PARENT SURVEY-
 Letter from Dr. Perda
The Diocese is developing a diocesan wide strategic plan and the next step in the data collection effort is the parent/guardian survey. ALL parents are asked to take a minute to complete the following survey for the diocese. Your voice is important- Thank you
 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CatholicSchoolParentSurvey2018

GALA RAFFLES:
We also want to offer you the opportunity to purchase Raffle Tickets before the Gala, especially if you're unable to attend the Gala but would still like the opportunity to win some of these amazing prizes.
We also have our Student ONLY prizes.  Check out some of the new ones we've added this year.  These student only prizes will be drawn a school on Monday, April 9th at an assembly. You will still be able to purchase these raffle tickets at the Gala along with the other raffles.
If you would like to purchase your raffle tickets before the Gala just view and or print off the ticket order form:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NYHO8B3deKyfXm3muhJyGAd8bTX1aTdmfM6OdBa_GHQ/edit?usp=sharing
Tickets are 25 for $20 or $1 each
Raffle Ticket orders are Due in the office by the morning of April 5th.  If you have any questions, please feel free to email Mrs. Priddy (mpriddy@stannaleom.org)
Good Luck and Thank You for supporting our school.
​
NEASC ACCREDITATION
St. Anna School is an accredited school through NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges).NEASC accreditation is a system of accountability that is ongoing, voluntary, and comprehensive in scope. It respects differences in institutional populations, missions, and cultures, and fosters institutional change grounded in the expertise of practicing educators. It is based on standards which are developed and regularly reviewed by the members and which define the characteristics of good schools and colleges.
NEASC accreditation is structured in a ten-year cycle of:
Self-study which engages the entire educational community in structured analysis, self-reflection, and planning in response to the standards.
Peer review which brings discipline and perspective to the process through the observations and judgments of a visiting committee of peers from other schools and colleges, informed by the self-study and based on the standards.

We are beginning our self-study to prepare for our 10 year peer review.  As part of this process, we will be gathering input from our students, parents, staff and community.
We would like your input on our current Mission Statement as we review and possibly revamp it.  Please take a minute to complete this quick survey.  Thank You.
​
FOOD DRIVE
drum roll please......  The school donated over 1,700 pounds of food to the St. Anna food pantry/Mathew 25 during Lent... You guys are AH-MAZING!
The winning classrooms:
1st place earning a pizza party- Grade 7 (637 points way to go!!!!)
2nd place earning extra recess- Grade 5 (508 points)
3rd place earning popsicles... It was a CLOSE one... Kindergarten (506 points! one blue light special away!)
Thank you to EVERYONE that participated-
2nd grade 448 points 3rd grade 260 points, 1st grade 192 points, 8th grade 123 points, 6th grade 89 points.

Mathew 25 is blessed, thankful and appreciative of all your kindness (alms giving) during this Lenten Season. May God Bless Each and Everyone of You.

HEARING & VISION SCREENINGS
The Lions Club will be here on April 5th and 6th  to conduct vision and hearing screenings for all students from kindergarten to grade 8. The Massachusetts School Vision Screening Program has been one of the most successful initiatives implemented by the Department of Public Health for over 50 years.
The purpose of this screening is to detect any vision and hearing impairments that your child may have that may be affecting his/her learning. If your child wears prescription glasses and/or hearing aids we request that they wear them on the day of the screening. They will be conducted through the Lions Club mobile screening lab with the help of our volunteers.  You will receive notification after the screenings ONLY if there are any concerns noted during the screening.
The school is dedicated to make sure that each child is healthy and ready to learn. We would like to take this moment to thank you for joining us in our efforts in providing the best learning environment.
If you have any questions or concerns about the School Vision and Hearing Screening Program please let me know. If you would like to opt your child out of the screenings, please send an email to Mrs. Priddy (mpriddy@stannaleom.org) BEFORE April 3rd   
The Leominster Lions Club will also be collecting used and unused reading glasses, hearing aids and sunglasses during St. Anna’s screening day, taking place on April 5th and 6th  Broken frames and glasses will also be collected. Thank you!

