December 31, 2021

December 31, 2021


Dear All,
I hope this message finds you healthy and joyful as we continue the celebration of our Lord’s birth.  STM teachers will return to school for professional development on Monday, Jan. 3 and all staff and students return for the second semester on Tuesday, Jan. 4.
I have some important news regarding our masking policies as the semester begins: 
Due to the revisions made by the CDC in the last week, our School Advisory Board will meet Monday afternoon to discuss necessary changes to our pre-Christmas break plans.  As you probably know, there have been shortened periods recommended for isolation and quarantine procedures along with other changes.  The value of a test-to-stay program at our school will be key in allowing us to follow these guidelines. 
At this time, our health office has limited numbers of COVID test kits, and we are unprepared for in-school testing.  In order to follow the new guidelines for a five-day isolation and test-to-stay processes we need to:

• acquire an adequate supply of test kits
• secure and schedule a waste-disposal pick-up system
• pinpoint and establish an appropriate testing area

Given these factors, STM will extend mask-wearing for at least the first two weeks of 2nd semester.  This will allow for the processing of, and planning for a successful in-school second semester.  Please know that if we are not able to accomplish these tasks in two weeks, masking may be extended beyond that time, 
Peace and Blessings for the New Year,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal