 6) will be a REGULAR school day with an on-time start.

ARTSTRAVAGANZA

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

ARTStravaganza is a full day of education dedicated solely to the performing and visual arts, where students attend a variety of interactive arts workshops taught by professional musicians, dancers, and artists. Students in grades ES-5 will attend hands-on workshops where professionals bring their passion and craft to the classrooms. This year, we have more than 29 talented artists, musicians, dancers, and storytellers joining us for the day. Here are just a few workshops to highlight the variety of the 2026 roster:

“The Beautiful Oops”

“U.S. Army String Duo”

“Superhero Creators”

“Black and White Monoprinting”

“Shadow Puppetry”

“Escape to the Caribbean with Steel Pan”

“Let’s Make a Picture Book!”

“See Music: Abstraction with Alma Thomas”

“Discover the Circus Arts”

“Explore the World of Graphic Design”

“Theater Improv”

“Hip Hop Dance and Culture”

“A Musical Journey to Latin America”

“Sumi Ink and Japanese Calligraphy”

The entire Lower School will come together as a community at the end of ARTStravaganza for a concert of Taiko, Japanese ensemble drumming. If you have any questions, please contact Rebecca Gehlhoff rgehlhoff@sssas.org.

SAINTS GIVING DAY SUCCESS

Our amazing Saints community showed up with incredible generosity and enthusiasm for our 6th annual Saints Giving Day last Wednesday. 427 Saints came together to contribute over $409,000! Our Upper School students were busy giving back, too—writing more than 250 thank-you postcards to our alumni. A special shout-out to our Freshmen, who won a dress-down day for writing the most notes!

To everyone who has made a gift at any point this year: our success is because of you. Thank you!

Highlights:

184 Alumni Donors representing 60 different classes.
118 Parent Donors with participation from every single grade level.
60 Parents of Alumni who continue to support our mission.
6 Match Challenges Met: These unlocked an additional $196,000 and earned a dress-down day for each division! The Lower and Middle School will receive their dress-down day on Monday, March 9, while the Upper School will have theirs on Friday, March 13.

THE SAINTS ATHLETICS CLUB Calling all Saints Fans! Looking for a fun way to get involved at SSSAS? Sign up to volunteer to sell concessions at Steve & Aggies. Steve & Aggies will be operating out of the trailer next to Moss Field this spring. It is a great way to support Saints athletes and coaches while watching a game or a track meet! If interested, sign up HERE. Go Saints!

REMINDERS

PARENT CONFERENCES

Teachers offered “hopes and dreams” conferences at the beginning of the school year. Subsequently, a second conference was held in November, and a third one will be held on March 6. An end-of-the-year May conference will not be scheduled this year.

This is an opportunity for both parents and teachers to discuss a student and to summarize achievements and challenges during the first and second trimesters.

FIFTH GRADE FAMILY INVITATION

Thursday, March 12

Each year, fifth graders bring a picture book to life on the stage for their kindergarten buddies. This year, we are excited to present The Perfect Sword. Fifth-grade families are welcome to attend the play performance along with the kindergarten buddy classes. If you are unavailable during the day, I will be recording each performance and can share the video.

The Perfect Sword

McBride Lower Level Music Room

5A - 9:30 - 9:50 am

5T - 10:30 - 10:50 am

5E - 11:30 - 11:50 am

5F - 1:20 - 1:40 pm

5L - 2:15 - 2:35 pm

Questions? Please contact Rebecca Gehlhoff at rgehlhoff@sssas.org

FEBRUARY 19 AI INFORMATION SESSION: RECORDING, RESOURCES, AND PARENT SURVEY

View these slides from our Parent AI Information Session webinar on February 19, or watch the webinar recording to learn more about how AI works, how we are teaching AI literacy, the tools students are using in school, and our approach to academic integrity, safety, and developmentally appropriate use. You can also explore a collection of AI resources for parents to help parents better understand AI and how to navigate it with their children.

We invite all parents to please complete our brief Parent AI Education Interest Survey, to help shape future sessions and resources.

Mark Your Calendars!
April 9 at 9:30 a.m.

Register for our in-person, hands-on Canva AI Workshop for Parents at the Lower School campus (immediately following chapel).

April 13 at 6:30 p.m.

Join us for An Evening with Devorah Heitner, who will share her Mentoring Over Monitoring approach and lead a conversation with parents about supporting students in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Lower School

FEBRUARY 26, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, February 27

Lower School Faculty Work Day, No School

Monday, March 2

Read Across Saints & PJ Day Dress Down Day

Tuesday, March 3

Third Grade Ancient Civilization Presentations

Friday, March 6

Parent/Teacher Conference Day, No School

March 9-13

LS Book Fair, Sinclair Library

Thursday, March 12

Fifth Grade Kindergarten Buddy Plays

PARENT CONFERENCES Teachers offered “hopes and dreams” conferences at the beginning of the school year. Subsequently, a second conference was held in November and a third one will be held on March 6. An end-of-the-year May conference will not be scheduled this year.

This is an opportunity for both parents and teachers to discuss a student and to summarize achievements and challenges during the first and second trimesters.

FIFTH GRADE FAMILY INVITATION Thursday, March 12

Each year, fifth graders bring a picture book to life on the stage for their kindergarten buddies. This year, we are excited to present The Perfect Sword. Fifth-grade families are welcome to attend the play performance along with the kindergarten buddy classes. If you are unavailable during the day, I will be recording each performance and can share the video.

The Perfect Sword

McBride Lower Level Music Room

5A - 9:30 - 9:50 am

5T - 10:30 - 10:50 am

5E - 11:30 - 11:50 am

5F - 1:20 - 1:40 pm

5L - 2:15 - 2:35 pm

Questions? Please contact Rebecca Gehlhoff at rgehlhoff@sssas.org

FEBRUARY 19 AI INFORMATION SESSION: RECORDING, RESOURCES, AND PARENT SURVEY

View these slides from our Parent AI Information Session webinar on February 19, or watch the webinar recording to learn more about how AI works, how we are teaching AI literacy, the tools students are using in school, and our approach to academic integrity, safety, and developmentally appropriate use. You can also explore a collection of AI resources for parents to help parents better understand AI and how to navigate it with their children.

We invite all parents to please complete our brief Parent AI Education Interest Survey, to help shape future sessions and resources.

Mark Your Calendars!
April 9 at 9:30 am

Register for our in-person, hands-on Canva AI Workshop for Parents at the Lower School campus (immediately following chapel).

April 13 at 6:30 pm

Join us for An Evening with Devorah Heitner, who will share her Mentoring Over Monitoring approach and lead a conversation with parents about supporting students in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

REMINDERS

SINCLAIR LIBRARY BOOK FAIR

It's almost time for the Sinclair Library Book Fair, which will run from March 9-13. Homeroom classes will have an exclusive sneak peek at the treasure trove of books and educational games on Monday and Tuesday during the class preview (see schedule; readers will make a wish list at this time and can also make purchases). Please consider volunteering to make our Book Fair a success as we depend on parent volunteers to help run the event. Please sign up for a shift on Sign-up Genius. Volunteer opportunities start the morning of Thursday, March 5 as we transform the library into the Book Fair. We especially need assistance on Monday through Thursday afternoons so we can keep the fair open for our busy families and provide extended hours.

We appreciate your continued support! Have any questions or just want to share your excitement? Email Julie Esanu, Lower School Librarian, via email at jesanu@sssas.org.

OPENING MARCH 6: FOOTLOOSE Tie your laces and RUN, don't walk!, to get your tickets for Stage One's production of Footloose by Dean Pitchford and Walter Bobbie! Set in 1984, the classic film-turned-stage musical follows Ren as his life turns upside down with a move from lively Chicago to small-town Bomont, where dancing has been outlawed. Tensions between the town's teenagers and adults mount as they struggle with grief and forgiveness, control and freedom, loss and love. Which will win out?

A note for parents: If it were a movie, this musical would be rated PG for some language and portrayal of minor violence.

All performances are in the Chapel/Performing Arts Center at the Upper School:
Friday, March 6 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 7 at 2:30 p.m.
Friday, March 13 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 14 at 2:30 p.m.

Ticket Information:
Tickets for "Footloose" will go on sale on February 23. Tickets for the Upper School fall play and musical are $7. To reserve and purchase tickets via credit card, visit sssas.ludus.com.

(Note: Ludus charges a 5% ticket fee + $0.75 credit card processing charge per ticket.) To reserve tickets and pay with cash or check at the door, please email tickets@sssas.org.

ALL NEW! SAINTS ALUMNI FUN DAY A Reimagined Tradition for the Grand Finale of Alumni Reunion Weekend Golf + Cornhole + Live Music + Wine & Bourbon Tasting

Monday, April 20 | Springfield Golf & Country Club Join the St. Stephen's and St. Agnes Alumni Association Board for the 34th Sleepy Thompson Golf Tournament, including Kathy Jenkins and Marsha Way-inspired tee shots, plus the 1st Saints Cornhole Tournament.

We have expanded the final day of Alumni Reunion Weekend to create an even more inclusive, engaging, and celebratory experience for all. Proceeds will support the philanthropic priorities of the school and alumni programming.

Event Schedule

10:00 a.m. Golf Registration; Range Opens

11:00 a.m. Lunch Buffet

12:00 p.m. Shotgun Golf Start; Cornhole Registration Opens

2:00 p.m. Cornhole Tournament Begins

4:00 p.m. Reception Begins - All are Welcome!

5:00 p.m. Raffle & Awards Presentation

7:00 p.m. Fun Day is a wrap!

Visit the Saints Alumni Fun Day website to register to play or sponsor by April 8!**

**This event is reserved for Saints Alumni and friends 21 years or older by April 20, 2026.

Lower School

FEBRUARY 19, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

^{Monday, February 23}

^{100th Day of School!}

^{Wednesday, February 25}

^{Saints Giving Day!}

^{Friday, February 27}

^{Lower School Faculty Work Day,}^{No School}

^{Monday, March 2}

^{Read Across Saints & PJ Day Dress Down Day}

^{Tuesday, March 3}

^{Third Grade Ancient Civilization Presentations}

^{SINCLAIR LIBRARY BOOK FAIR}

^{It's almost time for the Sinclair Library Book Fair, which will run from March 9-13. Homeroom classes will have an exclusive sneak peek at the treasure trove of books and educational games on Monday and Tuesday during the class preview (}^{see schedule}^{; readers will make a wish list at this time and can also make purchases). Please consider volunteering to make our Book Fair a success as we depend on parent volunteers to help run the event. Please}^{sign up for a shift on Sign-up Genius}^{. Volunteer opportunities start the morning of Thursday, March 5 as we transform the library into the Book Fair. We especially need assistance on Monday through Thursday afternoons so we can keep the fair open for our busy families and provide extended hours. We appreciate your continued support! Have any questions or just want to share your excitement? Email Julie Esanu, Lower School Librarian, via email at}^{jesanu@sssas.org}^.

^{FEBRUARY 25: SAINTS GIVING DAY}

^{Wednesday, February 25 | Saints Giving Day (}^{sssas.org/sgd}⁾

^{Thanks to $126,000 in matching gifts, your generosity will go twice—or even three times—as far! Saints Giving Day brings together our entire community in support of our students. Make a gift today or anytime until February 25, and it will be matched!}

^{A huge shout-out to the hundreds of amazing Saints parents who already made a gift this year during our Fall Parent Challenge and who are supporting and attending the upcoming APT Spring Soirée and Auction! Your support for SSSAS makes an important impact, and we hope you’ll follow along with the day’s fun!}

^{OPENING MARCH 6:}^FOOTLOOSE^{Tie your laces and RUN,}^{don't walk!}^{, to get your tickets for Stage One's production of}^Footloose^{by Dean Pitchford and Walter Bobbie! Set in 1984, the classic film-turned-stage musical follows Ren as his life turns upside down with a move from lively Chicago to small-town Bomont, where dancing has been outlawed. Tensions between the town's teenagers and adults mount as they struggle with grief and forgiveness, control and freedom, loss and love. Which will win out?}

^{A note for parents:}^{If it were a movie, this musical would be rated PG for some language and portrayal of minor violence.}

^{All performances are in the Chapel/Performing Arts Center at the Upper School:}
^{Friday, M}^{arch 6}^{at 7:00 p.m.}
^{Saturday, M}^{arch 7}^{at 2:30 p.m.}
^Friday,^{March 13}^{at 7:00 p.m.}
^{Saturday, March 14 at 2:30 p.m.}^{Ticket Information:}
^{Tickets for "F}^ootloose^{" will go on sale}^{on February 24}^{. Tickets for the Upper School fall play and musical are $7. To reserve and purchase tickets via credit card, visit}^{sssas.ludus.com}^{. (}^{Note: Ludus charges a 5% ticket fee + $0.75 credit card processing charge per ticket.}^{) To reserve tickets and pay with cash or check at the door, please email tickets@sssas.org.}

^{ALL NEW!}^{SAINTS ALUMNI FUN DAY}^{A Reimagined Tradition for the Grand Finale of Alumni Reunion Weekend G}^{olf + Cornhole + Live Music Wine & Bourbon Tasting}^{Monday, April 20 | Springfield Golf & Country Club}^{Join the St. Stephen's and St. Agnes Alumni Association Board for the 34th Sleepy Thompson Golf Tournament, including Kathy Jenkins and Marsha Way inspired tee shots, plus the 1st Saints Cornhole Tournament. We have expanded the final day of Alumni Reunion Weekend to create an even more inclusive, engaging, and celebratory}^{experience for all. Proceeds will support the philanthropic priorities of the school and alumni programming.}

^{Event Schedule}

^{10:00 am Golf Registration; Range Opens}

^{11:00 am Lunch Buffet}

^{12:00 pm Shotgun Golf Start; Cornhole Registration Opens}

^{2:00 pm Cornhole Tournament Begins}

^{4:00 pm Reception Begins - All are Welcome!}

^{5:00 pm Raffle & Awards Presentation}

^{7:00 pm Fun Day is a wrap!}

^{Visit the}^{Saints Alumni Fun Day website}^{to register to play or sponsor by April 8!**}

^{**This event is reserved for Saints Alumni and friends 21 years or older by April 20, 2026.}

^REMINDERS

^{SAVE THE DATES: GRANDPARENT RECEPTION AND SPECIAL FRIENDS' DAY}^{Grandparent Reception}^{: Thursday, May 7, 2026 - Upper School Commons}

^{Reception honoring grandparents of all SSSAS students (ES-12) at the Upper School.}

^{Grandparents and Special Friends' Day}^{: Friday, May 8, 2026}

^{Grandparents and special friends of SSSAS students (ES-5) are invited to attend our annual day of performances, classroom visits, and tours of the Lower School.}

^{Register your grandparent(s) and special friend(s)!}

^Questions?^{Please email}^{gsfday@sssas.org}

^{LOOKING FOR GUEST TEACHERS}

^{We are always looking for great educators to join SSSAS and are working to build up our substitute pool for the}^2026-2027^{school year. If you know anyone who is looking for opportunities to gain teaching experience or get back into the classroom, please invite them to apply as a guest teacher on our}^{employment page}^{. Please note that current parents are only able to substitute in a division where their child does not attend.}

^{READ ACROSS SAINTS & PJ DAY DRESS DOWN DAY}

^{Our twelfth annual Read Across Saints celebration will be held on Monday, March 2. Lower School Saints are encouraged to get comfy (wear their favorite pajamas, sweatpants, or yoga pants) and bring a reading buddy as we all share the love of reading throughout the day.}

Lower School

^{FEBRUARY 12, 2026}

^{UPCOMING EVENTS}

^{Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!}

Friday, February 13

ES-12 Professional Day, No School

Monday, February 16

Presidents' Day - School Closed

Tuesday, February 17

Lunar New Year

Wednesday, February 18

Ash Wednesday

Wednesday, February 25

Third Grade Market Day

Thursday, February 26

Saintsgiving Day

Friday, February 27

Lower School Faculty Work Day, No School

ASH WEDNESDAY AND ASHES TO GO

All three campuses will be commemorating Ash Wednesday with an opportunity to receive ashes as we mark the beginning of Lent.

You are invited to drop in before school at the Lower, Middle, or Upper School on Wednesday, February 18, to receive ashes from a priest with a short prayer and blessing.

Lower School

7:30-8:15 a.m.
Daniel Gym
Students, parents, faculty, and staff are invited to receive the imposition of ashes or a simple blessing to begin the Lenten season.

Middle School

7:30-8:10 a.m.
Middle School Library

Students, parents, faculty, and staff are invited to receive the imposition of ashes, or a simple blessing to begin the Lenten season.

Upper School

7:30-8:10 a.m.
Front Circle

Parents and caregivers are invited to receive the imposition of ashes, or a simple blessing to begin the Lenten season as they drop off their students. (Students will have the opportunity to receive ashes during our Wednesday chapel service, and will also have weekly invitations to a variety of Lenten practices.)

Receiving ashes in the shape of a cross on the forehead is an ancient sign of renewing our commitment to follow Jesus' way of love and to take Lent seriously as a time of renewal and preparation for the mystery of Easter (April 5 this year). It is also a symbol of our mortality and the promise of resurrected life with God. No one is obliged to do this, but all are welcome.

REMINDERS

^{SAVE THE DATES: GRANDPARENT RECEPTION AND SPECIAL FRIENDS' DAY}

^{Grandparent Reception}^{: Thursday, May 7, 2026 - Upper School Commons}

^{Reception honoring grandparents of all SSSAS students (ES-12) at the Upper School.}

^{Grandparents and Special Friends' Day}^{: Friday, May 8, 2026}

^{Grandparents and special friends of SSSAS students (ES-5) are invited to attend our annual day of performances, classroom visits, and tours of the Lower School.}

^{Register your grandparent(s) and special friend(s)!}

^Questions?^{Please email gsfday@sssas.org}

^{2026 WORLD FAMOUS PANCAKE SUPPER}

^{February 17, 6:00 p.m., Upper School Commons}

^{The Saints Athletics Club}^{invites you to put aside thoughts of “what’s for dinner?” and enjoy this amazing evening of fun for the entire family. Your ticket fee ($10/person) also includes a raffle ticket. Get your tickets today!! The Saints Athletics Club is an enthusiastic group of parents who work to support and enhance the athletic and physical education experiences of all of our Saints athletes, ES–12. We invite all parents to join us and get involved! If you have any questions, please contact sac@sssas.org.}

^➔^{Can you volunteer to help with the dinner? Please sign up at 2026 World Famous Saints Athletics Club Pancake Dinner Signup.}

^🏃^‍^♂^{️ JOIN THE JUST TRYAN IT 5K!}^🏃^‍^♀^️

^{Support kids with cancer by walking or running with the EHS community! Hosted by Natalie & Charlie (Upper School JTI Club).}^🗓^{When: Sat, Feb 21 @ 9:00 AM}^📍^{Where: Episcopal HS Campus, Alexandria}^☕^{Perks: Professional timing, Hot Chocolate, & swag for the first 200 racers!}^💰^{Cost: $30 (All proceeds go to families in need) Register here}

^{LOOKING FOR GUEST TEACHERS}

^{We are always looking for great educators to join SSSAS and are working to build up our substitute pool for the 2026-2027 school year. If you know anyone who is looking for opportunities to gain teaching experience or get back into the classroom, please invite them to apply as a guest teacher on our employment page. Please note that current parents are only able to substitute in a division where their child does not attend.}

^{READ ACROSS SAINTS & PJ DAY DRESS DOWN DAY}

^{Our twelfth annual Read Across Saints celebration will be held on Monday, March 2. Lower School Saints are encouraged to get comfy (wear their favorite pajamas, sweatpants, or yoga pants) and bring a reading buddy as we all share the love of reading throughout the day.}

Lower School

^{FEBRUARY 5, 2026}

^{UPCOMING EVENTS}

^{Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!}

^{Friday, February 6}

^{KO and KR Spotlight on Learning}

^{Wednesday, February 11}

^{Early Saints Valentine’s Day Ball}

^{Thursday, February 12}

^{African American Read In}

^{Red, Pink, and Purple Dress Down Day}

^{Friday, February 13}

^{ES-12 Professional Day, No School}

^{Monday, February 16}

^{Presidents' Day - School Closed}

^{Tuesday, February 17}

^{Lunar New Year}

^{LOWER SCHOOL: RED, PINK, AND PURPLE DRESS DOWN DAY}

^{To bring a little seasonal joy to February, faculty, staff, and students are invited to wear red, pink, or purple or other Valentine’s Day-inspired outfits to celebrate Valentine’s Day on Thursday, February 12. Feel free to add some festive accessories.}

^{SAVE THE DATES: GRANDPARENT RECEPTION AND SPECIAL FRIENDS' DAY}

^{Grandparent Reception}^{: Thursday, May 7, 2026 - Upper School Commons}

^{Reception honoring grandparents of all SSSAS students (ES-12) at the Upper School.}

^{Grandparents and Special Friends' Day}^{: Friday, May 8, 2026}

^{Grandparents and special friends of SSSAS students (ES-5) are invited to attend our annual day of performances, classroom visits, and tours of the Lower School.}

^{Register your grandparent(s) and special friend(s)!}

^Questions?^{Please email gsfday@sssas.org}

^{2026 WORLD FAMOUS PANCAKE SUPPER}

^{February 17, 6:00 p.m., Upper School Commons}

^{The Saints Athletics Club}^{invites you to put aside thoughts of “what’s for dinner?” and enjoy this amazing evening of fun for the entire family. Your ticket fee ($10/person) also includes a raffle ticket. Get your tickets today!! The Saints Athletics Club is an enthusiastic group of parents who work to support and enhance the athletic and physical education experiences of all of our Saints athletes, ES–12. We invite all parents to join us and get involved! If you have any questions, please contact sac@sssas.org.}

^➔^{Can you volunteer to help with the dinner? Please sign up at 2026 World Famous Saints Athletics Club Pancake Dinner Signup.}

^🏃^‍^♂^{️ JOIN THE JUST TRYAN IT 5K!}^🏃^‍^♀^️

^{Support kids with cancer by walking or running with the EHS community! Hosted by Natalie & Charlie (Upper School JTI Club).}^🗓^{When: Sat, Feb 21 @ 9:00 AM}^📍^{Where: Episcopal HS Campus, Alexandria}^☕^{Perks: Professional timing, Hot Chocolate, & swag for the first 200 racers!}^💰^{Cost: $30 (All proceeds go to families in need) Register here}