 SPRING PHOTOS
We will have our Lifetouch Spring Photos on Thursday, April 5th
This is an Out Of Dress Day- as our Spring pictures are always out of dress.  We will send flyers home a few days before. You can choose your pose and background.  ALL students will have their picture taken unless you send in the Form with a note you do NOT want your child’s photo taken or even a separate note excusing your child from photos.
There is no money needed on picture day. In a couple of weeks, you will get a packet of pictures. You then pay for the pictures that you want and return the ones you do not want.  We suggest you return them ASAP if you do not plan to purchase them so they do not get misplaced.
Preschool- All preschool students are invited to come have their photo taken. We will get preschool students who do not come on Thursdays- in for their photos whenever you arrive between 9:00-10:30.

LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK SWEETHEART BALL
Our annual Sweetheart Ball will be held on Friday, April 6th at St Anna’s from 7:00-9:00 PM.  We invite fathers or other male role models to celebrate a night out of dancing with their special girls.  Tickets are on sale in the office: $20.00 per couple and $5.00 for each additional daughter.  Tickets are NOT sold at the door. Please plan ahead.  You can purchase optional photos for $10. You can pay when you purchase your tickets OR pay the night of the Sweetheart Ball.  Checks for tickets/photos can be made out to St. Anna School.  Music by DJ Proietti and lots of treats!  (this is a No mom event- sorry!).
We are looking for baked goods for all to enjoy on this special night out. Please remember NO peanuts, peanut butter or tree nuts.  I’m sure the girls would love some fruit and veggies too!  Please email Kelley Gammel (kelgammes@gmail.com) if you’re able to help with treats.
 
 
BEER and WINE TASTING 
The STB PTO will host it's Annual Beer and Wine Tasting on Friday, April 13th at the Wachusett Mountain from 7pm - 10pm. We are asking for you help in promoting the event to your families.  
Tickets are $30/single and $55/couple. Deadline for ticket sales in Wednesday, April 10th. 
The evening will have live music, food, raffle, silent auction and beer/wine tasting tables. 

Taekwondo Class- 4 week special for $30 (includes uniform) MORE INFO HERE
Study Skills Workshop April 8th  MORE INFO
Leominster Recreation April Vacation Program
APRIL Vacation Boredom Busters!!! Check out these offerings from the Mount!
Hillary's Chucks Kidz Day  to be held April 14th 
Find out more about the foundation by visiting www.hillaryschucks.com. 
​
Session IV  April 9-June 8
Mondays- Tennis grades 1-5, Book Club grades 5-8
Tuesdays- Breakout/Escape grades 1-3
Wednesdays- Escape Room grades 4-8
​Thursdays-  GAME TIME! grades 2-8
TinkerCad- see Miss Ellis can be done in free time/indoor recess/homework club
BOK (before school gym fun)- No sign ups needed…. K-3 on Tuesdays // 4-8 Fridays 7:45-8:25 

Yearbook (6-8) Tuesdays 8:00
Choir grades 3-8 Wednesdays 8:30 
Drama grades 4-8 Thursdays   

Homework Club grades 3-8- Monday-Thursday 3:15-4:30  **students are welcome to attend homework club to complete homework or study for quizzes/tests.  Students must stay at homework club until their ride arrives unless they are scheduled to go to extended care

​​ April Menu 
​We offer a salad bar option every day- either as a meal or side.  Students are able to choose from a variety of veggies and proteins to make their own salad.
NJHS Ice Cream Sales continue every Friday for $1
and the Vending Machine is stocked with healthy drink options.. water, Gatorade, juice, iced tea.
​We also have a water station so students can have plenty of water at lunch.

