Dear Friends and Parents,

The decision to close school for a "snow day" is never easy for a Principal. I would like to explain some of the many factors that go into this decision each time dangerous winter weather approaches. My foremost concern is the safety of our students, parents and faculty that travel a large variety of distances to arrive at MCA. However, I am also mindful not to close school unnecessarily thereby extending the school year far into June.

One of the main factors is the consultation with the Principals of other nearby Catholic schools. This year, several of my colleagues and I decided to coordinate our closures whenever feasible. This allows me to consider input from other Principals and relieves us from making the decision in isolation. Currently, St. Clement, Alphonsus Academy, Immaculate Conception and MCA coordinate "snow days". I begin communicating with other Principals starting around 5:00 am. The radio, TV and computer are all tuned to weather and traffic reports. My goal is to make the call by 6:15 am.

Another important factor is the projected start and end time of the storm. For example, the storm on February 1st predicted a tough arrival, but the storm would end by noon. The storm on February 6th was predicted to continue throughout the day. The February 6th decision was particularly challenging due to the late arrival of the storm. What was light rain at 6:00 am became ice by 6:30 am.

I am aware that our families travel a wide variety of distances to get to MCA. If you deem your commute to be dangerous due to the weather, I encourage you to remain home even if school is in session. Please take your time during poor weather as we are very flexible with tardies when weather is dangerous. There is no need to rush. I would rather have the students safe.

I hope this explains some of the processes behind deciding to close school on "snow days". It is never an easy decision to close school and not everyone will be in agreement. As the one making the "call", I will consider all factors and make the best decision possible.



Sincerely,

Shane Staszcuk,
Principal

The Valentines Dance was loads of fun! A big thanks goes to Kate Mulligan for organizing. Thanks also goes to all the volunteers who made the dance a success.

Please be sure to visit
auction website and click on the Black & White GALA icon or click the fundraising tab for more items that will be available for bidding.

It's taken 8 long years for this day, Eighth Grade Graduation! Grab you camera, check your batteries and enter Casey Hall for the momentous occasion. The only problem, all the front row seats are taken! Don't let that happen to you! Come to the Black & White GALA, this year's live and silent auction, and bid on:

Reserved 1st row seats for your family to see your pride and joy receive their diploma! This truly is Priceless!

Looking for that special, one of a kind gift? Back again, by popular demand, you can give our very own:

Peg Semple's Famous Shortbread Cookies

From September through May, you can enjoy these delicious confections or give them as a gift! All you need to do is come to the Black & White GALA and bid on them!

Why a toaster in the plant category? Bread is made from the wheat plant. Clever:)

Family Mass has been a long tradition of Mount Carmel Academy and Our Lady Of Mount Carmel, beginning over a decade ago when some MCA parents and parishioners recognized how good it is for us to come together for prayer and community. Once a month during the school year, each class takes a turn hosting the 9:30a.m. Sunday Mass at the church and reception following in the MCA cafeteria. Please help the families listed below by offering to donate breakfast treats or your time. See you at Mass.

FAMILY MASS SCHEDULE 2007-2008
3/2/08 Fifth Grade - Lisa Hebert
4/6/08 First Grade - Flo Albarracin and Kate Mulligan
5/4/08 Eighth Grade - Jacque Simon