^{LOOKING FOR GUEST TEACHERS}

^{We are always looking for great educators to join SSSAS and are working to build up our substitute pool for the 2026-2027 school year. If you know anyone who is looking for opportunities to gain teaching experience or get back into the classroom, please invite them to apply as a guest teacher on our employment page. Please note that current parents are only able to substitute in a division where their child does not attend.}

^{READ ACROSS SAINTS & PJ DAY DRESS DOWN DAY}

^{Our twelfth annual Read Across Saints celebration will be held on Monday, March 2. Lower School Saints are encouraged to get comfy (wear their favorite pajamas, sweatpants, or yoga pants) and bring a reading buddy as we all share the love of reading throughout the day.}

_{FIFTH GRADE PARENT COFFEE

February 12, 2026 9:00 am | Middle School Babyak Library

Join the Middle School leadership team for an informal informational coffee. This program will begin to acquaint you with the Middle School and answer initial questions about the transition.}

^REMINDERS

^{FLASH SURVEY: HELP DEFINE GOODNESS AT SSSAS}

^{Goodness is core to our mission at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School. As we work to more explicitly define goodness as part of our Strategic Plan, we recognize the importance of gathering insights, values, and examples from our entire Saints community. Your feedback will inform how we highlight and elevate this foundational aspect of our mission and Episcopal identity. Please share your thoughts here by February 13.}

^{AI CLASSES FOR PARENTS}

^{We know that many families are navigating AI at work and home, and we are eager to share and partner with you. As part of this effort we are launching a new series where we will host AI education sessions for parents who want to build or deepen their AI knowledge and skills.}

^{Hands-On AI Prompting Class}^{(choose one of the below options)}

^Tuesday,^{February 10 - 8:30-9:30 a.m. in person}
^Thursday,^{February 12 - 7:00-8:00 p.m. on Zoom}

^{Is prompting an art or a science? We'll take a "both/and" approach in practicing how to write more effective prompts (in ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, or any platform you are using) that go beyond the basic "query/response" and move Generative AI tools into the role of thought partner and researcher. If you plan on attending one of these sessions, please respond here.}

^{SINCLAIR LIBRARY BOOK FAIR}

^{It's almost time for the Sinclair Library Book Fair, which will run from March 9-13. Homeroom classes will have an exclusive sneak peek at the treasure trove of books and educational games on Monday and Tuesday during the class preview (see schedule; readers will make a wish list at this time and can also make purchases). Please consider volunteering to make our Book Fair a success as we depend on parent volunteers to help run the event.}

^{Please sign up for a shift on Sign-up Genius. Volunteer opportunities start the morning of Thursday, March 5 as we transform the library into the Book Fair. We especially need assistance on Monday through Thursday afternoons so we can keep the fair open for our busy families and provide extended hours. We appreciate your continued support! Have any questions or just want to share your excitement? Email Julie Esanu, Lower School Librarian, via email at jesanu@sssas.org.}

^{JAZZ ROOM SESSIONS CONCERT}

^{We are excited to announce our next concert for our Jazz Room Sessions Concert series, on Wednesday, February 11 at 7:00 p.m . Concert features the SSSAS Community Jazz Octet under the music direction of Vaughn Ambrose, ES-12 Performing Arts Chair.}

_{This all-star professional ensemble features some of the metro area's most talented instrumentalists.}

^{Space is limited, so we ask that you RSVP by Friday, Feb 6, 2026. RSVP HERE. Post-concert reception will include refreshments.}

^{If you have any questions, please reach out to Vaughn Ambrose at vambrose@sssas.org}

^{Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to experience exceptional jazz music with our school community!}

^{Jazz Room Sessions Community Concert Series:}^{The St. Stephens and St. Agnes Jazz Room Sessions Concert series is our opportunity to keep performance art relevant and at the forefront of the minds of our community and community stakeholders through the presentation of the only true American Art Form “Jazz”!}

Lower School

January 29, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Monday, February 2

KG & KW Spotlight on Learning

Wednesday, February 4

Global Play Day

Wednesday, February 11

Early Saints Valentine’s Day Ball

Friday, February 13

ES-12 Professional Day, No School

FLASH SURVEY: HELP DEFINE GOODNESS AT SSSAS Goodness is core to our mission at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School. As we work to more explicitly define goodness as part of our Strategic Plan, we recognize the importance of gathering insights, values, and examples from our entire Saints community. Your feedback will inform how we highlight and elevate this foundational aspect of our mission and Episcopal identity. Please share your thoughts here by February 13.

AI CLASSES FOR PARENTS We know that many families are navigating AI at work and home, and we are eager to share and partner with you. As part of this effort we are launching a new series where we will host AI education sessions for parents who want to build or deepen their AI knowledge and skills.

Hands-On AI Prompting Class (choose one of the below options)

Tuesday, February 10 - 8:30-9:30 a.m. in person
Thursday, February 12 - 7:00-8:00 p.m. on Zoom

Is prompting an art or a science? We'll take a "both/and" approach in practicing how to write more effective prompts (in ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, or any platform you are using) that go beyond the basic "query/response" and move Generative AI tools into the role of thought partner and researcher. If you plan on attending one of these sessions, please respond here.

SINCLAIR LIBRARY BOOK FAIR

It's almost time for the Sinclair Library Book Fair, which will run from March 9-13. Homeroom classes will have an exclusive sneak peek at the treasure trove of books and educational games on Monday and Tuesday during the class preview (see schedule; readers will make a wish list at this time and can also make purchases). Please consider volunteering to make our Book Fair a success as we depend on parent volunteers to help run the event. Please sign up for a shift on Sign-up Genius. Volunteer opportunities start the morning of Thursday, March 5 as we transform the library into the Book Fair. We especially need assistance on Monday through Thursday afternoons so we can keep the fair open for our busy families and provide extended hours. We appreciate your continued support! Have any questions or just want to share your excitement? Email Julie Esanu, Lower School Librarian, via email at jesanu@sssas.org.

^{JAZZ ROOM SESSIONS CONCERT We are excited to announce our next concert for our Jazz Room Sessions Concert series, on Wednesday, February 11 at 7:00 p.m . Concert features the SSSAS Community Jazz Octet under the music direction of Vaughn Ambrose, ES-12 Performing Arts Chair.}

^{This all star professional ensemble features some of the metro area's most talented instrumentalists.}

^{Space is limited, so we ask that you RSVP by Friday, Feb 6, 2026. RSVP HERE. Post-concert reception will include refreshments.}

^{If you have any questions, please reach out to Vaughn Ambrose at vambrose@sssas.org}

^{Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to experience exceptional jazz music with our school community!}

^{Jazz Room Sessions Community Concert Series:}

^{The St. Stephens and St. Agnes Jazz Room Sessions Concert series is our opportunity to keep performance art relevant and at the forefront of the minds of our community and community stakeholders through the presentation of the only true American Art Form “Jazz”!}

REMINDERS

FRESH START, SHARED MISSION: RESETTING TOGETHER

Dear Lower School Families,

As we continue to move forward into the second half of the school year, we want to take a moment to reflect on the mission and values that guide us here at SSSAS. Our mission reminds us to pursue goodness as well as knowledge and to honor the unique value of everyone as a child of God in a caring community.

The mission is the foundation for the values we uphold every day: respect, responsibility, compassion and honesty. These values are central to the community pledge Lower School students established and agreed upon together at the start of the new year:

"I promise to show respect, take responsibility, act with compassion, and always be honest. Together, we make our school a safe and happy place to learn and grow."

Additionally, the five guiding rules in the Lower School -- be kind, follow the Golden Rule, be positive, be respectful, and learn from your mistakes -- help us stay grounded in our shared goals as a community.

As we strive to finish the school year strong, we encourage you to take a moment to talk with your child about these important principles. Please reflect together on how they can continue to honor these values and uphold our shared community agreement. We will also be revisiting and reinforcing these ideas in our classrooms as well.

We are confident in our students' ability to demonstrate kindness, positivity, and responsibility as they grow and learn.

Thank you for your partnership!

Best regards,

LaNessa West, Lower School Director

LOST AND FOUND

Please visit the lost and found in both McBride and MacKinnon to check for lost items.

2026-2027 RE-ENROLLMENT CONTRACTS AND PAYMENT PLANS

The 2026-2027 re-enrollment contracts for returning students will be conducted online through our school website. Families will receive a push page on January 28, with information on the process.

PLEASE NOTE: Student account balances must be current in order to receive the 2026-2027 re-enrollment contract. Contracts and deposits will need to be completed by Wednesday, February 11. If you have any questions, please contact Brandon Baker, bbaker@sssas.org or Donna O’Connell, doconnell@sssas.org in the Business Office at 703-212-2730.

LENT AT THE LOWER SCHOOL

What are you and your family doing for Lent? There is, of course, no requirement to "do" anything, but many Christian people choose to give something up or take something on, as a reminder of Jesus' love for us and God's hopes for the world. Lent, which begins February 18 this year, is the 40-day period that helps us get ready for the mystery of Easter (April 5 this year). If you’re looking for ideas, here are two options. The first is light-hearted with a serious purpose: to learn about saints and other holy people whose examples we can follow. Join the fourth graders who are following along with “Lent Madness” (a twist on March Madness, with a bracket of saints rather than basketball teams). Each day in Lent you can read two saint biographies and vote for the one you want to advance to the next round. On a more traditional note, you may want to use the following short morning and evening prayers found in the BCP online.

EXTENDED DAY COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT

SOUPer Bowl! Are you ready for some football? The Extended Day SOUPer Bowl will begin next Wednesday, January 28, through February 6. Team bins will be placed in MacKinnon, McBride, and Macan. Get ready to show your classmates that you like to compete and drop your can of soup in the team bin that you think will win the big game on Sunday, February 8! All proceeds will be donated to ALIVE, our service learning partner.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 | SAINTS GIVING DAY

The 6th annual Saints Giving Day is coming soon! Saints Giving Day is our once-a-year 24-hour day of giving. This special day brings together our global Saints community in support of our teachers, staff, and students at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School.

If you haven’t already made your 2025–26 gift, you can do so now or on Saints Giving Day at sssas.org/sgd. Your early contribution will count toward our Saints Giving Day totals!

FLASH SURVEY: STRATEGIC PLAN-PORTRAIT OF A SAINT INPUT

As we move forward with our Strategic Plan, we invite you to share your thoughts on the skills and dispositions you hope your child will develop during their time at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School. Your input will help shape our Portrait of a Saint, a foundational piece of our Strategic Plan. Please take a few minutes to respond to this survey. We ask that you complete the survey by February 6, 2026 02/06/2026. Thank you in advance for your time!

Lower School

January 22, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Wednesday, January 28

KO & KR Spotlight on Learning

Friday, January 30

School Assembly: Chief Rocka

Monday, February 2

KG & KW Spotlight on Learning

FRESH START, SHARED MISSION: RESETTING TOGETHER

Dear Lower School Families,

As we continue to move forward into the second half of the school year, we want to take a moment to reflect on the mission and values that guide us here at SSSAS. Our mission reminds us to pursue goodness as well as knowledge and to honor the unique value of everyone as a child of God in a caring community.

The mission is the foundation for the values we uphold every day: respect, responsibility, compassion and honesty. These values are central to the community pledge Lower School students established and agreed upon together at the start of the new year:

"I promise to show respect, take responsibility, act with compassion, and always be honest. Together, we make our school a safe and happy place to learn and grow."

Additionally, the five guiding rules in the Lower School -- be kind, follow the Golden Rule, be positive, be respectful, and learn from your mistakes -- help us stay grounded in our shared goals as a community.

As we strive to finish the school year strong, we encourage you to take a moment to talk with your child about these important principles. Please reflect together on how they can continue to honor these values and uphold our shared community agreement. We will also be revisiting and reinforcing these ideas in our classrooms as well.

We are confident in our students' ability to demonstrate kindness, positivity, and responsibility as they grow and learn.

Thank you for your partnership!

Best regards,

LaNessa West, Lower School Director

LOST AND FOUND

Please visit the lost and found in both McBride and MacKinnon to check for lost items.

2026-2027 RE-ENROLLMENT CONTRACTS AND PAYMENT PLANS

The 2026-2027 re-enrollment contracts for returning students will be conducted online through our school website. Families will receive a push page on January 28, with information on the process.

PLEASE NOTE: Student account balances must be current in order to receive the 2026-2027 re-enrollment contract. Contracts and deposits will need to be completed by Wednesday, February 11. If you have any questions, please contact Brandon Baker, bbaker@sssas.org or Donna O’Connell, doconnell@sssas.org in the Business Office at 703-212-2730.

LENT AT THE LOWER SCHOOL

What are you and your family doing for Lent? There is, of course, no requirement to "do" anything, but many Christian people choose to give something up or take something on, as a reminder of Jesus' love for us and God's hopes for the world. Lent, which begins February 18 this year, is the 40-day period that helps us get ready for the mystery of Easter (April 5 this year). If you’re looking for ideas, here are two options. The first is light-hearted with a serious purpose: to learn about saints and other holy people whose examples we can follow. Join the fourth graders who are following along with “Lent Madness” (a twist on March Madness, with a bracket of saints rather than basketball teams). Each day in Lent you can read two saint biographies and vote for the one you want to advance to the next round. On a more traditional note, you may want to use the following short morning and evening prayers found in the BCP online.

EXTENDED DAY COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT

SOUPer Bowl! Are you ready for some football? The Extended Day SOUPer Bowl will begin next Wednesday, January 28, through February 6. Team bins will be placed in MacKinnon, McBride, and Macan. Get ready to show your classmates that you like to compete and drop your can of soup in the team bin that you think will win the big game on Sunday, February 8! All proceeds will be donated to ALIVE, our service learning partner.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 | SAINTS GIVING DAY

The 6th annual Saints Giving Day is coming soon! Saints Giving Day is our once-a-year 24-hour day of giving. This special day brings together our global Saints community in support of our teachers, staff, and students at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School.

If you haven’t already made your 2025–26 gift, you can do so now or on Saints Giving Day at sssas.org/sgd. Your early contribution will count toward our Saints Giving Day totals!

FLASH SURVEY: STRATEGIC PLAN-PORTRAIT OF A SAINT INPUT

As we move forward with our Strategic Plan, we invite you to share your thoughts on the skills and dispositions you hope your child will develop during their time at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School. Your input will help shape our Portrait of a Saint, a foundational piece of our Strategic Plan. Please take a few minutes to respond to this survey. We ask that you complete the survey by February 6, 2026 02/06/2026. Thank you in advance for your time!

REMINDERS

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: SINCLAIR LIBRARY BOOK FAIR

This annual event, which will be held from March 9-13, is a great way to hook readers on amazing books while supporting the Sinclair Library. Classes will visit the library on Monday and Tuesday to preview the books, educational games, and related trinkets. We look forward to seeing Saints Lower School families in the Library during this reading celebration! More information, including the preview schedule and volunteer opportunities, will be shared soon.

30 DAYS OF KINDNESS CHALLENGE

At Chapel this week, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was remembered with the reading of the book, I Have a Dream with paintings by Caldecott Honor winner Kadir Nelson. To honor this holiday, we have provided all Lower School students with an optional 30 Days of Kindness Challenge card created after Jahkil Jackson's (creator of Project I AM) first visit to the Lower School in 2022, with ideas submitted by the students, as an integration of our DEIB and service learning work.

ANNUAL ALL-SCHOOL CELEBRATION OF CULTURES

February. 9 - 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Come celebrate the many wonderful dimensions of our SSSAS students, families, faculty, and staff as they share their food, stories, travels, roots, and traditions with our community. Our celebration includes a potluck dinner, cultural performances by SSSAS students, and cultural heritage tables. This event is for our entire community, and you do not need to host a table or bring food to attend! Please sign up here to volunteer, to host a Cultural Heritage Table, or to bring food to share.

Lower School

January 15, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, January 16

LS Dress Down Day!

Monday, January 19

Martin Luther King Jr. Day - No School

Wednesday, January 21

Tornado Drill

Thursday, January 22

Coffee with LS Counselors

Wednesday, January 28

KO & KR Spotlight on Learning

Friday, January 30

School Assembly: Chief Rocka

LS DRESS-DOWN DAY Friday, January 16

In honor of a successful Pep Rally on Friday, December 5, the students have earned a dress-down day.

TORNADO DRILLS

Next week, we will hold tornado drills for each building. Teachers will be preparing students in advance and explaining the drill in an age-appropriate way. (For example, they may describe it as a “bad weather” drill for our youngest students.) When an announcement is made by Paul Easton, our Director of Safety and Security, students will go to their designated areas, and the drill should not take more than a few minutes. Please reach out to Paul Easton if you have any questions!

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY Walking is a healthy activity and we love that so many students walk or bike or scooter to school, so please review the rules of pedestrian safety with your child. This is especially true if you are walking in an area where there aren't sidewalks or paths separated from the road. Please always observe traffic safety rules as well as additional guidelines that will help you stay safe when you are walking in public areas. Families walking to school, please take time to watch this four-minute video with your children: "Walk this Way": Pedestrian Safety for Young Children”.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: SINCLAIR LIBRARY BOOK FAIR This annual event, which will be held from March 9-13, is a great way to hook readers on amazing books while supporting the Sinclair Library. Classes will visit the library on Monday and Tuesday to preview the books, educational games, and related trinkets. We look forward to seeing Saints Lower School families in the Library during this reading celebration! More information, including the preview schedule and volunteer opportunities, will be shared soon.

30 DAYS OF KINDNESS CHALLENGE

At Chapel this week, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was remembered with the reading of the book, I Have a Dream with paintings by Caldecott Honor winner Kadir Nelson. To honor this holiday, we have provided all Lower School students with an optional 30 Days of Kindness Challenge card created after Jahkil Jackson's (creator of Project I AM) first visit to the Lower School in 2022, with ideas submitted by the students, as an integration of our DEIB and service learning work.

ANNUAL ALL-SCHOOL CELEBRATION OF CULTURES

February 9 - 5:30 -7:30 p.m.

Come celebrate the many wonderful dimensions of our SSSAS students, families, faculty, and staff as they share their food, stories, travels, roots, and traditions with our community. Our celebration includes a potluck dinner, cultural performances by SSSAS students, and cultural heritage tables. This event is for our entire community, and you do not need to host a table or bring food to attend! Please sign sign up here to volunteer, to host a Cultural Heritage Table, or to bring food to share.

Flash Survey: Your Feedback to Help Inform February 19 AI Parent Information Session

Before Christmas vacation we shared information about our approach to AI on the heels of a faculty professional day on that subject. We are following this up with a Zoom AI parent information session on Thursday, February 19 at 7:00 p.m where we will go into more detail about our approach to AI use and implementation at SSSAS. In order to ensure that this event addresses what is on your mind, we have a few questions for you. We would appreciate your thoughts by Friday, January 23.

REMINDERS

LOWER SCHOOL ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL - Friendly Reminder

Morning Start Time - 8:20 a.m.

Carpool begins at 8:00 a.m., and all students should be in their homerooms by 8:20 a.m., ready to start their school day. All homerooms begin their day with morning work followed by a morning meeting, and having students at school on time is better for students and teachers alike as it creates a smooth individual and class transition into the school day.

We know that delays may be caused by everything from traffic to rain, and we will certainly understand in these circumstances. However, we ask that you make any necessary changes to your family’s morning routine so that your children can be in their classrooms by 8:20 a.m. Also, please remember not to speed down Fontaine Street to facilitate this.

Late Arrival

If you are the parent of a student in grades ES-1 and you arrive late, please park your car and walk your child into the MacKinnon Hall office to complete the sign-in process. For students in grades 2-5, you may drop them off at their respective buildings (McBride or Macan). However, parents must still sign them in at the main office in McBride Hall.

Afternoon Pick-up for Families with ES-1 and 2-5 Students

Families picking up ES-1 and 2-5 students, please arrive in the MacKinnon carpool line no earlier than 2:55 p.m. This will help to keep the line moving efficiently and reduce wait time for all students and families.

Formal dismissal concludes at 3:20 p.m. Students who are not picked up by 3:30 p.m. from carpool due to unforeseen circumstances will be sent to Extended Day and their student accounts will be charged a fee.

We thank you in advance for your efforts to ensure a better carpool process.

Reporting Absences, Late Arrivals, Dismissal Changes, etc.

For students in the lower school, homeroom teachers digitally submit attendance daily at 8:30 a.m. Parents are asked to report absences, late arrivals, and early departures in advance with the SchoolPass dismissal management system. This system will automatically notify all of a child’s teachers and relevant staff members. This ensures that we are planning accordingly for a child’s absence, early departure, or late arrival. This information is transcribed in the official attendance record for that child in the Blackbaud SIS.

COFFEE WITH THE LS COUNSELORS

Thursday, January 22, 2026, 9:15 -10:00 a.m.

Dear Lower School Parents,

We invite you to join the Lower School counseling team, Ashley Correia and Miles Henderson, for a parent coffee on Thursday, January 22, 9:15 a.m.-10:00 a.m., to learn more about social-emotional learning at St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes Lower School. This will be an opportunity for them to share how SEL is integrated into the Lower School experience and for parents to connect, ask questions, and share their interests around future speakers and parent education topics. If you plan on attending, please fill out the Google form using this link. We hope you’ll join us for conversation, coffee, and community—we look forward to seeing you there!

If you have any questions, please contact Ashley Correia, acorreia@sssas.org, or Miles Henderson, mhenderson@sssas.org.

Additional resources for parents:

Beyond the Meltdowns: A Support Group for Parents of Demand Avoidant Children

January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16 | 7:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. ET | Held Virtually

This therapist-facilitated virtual group provides parents with a deeper understanding of demand-avoidant behaviors and offers strategies for reducing conflict and supporting emotional regulation. It also creates a space to connect with others and gain support from other parents who share similar experiences.

Rethinking Parenting Anxious Kids: A Five-Part Interactive SPACE Workshop

January 14, 21, 28, February 4 & 11 | 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. ET | Held Virtual

Learn the principles of SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), an evidence-based treatment developed at Yale University, and walk away with concrete strategies for making simple shifts in your own behavior that can lead to significant changes in your children, and ultimately, create a more peaceful and cooperative household.

SPACE at the Table: Parenting Anxious Kids with Food Challenges

February 25, March 4, 11 & 18 | 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. | Held Virtually

Building on the foundational SPACE principles, this specialized workshop focuses on applying SPACE strategies specifically to eating challenges and food-related anxiety. Learn how to make targeted shifts in your responses around food and mealtimes that can reduce family stress and support your child's relationship with eating. **You must attend a session of RPAK prior to attending SPACE at the Table**

JUNIOR SAINTS WRESTLING CLINIC AT ST. STEPHEN'S & ST. AGNES SCHOOL

What: Become a better athlete and learn about the Sport of Wrestling through fun games and competitions!

