A Message from our Principal

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Dear Parents,

As we continue our Distance Learning journey together I will continue to keep you informed and as up-to-date as possible on new information and upcoming events. I apologize for the length of this message, but there is so much to share with you!

This week I will attempt to clarify the end-of-trimester/year grading procedures for TK-5th grades. These grades are utilizing the Standard Referenced Report Cards. Teachers are still teaching standards that are required to be covered at each respective grade level. Therefore, the same report cards that you are familiar with will continue to be used. All standards that are covered will be assessed and then reported out to you. If, for any reason, a standard is not assessed or a student has not completed work that enables the teacher to authentically access the standard an NE(not evaluated) will be assigned. Rest assured that your children are benefitting from creative and engaging lessons from their teachers. I have witnessed so many successful lessons first hand. When planning, teachers are constantly revisiting the standards yet to be addressed. In next week’s newsletter, I will address the middle school reporting procedures. Additionally, I will be sharing our plan to get your child’s personal belongings, report card and yearbook to them during the first week of June. Many thanks again for your patience, support and cooperation.

We continue to celebrate our Students of the Month! This wonderful tradition has been on “hold” until we got things settled down a bit. We have made some necessary adjustments to get all virtues covered so as not to neglect the importance of any of them. During the weeks of May 4 and May 18, part of a Zoom meeting will be designated by your child’s teacher to recognize students to be honored for exhibiting specific virtues. There will be two students recognized each week. Week of May 4th…Cooperation and Service and week of May 18th…Stewardship and Gratitude. At the end of each of these weeks a special Zoom meeting will be held for myself, recognized students, their families and classroom teachers to share our feelings of gratitude and appreciation. It may not be the same as in person, but we can still express our sincere love for these wonderful examples of Christian leadership.

I am pleased and excited to share information regarding this Friday’s school Mass and May Crowning. Remembering this month of May as a celebration of Mary as the mother of Jesus, we will continue the tradition of a May Crowning. I will be present in the junior yard from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. with the gate on Kline Street open for any families desiring to bring flowers and place them by our Blessed Mother. Once you do so, please exit out the side gate nearest the kindergarten classroom to allow for social distancing protocol. I also ask that masks be worn during your visit. Please note that unfortunately, this is not an opportunity for gathering to visit with friends you have missed, but a way for us to show our solidarity in prayer during these difficult times. Mary is truly a role model of faith and strength when faced with the trials that life offers us. At 11:00 I will bring your flowers over to the church for Mass. I strongly encourage you to watch the Mass as it is Live Streamed at 11:20 on Mary Star Of the Sea Parish FB page. Following the Mass, it will be uploaded to the parish and school websites. If you have a statue of Mary at home, please participate by presenting flowers to her or even a mini May Crowning of your own as we do so at the beginning of Mass. At the end of Mass Fr. Pat will lead us in a Prayer of Reconsecration to Mary. Please see the prayer directly following this message. I will have additional copies in the junior yard along with complimentary rosaries (while supplies last) on Friday. Many thanks to Fr. Pat and all of his support to continue to minister to our students and families during these past several weeks. we are truly blessed to have him here.

Continued thanks for your support. Please know how very much you are all loved and appreciated!

Blessings,
Francie Moss

Stella Maris Academy Students Win Second Place at the Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair

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Morgan Brady and Sofia Ayesta-Hollstein, Stella Maris Academy eighth grade students, each took home second place for their science fair projects at this year’s 66th Annual Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair. The science fair was scheduled for the week of March 10th-15th, but shortly after the students’ set-up their projects, the event was postponed as a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic, with some of the competition being completed by video.

Sofia’s award-winning project, “The New Water Solution”, was entered in the division of Engineering: Materials & Bioengineering with her question, “Does solar-desalinated water negatively impact the growth of plants?”. After outlining her hypothesis, variables and procedures, Sofia graphed her results and conclusions. Sofia’s mom, Veronica, said the judges were very impressed that Sofia’s “project could be easily replicated to help bring clean water to other communities worldwide”.