​We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting Date TBD at 6:00. Childcare will be available. Our Mother-Son Event this day will be held on May 9th from 1-3 and will be a Volleyball Game!  We need to determine if we are going to do a spring/fall fundraiser. We hope you can join us.
Contact the PTO anytime

​Spring may be here on the calendar but it doesn't feel like it outside.  Some of our winter ailments may linger a while longer. Please make sure to keep your child home from school if they are not feeling well or exhibit any signs of illness, including a fever, vomiting or diarrhea. Please take a minute to read the Flu information from the CDC. There’s another round of Flu going around. Please take precautions with your children and keep them home from school if they are ill.
If you child has any  symptoms, especially a fever, they MUST stay home until they are fever free without fever reducing medication for 24 hours.  We want to keep all of our students healthy.  
 

​4/2 School MASS (changed from 4/4)
4/3 PTO Out of Dress
4/5 Spring Lifetouch Photos- 
4/5 & 4/6 Vision/Hearing Screenings
4/6 Sweetheart Ball 7:00-9:00
4/7 Design Squad has been CANCELED for the Spring (see you in the Fall)
4/7 St.  Anna Spirit GALA 5:30 PM
4/9 Science Fair Set Up/Class Previews
4/9 PTO Meeting 6:00
4/10 Science Fair Judging AND Science Fair Viewing & Awards 6:30 **Change in Date**
4/13 K-5 Trip to Theatre at the Mount to see Little Mermaid 
4/16 -4/20 April Vacation
4/23-4/27 Spring Book Fair
4/26 Author Jeff Nathan visit K-5
4/28 First Communion
4/30 Books & Beyond ENDS
5/3 Progress Reports
5/4 Consortium Field Day grades 5-8
5/7-5/11 Teacher Appreciation Week
5/9 No Mass Today
5/10 School Mass 9:00 Ascension Thursdsay
5/10 Mary Poppin’s Production 7:00
5/11 Mother’s Day Tea for Grade 1 9:15
5/11 Mary Poppin’s Production 7:00
5/15 Preschool Fashion Show 10:00
5/18 Crowning of Mary 10:00
5/19 Mother-Son Volleyball 1-3
5/21-5/25 Grade 6 to Nature’s Classroom
5/23 Gr. 7/8 Boston Field Trip
5/26 NJHS Flag laying at cemetery
5/28 No School- Memorial Day
5/29 Mr. Nicky Program grades 4-8
5/31 Spring Concert PK-5 6:00
5/5 Baseball in Education Day // Bravehearts game K-8
5/6 NJHS Induction 9:00 at Mass
5/7 8th grade graduation 5:00
5/8 Field Day
5/12 PTO Out of Dress
5/12 Preschool Graduation 10:00
5/15 Last Day of School- Awards at Church 9:00 // Early Dismissal 11:30

Wow! We've made it through 5 full days of school!  We're happy that we had a near miss from the 4th Nor'easter this month, but we are all ready for spring.  The weather continues to fluctuate, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather to go out for recess each day.  Spring uniform will be coming soon.... We are enforcing our dress code at school and making sure students are wearing the correct shoes, gym pants, being tucked in etc.
 
LAST CALL FOR YOUR FREE GALA TICKETS
We are excited for this year's Gala on Saturday, April 7th. This year 2 complimentary Gala tickets were included with your paid tuition.  You MUST RSVP by MONDAY, March 25th  in order to receive your complimentary tickets. Tickets are non-transferable and only one ticket per parent (two per family).
The Gala will be at the Wachusett Country Club at 6:00PM.  The Gala is Semi-Formal and includes appetizers, a buffet dinner, raffles, auction, music and more. 
 