Who: All Saints Grades 4-6 (we will have a limit of 30 participants)

When: Sundays (1/18, 1/25, 2/1, and 2/8, 2025) Time: 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Registration Fee: $75 Register Here!

*Please bring a check, payable to St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School

Memo: Junior Saints Wrestling, to the first session*

Where: Wrestling Room at the Upper School- 1000 St Stephens Rd, Alexandria, VA 22304

About the Clinic:

Led by St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes Varsity Coaches and athletes, the Junior Saints Wrestling Clinic is designed to introduce elements of the sport in a fun and engaging way. The clinic is an opportunity for athletes of all experience levels to develop their skills and athletic ability through wrestling techniques, hands-on instruction, live wrestling, and games. Participants will learn and apply calisthenics, tumbling, and basic wrestling techniques to develop their own athletic and wrestling style. These transferable skills and functional movements will help athletes develop their strength, footwork, and body awareness which will not only improve their wrestling but help them with other sports as well.

Most importantly, this camp is designed to teach the sport of wrestling and encourage competition in a fun environment.

*There is no equipment required, but athletes should either bring their own wrestling shoes or be prepared to participate in their socks.*

Contact Us:

Coach Humphreys thumphreys@sssas.org

THE 2026 APT SPRING SOIREE: BLOSSOMS & BUBBLES

Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.

Belle Haven Country Club, Alexandria, VA

Join us for an adults-only Spring Soirée: Blossoms & Bubbles as we come together to celebrate our Saints community and support our wonderful teachers. Step into a fresh, floral-filled evening featuring seasonal food, drink, bidding, and live entertainment from Soul Expressions—perfect for welcoming spring in style.

Proceeds from the silent auction support the SSSAS Joan Holden Summer Fellowship Fund, in honor of former Head of School Joan Holden, who served from 1984-2014. This fund awards summer study grants to our amazing faculty and administrators, which help advance their continued education and specialized summer instruction.

PURCHASE YOUR EVENT TICKETS OR SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE: Use this link Details on tickets and sponsorship levels are on the website.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS:This event would not be possible without the support of our wonderful parent volunteers!

Please use our APT Spring Soiree Volunteer Sign Up to volunteer your time. Here are some areas where we’d love your help (more details in the Sign-Up Genius):

· Volunteers to host/coordinate sign-on parties

· Donations towards your class baskets (Sign up here to be a grade basket coordinator!) Grade Basket Coordinator: APT Spring Soiree Grade Basket Coordinator

· Silent Auction Donations

· Day-of-event support for roles including set-up, tear down, check-in/check-out, etc.

Many thanks to Amanda Hand, Tricia Vondle, and Lisa Sullivan for chairing this year’s event. If you have any general questions about this event, please do not hesitate to reach out to any of the chairs.

Lower School

January 8, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, January 16

LS Dress Down Day!

US Wind Ensemble Assembly

Monday, January 19

Martin Luther King Jr. Day - No School

Thursday, January 22

Coffee with LS Counselors

LS DRESS-DOWN DAY

Friday, January 16 In honor of a successful Pep Rally on Friday, December 5, the students have earned a dress-down day.

LOWER SCHOOL ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL - Friendly Reminder Morning Start Time - 8:20 a.m.

Carpool begins at 8:00 a.m., and all students should be in their homerooms by 8:20 a.m., ready to start their school day. All homerooms begin their day with morning work followed by a morning meeting, and having students at school on time is better for students and teachers alike as it creates a smooth individual and class transition into the school day.

We know that delays may be caused by everything from traffic to rain, and we will certainly understand in these circumstances. However, we ask that you make any necessary changes to your family’s morning routine so that your children can be in their classrooms by 8:20 a.m. Also, please remember not to speed down Fontaine Street to facilitate this.

LATE ARRIVAL

If you are the parent of a student in grades ES-1 and you arrive late, please park your car and walk your child into the MacKinnon Hall office to complete the sign-in process. For students in grades 2-5, you may drop them off at their respective buildings (McBride or Macan). However, parents must still sign them in at the main office in McBride Hall.

Afternoon Pick-up for Families with ES-1 and 2-5 Students

Families picking up ES-1 and 2-5 students, please arrive in the MacKinnon carpool line no earlier than 2:55 p.m. This will help to keep the line moving efficiently and reduce wait time for all students and families.

Formal dismissal concludes at 3:20 p.m. Students who are not picked up by 3:30 p.m. from carpool due to unforeseen circumstances will be sent to Extended Day and their student accounts will be charged a fee.

We thank you in advance for your efforts to ensure a better carpool process.

Reporting Absences, Late Arrivals, Dismissal Changes, etc.

For students in the lower school, homeroom teachers digitally submit attendance daily at 8:30 a.m. Parents are asked to report absences, late arrivals, and early departures in advance with the SchoolPass dismissal management system. This system will automatically notify all of a child’s teachers and relevant staff members. This ensures that we are planning accordingly for a child’s absence, early departure, or late arrival. This information is transcribed in the official attendance record for that child in the Blackbaud SIS.

COFFEE WITH THE LS COUNSELORS

Thursday, January 22, 2026

Dear Lower School Parents,

We invite you to join the Lower School counseling team, Ashley Correia and Miles Henderson, for a parent coffee on Thursday, January 22, 9:15 a.m.-10:00 a.m., to learn more about social-emotional learning at St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes Lower School. This will be an opportunity for them to share how SEL is integrated into the Lower School experience and for parents to connect, ask questions, and share their interests around future speakers and parent education topics. If you plan on attending, please fill out the Google form using this link. We hope you’ll join us for conversation, coffee, and community—we look forward to seeing you there! If you have any questions, please contact Ashley Correia, acorreia@sssas.org, or Miles Henderson, mhenderson@sssas.org.

Additional resources for parents: Beyond the Meltdowns: A Support Group for Parents of Demand Avoidant Children

January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16 | 7:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. ET | Held Virtually This therapist-facilitated virtual group provides parents with a deeper understanding of demand-avoidant behaviors and offers strategies for reducing conflict and supporting emotional regulation. It also creates a space to connect with others and gain support from other parents who share similar experiences.

Rethinking Parenting Anxious Kids: A Five-Part Interactive SPACE Workshop

January 14, 21, 28, February 4 & 11 | 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. ET | Held Virtually Learn the principles of SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), an evidence-based treatment developed at Yale University, and walk away with concrete strategies for making simple shifts in your own behavior that can lead to significant changes in your children, and ultimately, create a more peaceful and cooperative household.

SPACE at the Table: Parenting Anxious Kids with Food Challenges

February 25, March 4, 11 & 18 | 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. | Held Virtually Building on the foundational SPACE principles, this specialized workshop focuses on applying SPACE strategies specifically to eating challenges and food-related anxiety. Learn how to make targeted shifts in your responses around food and mealtimes that can reduce family stress and support your child's relationship with eating. **You must attend a session of RPAK prior to attending SPACE at the Table**

JUNIOR SAINTS WRESTLING CLINIC AT ST. STEPHEN'S & ST. AGNES SCHOOL

What: Become a better athlete and learn about the Sport of Wrestling through fun games and competitions! Who: All Saints Grades 4-6 (we will have a limit of 30 participants) When: Sundays (1/18, 1/25, 2/1, and 2/8, 2025) Time: 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Registration Fee: $75, Register Here!

*Please bring a check, payable to St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School

Memo: Junior Saints Wrestling, to the first session*

Where: Wrestling Room at the Upper School- 1000 St Stephens Rd, Alexandria, VA 22304

About the Clinic: Led by St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes Varsity Coaches and athletes, the Junior Saints Wrestling Clinic is designed to introduce elements of the sport in a fun and engaging way. The clinic is an opportunity for athletes of all experience levels to develop their skills and athletic ability through wrestling techniques, hands-on instruction, live wrestling, and games. Participants will learn and apply calisthenics, tumbling, and basic wrestling techniques to develop their own athletic and wrestling style. These transferable skills and functional movements will help athletes develop their strength, footwork, and body awareness which will not only improve their wrestling but help them with other sports as well.

Most importantly, this camp is designed to teach the sport of wrestling and encourage competition in a fun environment.

*There is no equipment required, but athletes should either bring their own wrestling shoes or be prepared to participate in their socks.*

Contact Us: Coach Humphreys thumphreys@sssas.org

THE 2026 APT SPRING SOIREE: BLOSSOMS & BUBBLES Saturday, March 7, 2026. 7:00 p.m., Belle Haven Country Club, Alexandria, VA

Join us for an adults-only Spring Soirée: Blossoms & Bubbles as we come together to celebrate our Saints community and support our wonderful teachers. Step into a fresh, floral-filled evening featuring seasonal food, drink, bidding, and live entertainment from Soul Expressions—perfect for welcoming spring in style.

Proceeds from the silent auction support the SSSAS Joan Holden Summer Fellowship Fund, in honor of former Head of School Joan Holden, who served from 1984-2014. This fund awards summer study grants to our amazing faculty and administrators, which help advance their continued education and specialized summer instruction.

PURCHASE YOUR EVENT TICKETS OR SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE: Use this link. Details on tickets and sponsorship levels are on the website.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS: This event would not be possible without the support of our wonderful parent volunteers!

Please use our APT Spring Soiree Sign Up APT Spring Soiree Volunteer Sign Up to volunteer your time. Here are some areas where we’d love your help (more details in the Sign-Up Genius):

Volunteers to host/coordinate sign-on parties
Donations towards your class baskets (Sign up here to be a grade basket coordinator!) Grade Basket Coordinator: APT Spring Soiree Grade Basket Coordinator

Silent Auction Donations
Day-of-event support for roles including set-up, tear down, check-in/check-out, etc.

Many thanks to Amanda Hand, Tricia Vondle, and Lisa Sullivan for chairing this year’s event. If you have any general questions about this event, please do not hesitate to reach out to any of the chairs.

REMINDERS

For those families not enrolled in Extended Day, if you would like to have your child drop in, please email your drop-in request with 24 hours' notice to Mary Kelley, the Director of Extended Day, at mkelley@sssas.org. Mrs. Kelley will send you a confirmation email if there is sufficient availability based on staffing.

Lower School

Dec. 18, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Monday, January 5 School Resumes

Friday, January 16 LS Dress Down Day! US Wind Ensemble Assembly

Monday, January 19 Martin Luther King Jr. Day - No School

Holiday Message

Dear Lower School Families,

As we head into Winter Break, I want to take a moment to thank you for the many ways you partner with us and support our Lower School community. The weeks leading up to the holidays are always filled with energy, reflection, and moments of connection, and it has been a joy to see our students learn, celebrate, sing, give, and grow together.

We hope this break provides your family and friends with time to rest, reconnect, and enjoy meaningful moments.

On behalf of the entire Lower School faculty and staff, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a happy and healthy New Year! We look forward to welcoming our students back refreshed and ready for the months ahead.

Warm regards,

LaNessa West

LS DRESS-DOWN DAY In honor of a successful Pep Rally on Friday, December 5, the students have earned a dress-down day on Friday, January 16.

EXTENDED DAY DROP-IN POLICY For those families not enrolled in Extended Day, if you would like to have your child drop in, please email your drop-in request with 24 hours' notice to Mary Kelley, the Director of Extended Day, at mkelley@sssas.org. Mrs. Kelley will send you a confirmation email if there is sufficient availability based on staffing.

****REMINDERS****

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY MEN'S BASKETBALL GAME - SSSAS Elementary Day
American University Athletics and community partner Potomac Pizza would like to recognize the accomplishments of your child by honoring them with a FREE ticket to the AU men's basketball game on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. The AU Eagles will tip off and battle Patriot League rival, the Holy Cross Crusaders, in Bender Arena. To view the flyer, please click this link.

Jeremy Hark, Lower School Associate Director
Noah Feinstein, American University, Assistant Director of Marketing

Lower School

Dec. 11, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Tuesday, December 16
Class Holiday party: KW

Wednesday, December 17
Christmas Concert Dress Rehearsal
Early Saints Christmas Pajamas and Cookies Event
Class/Grade level Holiday parties: JK, KG, KO, KR First, Second, and Third grade Dress Down Day/Pajama Day!
Theme: Full-on festive attire! You may choose to wear something shiny, bright, glittery, with lights and/or warm pajamas of any kind, including those in festive/holiday/winter patterns. Note: Please wear shoes appropriate for P.E. and outdoor play!

Thursday, December 18
Christmas Concert
Class Holiday parties: Fifth-grade
Dismissal for Christmas Vacation 11:30 a.m.

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY MEN'S BASKETBALL GAME - SSSAS Elementary Day
American University Athletics and community partner Potomac Pizza would like to recognize the accomplishments of your child by honoring them with a FREE ticket to the AU men's basketball game on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. The AU Eagles will tip off and battle Patriot League rival, the Holy Cross Crusaders, in Bender Arena. To view the flyer, please click this link.

Jeremy Hark, Lower School Associate Director
Noah Feinstein, American University, Assistant Director of Marketing

****REMINDERS****

DISTANCE LEARNING TECH TESTING EVENT TUESDAY DECEMBER 16

In preparation for possible distance learning due to inclement weather, we are hosting a Zoom Open House Tech Testing Event. This is to ensure your child’s school device is working properly and ready for use at home.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, December 16
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Format: Drop-in (You only need to check in; there is no need to stay!)

How to Join:

Check the Device: Devices will be sent home with your child on Tuesday, Dec 16 and should remain home during Winter Break.
Connect to Wi-Fi: Please connect the device to your home Wi-Fi for the best results.
Find the Link: Access the Clever app on your child's device to view the notification containing the Zoom link.

Thank you for helping us ensure we are ready for any weather-related closures!

SCHOOL BUS TRANSPORTATION ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18
Transportation will be provided on Thursday, December 18, for early dismissal for students from the Lower and Middle Schools. Lower School Schedule: At 11:25 a.m., buses will be on campus and will depart for the Middle and Upper Schools at 11:30 a.m. As with a regular afternoon, we will run the shuttles among campuses (at this adjusted time). Commuter routes will depart from the Upper School at 12:05 p.m.

Please note that Extended Day services will not be available that day, and parents should make alternate arrangements. Bus service will be available at the early dismissal time.

JINGLE ALL THE WAY TO SAVINGS! 15% OFF AT THE SAINTS SCHOOL STORE!
Tired of scrambling for gifts? We've got your holiday shopping wrapped up! The Saints School Store Holiday Sale is almost here, offering the easiest way to snag great gifts for your whole family (and show off that school spirit!).

Shop Online & Save!

What: 15% OFF your entire purchase.
When: December 8 - 14 (That's only one week!).
How: Shop online at www.sssasstore.com and use code JINGLE at checkout.
A Note on Exclusions: *The 15% discount excludes all Lululemon and Peter Millar merchandise.

Or Shop In-Person!

Upper School Store Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Lower School Store Hours: Thursdays only, 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Be on the lookout for special Saturday, December 13 hours.

Shipping or Easy Campus Pick-up:

Need it Fast? Opt for our free on-campus pick-up at the Lower, Middle, or Upper School—no shipping stress required!

Have more questions? Please reach out to Kim Speed, School Store Manager at kspeed@sssas.org.

RAISING TEENAGERS IN FAITH
Chaplains Elizabeth Rees (US) and Sarah Moses (MS) are hosting discussion groups for parents around raising teenagers in faith. In January, our topic will be “Seeing Teens (and Ourselves) as God Does.” Parents can choose to attend in person at the Upper School on Friday, January 9 at 8:30 am, or over zoom on Wednesday, January 14 at 11:30 am. If you haven’t already signed up and would like to be included in email reminders before the group meetings, please let Elizabeth know.

BLUE CHRISTMAS/ LONGEST NIGHT SERVICES
For many, the holiday season is a time of light and celebration – but for those who are struggling, grieving, or feeling out of step with the season’s joy, it can also be an especially heavy time.

“Blue Christmas” or “Longest Night” services offer a quiet, prayerful space to acknowledge sorrow and seek comfort and hope. These gentle liturgies honor the truth that God meets us not only in celebration, but also in our longing, our questions, and our grief.

If your family is experiencing loss or hardship this year, our chaplains want you to be aware of several Blue Christmas services offered in our local community.

St. Aidan's Episcopal Church, Alexandria Dec 16 at 7:00 p.m.

Washington National Cathedral Dec 17 at 7:00 p.m.
St. Mark's Episcopal Capitol Hill Dec 17 at 7:00 p.m.
St. Paul's Episcopal Alexandria Dec 21 at 5:00 p.m.
St. John's Episcopal Arlington Dec 21 at 7:00 p.m.

Please feel free to reach out to a chaplain if you’d like more information or pastoral support during this season.

HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE FOR MOTHER OF LIGHT CENTER AND VOLUNTEER ALX
SSSAS is collecting holiday toys for Mother of Light Center and Volunteer Alexandria. Please bring new, unwrapped toys (like legos, dolls/action figures, soccer balls, etc.) to the bins located in the lobbies of each campus (Macan at the LS) by Thursday, December 8.

Please let Mr. Yee (dyee@sssas.org) know if you have any questions!

WINTER CHORUS CONCERT
Friday, December 12, 5th-12th Grade
Everyone is welcome to join us for the Winter Chorus Concert featuring uplifting, beautiful, and festive music! The fifth-grade students will be participating in this concert with the Middle and Upper School choruses. All fifth-grade students need to be at Upper School CPAC by 5:45 p.m. Students will meet the accompanist on stage to warm up, so please be on time. The concert runs from 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

Dress options are:

festive dress
festive skirt and blouse
long khaki or dress pants
white, red, or green collared shirt (short or long-sleeved, polo style or button down)
holiday ties are optional
blazers are optional
dress shoes (please no athletic shoes or backless shoes)

Contact: Mrs. Gehlhoff at rgehlhoff@sssas.org for further information.

ALL-SCHOOL FAMILY HANUKKAH CELEBRATION
Wednesday, December 17
All members of the Saints Community (and guests in town for the holidays) are invited to come together on the evening of December 17 at 6:00 p.m. for a Hanukkah potluck celebration. Join us for latkes, sufganiyot (jelly donuts), dreidels, gelt, and Hanukkah songs while we welcome light into the darkness of the winter months. Please sign up to contribute holiday food, and the APT will provide the main course! Please RSVP HERE by Friday, December 12. And please feel free to bring a menorah and candles so your family can join with everyone to light candles for the 4th night of Hanukkah. Any questions, contact Erin McConnell (mom of Alex, Charlie & Stella Blaker) at erinmcconnell@hotmail.com or Shannon McCrone (mom of Liam & Elizabeth McCrone) at semccrone@gmail.com.

LOWER SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Thursday, December 18-ES-Fifth Grade
We are excited to welcome families on campus on December 18 for our annual LS Christmas Concert! The concert will be full of joyful holiday music performed by the LS students. Dress options for this school day are listed below. The main goal is for students to look nice and be in the holiday spirit!

festive dress
festive skirt and blouse
long khaki or festive pants
white, red, or green collared shirt (short or long-sleeved, polo style or button-down)
holiday ties are optional
blazers are optional
nice shoes (please no backless shoes)

Lower School

Dec. 4, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, December 5
Saints Spirit Dress Down Day for the Sleepy Thompson Pep Rally!

Monday, December 8
Illumination Event at Lloyd House
FESTIVE DRESS HEADING INTO CHRISTMAS VACATION
Theme: Regular school dress with festive socks, hats, or headgear. You may choose to wear socks in holiday, festive, or winter colors or patterns; homemade headgear or decorated hats are welcome.

Tuesday, December 9
JK Sip and See Parent Event

Thursday, December 11
LS Lessons and Carols Chapel Service

Wednesday, December 17
Dress Down Day/Pajama Day!
Theme: Full-on festive attire! You may choose to wear something shiny, bright, glittery, with lights and/or warm pajamas of any kind, including those in festive/holiday/winter patterns. Note: Please wear shoes appropriate for P.E. and outdoor play!
Christmas Concert Dress Rehearsal
Early Saints Christmas Pajamas and Cookies Event

Thursday, December 18
Christmas Concert
Dismissal for Christmas Vacation 11:30 a.m.

DISTANCE LEARNING TECH TESTING EVENT TUESDAY DECEMBER 16
In preparation for possible distance learning as a result of inclement weather, we will be hosting a Zoom Open House Tech Testing Event to ensure that your child’s school device is working properly to facilitate distance learning. This will be held on Tuesday, December 16 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (You will just need to check in; there is no need to stay!) The Zoom link will be shared to your child’s device that day. Devices will also be sent home with your child on that day and can remain home during the Winter Break. Please make sure you connect the device to your Wi-Fi for the best results!

SCHOOL BUS TRANSPORTATION ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18
Transportation will be provided on Thursday, December 18, for early dismissal for students from the Lower and Middle Schools. Lower School Schedule: At 11:25 a.m., buses will be on campus and will depart for the Middle and Upper Schools at 11:30 a.m. As with a regular afternoon, we will run the shuttles among campuses (at this adjusted time). Commuter routes will depart from the Upper School at 12:05 p.m.

Please note that Extended Day services will not be available that day, and parents should make alternate arrangements. Bus service will be available at the early dismissal time.

JINGLE ALL THE WAY TO SAVINGS! 15% OFF AT THE SAINTS SCHOOL STORE! Tired of scrambling for gifts? We've got your holiday shopping wrapped up! The Saints School Store Holiday Sale is almost here, offering the easiest way to snag great gifts for your whole family (and show off that school spirit!).

Shop Online & Save!

What: 15% OFF your entire purchase.
When: December 8 - 14 (That's only one week!).
How: Shop online at www.sssasstore.com and use code JINGLE at checkout.
A Note on Exclusions: *The 15% discount excludes all Lululemon and Peter Millar merchandise.

Or Shop In-Person!

Upper School Store Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Lower School Store Hours: Thursdays only, 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
NEW! Open at the Lower School for Holiday Illumination on Monday, December 8, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Be on the lookout for special Saturday, December 13 hours.

Shipping or Easy Campus Pick-up:

Need it Fast? Opt for our free on-campus pick-up at the Lower, Middle, or Upper School—no shipping stress required!

Have more questions, please reach out to Kim Speed, School Store Manager at kspeed@sssas.org.