Morgan’s award-winning project, “Why is there Extra Light in our Skies?”, was entered in the Earth and Planetary Science division where Morgan outlined the problem and purpose of her project, the hypothesis, her research and procedures, along with data analysis, conclusions and the significance of her work.

“Sofia and I are both excited to have received these awards!,” said Morgan. Mrs. Adrienne Jones the students’ teacher said, “The girls worked diligently on their projects starting in October. I am so proud of their conscientious and assiduous efforts.” Morgan and Sofia were two of over 880 students who submitted projects to be screened into the Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair, with over 700 students who were recommended to participate in the Fair. Over 250 judges decided the awards in sixteen different categories of projects on the following criteria: by project displays, by interviewing students, and/or reading notebooks and display boards and, if submitted, viewing student-made videos.

In addition to winning second place at the Science Fair, Morgan received several other awards for her project. Last week, Morgan presented her project to the San Diego County Chapter of the International Dark Sky Association and the Astronomy Association via a Zoom meeting, with approximately 60 people attending. Sandy Brady, Morgan’s mom said, “the associations said that Morgan did a great job in her presentation and in responding to follow-up questions. We are super proud of her, and she is very excited.” Morgan received first place and $100 from The Dark Sky Association competition; fourth place and $75 from the San Diego Astronomy Association competition; and, an Honorable Mention from the Sigma Xi Scientific Honor Society.

Stella Maris Academy, the parish school of Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church, is a transitional-kindergarten through 8th grade co-educational Catholic school in the Village of La Jolla. Children at Stella Maris thrive in a warm and welcoming, friendly and safe environment. For nearly 75 years we have provided academic excellence in a nurturing environment by our talented and dedicated staff. For more information, or questions about enrollment, please call 858-454-2461.

 

A Message from the Principal

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Dear Parents,

Alleluia! He is Risen! Welcome back one and all! I hope “re-entry” went well for everyone. The much needed break was definitely a nice opportunity to “recharge”. As we continue on this distance learning journey, I encourage you to remain consistent with daily routines, remembering that there will be some days that are more difficult to navigate than others. Be gentle to yourself, your children and their teachers. This is not easy for anyone. I caution all of us to be careful not to compare classes, teachers and distant learning programs within our own school or different schools. Classes have their own personalities and learning styles that best fit them. Therefore, no two teachers will follow the exact same instructional strategies. To compare a junior yard class experience to a senior yard class experience is like comparing apples and oranges. Additionally, school sites are unique in their own ways as well. Programs and procedures that work well for one school may prove completely ineffective in another. I urge you, as always, to keep an open line of communication with your child’s teacher. Please know that they are there to assist you with any questions or concerns that you may have. I am also available for you as well. Beginning next week, all teachers will be offering “office hour/half hour Zoom meetings” each week for parents to attend to get assistance or clarification on class work or procedures. My goal is to attend as many of these meetings as possible so that I can also answer any questions you may have for me as well. Please note that these meetings are not mandatory. They are an additional form of communication that we are making available to all of our parents to provide support to you during these stressful times. It has been a joy seeing the smiling faces at the Zoom class meetings. Please know how much we miss you and your children. I look forward to the day we can all return to our wonderful school and the joyful sound of children’s voices fill the air once again.

Blessings,
Francie Moss

Principal Mrs. Francie Moss Shares Distance Learning Successes on National TV

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Stella Maris Academy’s principal, Mrs. Francie Moss will appear as a guest on The Dr. Phil Show one day next week (date to be determined), as one of a panel of educators from schools across the country to talk about the impact of distance learning and best practices as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Mrs. Moss will also be a guest on The Dr. Phil Podcast that will be available for viewing, tomorrow, April 14, 2020.

As a result of COVID-19, schools and families all over the world have encountered a variety of challenges as many parents are now working from home, and their children are also learning from home. Stella Maris Academy had prepared weeks in advance for the possibility of the temporary school closure due to the pandemic, and only experienced two school days down time. During the TV Show and Podcast, Mrs. Moss provides insight on how Stella Maris Academy handled the transition and provides advise for other schools and families.