REGISTRATION for 2018-2019
Don’t forget to re-register soon. ALL students need to re-register for the next school year.  You can find registration forms for returning students and applications for new students, including preschool, on our website. OR ask for a registration form in the office.
 The Registration Fee increases to $250 on April 1st. Please make sure to re-register before the end of the month.
***You Do NOT need to create a new FACTS account if you already have one *****

REPORT CARDS
Report Cards for Kindergarten to 8th grade went 'live' in Option C on Monday. Please take a minute to review your child's report card and remember to click CONFIRM Report Card when you do read it, otherwise it looks like you have not read your child's report card.  If you have any questions regarding your child's report card, please email the classroom teacher.
​
NEASC ACCREDITATION
St. Anna School is an accredited school through NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges).NEASC accreditation is a system of accountability that is ongoing, voluntary, and comprehensive in scope. It respects differences in institutional populations, missions, and cultures, and fosters institutional change grounded in the expertise of practicing educators. It is based on standards which are developed and regularly reviewed by the members and which define the characteristics of good schools and colleges.
NEASC accreditation is structured in a ten-year cycle of:
Self-study which engages the entire educational community in structured analysis, self-reflection, and planning in response to the standards.
Peer review which brings discipline and perspective to the process through the observations and judgments of a visiting committee of peers from other schools and colleges, informed by the self-study and based on the standards.

We are beginning our self-study to prepare for our 10 year peer review.  As part of this process, we will be gathering input from our students, parents, staff and community.
We would like your input on our current Mission Statement as we review and possibly revamp it.  Please take a minute to complete this quick survey.  Thank You.

HEARING & VISION SCREENINGS
The Lions Club will be here on April 5th and 6th  to conduct vision and hearing screenings for all students from kindergarten to grade 8. The Massachusetts School Vision Screening Program has been one of the most successful initiatives implemented by the Department of Public Health for over 50 years.
The purpose of this screening is to detect any vision and hearing impairments that your child may have that may be affecting his/her learning. If your child wears prescription glasses and/or hearing aids we request that they wear them on the day of the screening. They will be conducted through the Lions Club mobile screening lab with the help of our volunteers.  You will receive notification after the screenings ONLY if there are any concerns noted during the screening.
The school is dedicated to make sure that each child is healthy and ready to learn. We would like to take this moment to thank you for joining us in our efforts in providing the best learning environment.
If you have any questions or concerns about the School Vision and Hearing Screening Program please let me know. If you would like to opt your child out of the screenings, please send an email to Mrs. Priddy (mpriddy@stannaleom.org) BEFORE April 3rd   
The Leominster Lions Club will also be collecting used and unused reading glasses, hearing aids and sunglasses during St. Anna’s screening day, taking place on April 5th and 6th  Broken frames and glasses will also be collected. Thank you!

 
529 PLAN Changes  ***info here***
 We are pleased to bring your attention to changes to the federal tax code that will make it easier for catholic school families to meet annual tuition obligations.  Per the 2017 Tax Cut and Job Act, effective January 2018, families can withdraw up to $10,000/year/student from that student’s 529 plan to pay for K-12 tuition.  The primary benefit of a 529 plan is that earnings in the plan are tax-free if used to pay qualified education expenses.  Attached for your review is a primer from the US Catholic Conference of Bishops on the changes to 529 plans occasioned by the recent legislation.
 
The change to the federal tax code follows upon changes to the MA tax code.  Effective January 1, 2017 through the 2021 tax year, contributions to Massachusetts 529 plans of up to $1,000 per year by an individual, and up to $2,000 per year by a married couple filing jointly, are deductible in computing Massachusetts taxable income.
 
Please note that St. Anna School does not provide tax advice and we recognize that each families financial circumstance is unique. We recommend that you consult your financial advisor or tax consultant to select the best options for your family.
 
ST ANNA SCHOOL FOOD DRIVE
Help Us Make a Difference for Families in Need
 As a Pillar of Lent Service, the 4th grade has taken on organizing a Food Drive.  This is the LAST week to contribute.... This week's blue light special is Cereal and Pancake Mix!
Current Standings:
1st  7th with 464 points
2nd 5th with 316 points
3rd K with 279 points
4th 2nd with 277 points

*** This week you can overtake the lead.... only takes some Blue Light Special Double Pointers!!! ***

SPRING PHOTOS
We will have our Lifetouch Spring Photos on Thursday, April 5th
This is an Out Of Dress Day- as our Spring pictures are always out of dress.  We will send flyers home a few days before. You can choose your pose and background.  ALL students will have their picture taken unless you send in the Form with a note you do NOT want your child’s photo taken or even a separate note excusing your child from photos.
There is no money needed on picture day. In a couple of weeks, you will get a packet of pictures. You then pay for the pictures that you want and return the ones you do not want.  We suggest you return them ASAP if you do not plan to purchase them so they do not get misplaced.
Preschool- All preschool students are invited to come have their photo taken. We will get preschool students who do not come on Thursdays- in for their photos whenever you arrive between 9:00-10:30.

​LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK SWEETHEART BALL
Our annual Sweetheart Ball will be held on Friday, April 6th at St Anna’s from 7:00-9:00 PM.  We invite fathers or other male role models to celebrate a night out of dancing with their special girls.  Tickets are on sale in the office: $20.00 per couple and $5.00 for each additional daughter.  Tickets are NOT sold at the door. Please plan ahead.  You can purchase optional photos for $10. You can pay when you purchase your tickets OR pay the night of the Sweetheart Ball.  Checks for tickets/photos can be made out to St. Anna School.  Music by DJ Proietti and lots of treats!  (this is a No mom event- sorry!).
We are looking for baked goods for all to enjoy on this special night out. Please remember NO peanuts, peanut butter or tree nuts.  I’m sure the girls would love some fruit and veggies too!  Please email Kelley Gammel (kelgammes@gmail.com) if you’re able to help with treats.
 
YEARBOOKS
Have you ordered your 2017-2018 St. Anna School Yearbook year?  You don’t want to miss out on the memories. Preschool through grade 8 are ALL included in the yearbook.
This year's book is only $22!  You can reserve your copy today by sending in the form or ordering online. Use Our Yearbook ID Code: 12276518.  Lifetouch will also be sending you yearbook ordering email reminders!  Don't miss out on the memories.  ALL students are included in the yearbook, including our new students. It is a really nice keepsake.
 
BEER and WINE TASTING 
The STB PTO will host it's Annual Beer and Wine Tasting on Friday, April 13th at the Wachusett Mountain from 7pm - 10pm. We are asking for you help in promoting the event to your families.  
Tickets are $30/single and $55/couple. Deadline for ticket sales in Wednesday, April 10th. 
The evening will have live music, food, raffle, silent auction and beer/wine tasting tables. 

​CALENDAR UPDATES
Our current last day of school is June 15th this is an early release day at 11:30
8th grade graduation is June 7th
Field Day is June 8th.  8th graders are invited to come back for the day!
Preschool graduation is June 12th

Taekwondo Class- 4 week special for $30 (includes uniform) MORE INFO HERE
APRIL Vacation Boredom Busters!!! Check out these offerings from the Mount!
Hillary's Chucks Kidz Day  to be held April 14th 
Find out more about the foundation by visiting www.hillaryschucks.com. 

Session IV  April 9-June 8
Mondays- Tennis grades 1-5, Book Club grades 5-8
Tuesdays- Breakout/Escape grades 1-3
Wednesdays- Escape Room grades 4-8
​Thursdays-  GAME TIME! grades 2-8
TinkerCad- see Miss Ellis can be done in free time/indoor recess/homework club
BOK (before school gym fun)- No sign ups needed…. K-3 on Tuesdays // 4-8 Fridays 7:45-8:25 

Yearbook (6-8) Tuesdays 8:00
Choir grades 3-8 Wednesdays 8:30 
Drama grades 4-8 Thursdays   

Homework Club grades 3-8- Monday-Thursday 3:15-4:30  **students are welcome to attend homework club to complete homework or study for quizzes/tests.  Students must stay at homework club until their ride arrives unless they are scheduled to go to extended care

April Menu 
​We offer a salad bar option every day- either as a meal or side.  Students are able to choose from a variety of veggies and proteins to make their own salad.
NJHS Ice Cream Sales continue every Friday for $1
and the Vending Machine is stocked with healthy drink options.. water, Gatorade, juice, iced tea.
​We also have a water station so students can have plenty of water at lunch.