RAISING TEENAGERS IN FAITH

Chaplains Elizabeth Rees (US) and Sarah Moses (MS) are hosting discussion groups for parents around raising teenagers in faith. In January, our topic will be “Seeing Teens (and Ourselves) as God Does.” Parents can choose to attend in person at the Upper School on Friday, January 9 at 8:30 am, or over zoom on Wednesday, January 14 at 11:30 am. If you haven’t already signed up and would like to be included in email reminders before the group meetings, please let Elizabeth know.

Blue Christmas / Longest Night Services

For many, the holiday season is a time of light and celebration – but for those who are struggling, grieving, or feeling out of step with the season’s joy, it can also be an especially heavy time.

“Blue Christmas” or “Longest Night” services offer a quiet, prayerful space to acknowledge sorrow and seek comfort and hope. These gentle liturgies honor the truth that God meets us not only in celebration, but also in our longing, our questions, and our grief.

If your family is experiencing loss or hardship this year, our chaplains want you to be aware of several Blue Christmas services offered in our local community.

St. Aidan's Episcopal Church, Alexandria Dec 16 at 7 pm
Washington National Cathedral Dec 17 at 7 pm
St. Mark's Episcopal Capitol Hill Dec 17 at 7 pm
St. Paul's Episcopal Alexandria Dec 21 at 5 pm
St. John's Episcopal Arlington Dec 21 at 7 pm

Please feel free to reach out to a chaplain if you’d like more information or pastoral support during this season.

LOST AND FOUND
We are cleaning out the Lost and Found! On Thursday, December 11, from 7:45 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., we will put out all clothing and items from the MacKinnon and McBride Lost and Found in the paved area by Sinclair Library. You can also go to MacKinnon (lobby) or McBride (first floor) to claim lost items any time before December 5. From December 8-12, all unclaimed items will be in the MacKinnon lobby. All items not claimed by the end of the day on Friday, December 12, will be donated.

Thanks to parent volunteers who sort and organize the lost and found areas, we have regularly been able to return items with names on them. If your child is missing something, please come look for it on December 11 at drop off or stop by the school by December 12 at your convenience!

SAINTS SERVE OPPORTUNITY PRESENTED BY THE APT & SSSAS SERVICE LEARNING
Let's share the magic of the season! Lower, Middle, and Upper School Saints are invited to bring holiday cheer to seniors through music and connection.

When: Saturday, December 6, 3:45–5:00 p.m.
Where: The Landing at Potomac Yards
2620 Main Line Blvd, Alexandria, VA
What: Saints Serve - Holiday Harmony

Students may choose to sing or play an instrument – it can be a school holiday song, a classic carol, or something in between. Performers: Wear something festive!

Sign-ups are required by Tuesday, December 2: Sign up now! This helps us create a thoughtful program lineup. Parents are welcome to join the fun. (Note: Landing members will be seated, parents will be standing room only.)

Contacts:

APT Community Service Chair, Lauren Grider (202-236-8411/ltgrider@gmail.com)
SSSAS Service Learning Director, David Yee, dyee@sssas.org
SSSAS US French Teacher, Kim Scott, kscott@sssas.org

HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE FOR MOTHER OF LIGHT CENTER AND VOLUNTEER ALX

SSSAS is collecting holiday toys for Mother of Light Center and Volunteer Alexandria. Please bring new, unwrapped toys (like legos, dolls/action figures, soccer balls, etc.) to the bins located in the lobbies of each campus (Macan at the LS) by Thursday, December 8.

Please let Mr. Yee (dyee@sssas.org) know if you have any questions!

WINTER CHORUS CONCERT
Friday, December 12, 5th-12th Grade

Everyone is welcome to join us for the Winter Chorus Concert featuring uplifting, beautiful, and festive music! The fifth-grade students will be participating in this concert with the Middle and Upper School choruses. All fifth-grade students need to be at Upper School CPAC by 5:45 p.m. Students will meet the accompanist on stage to warm up, so please be on time. The concert runs from 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Dress options are:

festive dress
festive skirt and blouse
long khaki or dress pants
white, red, or green collared shirt (short or long-sleeved, polo style or button down)
holiday ties are optional
blazers are optional
dress shoes (please no athletic shoes or backless shoes)

Contact: Mrs. Gehlhoff at rgehlhoff@sssas.org for further information.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17: ALL-SCHOOL FAMILY HANUKKAH CELEBRATION – 6:00 PM

All members of the Saints Community (and guests in town for the holidays) are invited to come together on the evening of December 17 at 6:00 p.m. for a Hanukkah potluck celebration. Join us for latkes, sufganiyot (jelly donuts), dreidels, gelt, and Hanukkah songs while we welcome light into the darkness of the winter months. Please sign up to contribute holiday food, and the APT will provide the main course! Please RSVP HERE by Friday, December 12. And please feel free to bring a menorah and candles so your family can join with everyone to light candles for the 4th night of Hanukkah. Any questions, contact Erin McConnell (mom of Alex, Charlie & Stella Blaker) at erinmcconnell@hotmail.com or Shannon McCrone (mom of Liam & Elizabeth McCrone) at semccrone@gmail.com.

LOWER SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Thursday, December 18 - ES-Fifth Grade

We are excited to welcome families on campus on December 18 for our annual LS Christmas Concert! The concert will be full of joyful holiday music performed by the LS students. Dress options for this school day are listed below. The main goal is for students to look nice and be in the holiday spirit!

festive dress
festive skirt and blouse
long khaki or festive pants
white, red, or green collared shirt (short or long-sleeved, polo style or button-down)
holiday ties are optional
blazers are optional
nice shoes (please no backless shoes)

Lower School

Nov. 20, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, November 21
KG Spotlight on Learning
Whole School Assembly- Miss Chief Rocka

Monday, November 24
Early Saints Friendsgiving Feast

Tuesday, November 25
ES-12 Thanksgiving Service

Wednesday, November 26 Thanksgiving Break - No School

Tuesday, December 2 School Resumes

Thursday, December 4
Sleepy Thompson Pep Rally

Friday, December 5
Saints Spirit Dress Down Day for the Sleepy Thompson Pep Rally!

Monday, December 8
Illumination Event at Lloyd House

Monday, December 8
FESTIVE DRESS HEADING INTO CHRISTMAS VACATION
Theme: Regular school dress with festive socks, hats, or headgear
You may choose to wear socks in holiday, festive, or winter colors or patterns; homemade headgear or decorated hats are welcome.

Tuesday, December 9
JK Sip and See Parent Event

Thursday, December 11
LS Lessons and Carols Chapel Service

Wednesday, December 17
Dress Down Day/Pajama Day
Theme: Full-on festive attire! You may choose to wear something shiny, bright, glittery, with lights and/or warm pajamas of any kind, including those in festive/holiday/winter patterns. Note: Please wear shoes appropriate for P.E. and outdoor play

Thursday, December 18
Christmas Concert
Dismissal for Christmas Vacation 11:30 a.m.

LOST AND FOUND
We are cleaning out the Lost and Found! On Thursday, December 11, from 7:45 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., we will put out all clothing and items from the MacKinnon and McBride Lost and Found in the paved area by Sinclair Library. You can also go to MacKinnon (lobby) or McBride (first floor) to claim lost items any time before December 5. From December 8-12, all unclaimed items will be in the MacKinnon lobby. All items not claimed by the end of the day on Friday, December 12, will be donated.

Thanks to parent volunteers who sort and organize the lost and found areas, we have regularly been able to return items with names on them. If your child is missing something, please come look for it on December 11 at drop off or stop by the school by December 12 at your convenience!

69th Sleepy Thompson Basketball Tournament December 4-6

Buy your pre-sale wristbands: We will be pre-selling a limited quantity of wristbands to the Saints community. Purchase yours today and join us for all of the games! Wristbands can be picked up during lunch on December 4th or at the door.

Pricing:
Students: $15 for the entire weekend
Adults: $25 for the entire weekend
*Daily wristbands may be purchased at the door - Students: $10 and Adults: $15

Volunteer: Sleepy Thompson cannot happen without the help of our volunteers. Please use this Sign Up Genius link to sign up!

Thursday Game Pairings:
3:00 p.m. - Episcopal High School v. St. Michael Archangel Catholic High School

5:00 p.m. - Trinity Episcopal School v. St. John’s Catholic Prep

7:00 p.m. - St. Stephen's and St. Agnes v. St. Mary’s Ryken High School

9:00 p.m. - Catholic High School v. Bethel Academy

Questions? Email sac@sssas.org

WINTER CHORUS CONCERT
Friday, December 12, 5th-12th Grade

Everyone is welcome to join us for the Winter Chorus Concert featuring uplifting, beautiful, and festive music! The fifth-grade students will be participating in this concert with the Middle and Upper School choruses. All fifth-grade students need to be at Upper School CPAC by 5:45 p.m. Students will meet the accompanist on stage to warm up, so please be on time. The concert runs from 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Dress options are:

festive dress
festive skirt and blouse
long khaki or dress pants
white, red, or green collared shirt (short or long-sleeved, polo style or button down)
holiday ties are optional
blazers are optional
dress shoes (please no athletic shoes or backless shoes)

Contact: Mrs. Gehlhoff at rgehlhoff@sssas.org for further information.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17: ALL-SCHOOL FAMILY HANUKKAH CELEBRATION – 6:00 PM

All members of the Saints Community (and guests in town for the holidays) are invited to come together on the evening of December 17 at 6:00 p.m. for a Hanukkah potluck celebration. Join us for latkes, sufganiyot (jelly donuts), dreidels, gelt, and Hanukkah songs while we welcome light into the darkness of the winter months. Please sign up to contribute holiday food, and the APT will provide the main course! Please RSVP HERE by Friday, December 12. And please feel free to bring a menorah and candles so your family can join with everyone to light candles for the 4th night of Hanukkah. Any questions, contact Erin McConnell (mom of Alex, Charlie & Stella Blaker) at erinmcconnell@hotmail.com or Shannon McCrone (mom of Liam & Elizabeth McCrone) at semccrone@gmail.com.

LOWER SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Thursday, December 18 - ES-Fifth Grade

We are excited to welcome families on campus on December 18 for our annual LS Christmas Concert! The concert will be full of joyful holiday music performed by the LS students. Dress options for this school day are listed below. The main goal is for students to look nice and be in the holiday spirit!

festive dress
festive skirt and blouse
long khaki or festive pants
white, red, or green collared shirt (short or long-sleeved, polo style or button-down)
holiday ties are optional
blazers are optional
nice shoes (please no backless shoes)

SCHOOL BUS TRANSPORTATION ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18
Transportation will be provided on Thursday, December 18, for early dismissal for students from the Lower and Middle Schools. Lower School Schedule: At 11:25 a.m., buses will be on campus and will depart for the Middle and Upper Schools at 11:30 a.m. As with a regular afternoon, we will run the shuttles among campuses (at this adjusted time). Commuter routes will depart from the Upper School at 12:05 p.m.

Please note that Extended Day services will not be available that day, and parents should make alternate arrangements. Bus service will be available at the early dismissal time.

SANTA IS MAKING A STOP AT SSSAS

Monday, Dec. 8, 2025

We are so excited to welcome everyone to another Illumination Event with Santa in the Daniel Gym.

Please come and enjoy merriment, a photo with Santa, jolly music, and drive past the lit-up Lloyd House on your way home!

Families will be asked to use their own cameras/phones for photos with a volunteer to assist. Santa will be working hard to make sure that everyone gets a photo with him and has requested that kids stand next to him for the photo rather than on his lap. He has millennia of experience with this, so we are trusting his judgment and crafting a backdrop that will be festive with Santa and your children as the focal point.
Enjoy games, music, and FUN as you visit with Santa! There may be some special surprises that await you this year.
Fifth Grade Girl Scout Troop 60220 will be selling homemade sweet treats and hot drinks to help raise funds for their Bronze Award project. The troop is committing 300 hours to benefit animals at the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, and funds raised here will support those efforts.

Parking

Parking will be tight, and we ask that you follow the directions of Security, who will be on hand to guide you. Please only park in the neighborhood if Security directs that the campus has no spots available. Please check the APT Resource page APT Resources for any further updates.

SAINTSGIVING 2025 EVENTS AND COLLECTIONS

On Wednesday, November 26th, we will be celebrating Saintsgiving, our yearly tradition of supporting our greater community, in our new US Commons space. Leading up to it, we will be celebrating Saintsgiving Season through a variety of drives and activities. For more information, please see this letter about Saintsgiving Season, and contact Mr. Yee (dyee@sssas.org) if you have any questions!

Opportunities include:

Contributing to the Blessing Bag collection by bringing these items to the LS (Daniel Gym) or US (lobby) that are on this slideshow of goods. (Packing date on 11/25 at the LS.)
Bring in items on these lists for Grace Episcopal Church or ALIVE! as you get the chance as they will be delivered weekly
Participating in the Mother of Light Center food distribution on 11/26 and signing up on this SignUp Genius link.

Participating in Saintsgiving in the Upper School Commons on 11/26 by:
- Sorting items on the lists of goods for Grace Episcopal Church or ALIVE! to deliver to them that day
- Decorating and filling treat bags for Grace Episcopal Church (and bringing in leftover candy for the bags)

Lower School

Nov. 13, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, November 14
Parent/Teacher Conferences - No School

Monday, November 17
LS Dress Down Day 👖👕👗
KO Spotlight on Learning

Tuesday, November 18
KW Spotlight on Learning

Wednesday, November 19
KR Spotlight on Learning

Friday, November 21
KG Spotlight on Learning
Whole School Assembly- Miss Chief Rocka

Tuesday, November 25
ES-12 Thanksgiving Service

Wednesday, November 26 Thanksgiving Break - No School

Tuesday, December 2 School Resumes

*****

Dear Saints,

This morning we had a wonderful Veterans Day chapel to honor those who serve or have served in the military, including Saints' parents, grandparents, alumni, spouses, and colleagues. They represented the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. As we enter this season of gratitude, we feel blessed to have had the opportunity to thank them for their service to our nation. We are also grateful to everyone who participated in the service and flag-raising ceremony, from the musicians to the Girl and Boy Scouts, to the speakers, and to those who helped organize and plan the morning.

Thank you,

LaNessa West
Lower School Directo

LOST AND FOUND
Please visit the lost and found in both McBride and MacKinnon to check for lost items. We have several water bottles, lunch bags, coats, and sweaters without names.

COMMUNITY HOLIDAY JAZZ CONCERT
St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School, in partnership with Virginia Theological Seminary, invites you to join us for our community Jazz Holiday Concert on Friday, Dec. 5, at 6:30 p.m. at Virginia Theological Seminary, Saint Nicholas Center for Faith and Justice, located in the VTS Welcome Center.

Join as the SSSAS Jazz Nonet sings your favorite holiday songs with the rhythms and soul of jazz and the spirit of the season. At 5:30 p.m., we invite you to join us for some light bites and hot chocolate at the pre-concert reception and to tour the St Nicholas museum. No Christmas Celebration would be complete without St. Nicholas stopping by to say hello!

We also seek to support Child & Family Network Centers’ Holiday Gift Card Drive. St. Stephen's and St. Agnes partners with Child & Family Network Centers throughout the year, and all of our Lower School and Middle School students visit their centers through their classes.

This Concert is Free and Open to all ages! Please click HERE to RSVP. Please contact Vaughn Ambrose, Chair of Performing Arts, with any questions.

SANTA IS MAKING A STOP AT SSSAS

Monday, Dec. 8, 2025

We are so excited to welcome everyone to another Illumination Event with Santa in the Daniel Gym.

Please come and enjoy merriment, a photo with Santa, jolly music, and drive past the lit-up Lloyd House on your way home!

Families will be asked to use their own cameras/phones for photos with a volunteer to assist. Santa will be working hard to make sure that everyone gets a photo with him and has requested that kids stand next to him for the photo rather than on his lap. He has millennia of experience with this, so we are trusting his judgment and crafting a backdrop that will be festive with Santa and your children as the focal point.
Enjoy games, music, and FUN as you visit with Santa! There may be some special surprises that await you this year.
Fifth Grade Girl Scout Troop 60220 will be selling homemade sweet treats and hot drinks to help raise funds for their Bronze Award project. The troop is committing 300 hours to benefit animals at the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, and funds raised here will support those efforts.

Parking

Parking will be tight, and we ask that you follow the directions of Security, who will be on hand to guide you. Please only park in the neighborhood if Security directs that the campus has no spots available. Please check the APT Resource page APT Resources for any further updates.

LOWER SCHOOL MAKEUP DAY GROUP AND CLASS PHOTOGRAPHS ARE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE
Please visit this link to view your child’s class photo, and use your student ID when prompted to make an order, your student ID can be found on the school website under your child's profile. Free shipping is available on all orders placed by November 18, 2025.

SAINTSGIVING 2025 EVENTS AND COLLECTIONS

On Wednesday, November 26th, we will be celebrating Saintsgiving, our yearly tradition of supporting our greater community, in our new US Commons space. Leading up to it, we will be celebrating Saintsgiving Season through a variety of drives and activities. For more information, please see this letter about Saintsgiving Season, and contact Mr. Yee (dyee@sssas.org) if you have any questions!

Opportunities include:

Contributing to the Blessing Bag collection by bringing these items to the LS (Daniel Gym) or US (lobby) that are on this slideshow of goods. (Packing date on 11/25 at the LS.)
Bring in items on these lists for Grace Episcopal Church or ALIVE! as you get the chance as they will be delivered weekly
Participating in the Mother of Light Center food distribution on 11/26 and signing up on this SignUp Genius link.

Participating in Saintsgiving in the Upper School Commons on 11/26 by:
- Sorting items on the lists of goods for Grace Episcopal Church or ALIVE! to deliver to them that day
- Decorating and filling treat bags for Grace Episcopal Church (and bringing in leftover candy for the bags)

Lower School

Nov. 6, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Tuesday, November 11
ES-5 Lockdown Drill

Wednesday, November 12
1G/1H Read on the Green📚
Third Grade Market Day

Friday, November 14
Parent/Teacher Conferences - No School

Monday, November 17
LS Dress Down Day 👖👕👗
KO Spotlight on Learning

Tuesday, November 18
KW Spotlight on Learning

Wednesday, November 19
KR Spotlight on Learning

Friday, November 21
KG Spotlight on Learning

FINAL OPPORTUNITY FOR VETERANS AND THOSE WHO CURRENTLY SERVE IN THE ARMED FORCES TO BE RECOGNIZED AT CHAPEL

We will honor veterans at our chapel on Thursday, November 13, and invite all Lower School family members who currently serve or have served in the armed forces to be our guests of honor.

There will be a breakfast before the chapel service for those who are able to attend. Please fill out this form to let us know whether you can attend and/or to share a picture of yourself in uniform, regardless of whether you will be able to join us.

ALL SCHOOL DRESS DOWN DAY, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17
We will have an LS dress-down day for students, faculty, and staff in honor of the great spirit shown at our LS homecoming pep rally.

LOWER SCHOOL MAKEUP DAY GROUP AND CLASS PHOTOGRAPHS ARE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE
Please visit this link to view your child’s class photo, and use your student ID when prompted to make an order, your student ID can be found on the school website under your child's profile. Free shipping is available on all orders placed by November 18, 2025.

VISITING CAMPUS REMINDERS
All visitors must sign in and obtain a name tag. After your visit, please sign out.

**Signing in with your quick PIN:**
If you do not remember your quick PIN, open the Schoolpass app on your phone. Wait for it to load, then select the profile icon to retrieve your PIN.

Select "Sign In," enter your quick PIN, provide the reason for your visit and the name of the person you are visiting, and sign your name. If you haven’t visited this school year, the system will ask you to take a photo and enter your birthdate. Lastly, wait for your name tag to print out.

**Signing in without a quick PIN:**
Choose "New Visitor" and select one of the following options:

Scan License
Manual Entry

If you are using the scan license option, scan it at the back of the iPad.

**Signing in/out a student:**
You must select the student and specify whether you are dropping off or picking up. You may also sign your child in/out on the School Pass app on your phone. Click the Blue Pickup or Drop Off button at the bottom under the Today icon.

Thank you for your cooperation during your visit, your adherence to these procedures is essential.

SAINTSGIVING 2025 EVENTS AND COLLECTIONS

On Wednesday, November 26th, we will be celebrating Saintsgiving, our yearly tradition of supporting our greater community, in our new US Commons space. Leading up to it, we will be celebrating Saintsgiving Season through a variety of drives and activities. For more information, please see this letter about Saintsgiving Season, and contact Mr. Yee (dyee@sssas.org) if you have any questions!

Opportunities include:

Contributing to the Blessing Bag collection by bringing these items to the LS (Daniel Gym) or US (lobby) that are on this slideshow of goods. (Packing date on 11/25 at the LS.)
Bring in items on these lists for Grace Episcopal Church or ALIVE! as you get the chance as they will be delivered weekly
Participating in the Mother of Light Center food distribution on 11/26 and signing up on this SignUp Genius link.

Participating in Saintsgiving in the Upper School Commons on 11/26 by:
- Sorting items on the lists of goods for Grace Episcopal Church or ALIVE! to deliver to them that day
- Decorating and filling treat bags for Grace Episcopal Church (and bringing in leftover candy for the bags)

OAKWOOD SCHOOL AND MINDWELL PSYCHOLOGY INVITE YOU

Nov 12, 2025 7:00 p.m.

Join Dr. Cheri McGee, Psy.D., and Dr. Sabine Heisman, Psy.D., from MindWell Psychology for a virtual session exploring how anxiety affects learning at every grade level. They'll identify common signs and symptoms of anxiety in students, examine its connection to ADHD and learning differences, and offer practical strategies that parents and teachers can use to support students.

Click here to view more information.

LOST AND FOUND
Please visit the lost and found in both McBride and MacKinnon to check for lost items. We have several water bottles, lunch bags, coats, and sweaters without names.

VACATION CLUB
Vacation Club provides students with fun and enriching activities when the lower school is not in session.

The list of the remaining vacation club dates is November 14, December 1, February 13, February 27, and March 6. Registration opens approximately one week prior to each date. A separate push page for each vacation club date will be sent to all families.

Questions?
Please contact Mary Kelly, Director of Extended Day mkelley@sssas.org

STAGE ONE PRESENTS “A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM”
This year our Upper School theatre troupe, Stage One, proudly presents Shakespeare’s comic masterpiece A Midsummer Night’s Dream! The play, set just after an alternate universe WWI, is filled with dramatic lovers, feuding royalty, magical fairies, comical laborers, and tons of sitcom chaos. The company of 47 creative actors and talented crew, under the direction of Theatre Director Valerie Carlson and Technical Director Aileen Zeigler, is preparing a captivating performance for all ages. In addition to enjoying the rich production design and original compositions by students, make sure to keep an ear out for some of Shakespeare’s most famous lines, including "the course of true love never did run smooth” and “Lord, what fools these mortals be!”