Mrs. Moss said, “It was an honor to give the world a glimpse of the exceptional educational experience Stella Maris Academy provides to its students.” The Dr. Phil TV program airs during the week of April 20th-24th at 3:00pm PST, on San Diego’s KFMB station, Channel 8. The Podcast airs Tuesday, April 14th and can be viewed at DrPhil.com.

Stella Maris Academy, the parish school of Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, is transitional-kindergarten through 8th grade co-educational school in the Village of La Jolla. Children at Stella Maris thrive in a warm and welcoming, friendly and safe environment. For nearly 75 years the school has provided academic excellence in a nurturing environment by a talented and dedicated staff.

 

 

 

A Message from the Principal

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Dear Parents,

The time has come to take a step back from this crazy “race” that we have “sprinted” into. I pray that these next 11 days of being away and “unplugged” will find us returning refreshed and ready to find the sustainable “pace” that we need to finish whatever the remainder of this school year has in store for us.

I encourage you to continue praying and reflecting on the daily Stations of the Cross that I am emailing to you each day as well as viewing the Holy Week masses and services from our parish website. Although we may not be together, physically…we CAN remain together in prayer.

I wish you God’s peace and strength as I send you all a “virtual” hug and my prayers!

Holy Week Blessings,
Francie Moss

A Note from Father Pat

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Greetings to our SMA Family,

I feel the blessings of God amidst this tumult. No, I am not immune or naïve about the pain and challenges we face. I am just blessed to witness amazing acts of grace every day in the people with whom I work and pray and live. All of you give me hope by your witness. That word is so prominent throughout the Easter readings and it becomes incarnate in you by your selfless living out of the core message that defines us as a parish, as a school, as a community.

Thank you all for your sacrifices and your service. To our parents, thank you for your cooperation and support amidst this unprecedented time. To our faculty and staff, thank you for your heroic work in bringing some sense of normalcy into the lives of our children. I know that you sacrifice much out of love for your kids and it is does not go unnoticed or unappreciated by me and so many others. You are an incredible blessing to all of us. To our students, I hope and pray you feel and respond to the love of God being shown to you through the witness of your parents and teachers and others. You, too, can witness by your attentiveness, your enthusiasm, and your appreciation of others through all of this. We are in this TOGETHER.

Please know of my prayers and support for all of you. When this is behind us, we will look back and focus on many things. Most of all, I will focus on the grace of God shown to me by your witness. Peace and blessings be with you.

Blessed Assurance in Christ,
Fr. Pat

A Message from the Principal

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Dear Parents,

Greetings from my “Home Office” to yours! I pray that all are remaining safe and healthy during these confusing, hectic, frustrating days. But looking on the bright side…our students are still learning and becoming more comfortable with the temporary situation at hand. Additionally, they are able to see their classmates via Zoom meetings.

As I stated in last week’s video message to all of you, I will be offering a virtual “Coffee with the Principal” Zoom meeting tomorrow, Thursday, April 2 from 4:00-5:00. This is intended for parents with any questions they may have or just wanting to say hello. It will be an open forum. You may jump in and out at anytime throughout the hour. Since it is open to all parents, any questions or concerns that require personal attention can be addressed with me via the phone or private email. This is out of respect all families and SMA teachers and staff. Please see the invitation to join the meeting below. I hope to see many of you there throughout the hour.

After much discussion with Fr. Pat, the teachers and staff, it has been decided to add some additional time to our Easter Break. Originally, our break was to begin at 12:30 on Holy Thursday, April 9. The new schedule is for remote classes to be in session Monday and Tuesday of next week with the Easter break beginning on Wednesday, April 8 instead of April 9. Additionally, teachers will not be assigning work to be completed over the time off. This will allow your families to “take a breath” and unwind and give the teachers some, much needed and deserved, “down time”. I am requesting that teachers unplug and “go dark” in other words, not utilize technology for work purposes. I am requesting the same from our families. We all need a break from this stress to reconnect with our families and to focus on our faith during this Holy time of the year. I encourage you to view live streamed Holy Week services on our church website. Fr. Pat asked me to share with all of you that he is available for Reconciliation, by appointment. If you are interested, please call the parish office.