​We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting TUESDAY, MARCH 27 at 6:00. Childcare will be available. We will be planning for the annual Mother-Son event, brainstorming BBQ themes, choosing fall fundraisers and more.  We’d love to have you join us. Have a voice in your school.
Contact the PTO anytime

Spring may be here on the calendar but it doesn't feel like it outside.  Some of our winter ailments may linger a while longer. Please make sure to keep your child home from school if they are not feeling well or exhibit any signs of illness, including a fever, vomiting or diarrhea. Please take a minute to read the Flu information from the CDC. 
If you child has any  symptoms, especially a fever, they MUST stay home until they are fever free without fever reducing medication for 24 hours.  We want to keep all of our students healthy.  

​3/25 Palm Sunday
3/27 Cool Kids Banking
3/28 Living Stations 9:00
3/29 Maundy Thursday
3/30 Good Friday- NO SCHOOL
4/3 PTO Out of Dress
4/5 Spring Lifetouch Photos- 
4/5 & 4/6 Vision/Hearing Screenings
4/6 Sweetheart Ball 7:00-9:00
4/7 Design Squad has been CANCELED for the Spring (see you in the Fall)
4/7 St.  Anna Spirit GALA 5:30 PM
4/9 Science Fair Set Up/Class Previews
4/9 PTO Meeting 6:00
4/10 Science Fair Judging AND Science Fair Viewing & Awards 6:30 **Change in Date**
4/13 K-5 Trip to Theatre at the Mount to see Little Mermaid 
4/16 -4/20 April Vacation
4/23-4/27 Spring Book Fair
4/26 Author Jeff Nathan visit K-5
4/28 First Communion
4/30 Books & Beyond ENDS

We’ve had quite the snowy start to March.  I hope everyone has been working hard on their Blizzard Bags and if everyone turns in their work, our last day of school will remain June 15th, so make sure to get your work done and turned in to your teacher.  We’re praying that next week’s predicted Nor’Easter will be a rain event! I think we have enough white stuff in the yard.
We are finally finishing up Terra Nova. We were granted an extension due to the snow days.  We finished our classroom testing this morning and are now working on make up testing.  We are very proud of how hard our students worked. They took the tests seriously and everyone put forth their best effort.
 
SPIRIT OF ST ANNA GALA 2018
We are excited to bring you this year’s GALA! Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 7th. This year 2 complimentary Gala tickets were included with your paid tuition.  You MUST RSVP by Monday, March 26th in order to receive your complimentary tickets. Tickets are non-transferable and only one ticket per parent (two per family).
The Gala will be at the Wachusett Country Club at 6:00PM.  The Gala is Semi-Formal and includes appetizers, a buffet dinner, raffles, auction, music and more. 
Raffle Tickets for pre-sale will be sent home next week!!! Tickets are $20 for 25. There are LOTS of prizes to choose from. Your students will be excited for some of the new 'school' raffle prizes.  You will receive a list and order form for the tickets. You simply fill out the order form, letting us know how many tickets you'd like and how many you'd like entered for each raffle item. Send in your form and money! Easy Peasy!  AND/OR purchase raffle tickets AT the GALA.
School ONLY Raffle prizes will be drawn AT school with the students in an assembly on Monday, April 9th.
 
HEARING & VISION SCREENINGS
The Lions Club will be here on April 5th and 6th  to conduct vision and hearing screenings for all students from kindergarten to grade 8. The Massachusetts School Vision Screening Program has been one of the most successful initiatives implemented by the Department of Public Health for over 50 years.
The purpose of this screening is to detect any vision and hearing impairments that your child may have that may be affecting his/her learning. If your child wears prescription glasses and/or hearing aids we request that they wear them on the day of the screening. They will be conducted through the Lions Club mobile screening lab with the help of our volunteers.  You will receive notification after the screenings ONLY if there are any concerns noted during the screening.
The school is dedicated to make sure that each child is healthy and ready to learn. We would like to take this moment to thank you for joining us in our efforts in providing the best learning environment.
If you have any questions or concerns about the School Vision and Hearing Screening Program please let me know. If you would like to opt your child out of the screenings, please send an email to Mrs. Priddy (mpriddy@stannaleom.org) BEFORE April 3rd   
The Leominster Lions Club will also be collecting used and unused reading glasses, hearing aids and sunglasses during St. Anna’s screening day, taking place on April 5th and 6th  Broken frames and glasses will also be collected. Thank you!