Showtimes are:

Friday, Nov. 7, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 8, 2:30 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 14, 7:00 p.m.

Tickets will be available to the school community on Friday October 31st. Information about the show and how to order tickets can be found on the school website's Stage One Tickets page.

Patrons have two methods to order tickets. They can either purchase with a credit card by going to this link Ticket Ordering with Credit Card or they can reserve tickets by email at the following address: tickets@sssas.org, and then pay with cash or check at the door. If emailing to reserve tickets please indicate which show and how many seats you want!

SHARING EDUCATIONAL TESTING WITH THE SCHOOL

Has your child participated in educational testing or any other type of testing, such as a speech-language or occupational therapy evaluation? Did you know SSSAS has a process in place to share helpful suggestions based on that testing with your child's teachers? Whenever a student participates in testing, we ask that parents please share the report with our Academic Support Team rather than the homeroom teacher. Our team will compile related recommendations for the classroom and share those recommendations confidentially with the student's teachers. You can find out more information related to the educational testing process, along with contact information for our Academic Support team, on our Academic Support Resource Board.

PUMPKINS ARE COMPOSTABLE!

Each year, an estimated 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins end up in landfills. While rotting in the enclosed space, they emit methane - a greenhouse gas significantly more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide. We encourage you to dispose of pumpkins in an earth-friendly way! The "Pumpkins for the People" organization has collection sites at several nearby Farmers Markets (Alexandria West End, Old Town, etc. - search your zip code in the link provided). Per their guidelines: Please ensure all candles, wax, and other non-compostable materials are removed, and then cut those pumpkins or jack-o-lanterns into pieces and bring them to market in a compostable bag. The smaller the pieces, the quicker the pumpkins will break down! Reach out to the campus Sustainability Coordinators

Questions?

Please contact(LS: Leslie Williams, MS: Kelley Gorman, US: Julie Krane)

MATTIE MIRACLE - HALLOWEEN CANDY DRIVE!

St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School is once again partnering with the Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation to collect Halloween candy. The Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation seeks to provide psychosocial and mental health care to enable children with cancer to live happy and productive lives. This candy goes towards stocking the foundation’s free snack and item carts in area hospitals. These carts offer comfort and support to patients and their loved ones during their hospital stays.

Bins will be on each campus for collection starting on Thursday, October 30.

In a departure from years past, we cannot accept loose, individual pieces of candy as donations. We ask that you only donate full, unopened candy bags. This is because area hospitals must abide by health and safety guidelines. As you do your candy shopping, feel free to grab an extra bag to donate to Mattie Miracle, or donate what you have not opened (or what is left on store shelves) after Halloween. Alternatively, you can donate through the organization’s Amazon Wishlist.

Thank you in advance for your support, and thank you to the Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation for their years of partnership!

Lower School

Oct. 30, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, October 31
Halloween Parade
Halloween class parties - varied times🎃

Wednesday, November 5
1C/1K Read on the Green📚

Tuesday, November 11
ES-5 Lockdown Drill

Wednesday, November 12
1G/1H Read on the Green📚
Third Grade Market Day

Friday, November 14
Parent/Teacher Conferences - No School

COMMUNION

Dear Lower School Parents,

I am pleased to share that we will be celebrating Holy Communion next week at Lower School Chapel on November 6 in honor of All Saints Day. Eucharist is a Greek word that means “thanksgiving,” and it is appropriate that we celebrate this feast, with the meal that Jesus gave us, at key points in the year.

All students and visiting parents are welcome to receive the bread that Jesus gave us or to receive a blessing. Though ALL are welcome to receive the consecrated bread (only adults at the altar receive the wine), we encourage families to help their children make the decision that is right for them. The Episcopal attitude to the sacraments is best described by the phrase "all may, some should, none must." Please know that everyone is invited to the table but that no one should feel that they must receive or participate. Gluten-free wafers are available.

Roman Catholic children, for instance, may want to wait until they make their First Holy Communion in their own churches before receiving at school. Those who will be receiving the bread hold out crossed hands to the person administering it, and those who would rather not receive the bread will cross their arms in an X across their chest and receive a blessing. Please talk to your child(ren) about what your family feels is best in terms of communion.

Please contact me if you have any questions regarding the communion service.

Rev. Grace Pratt
Lower School Chaplain/Religion Teacher

LOST AND FOUND
Please visit the lost and found in both McBride and MacKinnon to check for lost items. We have several water bottles, lunch bags, coats, and sweaters without names.

VACATION CLUB
Vacation Club provides students with fun and enriching activities when the lower school is not in session.

The list of the remaining vacation club dates is November 14, December 1, February 13, February 27, and March 6. Registration opens approximately one week prior to each date. A separate push page for each vacation club date will be sent to all families.

Questions?
Please contact Mary Kelly, Director of Extended Day mkelley@sssas.org

STAGE ONE PRESENTS “A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM”
This year our Upper School theatre troupe, Stage One, proudly presents Shakespeare’s comic masterpiece A Midsummer Night’s Dream! The play, set just after an alternate universe WWI, is filled with dramatic lovers, feuding royalty, magical fairies, comical laborers, and tons of sitcom chaos. The company of 47 creative actors and talented crew, under the direction of Theatre Director Valerie Carlson and Technical Director Aileen Zeigler, is preparing a captivating performance for all ages. In addition to enjoying the rich production design and original compositions by students, make sure to keep an ear out for some of Shakespeare’s most famous lines, including "the course of true love never did run smooth” and “Lord, what fools these mortals be!”

Showtimes are:

Friday, Nov. 7, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 8, 2:30 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 14, 7:00 p.m.

Tickets will be available to the school community on Friday October 31st. Information about the show and how to order tickets can be found on the school website's Stage One Tickets page.

Patrons have two methods to order tickets. They can either purchase with a credit card by going to this link Ticket Ordering with Credit Card or they can reserve tickets by email at the following address: tickets@sssas.org, and then pay with cash or check at the door. If emailing to reserve tickets please indicate which show and how many seats you want!

SHARING EDUCATIONAL TESTING WITH THE SCHOOL

Has your child participated in educational testing or any other type of testing, such as a speech-language or occupational therapy evaluation? Did you know SSSAS has a process in place to share helpful suggestions based on that testing with your child's teachers? Whenever a student participates in testing, we ask that parents please share the report with our Academic Support Team rather than the homeroom teacher. Our team will compile related recommendations for the classroom and share those recommendations confidentially with the student's teachers. You can find out more information related to the educational testing process, along with contact information for our Academic Support team, on our Academic Support Resource Board.

PUMPKINS ARE COMPOSTABLE!

Each year, an estimated 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins end up in landfills. While rotting in the enclosed space, they emit methane - a greenhouse gas significantly more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide. We encourage you to dispose of pumpkins in an earth-friendly way! The "Pumpkins for the People" organization has collection sites at several nearby Farmers Markets (Alexandria West End, Old Town, etc. - search your zip code in the link provided). Per their guidelines: Please ensure all candles, wax, and other non-compostable materials are removed, and then cut those pumpkins or jack-o-lanterns into pieces and bring them to market in a compostable bag. The smaller the pieces, the quicker the pumpkins will break down! Reach out to the campus Sustainability Coordinators

Questions?

Please contact(LS: Leslie Williams, MS: Kelley Gorman, US: Julie Krane)

OCT 1-31: TRIPLE YOUR IMPACT! - GIVE HERE

In the last days of the Parent Challenge, a member of our Board of Governors and a Parent of Alumni family is tripling every gift made today, up to $25,000! Thanks to our amazing Saints community of over 450 Parents and Parents of Alumni, we’ve already raised $525,000.

If you haven't participated in the challenge, now is the time. Every dollar you give turns into three! Help us hit our goal—make your gift at sssas.org/ppc now.

OUR UPPER SCHOOL ROBOTICS TEAM IS LOOKING FOR AN ASSISTANT COACH – COULD THAT BE YOU?
We have an enthusiastic team of students who are excited for the year ahead. This is a paid position that involves leading student team members in the design, construction, and programming of robots for competition. The coach plays an integral role in fostering a positive and inclusive team culture while emphasizing critical thinking and creativity. If this piques your interest and aligns with your experience, we invite you to view the full position description available on our website.

REMINDERS

DOGS ON CAMPUS
To ensure the safety and comfort of all of our community members, dogs and other pets (with the exception of service animals) are not permitted on any SSSAS campus during school hours from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Families may be allowed to walk their dogs on campus during drop-off and pick-up times, when attending explicitly pet-friendly school events (such as the annual Blessing of the Animals), and when attending athletic competitions. For everyone’s safety, all dogs must be leashed, under the control of a responsible handler at all times, and compliant with all local licensing and vaccination requirements. Owners are expected to maintain full control of their dogs and to be respectful of others’ space. Owners may not allow their dogs on turf fields and must also always clean up after their dog. Please note that failure to properly control or clean up after a dog may result in that dog being prohibited from campus. We appreciate your partnership in helping us maintain a safe and welcoming environment for our community.

CALLING ALL VETERANS AND THOSE WHO CURRENTLY SERVE IN THE ARMED FORCES
We will honor veterans at our chapel on Thursday, November 13, and invite all Lower School family members who currently serve or have served in the armed forces to be our guests of honor.

There will be a breakfast before the chapel service for those who are able to attend. Please fill out this form to let us know whether you can attend and/or to share a picture of yourself in uniform regardless of whether you will be able to join us.

HALLOWEEN PARADE FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31

We are excited to share details about the Lower School Halloween parade!

October 31 will be a regular dress day. Students should arrive at school in their normal uniforms and bring their costumes with them. Teachers will help students change into costumes before the parade begins at 2:15 p.m.

The parade will start with Early Saints through 1st Grade taking the first lap around the route. They will be followed by the Fifth graders, leading the fourth, third, and second graders. The event will conclude with a second lap, during which all students will parade together.

Parent viewing stations will be clearly marked with signs along the inner loop of the parade route. After the parade, parents may pick up their children from their classrooms for dismissal. Please be sure to notify your child’s teacher and update SchoolPass when you are taking your child home.

Q: What is the parade route?

Please click to view the parade route and viewing locations for parents

Q: What happens if it’s raining during the parade? Will the parade still happen?

A: If it’s drizzling a little, we will go ahead and do the parade outside. If it’s really raining, we will hold the parade in the gym. Parents will gather in the gym, and students will parade through it. We will announce which grades are entering so that parents of those children can get up front.

As a reminder, we have the following guidelines:

Students should not bring weapons of any type as accessories including swords, guns, or knives.
Students should not wear masks that impair their ability to see and walk safely.
Inflatable costumes are permissible as long as the student can walk safely.
Students should not wear costumes/masks that are ghoulish, frightening, or involve frightening elements (such as blood).
Costumes should be respectful and in keeping with the school’s character traits: respect, responsibility, honesty, and compassion.
Students should plan for individual costumes and not plan group costumes.
Students should also keep in mind that not everyone in our school community celebrates or dresses up, and it is important to respect those who do not celebrate Halloween.

LOWER SCHOOL DAILY DRESS CODE REMINDER Saints, thank you for helping your child come to school each day ready to learn, play and fully participate in our program. As a reminder, our daily dress code includes the following:

Daily Dress Attire

Students are expected to wear the following:

Jumpers or skirts in the school’s plaid.
Collared polo-style dresses in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white
Navy blue or khaki bottoms (shorts, long pants, capri pants, skirts, skorts). Note: leggings are permitted under skirts but not by themselves unless it is a dress-down day.
Shoes or sneakers that provide substantial foot support for walking, recess, outdoor play and learning, and physical education classes.
Sweatshirts (with no logo except “Saints”) or sweaters in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white; gray “Saints” sweatshirts are permissible.
Collared shirts or turtlenecks in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white; collared shirts or turtlenecks should not have any logos except for the Saints logo if desired.

Students should not wear:

Tank tops.
Flip-flops, slides, or crocs
Athletic shirts, shorts, skirts, or pants.
Sweatshirts with logos other than “Saints.”
Skirts or skorts shorter than 4” above the knee.
Variations of the colors specified i.e. turquoise, pink, light, or lime green.
Hats inside the building.

Please Note: If a student is not in the dress code, a teacher and/or administrator will connect with the student and/or family with a reminder of the proper attire for the next school day.

JOIN THE SAINTS ATHLETICS CLUB

With a new athletics season approaching, the Saints Athletics Club reminds all families to join the Saints Athletics Club. The Saints Athletic Club supports our Saints student athletes on and off the field by enhancing the athletic experience. As part of your membership (or in addition to your already purchased membership), you can purchase signs to support a particular sport at SSSAS. Please join the SAC today by clicking https://forms.sssas.org/sacboosters.

Questions?

Please contact sac@sssas.org with any questions or comments.

MATTIE MIRACLE - HALLOWEEN CANDY DRIVE!

St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School is once again partnering with the Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation to collect Halloween candy. The Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation seeks to provide psychosocial and mental health care to enable children with cancer to live happy and productive lives. This candy goes towards stocking the foundation’s free snack and item carts in area hospitals. These carts offer comfort and support to patients and their loved ones during their hospital stays.

Bins will be on each campus for collection starting on Thursday, October 30.

In a departure from years past, we cannot accept loose, individual pieces of candy as donations. We ask that you only donate full, unopened candy bags. This is because area hospitals must abide by health and safety guidelines. As you do your candy shopping, feel free to grab an extra bag to donate to Mattie Miracle, or donate what you have not opened (or what is left on store shelves) after Halloween. Alternatively, you can donate through the organization’s Amazon Wishlist.

Thank you in advance for your support, and thank you to the Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation for their years of partnership!

Lower School

Oct. 23, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, October 24
LS Professional Day (School Closed)

Thursday, October 29
Third Grade Archeological Digs

Friday, October 31
Halloween Parade
Halloween class parties - varied times🎃

Wednesday, November 5
1C/1K Read on the Green📚

Friday, November 7
ES-5 Lockdown Drill

DOGS ON CAMPUS
To ensure the safety and comfort of all of our community members, dogs and other pets (with the exception of service animals) are not permitted on any SSSAS campus during school hours from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Families may be allowed to walk their dogs on campus during drop-off and pick-up times, when attending explicitly pet-friendly school events (such as the annual Blessing of the Animals), and when attending athletic competitions. For everyone’s safety, all dogs must be leashed, under the control of a responsible handler at all times, and compliant with all local licensing and vaccination requirements. Owners are expected to maintain full control of their dogs and to be respectful of others’ space. Owners may not allow their dogs on turf fields and must also always clean up after their dog. Please note that failure to properly control or clean up after a dog may result in that dog being prohibited from campus. We appreciate your partnership in helping us maintain a safe and welcoming environment for our community. Please note that we are also sending a communication to our neighbors to remind them of our campuses' dog policies.

SUPPORTING OUR SAINTS
We know the ongoing federal government shutdown is impacting many in our community. If there is a situation in which the school can be helpful to your family in any way, please contact the Business Office at 703-212-2730. And, as always, our counselors are available to support your children's needs.

Lower School: Ashley Correia (703-212-2780) and Miles Henderson (703- 212-2845)
Middle School: Karen Kunz (703-212-2738)
Upper School: Susannah Harrison (703-212-2750)

CALLING ALL VETERANS AND THOSE WHO CURRENTLY SERVE IN THE ARMED FORCES
We will honor veterans at our chapel on Thursday, November 13, and invite all Lower School family members who currently serve or have served in the armed forces to be our guests of honor.

There will be a breakfast before the chapel service for those who are able to attend. Please fill out this form to let us know whether you can attend and/or to share a picture of yourself in uniform regardless of whether you will be able to join us.

HALLOWEEN PARADE FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31

We are excited to share details about the Lower School Halloween parade!

October 31 will be a regular dress day. Students should arrive at school in their normal uniforms and bring their costumes with them. Teachers will help students change into costumes before the parade begins at 2:15 p.m.

The parade will start with Early Saints through 1st Grade taking the first lap around the route. They will be followed by the Fifth graders, leading the fourth, third, and second graders. The event will conclude with a second lap, during which all students will parade together.

Parent viewing stations will be clearly marked with signs along the inner loop of the parade route. After the parade, parents may pick up their children from their classrooms for dismissal. Please be sure to notify your child’s teacher and update SchoolPass when you are taking your child home.

Q: What is the parade route?

Please click to view the parade route and viewing locations for parents

Q: What happens if it’s raining during the parade? Will the parade still happen?

A: If it’s drizzling a little, we will go ahead and do the parade outside. If it’s really raining, we will hold the parade in the gym. Parents will gather in the gym, and students will parade through it. We will announce which grades are entering so that parents of those children can get up front.

As a reminder, we have the following guidelines:

Students should not bring weapons of any type as accessories including swords, guns, or knives.
Students should not wear masks that impair their ability to see and walk safely.
Inflatable costumes are permissible as long as the student can walk safely.
Students should not wear costumes/masks that are ghoulish, frightening, or involve frightening elements (such as blood).
Costumes should be respectful and in keeping with the school’s character traits: respect, responsibility, honesty, and compassion.
Students should plan for individual costumes and not plan group costumes.
Students should also keep in mind that not everyone in our school community celebrates or dresses up, and it is important to respect those who do not celebrate Halloween.

LOWER SCHOOL DAILY DRESS CODE REMINDER
Saints, thank you for helping your child come to school each day ready to learn, play and fully participate in our program. As a reminder, our daily dress code includes the following:

Daily Dress Attire

Students are expected to wear the following:

Jumpers or skirts in the school’s plaid.
Collared polo-style dresses in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white
Navy blue or khaki bottoms (shorts, long pants, capri pants, skirts, skorts). Note: leggings are permitted under skirts but not by themselves unless it is a dress-down day.
Shoes or sneakers that provide substantial foot support for walking, recess, outdoor play and learning, and physical education classes.
Sweatshirts (with no logo except “Saints”) or sweaters in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white; gray “Saints” sweatshirts are permissible.
Collared shirts or turtlenecks in solid red, navy blue, dark green, yellow, or white; collared shirts or turtlenecks should not have any logos except for the Saints logo if desired.

Students should not wear:

Tank tops.
Flip-flops, slides, or crocs
Athletic shirts, shorts, skirts, or pants.
Sweatshirts with logos other than “Saints.”
Skirts or skorts shorter than 4” above the knee.
Variations of the colors specified i.e. turquoise, pink, light, or lime green.
Hats inside the building.

Please Note: If a student is not in the dress code, a teacher and/or administrator will connect with the student and/or family with a reminder of the proper attire for the next school day.

JOIN THE SAINTS ATHLETICS CLUB
With a new athletics season approaching, the Saints Athletics Club reminds all families to join the Saints Athletics Club. The Saints Athletic Club supports our Saints student athletes on and off the field by enhancing the athletic experience. As part of your membership (or in addition to your already purchased membership), you can purchase signs to support a particular sport at SSSAS. Please join the SAC today by clicking https://forms.sssas.org/sacboosters.

Questions?

Please contact sac@sssas.org with any questions or comments.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT RESOURCE BOARD

Do you know what it means to have a growth mindset?
Are you familiar with the steps our school follows when academic concerns are identified for a student?
Do you know where to find audiobooks for your child?

You can find information related to these questions and many more on the Academic Support Resource Board created and maintained by our learning specialists. We hope the resource board is helpful to you!

MATTIE MIRACLE - HALLOWEEN CANDY DRIVE!

St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School is once again partnering with the Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation to collect Halloween candy. The Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation seeks to provide psychosocial and mental health care to enable children with cancer to live happy and productive lives. This candy goes towards stocking the foundation’s free snack and item carts in area hospitals. These carts offer comfort and support to patients and their loved ones during their hospital stays.

Bins will be on each campus for collection starting on Thursday, October 30.

In a departure from years past, we cannot accept loose, individual pieces of candy as donations. We ask that you only donate full, unopened candy bags. This is because area hospitals must abide by health and safety guidelines. As you do your candy shopping, feel free to grab an extra bag to donate to Mattie Miracle, or donate what you have not opened (or what is left on store shelves) after Halloween. Alternatively, you can donate through the organization’s Amazon Wishlist.

Thank you in advance for your support, and thank you to the Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation for their years of partnership!

LET’S KEEP OUR STREAM CLEAN!

Help care for our local stream near the Lower School by picking up litter and keeping our waterways clean. All tools and supplies will be provided — just bring your enthusiasm and dress for the weather!

📅 Date: Saturday, November 1

🕘 Time: 9:00–11:00 a.m. (Join us anytime!)

📍 Location: Timber Branch Stream (It can be accessed where E. Timberbranch Pkwy and Timber Branch Drive intersection). For a map of the area, refer to the Stream Clean Up Flyer.

Questions: Contact Leslie Williams at lwilliams@sssas.org

OCT 1-31: PARENT CHALLENGE UPDATES - GIVE HERE (sssas.org/ppc)

We’re halfway through the 2025 Parent Challenge! Thank you to the over 270 Saints Parents who’ve already made gifts totaling over $350,000 this month. We’re 45% of the way to our goal of 600 donors!

Highest Participation by Class (%):

Class of 2035 - 42%
Class of 2029 - 38%
Class of 2032 - 38%

Make your gift today and show your support for our students and faculty!

OCT 25: SAINTS FUND PARENT PARTY AT US COMMONS- RSVP HERE

Connect with fellow parents and show your support for SSSAS at a celebratory evening with delicious classic tailgate food, a craft beer tasting, and retro arcade games. RSVP to let us know you're coming!

Sneak preview of the craft beers:

Lawson's Finest Liquid
Firestone Walker
Von Trapp
Right Proper

Lower School

Oct. 16, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, October 17
Fourth Grade Crenshaw Arcade

Monday, October 20
Fifth Grade #SAINTSSING AT CPAC 🎙️

Wednesday, October 22
Photo Make-up Day📸
LS Family Math Game Night

Thursday, October 23
Festive Fall dress-down day

Friday, October 24
LS Professional Day (School Closed)

Friday, October 31
Halloween class parties - varied times🎃
Halloween Parade

Supporting our Saints
We know the ongoing federal government shutdown is impacting many in our community. If there is a situation in which the school can be helpful to your family in any way, please contact the Business Office at 703-212-2730. And, as always, our counselors are available to support your children's needs.