One last note…due to this unprecedented situation, we will be waiving the service hour requirements for the current school year.

Many thanks to all of you for your continued prayers, cooperation and support. I hope to see many of you at the Zoom meeting tomorrow.

Blessings,
Francie Moss

FRANCIE MOSS IS INVITING YOU TO A SCHEDULED ZOOM MEETING:
Topic: Francie Moss’ Coffee With the Principal Zoom Meeting
Time: Apr 2, 2020 04:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/2570924124
Meeting ID: 257 092 4124

A Message from the Principal

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Dear Parents,

As we approach the final day of this remote learning week my best advice to everyone is to take a moment to breathe and congratulate yourselves for a job well done. Teachers are exhausted from putting in mega hours to make sure they provide the best learning experiences possible under these difficult circumstances. Students are finding out the importance of time management and missing the interaction with their friends…and oh my…many parents are trying to work from home, help their children navigate the multiple learning platforms and communicate with teachers as well. Unfortunately, this is our “new normal” for the moment. None of us signed up for the situation we are experiencing. We are all on overload and are looking forward to the day we can return to life as we know it. But until then, please let us be gentle with ourselves and kind to one another. Patience with all involved will get us through this and make us stronger. We have an amazing school family. Please know that you can rely on me to support you during these times of uncertainty. I thank God for the dedication, creativity and collegiality of the teachers and staff. I thank God for our diligent students. I thank God for the trust that our parents have in us. We are truly blessed….SMA all the way!

Blessings,
Francie Moss

A Message From The Principal Regarding COVID-19 and Temporary School Closure

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Good Morning Stella Maris Academy Parents and School Staff,

This is the call many of you have been anticipating.  I apologize for not having this information sooner, although as I have expressed in previous communications, we were awaiting official notification from Bishop McElroy.  Effective Monday, March 16th, Stella Maris Academy and all other schools in the Diocese of San Diego will be closing to prevent any spreading of the coronavirus until further notice.  Most students will be taking textbooks and necessary supplies home today.  Teachers will be on campus for final planning from 8 a.m. – 12p.m. on Monday and Tuesday and remote instruction will commence on Wednesday.  Parents are welcome to come by school on Monday or Tuesday between the hours of 8 and 12 to pick up books and supplies and ask questions as well.  I will be sending out a detailed communication on Monday regarding the remote teaching schedule to assist with this temporary transition.

The office staff will be on site throughout the duration of the closure to respond to any parent questions and needs.

We have been preparing for this decision, but hoping it would not happen.  Thankfully we are ready and so are your children. Please join me in thanksgiving for this amazing teaching staff.   They have come together as a team of diligent, highly qualified professionals.  Your children are so blessed to have them.

I will continue to pray for health and well-being for all of our Stella Maris Academy family during this stressful time.

Thank you,

 

Francie Moss

Principal

School Closure Letter

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Good Morning Stella Maris Academy Parents and School Staff,

This is the call many of you have been anticipating. I apologize for not having this information sooner, although as I have expressed in previous communications, we were awaiting official notification from Bishop McElroy. Effective Monday, March 16 Stella Maris Academy and all other schools in the Diocese of San Diego will be closing to prevent any spreading of the coronavirus until further notice.

Most students will be taking textbooks and necessary supplies home today. Teachers will be on campus for final planning from 8 a.m. – 12p.m. on Monday and Tuesday and remote instruction will commence on Wednesday. Parents are welcome to come by school on Monday or Tuesday between the hours of 8 and 12 to pick up books and supplies and ask questions as well. I will be sending out a detailed communication on Monday regarding the remote teaching schedule to assist with this temporary transition. The office staff will be on site throughout the duration of the closure to respond to any parent questions and needs.

We have been preparing for this decision, but hoping it would not happen. Thankfully we are ready and so are your children Please join me in thanksgiving for this amazing teaching staff. They have come together as a team of diligent, highly qualified professionals. Your children are so blessed to have them.
I will continue to pray for health and well-being for all of our Stella Maris Academy family during this stressful time.

Thank you,
Francie Moss, Principal