 
529 PLAN Changes  **More info here***
 
We are pleased to bring your attention to changes to the federal tax code that will make it easier for catholic school families to meet annual tuition obligations.  Per the 2017 Tax Cut and Job Act, effective January 2018, families can withdraw up to $10,000/year/student from that student’s 529 plan to pay for K-12 tuition.  The primary benefit of a 529 plan is that earnings in the plan are tax-free if used to pay qualified education expenses.  Attached for your review is a primer from the US Catholic Conference of Bishops on the changes to 529 plans occasioned by the recent legislation.
 
The change to the federal tax code follows upon changes to the MA tax code.  Effective January 1, 2017 through the 2021 tax year, contributions to Massachusetts 529 plans of up to $1,000 per year by an individual, and up to $2,000 per year by a married couple filing jointly, are deductible in computing Massachusetts taxable income.
 
Please note that St. Anna School does not provide tax advice and we recognize that each families financial circumstance is unique. We recommend that you consult your financial advisor or tax consultant to select the best options for your family.
 
LENTEN FISH DINNERS
If you haven’t attended a fish dinner at St. Anna Church, you are missing out! It is the BEST baked haddock dinner around!  Come out any or all Friday night’s during Lent for your fish dinner and support St. Anna Society.  The St. Anna Society has graciously donated $10,000 to our school for the past couple of years. Let’s show them the same support.
See the FLYER for more details…
 
PENANCE
Father Fred would like to encourage you all to attend penance together as a family during the Lent Season. All Leominster Catholic Churches will be holding Penance every Tuesday during Lent at 7:00 PM. 
  
ST ANNA SCHOOL FOOD DRIVE
Help Us Make a Difference for Families in our parish and restock the empty shelves for Mathew 25
As a Pillar of Lent Service, the 4th grade has taken on organizing a Food Drive.  The food drive will continue through Lent, ending on Holy Thursday.  The school (grades PK-8) will collect canned goods and dry goods to donate to the St Anna food pantry. Our food drive will help families in our community.
 Every single donation helps, and together we hope our combined donations will make a real difference for those in need.  Here are some suggestions:
 Canned chicken, Peanut butter, Dried beans, 100% fruit juices, Canned fruit, Rice, Pasta, Canned soups, Multigrain & low-sugar cereals, Canned tuna, Canned vegetables, Granola bars, Instant potatoes, Nuts, Salad dressing

Each item donated is worth 1 point, We will have an item of the week (The Blue Light Special).    This item will be worth 2 points. NEXT WEEK’S BLUE LIGHT SPECIAL WILL BE PASTA AND SAUCE! Let’s show our Italian community we know how to pasts!!
 The class with the most points will win a pizza party!  The donations will be collected and counted by class each morning by the 4th grade.  
​Thank you for your help!
Sincerely,
The Fourth Grade Class