Lower School: Ashley Correia (703-212-2780) and Miles Henderson (703- 212-2845)
Middle School: Karen Kunz (703-212-2738)
Upper School: Susannah Harrison (703-212-2750)

ACADEMIC SUPPORT RESOURCE BOARD

Do you know what it means to have a growth mindset?
Are you familiar with the steps our school follows when academic concerns are identified for a student?
Do you know where to find audiobooks for your child?

You can find information related to these questions and many more on the Academic Support Resource Board created and maintained by our learning specialists. We hope the resource board is helpful to you!

MATTIE MIRACLE - HALLOWEEN CANDY DRIVE!

St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School is once again partnering with the Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation to collect Halloween candy. The Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation seeks to provide psychosocial and mental health care to enable children with cancer to live happy and productive lives. This candy goes towards stocking the foundation’s free snack and item carts in area hospitals. These carts offer comfort and support to patients and their loved ones during their hospital stays.

Bins will be on each campus for collection starting on Thursday, October 30.

In a departure from years past, we cannot accept loose, individual pieces of candy as donations. We ask that you only donate full, unopened candy bags. This is because area hospitals must abide by health and safety guidelines. As you do your candy shopping, feel free to grab an extra bag to donate to Mattie Miracle, or donate what you have not opened (or what is left on store shelves) after Halloween. Alternatively, you can donate through the organization’s Amazon Wishlist.

Thank you in advance for your support, and thank you to the Mattie Miracle Cancer Foundation for their years of partnership!

FIFTH-GRADE #SAINTSSING AT CPAC
Fifth-grade Saints Choir will be participating in the #SaintsSing Festival, an annual event bringing singers from all three divisions together to build rapport and enjoy a rich musical experience.

#SaintsSing is an afternoon event during which all choral students (grades 5-12) participate in workshops with guest clinician Troy Robertson. He is the Director of Choirs at Tarleton State University in Texas and the composer of our 5th-12th grade performance piece “In Meeting We Are Blessed.” It is always a privilege to work on a piece with the composer of that music.

#SaintsSing will take place on Monday, October 20, 2025

Students will eat lunch at the LS before boarding buses. We will return to the lower school for regular dismissal.

We are looking forward to having our 5th-grade students join the MS singers, the US singers, and the amazing Troy Robertson for a joyous and purposeful experience!

Please contact Rebecca Gehlhoff at rgehlhoff@sssas.org with any questions.

HALLOWEEN PARADE
FRIDAY, OCT. 31

We are excited to share details about the Lower School Halloween parade!

Q: What happens if it’s raining during the parade? Will the parade still happen?

A: If it’s drizzling a little, we will go ahead and do the parade outside. If it’s really raining, we will hold the parade in the gym. Parents will gather in the gym, and students will parade through it. We will announce which grades are entering so that parents of those children can get up front.

Q: Is Friday a dress-down day?

A: No, it’s a regular dress day. Students should come to school in their normal uniforms and bring their costumes. Teachers will help students change into their costumes before the parade.

Q: What is the parade route?

Information will be shared next week on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Other Important Halloween Parade Information

Students will attend class parties before the parade.
The parade will begin at 2:15 p.m. in front of MacKinnon Hall and go in a loop around the rear (Macan Hall side) of Lloyd House.
While the students are in their class parties, parents not involved in organizing and running the parties, and younger siblings are invited to stop by tables that will be available at each grade-level viewing location for refreshments.
When the parade is over, parents can pick up their students from their classrooms for dismissal. Please notify your child's teacher and update SchoolPass when you are taking your child home.

As a reminder, we have the following guidelines:

Students should not bring weapons of any type as accessories including swords, guns, or knives.
Students should not wear masks that impair their ability to see and walk safely.
Inflatable costumes are permissible as long as the student can walk safely.
Students should not wear costumes/masks that are ghoulish, frightening, or involve frightening elements (such as blood).
Costumes should be respectful and in keeping with the school’s character traits: respect, responsibility, honesty, and compassion.
Students should plan for individual costumes and not plan group costumes.
Students should also keep in mind that not everyone in our school community celebrates or dresses up, and it is important to respect those who do not celebrate Halloween.

LET’S KEEP OUR STREAM CLEAN!

Help care for our local stream near the Lower School by picking up litter and keeping our waterways clean. All tools and supplies will be provided — just bring your enthusiasm and dress for the weather!

📅 Date: Saturday, November 1

🕘 Time: 9:00–11:00 a.m. (Join us anytime!)

📍 Location: Timber Branch Stream (It can be accessed where E. Timberbranch Pkwy and Timber Branch Drive intersection). For a map of the area, refer to the Stream Clean Up Flyer.

Questions: Contact Leslie Williams at lwilliams@sssas.org

OCT 1-31: PARENT CHALLENGE UPDATES - GIVE HERE (sssas.org/ppc)

We’re halfway through the 2025 Parent Challenge! Thank you to the over 270 Saints Parents who’ve already made gifts totaling over $350,000 this month. We’re 45% of the way to our goal of 600 donors!

Highest Participation by Class (%):

Class of 2035 - 30%

Class of 2029 - 30%

Class of 2032 - 27%

Make your gift today and show your support for our students and faculty!

OCT 25: SAINTS FUND PARENT PARTY AT US COMMONS- RSVP HERE

Connect with fellow parents and show your support for SSSAS at a celebratory evening with delicious classic tailgate food, a craft beer tasting, and retro arcade games. RSVP to let us know you're coming!

Sneak preview of the craft beers:

Lawson's Finest Liquid
Firestone Walker
Von Trapp
Right Proper

Lower School

Oct. 9, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, October 10
Early Saints Event: Books, Bears, and Blankets📚🧸
La Bomba - Semilla Cultural Assembly
Third Grade Publishing Party

Monday, October 13
Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day (School Closed)

Wednesday, October 15
ES-2 Author Visit - Chris Van Dusen📚

Friday, October 17
Fourth Grade Crenshaw Arcade

Wednesday, October 22
Photo Make-up Day📸
LS Family Math Game Night

Thursday, October 23
Festive Fall dress-down day🍂🍁🧥

Friday, October 24
LS Professional Day (School Closed)

Friday, October 31
Halloween class parties - varied times

Supporting our Saints
We know the ongoing federal government shutdown is impacting many in our community. If there is a situation in which the school can be helpful to your family in any way, please contact the Business Office at 703-212-2730.

And, as always, our counselors are available to support your children's needs.

Lower School: Ashley Correia (703-212-2780) and Miles Henderson (703- 212-2845)

Middle School: Karen Kunz (703-212-2738)

Upper School: Susannah Harrison (703-212-2750)

2025 Speaker Series: Parents Under Pressure: Fireside Chat with U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy
November 5, 2025 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

As the 19th and 21st U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy focused on critical public health issues from mental health and addiction to loneliness and violence. In 2024, he published Parents Under Pressure: The U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on the Mental Health and Well-Being of Parents. Parents Council of Washington (PCW) is pleased to welcome Dr. Murthy to discuss the epidemic of parental pressure and how it impacts our children and families. All PCW member school parents, administrators, faculty, and staff are invited to attend and dinner will be served. Wednesday, November 5, 6:00-8:00pm, Sidwell Friends School - DC Campus.

STUDENT CHECK-IN AND DROP-OFF REMINDERS
As a reminder, if you are signing your child in or out of school, please be sure to complete the process through SchoolPass at the front office. All visitors must sign in and obtain a visitor’s pass. This helps us maintain accurate attendance records and ensures every child’s safety throughout the day. We also ask that families drop students off at the front office rather than walking them to their classrooms. Our faculty and staff are ready to welcome students and help them get settled so that they can begin their day smoothly and independently.

Thank you for your partnership in helping us keep our routines safe and consistent for all students.

PHOTOGRAPHS📸
Individual student photos are now available online.

Please visit this link to view your child’s photo, and use your student ID when prompted to make an order. The student ID can be found on the school website under your child's profile.

This session is open to those who meet the following criteria:

- New students or staff

- Absentees from the original session

- Dissatisfied individuals with their original picture day portrait

For questions regarding school pictures, email the vendor Victor O'Neill Studios at underclass@vosphoto.com.

PHOTO MAKEUP DAY
Wednesday, October 22
Note: Students who wish to retake their photo must return their original photo package to the photographer.

FESTIVE FALL DRESS-DOWN DAY🍂🍁🧥
Thursday, October 23
We are excited to announce a Festive Fall dress-down day on Thursday, October 23.
We would like the students to wear their favorite fall colors and cozy outfits. Let’s show some autumn spirit! - No Costumes, please.

FOURTH ANNUAL CRENSHAW ARCADE - Hosted by Fourth Grade
Fourth graders are reading Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate. It is a wonderful book that connects students to the topics of homelessness and food insecurity. The author of Crenshaw had an idea to have individual schools host food drives to benefit local food banks. The fourth graders have taken this idea and combined it with an arcade, to create a fun and meaningful project that benefits our local community with fun for our students! Though Crenshaw presents a fictional setting for our students, childhood hunger is not imaginary! Please join our effort in supporting families that are experiencing food insecurity. Our students will be asked to bring canned goods and toiletries (see list below) to gain entry into the arcade.

Items can be placed in bins in the McBride foyer and the MacKinnon foyer. Suggested items are below. Please NO GLASS items.

Note: For our Early Saints through First Grade students, we recommend that they bring in hygiene products that are easier for them to carry into the building.

Food Items

Canned pumpkin
Mac and cheese
Canned yams
Gravy (cans, packets), turkey, poultry, or mushroom
Corn
Cornbread mix
Cranberry sauces
Green beans
Sweetened condensed milk
Stuffing

Hygiene Products

Travel Size Shampoo
Travel Size Conditioner
Chapstick
Toothbrushes
Bar Soap
Band-aids
Socks
Individual facial tissue
Dental Floss
Deodorant

FALL PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Friday, November 14, is Parent/Teacher Conference Day, teachers will be in touch with sign-up instructions. Please also note that Friday, November 14 is a No School Day for ES-5 students.

CALLING ALL VETERANS AND THOSE WHO CURRENTLY SERVE IN THE ARMED FORCES
We will honor veterans at our chapel on Thursday, November 13, and invite all Lower School family members who currently serve or have served in the armed forces to be our guests of honor. There will be a breakfast before the chapel service for those who are able to attend. Please fill out this form to let us know whether you can attend and/or to share a picture of yourself in uniform regardless of whether you will be able to join us.

OCT 1-31: PARENT CHALLENGE - 22 DAYS LEFT- GIVE HERE- sssas.org/ppc

We're 30% of the way through our month-long challenge, and over 200 parents have made gifts totaling over $300,000 for SSSAS. To keep the momentum going, we’re thrilled to announce that two more families have stepped up and are offering a new matching gift challenge!

NEW- $20,000 dollar-for-dollar match from a Middle School Saints family and an Upper School Saints family to match parent gifts to the Saints Fund made this month
NEW- $10,000 dollar-for-dollar match from a Parent of Alumni for any gifts from Parents of Alumni
Match Complete- $15,0000 dollar-for-dollar match offered by the SSSAS Board of Governors for every parent gift made this month to the Saints Fund
Match Complete- $10,0000 dollar-for-dollar match offered by a Lower School family for the first 100 parent gifts made this month
$50,000 dollar-for-dollar match from a Saints Alumna for gifts made to the Gift of a Saints Education.

Keep building that class participation! The Class of 2029 is currently setting the pace with 26% participation!

OCT 25: SAINTS FUND PARENT PARTY AT US COMMONS- RSVP HERE

Did you miss the invitation last weekend? Once you’ve made your gift, be sure to RSVP to the Parent Party! This is your chance to connect with other parents while enjoying delicious classic tailgate food from Susan Gage catering, a craft beer tasting, and more. Were you a Pac-Man or foosball fanatic? Get ready—we’re setting up a retro arcade with those games and more!

COMMUNITY JAZZ ROOM SESSIONS CONCERT SERIES

We are excited to announce the opening concert for our Community Jazz Room Sessions Concert series, on Wednesday, October 22.

Our opening concert features the SSSAS Community Jazz Octet under the music direction of Vaughn Ambrose, ES-12 Performing Arts Chair. This all-star professional ensemble, featuring some of the metro area's most talented instrumentalists, comes together for an evening celebrating the 100th birthday of legendary saxophonist Dave Pell and his Octet. Space is limited, so we ask that you RSVP by Friday, October 17, 2025.RESERVATION LINK

Post-concert reception will include refreshments.

Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to experience exceptional jazz music with our school community!

FIRST TECH CHALLENGE (FTC)

SSSAS is thrilled to be hosting a FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) event at St. Stephen's and St. Agnes Upper School Campus on January 17 and 18. We are reaching out to help recruit volunteers for this exciting day of robotics, teamwork, and STEM learning.

We are reaching out in hopes that you can help by:

Volunteering on one or both days — This link will allow you to volunteer for January 17 and this link will work for January 18 (you'll need to sign up for each day separately). Volunteers will need to complete a few quick online steps, including training and Youth Protection screening.
Recruiting other volunteers — Please share this opportunity with friends, family, or colleagues.
Connecting us with organizations that might be interested in supporting the event.

We’ll need over 150 volunteers across both days. No experience or technology background is required, and volunteers can choose the role that best fits their interests/skills. Students (ages 13 and over) are welcome to volunteer as well, and this will count for volunteer hours.

Our events rely on dedicated volunteers to make them possible — from judging and field setup to registration and team support. Whether someone can give a few hours or the full day, their time directly helps local students grow their skills in problem-solving, innovation, and collaboration.

Questions or ideas?
Contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Julie Riedy at jiedy@sssas.org.

REMINDERS

PLAYGROUND USE AFTER SCHOOL DURING EXTENDED DAY 🛝🏀
We love seeing our Lower School Saints enjoying the playground after school! To help keep everyone safe, children must be actively supervised by an adult. Supervision from inside a vehicle does not allow for proper safety monitoring. Please plan to sit near your Saint and remain off cell phones while supervising. Your presence and attention help ensure a safe and happy playtime for all. Questions? Please contact Mary Kelley.

LS ASSEMBLY
On Friday, October 10, we are excited to welcome OSemilla Cultural, a volunteer-based nonprofit dedicated to preserving and sharing Puerto Rican culture through the art of Bomba music and dance. Founded in 2014, Semilla Cultural has united communities across the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area with their performances and workshops. During their visit to our school, students will experience the rhythms, instruments, and stories of Bomba, learn basic dance steps, and see the special dancer-drummer connection come alive in a joyful showcase that celebrates creativity, community, and cultural heritage.

RACE FOR EVERY CHILD
The Children’s National Hospital on October 18, 2025, will hold the Race for Every Child that includes a Kids 100-yard dash and 5k to raise funds and honor children like Ryan Kirkby, a Saint who underwent treatment for Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. Members of the Saints community are invited to join the “Ryan’s Warriors IDGF (I Don’t Give up the Fight)” Team as a way to remember Ryan and show support for his parents, family, and other children who need care at Children's National. If you are interested in participating in the race either in-person or virtually, you can find more information on the Ryan’s Warriors Team registration page.

Lower School

Oct. 2, 2025

*UPCOMING EVENTS*
Log in to the Parent Portal for specific times and information!

Friday, October 3
Blessing of the Animals

Friday, October 10
Third Grade Publishing Party
Semilla Cultural Assembly

Monday, October 13
Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day (School Closed)

Wednesday, October 15
ES-2 Author Visit - Chris Van Dusen

Friday, October 17
Fourth Grade Crenshaw Arcade

LS BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS🐕🐿️🐈🦒
Tomorrow, Friday, October 3, we will hold our annual Blessing of the Animals where family and class pets can be blessed by our chaplains. Please contact Rev. Grace Pratt gpratt@sssas.org with any questions about the chapel and our religion curriculum. She welcomes hearing from you.

PLAYGROUND USE AFTER SCHOOL DURING EXTENDED DAY 🛝🏀
We love seeing our Lower School Saints enjoying the playground after school! To help keep everyone safe, children must be actively supervised by an adult. Supervision from inside a vehicle does not allow for proper safety monitoring. Please plan to sit near your Saint and remain off cell phones while supervising. Your presence and attention help ensure a safe and happy playtime for all. Questions? Please contact Mary Kelley.

BUILDING OUR SAINTS COMMUNITY

This week, our Lower School came together to reflect on the kind of community we are striving to build. On Wednesday, Grades 2-5 gathered for an assembly, and on Friday, our Early Saints through 1st Grade students will do the same. Together, we are revisiting our shared expectations through the lens of our core character traits – Compassion, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. These moments remind us that each student plays an important role in shaping a caring, respectful, and joyful community where everyone can thrive.

In addition to discussing the character traits, we discussed our five overarching school rules and the students committed to our Saints Community Agreement:

Five overarching school rules:

Be Kind
Follow the Golden Rule
Be Positive
Be Respectful
Learn From Your Mistakes

Saints Community Agreement: “I promise to show respect, take responsibility, act with compassion, and always be honest. Together we make our school a safe and happy place to learn and grow.”

We encourage you to continue this important conversation at home. You can help reinforce the connection between school and home and support your child in living out these values every day.

LS ASSEMBLY

On Friday, October 10, we are excited to welcome Semilla Cultural, a volunteer-based nonprofit dedicated to preserving and sharing Puerto Rican culture through the art of Bomba music and dance. Founded in 2014, Semilla Cultural has united communities across the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area with their performances and workshops. During their visit to our school, students will experience the rhythms, instruments, and stories of Bomba, learn basic dance steps, and see the special dancer-drummer connection come alive in a joyful showcase that celebrates creativity, community, and cultural heritage.

LOWER SCHOOL FAMILY MATH NIGHT
Wednesday, October 22

We are delighted to bring back our Lower School Family Math Night.

Please join us in Daniel Gym for an evening of fun with engaging math games. Come play a few of the interactive games your children are playing in class and see how these activities consolidate and extend mathematical thinking.

Please RSVP by filling out RSVP Form.

Questions, please contact Ann Bremner, Director of Lower School Mathematics. We look forward to seeing you there!

PARENT CHALLENGE -DOUBLE YOUR DONATION- GIVE HERE

OCT 1-31: $15,000 dollar-for-dollar Saints Fund match challenge offered by our SSSAS Board of Governors. All gifts to the Saints Fund will be matched in full! Provided by our SSSAS Board of Governors.

$10,000 match challenge offered by a Lower School Saints Parent. Once 100 Saints make a gift, $10,000 will be donated to the school.

$50,000 match challenge offered by an alumna! All gifts to the Gift of a Saints Education will be matched dollar-for-dollar.

SAINTS FUND PARENT PARTY
Oct. 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at US COMMONS- RSVP HERE

Celebrate with your fellow Saints Parents and Parents of Alumni supporters at the Parent Party on October 25. Enjoy a festive evening with classic tailgate favorites, craft beer tasting, and old-school arcade games. It's a chance to connect with other parents and show your support for our school.

Lower School Saints Fund Grade Chairs

2033 - Jo Wynter ‘33

2034 - Sign up to be a 2034 Parent Chair

2035 - Jalele Defa ‘35, Aida Knowles ‘35, ‘37

2036 - Dennesha Diaz ‘31, ‘36, Bryan Wood '36

2037 - Ronella Taylor '37

2038 - Megan and Chris Hansen '38

2039 - Julie Kelly '39

RACE FOR EVERY CHILD
The Children’s National Hospital on October 18, 2025, will hold the Race for Every Child that includes a Kids 100-yard dash and 5k to raise funds and honor children like Ryan Kirkby, a Saint who underwent treatment for Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. Members of the Saints community are invited to join the “Ryan’s Warriors IDGF (I Don’t Give up the Fight)” Team as a way to remember Ryan and show support for his parents, family, and other children who need care at Children's National. If you are interested in participating in the race either in-person or virtually, you can find more information on the Ryan’s Warriors Team registration page.

**REMINDERS**

SINCLAIR LIBRARY
SSSAS Lower School families are invited to visit the newly renovated Sinclair Library. After months of updates, we can't wait to show off our fresh, welcoming space designed with our Saints' readers in mind. Join us on Thursday, October 2, from 8:00-8:30 a.m. to explore where your readers spend time reading and learning throughout the school year. We look forward to welcoming you into this exciting new chapter of our school's story!

SPEAKER SERIES - A CONVERSATION WITH JEFF SELINGO OCTOBER 8, 2025
Parents Council of Washington (PCW) is pleased to welcome Jeff Selingo, bestselling author and in-depth reporter, to share insights about the future of higher education. He will discuss the latest trends in college admissions and share highlights from his new book, Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You, a must-have playbook for families coping with a stressful era of college admission. All PCW member school parents, administrators, faculty, and staff are invited to attend. Registered attendees may submit questions in advance to administration@parentscouncil.org by October 3.

Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 7:00-8:30 p.m. via Zoom REGISTER HERE

THE 2025 JACK-O-LANTERN JUBILEE 🎃
A Halloween celebration for our Lower School families. Join us after school on Thursday, October 23, at the Middle School campus (4401 West Braddock Road, Alexandria). The Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee is an immersive experience on our Middle School campus, guided by the Saints Acting Guild. Audience members will see our Middle Schoolers dance to classic Halloween songs, from "This is Halloween” to "Monster Mash"! Eighth-grade Drama students will take each group on their "haunted" tour throughout the MS campus.

SIGN UP HERE to secure your family’s attendance at this year’s Jubilee! Please sign up for one time slot per family and arrive five minutes before your slotted time. At the end of your experience, candy will be handed out by MS Director Bee Stribling!

*** The parking lot will be closed in order to accommodate for performances so please plan to park on West Braddock Road and walk to the school.
*** This Halloween-themed event is appropriate for Saints of all ages!

Lower School

Sept. 25, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday, September 26
LS STEAM Day
LS SAINTS SPIRIT DAY
Red & Green Saints Spirit Dress Down Day in honor of Homecoming Weekend.

Saturday, September 27
Fall Festival - US Campus, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m

Monday, September 29
LS SAINTS SPIRIT DAY
Red & Green Saints Spirit Dress Down Day in honor of our Fifth Annual Saints Fund Parent Participation Challenge

Monday, October 13
Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day (School Closed)

SAINTS FUND PARENT PARTICIPATION CHALLENGE

Our Saints Fund Grade Chair volunteers will begin reaching out to fellow parents next week. Please take a moment to speak with them and consider how you can show your support for our school during this one-month challenge. Make a gift and then RSVP for the Saints Fund Parent Party on Saturday, October 25, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Upper School Commons, where we will celebrate the impact of parent philanthropy.

Our division directors have generously announced an all-school Saints spirit dress down day for this Monday, Sept. 29, to celebrate the kick-off of our parent challenge!

Calendar Dates:

September 29: Parent Participation Challenge kick-off all-school Saints spirit dress down

October 1-31: Fifth Annual Saints Fund Parent Participation Challenge Make a gift!

October 25: Saints Fund Parent Party, 6:30-8:30 pm at the Upper School Commons, RSVP to attend!

SAINTS FUND PARENT PARTICIPATION CHALLENGE
Our Saints Fund Grade Chair volunteers will begin reaching out to fellow parents next week. Please take a moment to speak with them and consider how you can show your support for our school during this one-month challenge.

Lower School Saints Fund Grade Chairs

2033 - Jo Wynter ‘33

2034 - Sign up to be a 2034 Parent Chair

2035 - Jalele Defa ‘35, Aida Knowles ‘35, ‘37

2036 - Dennesha Diaz ‘31, ‘36, Bryan Wood '36

2037 - Ronella Taylor '37

2038 - Megan and Chris Hansen '38

2039 - Julie Kelly '39

SINCLAIR LIBRARY

SSSAS Lower School families are invited to visit the newly renovated Sinclair Library. After months of updates, we can't wait to show off our fresh, welcoming space designed with our Saints' readers in mind. Join us on Thursday, October 2, from 8:00-8:30 a.m. to explore where your readers spend time reading and learning throughout the school year. We look forward to welcoming you into this exciting new chapter of our school's story!

Speaker Series - A Conversation with Jeff Selingo October 8, 2025
Parents Council of Washington (PCW) is pleased to welcome Jeff Selingo, bestselling author and in-depth reporter, to share insights about the future of higher education. He will discuss the latest trends in college admissions and share highlights from his new book, Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You, a must-have playbook for families coping with a stressful era of college admission. All PCW member school parents, administrators, faculty, and staff are invited to attend. Registered attendees may submit questions in advance to administration@parentscouncil.org by October 3.

Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 7:00 - 8:30 pm via Zoom

REGISTER HERE

THE 2025 JACK-O-LANTERN JUBILEE

A Halloween celebration for our Lower School families. Join us after school on Thursday, Oct. 23, at the Middle School campus (4401 West Braddock Road, Alexandria).

The Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee is an immersive experience on our Middle School campus, guided by the Saints Acting Guild. Audience members will see our Middle Schoolers dance to classic Halloween songs, from "This is Halloween” to "Monster Mash"! 8th-grade Drama students will take each group on their "haunted" tour throughout the MS campus.

SIGN UP HERE to secure your family’s attendance at this year’s Jubilee! Please sign up for one time slot per family and arrive five minutes before your slotted time. At the end of your experience, candy will be handed out by MS Director Bee Stribling!

*** The parking lot will be closed in order to accommodate for performances so please plan to park on West Braddock Road and walk to the school.

*** This Halloween-themed event is appropriate for Saints of all ages!

REMINDERS

PLEASE READ IF YOU EXIT CAMPUS TO BRADDOCK ROAD

If you are someone who leaves campus by taking a right on Windsor to Braddock Road, you know how backed up it can get, which makes it really hard to navigate. It also makes it difficult for our Windsor neighbors to exit their driveways, or for those turning onto Windsor from Braddock to get down the street toward campus or Russell Road. With this in mind, we ask that you:

Keep an eye out for neighbors exiting their driveways and stop to let them out look ahead towards Braddock and stop far back enough so that oncoming traffic can make their way safely around parked cars Like Fontaine, Windsor is quite narrow and not designed well for lots of traffic, so we appreciate your attentiveness and courteousness while driving on it!

VISITORS AND PARENTS ON THE LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS
Please contact the front office before entering any building by ringing the buzzer at the door and waiting for a response. Do not enter the building until greeted by the front desk staff and given further instructions.

SCHOOL PHOTO INFORMATION

Pre-order Online: https://shop.imagequix.com/g1001277101

Images Available: Approximately two or three weeks after picture day Questions about Ordering? Email underclass@vosphoto.com

Please note the photo makeup date is Wednesday, October 22

DAILY ATTENDANCE

St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes use the digital attendance SchoolPass system to enhance student safety and improve attendance-related communication. Parents are asked to use SchoolPass to report an absence, late arrival, or early dismissal.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL FROM SCHOOL

If your child arrives late or needs to leave early, please accompany them into the office to sign them in or out.

EXTENDED CARE

Families requiring drop-in care must reserve 24 hours in advance. Noting your child in SchoolPass without a Reservation does not guarantee drop-in care.

PLAYGROUND SAFETY

LS students are welcome to play on the age-appropriate playgrounds after school. Parents and guardians must stay adjacent to their Saint and supervise them for safety.

Questions: Please contact Mary Kelley at mkelley@sssas.org.

SCHOOL PRAYER AND BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS (October 3)

In our weekly chapel, we will continue to recite the St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School prayer. We are including it here for our new Saints.

Our heavenly Father. We give you thanks this day for all the blessings you have showered upon us—our free land, food, shelter, and the ability to work and play without fear. We ask that you look with compassion upon all children in distress wherever they may be. Grant them and us your peace in the name of the Christ Child. Amen.

Lower School Chapel on Thursday, October 2, will be on the MacKinnon turf field to honor St. Francis ofAssisi and his love for all creation. The next day, Friday, October 3, we will hold our annual Blessing of the Animals at 4:00 p.m. (Macan Outdoor Amphitheater) where family and class pets can be blessed by our chaplains. Stay tuned for more information.

Please contact the Rev. Grace Pratt at gpratt@sssas.org with any questions about chapel and our religion curriculum. She welcomes hearing from you.

HALLOWEEN AT THE LOWER SCHOOL🎃

COSTUMES FOR THE HALLOWEEN PARADE

Some students have already begun thinking about Halloween costumes that they will wear for our annual Halloween parade. To keep this event safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone, we have the following guidelines:

Parents will be invited.
Please stay tuned for the schedule.
Students should also keep in mind that not everyone in our school community celebrates or dresses up, and it is important to respect those who do not celebrate Halloween.

As you plan your costumes, please keep the following guidelines in mind:

Group costumes are not permitted. We want to avoid any feelings of exclusion for our participating students.
Costumes should not include weapons of any type as accessories including swords, guns, or knives.
Students should not wear costumes/masks that are ghoulish, frightening or involve frightening elements (such as blood).
Costumes should be respectful and in keeping with the school’s character traits: respect, responsibility, honesty, and compassion.

We will provide more details about the parade and the Halloween festivities in an upcoming edition of the WIT.

INTERESTED IN GIRL SCOUTS?

Currently, SSSAS has active troops for First through Fifth grades at the Lower School, with a Kindergarten Daisy troop forming. Each troop is run independently by parent volunteers, with an occasional all-school event. Kindergarteners interested in joining Daisies should reach out to Shannon McCrone and plan to attend an information session on September 28. If your girl in other grades is interested in scouting and wants to know more, check out this Girl Scouts flyer or contact Christina McNamee.

Divider LogoO

Lower School

Sept. 18, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday, September 19

Fire Drill - Lloyd House/MacKinnon/Sinclair Halls only, 8:45 a.m.

Tuesday, September 23

Fire Drill - McBride/Macan/Daniel Halls Only, 8:50 a.m.

Jr. Kindergarten goes to Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 9:45 – 11:45 a.m.

Friday, September 26

LS STEAM Day

LS SAINTS SPIRIT DAY

Red & Green Saints Spirit Dress Down Day in honor of Homecoming Weekend. Please help your child choose something spirited so we can fill the campus with SAINTS pride!

Saturday, September 27

Fall Festival - US Campus, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, September 30

Kindergarten goes to Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food & Agriculture, 9:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Thursday, October 2

LS Outdoor St. Francis Chapel - MacKinnon Turf Field, 8:35-9:05 a.m.

Friday, October 3

Grades 2-3: School Evacuation Rally Point Field Trip, 8:50 – 9:20 a.m.

Blessing of the Animals - Amphitheater, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

SCHOOL PHOTO INFORMATION

Pre-order Online: https://shop.imagequix.com/g1001277101

Images Available: Approximately two or three weeks after picture day

Questions about Ordering? Email underclass@vosphoto.com

Please note the photo makeup date is Wednesday, October 22

DAILY ATTENDANCE

St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes uses the digital attendance SchoolPass system to enhance student safety and improve attendance-related communication. Parents are asked to use SchoolPass to report an absence, late arrival, or early dismissal.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL FROM SCHOOL

If your child arrives late or needs to leave early, please accompany them into the office to sign them in or out.

EXTENDED CARE

Families requiring drop-in care must reserve 24 hours in advance. Noting your child in SchoolPass without a reservation does not guarantee drop-in care.

PLAYGROUND SAFETY

LS students are welcome to play on the age-appropriate playgrounds after school. Parents and guardians must stay adjacent to their Saint and supervise them for safety.

Questions: Please contact Mary Kelley at mkelley@sssas.org.

FIRE DRILLS

We wanted to inform you that the Lower School will be conducting Fire Drills on the dates listed below:

Friday, September 19 - Grades ES - 1

Wednesday, September 23 - ELC and Grades 2 through 5

As part of our regular safety preparedness efforts, our school will be conducting fire drills. This practice allows students and staff to rehearse safe and orderly evacuation procedures in case of an emergency.

Please note that this is only a scheduled drill, and there is no cause for concern. Our goal is to ensure everyone is confident and prepared to respond quickly and safely. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Paul Easton at peaston@sssas.org

SCHOOL PRAYER AND BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

In our weekly chapel, we will continue to recite the St. Stephen's and St. Agnes School prayer. We are including it here for our new Saints.

Our heavenly Father. We give you thanks this day for all the blessings you have showered upon us—our free land, food, shelter, and the ability to work and play without fear. We ask that you look with compassion upon all children in distress wherever they may be. Grant them and us your peace in the name of the Christ Child. Amen.

Lower School Chapel on Thursday, October 2, will be on the McKinnon turf field to honor St. Francis of Assisi and his love for all creation.

The next day, Friday, October 3, we will hold our annual Blessing of the Animals at 4:00 p.m.(Macan Outdoor Amphitheater) where family and class pets can be blessed by our chaplains. Stay tuned for more information.

Please contact the Rev. Grace Pratt at gpratt@sssas.org with any questions about chapel and our religion curriculum. She welcomes hearing from you.

HALLOWEEN AT THE LOWER SCHOOL🎃

COSTUMES FOR THE HALLOWEEN PARADE
Some students have already begun thinking about Halloween costumes that they will wear for our annual Halloween parade on Thursday, October 31, at 2:15 p.m. To keep this event safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone, we have the following guidelines:

Parents will be invited.
Please stay tuned for the schedule.
Students should also keep in mind that not everyone in our school community celebrates or dresses up, and it is important to respect those who do not celebrate Halloween.

As you plan your costumes, please keep the following guidelines in mind:

Group costumes are not permitted. We want to avoid any feelings of exclusion for our participating students.
Costumes should not include weapons of any type as accessories including swords, guns, or knives.
Students should not wear costumes/masks that are ghoulish, frightening or involve frightening elements (such as blood).
Costumes should be respectful and in keeping with the school’s character traits: respect, responsibility, honesty, and compassion.

We will provide more details about the parade and the Halloween festivities in an upcoming edition of the WIT.

SAINTS FUND PARENT PARTICIPATION CHALLENGE
Our Fifth Annual Parent Participation Challenge kicks off on Wednesday, October 1, with a special celebratory morning carpool drop-off!

Throughout October, our Saints Fund Grade Chairs will be reaching out to encourage every family to support our faculty, staff, and students through a donation to the 2025-26 Saints Fund or Gift of a Saints Education. We're aiming for 100% parent participation to show our collective support for the school. Last year, gifts of all sizes—from $5 to $50,000—added up to nearly $670,000!

This year, your gift can go even further. We have matching gift challenges to help double the impact of your donation. Don't forget to mark your calendars for the Parent Party on Saturday, October 25, a perfect opportunity to celebrate the support from our community. Stay tuned for more details!

Ready to help as a Saints Fund Grade Chair? Email Maya Tumiwa ‘18, Assistant Director of Annual Giving and Engagement at mtumiwa@sssas.org.

INTERESTED IN GIRL SCOUTS?
Currently, SSSAS has active troops for First through Fifth grades at the Lower School, with a Kindergarten Daisy troop forming. Each troop is run independently by parent volunteers, with an occasional all-school event. Kindergarteners interested in joining Daisies should reach out to Shannon McCrone and plan to attend an information session on September 28. If your girl in other grades is interested in scouting and wants to know more, check out this Girl Scouts flyer or contact Christina McNamee.

JOIN THE 2025 BETHESDA KIDS TRIATHLON
Support families fighting cancer in the Greater Washington, DC area by participating in this fun community event. Open to kids ages 6–14—whether it’s their first triathlon or they’re seasoned pros.

Sunday, September 21, 2025
Landon School, Bethesda, MD
Registration is limited to the first 500 racers.
Learn more, register, or volunteer at justtryanit.org

REMINDERS

CHECK OUT SAINTS NEWS!
We are pleased to highlight our Lower School Saints Newscast, produced weekly by our Lower School Technology Coordinator, Kay Ossio. Fifth graders lead the newscast as news anchors, which provides a lively update on campus happenings. Please access the Newscast page by logging into the resource board, where you will find archived editions of Saints News.

MESSAGE FROM NURSE BROWN
September is Head Lice Prevention Month across the country and highlights awareness of this insect and steps parents can take to avoid infestation.

Pediculosis, or Head Lice, is a condition that affects approximately 6-12 million children, primarily between the ages of 3-12. Head Lice are parasites that are generally found on the scalp, around the ears, and at the nape of the neck.

The adult louse is about the size of a sesame seed and can be the color of your child’s hair. Lice do not jump or fly; they crawl from head to head. Eggs, or nits, are smaller and whitish silver in color and adhere like glue to the shaft of hair near the scalp.

Please assist us by thoroughly inspecting your child’s hair and notifying the school if you observe either nits or lice. Although lice do not live off the human head for very long, it’s important to remind your child to avoid sharing personal items such as hats, scarves, coats, helmets, brushes, and elastic hair bands.

Children diagnosed with head lice do not necessarily need to be sent home early from school; they can go home at the end of the day, be treated, and return to class after appropriate treatment has begun. However, intense itching and constant scratching may make children uncomfortable, irritable, and unable to focus in class. In these cases, it’s in the child’s best interest to go home and start the lice removal process. Nits may persist after treatment, but successful treatment should kill live, crawling lice. Some products require a second treatment about 10-15 days after the initial application so it’s important to follow the package instructions.

Head lice can be a nuisance but they have not been shown to spread disease. Personal hygiene or cleanliness in the home or school has nothing to do with getting Head Lice. Visit the following websites for more information and guidance:

Pediculosis (Head Lice Infestation) – Epidemiology
How to Treat Lice - Effective Solutions and Tips

If you have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact the school nurse.

Kim Brown, RN, Lower School Nurse 703-212-2752 (office) kbrown@sssas.org

BLESSING BAGS FOR ALIVE
This year, the Lower School will be leading the entire school in collecting goods for our local community partners. The first set of monthly goods collections will focus on gathering materials to make blessing bags on the Lower School campus before Thanksgiving, and these will benefit our partner ALIVE!. To see the goods we are collecting this month through chapel, please visit this slideshow.

LS STUDENTS OF COLOR AFFINITY GROUPS
As part of our ES-12 programming, we are pleased to offer affinity groups at the Lower School for our fourth or fifth-grade students who identify as students of color*.

Affinity group meetings are designed to bring people together who share a common identity or experience. The Lower School lunch bunch model with the Lower School counselor has historically provided an opportunity for students to gather by grade level and gender in support of students’ individual and collective school experience.

We are pleased to present an opportunity for our students to engage in thoughtful dialogue through this affinity group, which is designed to create an adult-supervised safe space where students feel free to share openly and affirm identities. In doing so, it supports student development by fostering self-awareness, confidence, and healthy relationships that promote a more positive, inclusive, and successful school experience for all. Ms. Davis, Director of Institutional Equity and Diversity, and Ms. Bryant, Assistant to the LS Director, will serve as lead advisors.

Other LS faculty of color will participate in a recurring cycle. The group will meet once a month for 30 minutes during the fourth and fifth-grade lunch period. The first meeting will be on Thursday, October 2, at 12:00 pm. The meeting will last for approximately 30 minutes. If your child would like to participate, please complete the participation form by Tuesday, September 23. Students will not be allowed to participate without parental permission. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact Ms. Davis or Mrs.West, Lower School Division Director.

*The National Association of Independent Schools defines a person of color as identifying with one or more of the following Racial/Ethnic Groups: Black/African American, Asian American/South Asian, First Nation/Native American, Latino/Hispanic American, Middle Eastern American, Multiracial American, and Pacific Islander.

CUB SCOUT PACK 1515
Are you and your son interested in trying out Cub Scouts? If so, please come check out Pack 1515! Our Pack is for boys ages K-5 and meets at St. Stephen's and St. Agnes Lower School. We have a monthly Pack meeting (for all boys) beginning on September 9th, monthly Den meetings (for boys in the same grade), and hit all the Cub Scout highlights - fall and spring camping, Pinewood Derby racing, parade marching, hiking, and service projects. Boys can join at any point - no experience or expertise required.

If you are interested, please send an email to pack1515cubmaster@gmail.com for more details.

THE SAINTS ATHLETICS CLUB (SAC)

The Saints Athletics Club (SAC) is seeking both parent and student volunteers to help sell concessions at Steve & Aggies during certain home games (for all teams) this year. The money raised by selling drinks, snacks, and hot food contributes to SAC’s annual initiatives and directly supports the school’s athletic program, the players, and coaches. Please sign up HERE – it’s a great way to meet other Saints and to cheer on our teams.

Come join us!

Questions: Email Dina Koch at daokoch@gmail.com or Traci Leonardo, traci.leonardo72@gmail.com.

Carpool Reminder
Please remember to have your carpool placards clearly displayed during afternoon carpool. This helps us keep the line moving safely and efficiently. Four placards were provided to each family on Welcome Day. If you need additional placards, please reach out to Marilyn Bryant, mbryant@sssas.org for ES-1st Grade and

Lara Schwoebel, lschwoebel@sssas.org for 2nd-5th Grade.

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Lower School

Sept. 11, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday, September 12
Grades ES-1 Safety Assembly in MacKinnon Multipurpose Room, 8:30-8:50 a.m.
Grades 2-5 Safety Assembly in Daniel Gym, 9:00-9:15 a.m.

Monday, September 15
LS Individual and Class Photos

Wednesday, September 17
Fire Drill - McBride/Daniel/Macan Halls only, 8:45 a.m.

Friday, September 19
Fire Drill - Lloyd House/MacKinnon/Sinclair Halls only, 8:45 a.m.

September 26
LS SAINTS SPIRIT DAY
Friday, September 26, will be a Red & Green Saints Spirit Dress Down Day in honor of Homecoming Weekend.
LS STEAM Day!

Dear Lower School Families,

Thank you for attending last week’s Back-to-School Nights! Our faculty enjoyed spending time with you, and we hope that you feel informed and excited about the school year ahead! If you have not already, we encourage you to confirm your Hopes and Dreams conference with your child’s homeroom teacher.

As you continue to process all the information shared in Back-to-school communications as well as during Back-to-School Night and prepare for the Fall on the Lower School campus, please know we are all here to support you.

Don’t hesitate to reach out – you’re not alone, and we are always here to help with any questions or concerns you may have.

Warmly,

LaNessa West

PICTURE DAY📸

Monday, September 15 - 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Grades: ELC - 5
Student Individual and Group Picture Day(s) with Victor O’Neill Studios.
Images will be available to view and purchase approximately two weeks following our school's picture day. A pre-order link will be shared after Picture Day.

Dress Attire
Students should wear the daily uniform dress attire.

CHECK OUT SAINTS NEWS!

We are pleased to highlight our Lower School Saints Newscast, produced weekly by our Lower School Technology Coordinator, Kay Ossio. Fifth graders lead the newscast as news anchors, which provides a lively update on campus happenings. Please access the Newscast page by logging into the Resource Board, where you will find archived editions Saints News.

MESSAGE FROM NURSE BROWN

September is Head Lice Prevention Month across the country and highlights awareness of this insect and steps parents can take to avoid infestation.

Pediculosis, or Head Lice, is a condition that affects approximately 6-12 million children, primarily between the ages of 3 - 12. Head Lice are parasites that are generally found on the scalp, around the ears, and at the nape of the neck. The adult louse is about the size of a sesame seed and can be the color of your child’s hair. Lice do not jump or fly; they crawl from head to head. Eggs, or nits, are smaller and whitish silver in color and adhere like glue to the shaft of hair near the scalp.

Please assist us by thoroughly inspecting your child’s hair and notifying the school if you observe either nits or lice. Although lice do not live off the human head for very long, it’s important to remind your child to avoid sharing personal items such as hats, scarves, coats, helmets, brushes, and elastic hair bands.

Children diagnosed with head lice do not necessarily need to be sent home early from school; they can go home at the end of the day, be treated, and return to class after appropriate treatment has begun. However, intense itching and constant scratching may make children uncomfortable, irritable, and unable to focus in class. In these cases, it’s in the child’s best interest to go home and start the lice removal process. Nits may persist after treatment, but successful treatment should kill live, crawling lice. Some products require a second treatment about 10-15 days after the initial application so it’s important to follow the package instructions.

Head lice can be a nuisance but they have not been shown to spread disease. Personal hygiene or cleanliness in the home or school has nothing to do with getting Head Lice. Visit the following websites for more information and guidance:

Pediculosis (Head Lice Infestation) – Epidemiology
How to Treat Lice - Effective Solutions and Tips

If you have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact the school nurse:
Kim Brown, RN
Lower School Nurse
703-212-2752
kbrown@sssas.org

BLESSING BAGS FOR ALIVE

This year, the Lower School will be leading the entire school in collecting goods for our local community partners. The first set of monthly goods collections will focus on gathering materials to make blessing bags on the Lower School campus before Thanksgiving, and these will benefit our partner ALIVE!. To see the goods we are collecting this month through chapel, please visit this slideshow.

LS STUDENTS OF COLOR AFFINITY GROUPS

As part of our ES-12 programming, we are pleased to offer affinity groups at the Lower School for our fourth or fifth-grade students who identify as students of color*.

Affinity group meetings are designed to bring people together who share a common identity or experience. The Lower School lunch bunch model with the Lower School counselor has historically provided an opportunity for students to gather by grade level and gender in support of students’ individual and collective school experience.

We are pleased to present an opportunity for our students to engage in thoughtful dialogue through this affinity group, which is designed to create an adult-supervised safe space where students feel free to share openly and affirm identities. In doing so, it supports student development by fostering self-awareness, confidence, and healthy relationships that promote a more positive, inclusive, and successful school experience for all. Ms. Davis, Director of Institutional Equity and Diversity, and Ms. Bryant, Assistant to the LS Director, will serve as lead advisors.

Other LS faculty of color will participate in a recurring cycle. The group will meet once a month for 30 minutes during the fourth and fifth-grade lunch period. The first meeting will be on Thursday, October 2, at 12:00 pm. The meeting will last for approximately 30 minutes. If your child would like to participate, please complete the participation form by Tuesday, September 23. Students will not be allowed to participate without parental permission. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact Ms. Davis or Mrs.West, Lower School Division Director.

*The National Association of Independent Schools defines a person of color as identifying with one or more of the following Racial/Ethnic Groups: Black/African American, Asian American/South Asian, First Nation/Native American, Latino/Hispanic American, Middle Eastern American, Multiracial American, and Pacific Islander.

CUB SCOUT PACK 1515

Are you and your son interested in trying out Cub Scouts? If so, please come check out Pack 1515!

Our Pack is for boys ages K-5 and meets at St. Stephen's and St. Agnes Lower School. We have a monthly Pack meeting (for all boys) beginning on September 9th, monthly Den meetings (for boys in the same grade), and hit all the Cub Scout highlights - fall and spring camping, Pinewood Derby racing, parade marching, hiking, and service projects. Boys can join at any point - no experience or expertise required.

If you are interested, please send an email to pack1515cubmaster@gmail.com for more details.

THE SAINTS ATHLETICS CLUB (SAC)

The Saints Athletics Club (SAC) is seeking both parent and student volunteers to help sell concessions at Steve & Aggies during certain home games (for all teams) this year. The money raised by selling drinks, snacks, and hot food contributes to SAC’s annual initiatives and directly supports the school’s athletic program, the players, and coaches. Please sign up HERE – it’s a great way to meet other Saints and to cheer on our teams.

Come join us!

Questions: Email Dina Koch at daokoch@gmail.com or Traci Leonardo traci.leonardo72@gmail.com.

CARPOOL REMINDER

Please remember to have your carpool placards clearly displayed during afternoon carpool. This helps us keep the line moving safely and efficiently. Four placards were provided to each family on Welcome Day. If you need additional placards please reach out to Marilyn Bryant, mbryant@sssas.org for ES-1st Grade and Lara Schwoebel, lschwoebel@sssas.org for 2nd-5th Grade.

**REMINDERS**

SUPPORTING YOU DURING THE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR

As we continue this exciting journey together, please keep the following in mind, and do not hesitate to reach out to LaNessa West, Jeremy Hark, Skylé Pearson, or our new Lower School Counselors, Ashley Correia and Miles Henderson for support. Ashley will serve as our full-time counselor. She will oversee Grades ES-5, but will primarily work with grades ES-3. Miles will serve as a part-time counselor and will primarily work with grades 4-5. Saints parents don’t worry alone; they reach out to us so we may partner.

There is no question, comment, idea, perspective, joy, or worry too big or small…we want to hear them all! We welcome your feedback about how your child engages with any aspect of our curriculum or community.

DOGS ON CAMPUS

Our Lower School campus is dog-friendly; however, we ask that you be mindful of our students' safety and comfort levels, as well as your dog's safety. Dogs should be on a leash. Additionally, to help us keep our campus clean and enjoyable for everyone, we kindly ask that you please clean up after your dog during visits. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a welcoming environment for all.

VISITORS AND PARENTS ON THE LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS
For the safety and security of our community, please check in upon arrival. Please ring the buzzer at the door of the building that you are visiting, wait for a response, and a green light before entering any building.

Everyone must sign in and obtain a name badge to visit on campus. After your visit, you must sign out.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Please do not exit your car in the carpool line; SSSAS staff will help your children get out of the car. Having your child practice buckling and unbuckling straps and belts will help with this process.

Please pull all the way forward for pick-up and drop-off.

During the MacKinnon/Sinclair drop-off, it helps things run smoothly if you have your children's backpacks in the front with you and pass them out the window after they exit the car.

SCHOOLPASS INFORMATION

Lower School uses a digital dismissal management and attendance system called SchoolPass to enhance student safety and ensure a speedier and more efficient dismissal. With this system, homeroom teachers will automatically be notified when you arrive on campus, and log your position in the carline queue. How does the dismissal system know when a parent arrives on campus?

Parent arrivals are detected by reading your license plate (LRP) and/or your EZPass RFID tag.Parents may also use the SchoolPass App to manually log themselves in when they arrive on campus.

Please double-check and make sure that your information is up-to-date, including your license plate numbers, approved pick-up people, etc.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL

8:20 a.m. School Day begins (Morning Meeting starts at 8:20 a.m.)
3:00 p.m. Dismissal for All Grades

All students need to be in their homerooms by 8:20 a.m., ready to start their school day. All homerooms begin their daywith morning work followed by a morning meeting, and having students at school on time is better for them and teachers alike, as it creates a smooth individual and class transition into the school day. We know that delays may be caused by everything from traffic to rain, and we will certainly understand in these circumstances. However, we ask that you make any necessary changes to your family’s morning routine so that your children can be in their classrooms by 8:20 a.m.

Also, please remember not to speed down Fontaine Street to facilitate this!

We ask that you help us ensure that we are good neighbors to those with homes near the Lower School Campus. Please mind the rules of the road in the Fontaine Street neighborhood (speed, stop signs, no left turn on red at the light) and be mindful of the presence ofpedestrians. Please do not block driveways and always obey posted speed limits.

EXTENDED DAY DROP-INS

For drop-in care, please email Mary Kelley (mkelley@sssas.org) 24 hours in advance so we can ensure we are within staff-to-student ratios. Noting your Saint in School Pass without confirmation does not guarantee a drop in care.

HELP US BE GOOD NEIGHBORS
Most traffic onto campus runs down Fontaine Street. This is a very narrow street (especially when cars are parked on both sides), and many young children live on it. As you drive down the street, it is critical that you do so:

slowly (the speed limit is 25 mph but even that can feel too fast given its narrowness)
safely (keep your eyes open for pedestrians and pets, and do not look at your phone or otherwise be distracted)
Courteously (let neighbors back out of their driveways and get down the street; do not park in front of driveways; if a neighbor asks you to slow down, please do so)

If you have any questions during carpool, all faculty/staff members assisting for the day will be wearing a safety vest.

Daily Schedule
The Lower School uses a numbered-day schedule operating on a six-day rotation. Please refer to the Lower School Resource Board for the rotation calendar.

MESSAGE FROM NURSE BROWN
PLEASE KEEP YOUR CHILD AT HOME WHEN SICK
One of the best ways to keep the school community healthy is to stay at home when sick. As a reminder, if your child is not feeling well, it is important that they stay home from school.

These policies and procedures are in place to ensure the health and safety of our school community.

For the illnesses below, please follow these guidelines:

Active vomiting or diarrhea for 24-48 hours since the last episode (depends on the situation)
Fever- 24 hours fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medications
After 24 hours on antibiotics for a variety of bacterial causes (i.e., strep throat, pink eye, etc.)
Health care provider/physician’s note of clearance for student-specific medical conditions.

Respiratory Virus (COVID, Flu, RSV) - return to school when, for at least 24 hours, both of these are true: Symptoms are getting better overall, AND have not had a fever (and are not using a fever-reducing medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

In addition to the above guidance, students should be:

Able to participate in class activities
Eating and drinking close to normal
Symptoms improving

If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Health Office at (703) 212-2752 or email kbrown@sssas.org Kim Brown, RN Lower School Nurse

APT LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME COFFEE
The APT will host informal coffees for parents to meet each other and members of the APT. They will take place 8:00 a.m. - 8:40 a.m. in the Macan breezeway (outside of Daniel Gym).

Parent Coffee Time: 8:00 a.m.-8:40 a.m.

September 18
ES, JK, & K parents
Macan Breezeway

October 2
1st, 2nd, & 3rd grade parents
Sinclair Patio

October 16
4th & 5th grade parents
Macan Breezeway

LOOKING FORWARD TO A GREAT YEAR WITH OUR DINING SERVICES TEAM
Our SAGE Dining Services is excited to serve our students and employees fresh meals every day. Daily menus can be previewed on their website or in the Touch of SAGE app. Additionally, menu items can be filtered by allergens and eating patterns, you can view ingredients, and rate menu items. For more information, please check out their Fall Newsletter.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Jordan Liker, Executive Check - Food Service Director.

Shuttle Bus Pick-Up Safety Guidelines

Shuttle Bus Drop Offs

Please ensure your student is at the designated staging area on each campus at least 5 minutes before the scheduled bus arrival. Shuttles operate on each campus between 7:35-7:45am. Wait away from the street or bus lane and avoid letting your students play near the curb or in other unsafe areas.The pick-up locations and staging areas are:
- Lower School: Playground side of Lloyd House
- Middle School: Front Circle
- Upper School: Pick-Up in the Front Circle, Wait in the staging area under the front portico
Guardians of students in third grade and below should wait with their students until the shuttle arrives to ensure that students safely wait for and load the buses.
Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching.
Form a calm, orderly line, and use the handrail when boarding.
Follow the driver’s instructions and find a seat quickly upon boarding.

Riding the Shuttle Bus
While riding the bus, students are expected to abide by all of the school rules as stated by the respective divisions. The
following behaviors are also not allowed:

Standing or sitting on seat backs
Moving about the vehicle while it is in motion
Opening windows without permission or putting any object out of windows
Throwing any objects
Defacing or damaging the vehicle in any way
Occupying more than one seat
Engaging in any physically aggressive behavior (e.g. hitting or pushing)
Using inappropriate language
Shouting or making excessive noise
Eating and drinking, unless given permission by the driver

As an added safety precaution, we encourage and remind students to use seat belts when the vehicle is in motion.

Shuttle Bus Pick Up

Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before disembarking
Form a calm, orderly line, and use the handrail when disembarking
Guardians of students in third grade and below should greet their students at the shuttle stops on each campus when the shuttle buses arrive:
- Lower School: In front of Lloyd House
- Middle School: In the front circle
- Upper School: Behind the main building at the terrace area

Thank you for your partnership in prioritizing safety and ensuring a smooth morning shuttle experience for our students. If you have any questions on the schedules, they can be found on the Transportation Resource Board page.

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Lower School

Sept. 4, 2025

Our faculty has been delighted to spend time with your children this week and begin their partnerships with all of you!

We loved seeing you on Welcome Day and Back to School Night #1!

UPCOMING EVENTS
Friday, September 5
Welcome Back to School Assembly, 8:35-9:15 a.m.
Friday Fun Day!
This will be an LS SAINTS SPIRIT DRESS DOWN DAY in honor of Friday Fun Day and our First Friday, back together as a community.

Monday, September 15
LS Photo Day, 8:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Grades: ELC - 5

Wednesday, September 17
LS Fire Drill - McBride/Daniel/Macan Halls Only, 8:50 a.m.

Friday, September 19
LS Fire Drill - Lloyd House/MacKinnon/Sinclair Halls Only, 8:50 a.m.

September 26
LS SAINTS SPIRIT DAY
Friday, September 26, will be a Red & Green Saints Spirit Dress Down Day in honor of Homecoming Weekend.

SUPPORTING YOU DURING THE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR
As we continue this exciting journey together, please keep the following in mind and do not hesitate to reach out to LaNessa West, Jeremy Hark, Skylé Pearson, or our new Lower School Counselors, Ashley Correia and Miles Henderson for support. Ashley will serve as our full time counselor. She will oversee ES-5th Grade, but will primarily work with ES-3rd Grade. Miles will serve as a part-time counselor and will primarily work with 4th and 5th grades.

Saints parents don’t worry alone; they reach out to us so we may partner.
There is no question, comment, idea, perspective, joy, or worry too big or small…we want to hear them all!
We welcome your feedback about how your child engages with any aspect of our curriculum or community.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHT #2 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
We hope that families have been enjoying the Back-to-School Night sessions with the classroom and special teachers.

Here are the remaining sessions for tonight:
Third-Fifth Grades on Thursday, September 4.
The evening will begin at 6:00 p.m. with a Specials teacher meet and greet in the MacKinnon Hall multi-purpose room (lower level) at 6:30 p.m.

Back-to-School Night is a parents-only event on campus where teachers provide important information about the school year and where you will hear from Mrs. Adams and Mrs. West, and have an opportunity to meet our new Lower School counselors. At 6:50 p.m. you will go to a classroom session with your child’s homeroom teacher/teachers. We can’t wait for you to hear from them! The evening will end at 7:30 p.m.

CHAPEL OPENING PRAYER
This morning we had our first chapel of the school year. Rev. Grace Pratt led us with
a prayer for a new beginning:

Let us thank God for bringing us together in the life of this school.

Dear God, at the beginning of things, we turn to you, the beginning and end of everything. We pray for this school and the life we will lead together. Help us to live in openness and respect for each other, with care for the heritage we share. Lead us to such love for each other that as knowledge grows, so may wisdom. Grant that we may begin to see the signs of justice in our common life. Help us to welcome new people to our school. Give us more hope for ourselves and our friends than we would ever dare to hope.

Help us to make this the best school it can be and to make ourselves the best teachers and students we can be, so that we might make this the best world it can be. We pray in the name of the One who stands at the beginning and in the end, God. Amen.

BLESSING BAGS
This year, the Lower School will be leading the entire school in collecting goods for our local community partners. The first set of monthly goods collections will focus on gathering materials to make blessing bags on the Lower School campus before Thanksgiving, and these will benefit our partner ALIVE!. To see the goods we are collecting this month through chapel, please review this slideshow.

DOGS ON CAMPUS
Our Lower School campus is dog-friendly; however, we ask that you be mindful of our students' safety and comfort levels, as well as your dog's safety. Dogs should be on a leash. Additionally, to help us keep our campus clean and enjoyable for everyone, we kindly ask that you please clean up after your dog during visits. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a welcoming environment for all.

VISITORS AND PARENTS ON THE LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS
For the safety and security of our community, please check in upon arrival.

Please ring the buzzer at the door of the building that you are visiting, wait for a response, and a green light before entering any building.
Everyone must sign in and obtain a name badge to visit on campus.
After your visit, you must sign out.

Thank you for your cooperation.

CARPOOL TIPS

Please do not exit your car in the carpool line; SSSAS staff will help your children get out of the car. Having your child practice buckling and unbuckling straps and belts will help with this process.
Please pull all the way forward for pick-up and drop-off.
During the MacKinnon/Sinclair drop-off, it helps things run smoothly if you have your children's backpacks in the front with you and pass them out the window after they exit the car.

SCHOOLPASS INFORMATION
Lower School uses a digital dismissal management and attendance system called SchoolPass to enhance student safety and ensure a speedier and more efficient dismissal. With this system, homeroom teachers will automatically be notified when you arrive on campus, and log your position in the carline queue. How does the dismissal system know when a parent arrives on campus?

Parent arrivals are detected by reading your license plate (LRP) and/or your EZPass RFID tag. Parents may also use the SchoolPass App to manually log themselves in when they arrive on campus.

Please double-check and make sure that your information is up-to-date, including your license plate numbers, approved pick-up people, etc.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
8:20 a.m. School Day begins (Morning Meeting starts at 8:20 a.m.)
3:00 p.m. Dismissal for All Grades

All students need to be in their homerooms by 8:20 a.m., ready to start their school day. All homerooms begin their day with morning work followed by a morning meeting, and having students at school on time is better for them and teachers alike as it creates a smooth individual and class transition into the school day. We know that delays may be caused by everything from traffic to rain, and we will certainly understand in these circumstances. However, we ask that you make any necessary changes to your family’s morning routine so that your children can be in their classrooms by 8:20 a.m. Also, please remember not to speed down Fontaine Street to facilitate this!

We ask that you help us ensure that we are good neighbors to those with homes near the Lower School Campus. Please mind the rules of the road in the Fontaine Street neighborhood (speed, stop signs, no left turn on red at the light) and be mindful of the presence of pedestrians. Please do not block driveways and always obey posted speed limits.

EXTENDED DAY DROP-INS
For drop-in care, please email Mary Kelley (mkelley@sssas.org) 24 hours in advance so we can ensure we are within staff-to-student ratios. Noting your Saint in School Pass without confirmation does not guarantee a drop in care.

HELP US BE GOOD NEIGHBORS
Most traffic onto campus runs down Fontaine Street. This is a very narrow street (especially when cars are parked on both sides), and many young children live on it. As you drive down the street, it is critical that you do so:

slowly (the speed limit is 25 mph but even that can feel too fast given its narrowness)
safely (keep your eyes open for pedestrians and pets, and do not look at your phone or otherwise be distracted)
Courteously (let neighbors back out of their driveways and get down the street; do not park in front of driveways; if a neighbor asks you to slow down, please do so)

If you have any questions during carpool, all faculty/staff members assisting for the day will be wearing a safety vest.

Daily Schedule
The Lower School uses a numbered-day schedule operating on a six-day rotation. Please refer to the Lower School Resource Board for the rotation calendar.

PICTURE DAY
Monday, September 15 - 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Grades: ELC - 5
Student Individual and Group Picture Day(s) with Victor O’Neill Studios is just around the corner! Images will be available to view and purchase approximately two weeks following our school's picture day. A pre-order link will be shared after Picture Day.

Dress Attire
Students should wear the daily uniform dress attire.

MESSAGE FROM NURSE BROWN
PLEASE KEEP YOUR CHILD AT HOME WHEN SICK
One of the best ways to keep the school community healthy is to stay at home when sick. As a reminder, if your child is not feeling well, it is important that they stay home from school.

These policies and procedures are in place to ensure the health and safety of our school community.

For the illnesses below, please follow these guidelines:

Active vomiting or diarrhea for 24-48 hours since the last episode (depends on the situation)
Fever- 24 hours fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medications
After 24 hours on antibiotics for a variety of bacterial causes (i.e., strep throat, pink eye, etc.)
Health care provider/physician’s note of clearance for student-specific medical conditions.

Respiratory Virus (COVID, Flu, RSV) - return to school when, for at least 24 hours, both of these are true: Symptoms are getting better overall, AND have not had a fever (and are not using a fever-reducing medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

In addition to the above guidance, students should be:

Able to participate in class activities
Eating and drinking close to normal
Symptoms improving

If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Health Office at (703) 212-2752 or email kbrown@sssas.org Kim Brown, RN Lower School Nurse

APT LOWER SCHOOL WELCOME COFFEE
The APT will host informal coffees for parents to meet each other and members of the APT. They will take place 8:00 a.m. - 8:40 a.m. in the Macan breezeway (outside of Daniel Gym).

Parent Coffee Time: 8:00 a.m.-8:40 a.m.

September 18
ES, JK, & K parents
Macan Breezeway

October 2
1st, 2nd, & 3rd grade parents
Sinclair Patio

October 16
4th & 5th grade parents
Macan Breezeway

SAINTS ATHLETICS CLUB (SAC) FALL PARENT SOCIAL
Sept. 6: Snacks & Drinks – 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at US Moss Field (purchase $50 Fall Social tickets, as well as join the SAC). Please note this is an adults-only event.

All parents are invited to the SAC Fall Parent Social on Saturday, September 6th. Snacks, drinks, and school spirit provided! This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the Saints Athletics Club (our school booster club) and how you can get involved. We welcome parents of Early Saints thru Seniors, athletes, non-athletes, coaches, and alumni! Please contact Jessica O’Neil or Bridget Renda with any questions at sac@sssas.org!

LOOKING FORWARD TO A GREAT YEAR WITH OUR DINING SERVICES TEAM
Our SAGE Dining Services is excited to serve our students and employees fresh meals every day. Daily menus can be previewed on their website or in the Touch of SAGE app. Additionally, menu items can be filtered by allergens and eating patterns, you can view ingredients, and rate menu items. For more information, please check out their Fall Newsletter.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Jordan Liker, Executive Check - Food Service Director.

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Lower School WIT

Instructure (Canvas) Security Incident Information for Families

Our School’s Status

What happened

What information may be involved Based on current reporting, impacted data may include:

What families should do If you or your student uses Canvas through an outside organization:

Questions If you have questions, please contact helpdesk@sssas.org for further assistance.

January 29, 2026

January 22, 2026

January 15, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS

January 8, 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS AND FIELD TRIPS

Dec. 18, 2025

Dec. 11, 2025

Dec. 4, 2025

JINGLE ALL THE WAY TO SAVINGS! 15% OFF AT THE SAINTS SCHOOL STORE! Tired of scrambling for gifts? We've got your holiday shopping wrapped up! The Saints School Store Holiday Sale is almost here, offering the easiest way to snag great gifts for your whole family (and show off that school spirit!).

Shop Online & Save!

Or Shop In-Person!

Shipping or Easy Campus Pick-up:

Have more questions, please reach out to Kim Speed, School Store Manager at kspeed@sssas.org.

SAINTS SERVE OPPORTUNITY PRESENTED BY THE APT & SSSAS SERVICE LEARNING Let's share the magic of the season! Lower, Middle, and Upper School Saints are invited to bring holiday cheer to seniors through music and connection.

Nov. 20, 2025

Nov. 13, 2025

Nov. 6, 2025

Oct. 30, 2025

Oct. 23, 2025

Oct. 16, 2025

Oct. 9, 2025

Oct. 2, 2025

Sept. 25, 2025

Sept. 18, 2025

Sept. 11, 2025

**Shuttle Bus Pick-Up Safety Guidelines**

Sept. 4, 2025

What information may be involved
Based on current reporting, impacted data may include:

What families should do
If you or your student uses Canvas through an outside organization:

Questions
If you have questions, please contact helpdesk@sssas.org for further assistance.

SAINTS SERVE OPPORTUNITY PRESENTED BY THE APT & SSSAS SERVICE LEARNING
Let's share the magic of the season! Lower, Middle, and Upper School Saints are invited to bring holiday cheer to seniors through music and connection.

Shuttle Bus Pick-Up Safety Guidelines