SPRING PHOTOS
We will have our Lifetouch Spring Photos on Thursday, April 5th
This is an Out Of Dress Day- as our Spring pictures are always out of dress.  We will send flyers home a few days before. You can choose your pose and background.  ALL students will have their picture taken unless you send in the Form with a note you do NOT want your child’s photo taken or even a separate note excusing your child from photos.
There is no money needed on picture day. In a couple of weeks, you will get a packet of pictures. You then pay for the pictures that you want and return the ones you do not want.  We suggest you return them ASAP if you do not plan to purchase them so they do not get misplaced.
Preschool- All preschool students are invited to come have their photo taken. We will get preschool students who do not come on Thursdays- in for their photos whenever you arrive between 9:00-10:30.
​
LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK SWEETHEART BALL
Our annual Sweetheart Ball will be held on Friday, April 6th at St Anna’s from 7:00-9:00 PM.  We invite fathers or other male role models to celebrate a night out of dancing with their special girls.  Tickets are on sale in the office: $20.00 per couple and $5.00 for each additional daughter.  Tickets are NOT sold at the door. Please plan ahead.  You can purchase optional photos for $10. You can pay when you purchase your tickets OR pay the night of the Sweetheart Ball.  Checks for tickets/photos can be made out to St. Anna School.  Music by DJ Proietti and lots of treats!  (this is a No mom event- sorry!).
We are looking for baked goods for all to enjoy on this special night out. Please remember NO peanuts, peanut butter or tree nuts.  I’m sure the girls would love some fruit and veggies too!  Please email Kelley Gammel (kelgammes@gmail.com) if you’re able to help with treats.
 
YEARBOOKS
Have you ordered your 2017-2018 St. Anna School Yearbook year?  You don’t want to miss out on the memories. Preschool through grade 8 are ALL included in the yearbook.
This year's book is only $22!  You can reserve your copy today by sending in the form or ordering online. Use Our Yearbook ID Code: 12276518.  Lifetouch will also be sending you yearbook ordering email reminders!  Don't miss out on the memories.  ALL students are included in the yearbook, including our new students. It is a really nice keepsake.
 
REGISTRATION for 2018-2019
Don’t forget to re-register soon. ALL students need to re-register for the next school year.  You can find registration forms for returning students and applications for new students, including preschool, on our website. OR ask for a registration form in the office.
 The Registration Fee increases to $250 on April 1st. Please make sure to re-register before the end of the month.
***You Do NOT need to create a new FACTS account if you already have one *****
 
CALENDAR UPDATES
Our current last day of school is June 15th this is an early release day at 11:30
8th grade graduation is June 7th
Field Day is June 8th.  8th graders are invited to come back for the day!
Preschool graduation is June 12th

BEER and WINE TASTING 
The STB PTO will host it's Annual Beer and Wine Tasting on Friday, April 13th at the Wachusett Mountain from 7pm - 10pm. We are asking for you help in promoting the event to your families.  
Tickets are $30/single and $55/couple. Deadline for ticket sales in Wednesday, April 10th. 
The evening will have live music, food, raffle, silent auction and beer/wine tasting tables. 

​APRIL Vacation Boredom Busters!!! Check out these offerings from the Mount!

Session III  January 29-March 29
Mondays- 4-8 Minecraft World Development, 6-8 The NOVELties
Tuesdays- 1-3 Sphero 2.0, Archery 4-8 (Feb 27-March 20)
Wednesdays- 4-8 Engineering, K-3 Lego Club
TinkerCad- see Miss Ellis can be done in free time/indoor recess/homework club
BOK (before school gym fun)- No sign ups needed…. K-3 on Tuesdays // 4-8 Fridays 7:45-8:25 
Session IV will begin April 9th... stay tuned!

Yearbook (6-8) Tuesdays 8:00
Choir grades 3-8 Wednesdays 8:30 
Drama grades 4-8 Thursdays   
Math Olympiad Thursdays 7:50
Cheerleading- grades 3-8 Saturdays 

Homework Club grades 3-8- Monday-Thursday 3:15-4:30  **students are welcome to attend homework club to complete homework or study for quizzes/tests.  Students must stay at homework club until their ride arrives unless they are scheduled to go to extended care

​We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting TUESDAY, MARCH 27 at 6:00. Childcare will be available. We will be planning for the annual Mother-Son event, brainstorming BBQ themes, choosing fall fundraisers and more.  We’d love to have you join us. Have a voice in your school.
Contact the PTO anytime

​The flu is nothing to take lightly this year.  Please take a minute to read the Flu information from the CDC.  If you child has any flu symptoms, especially a fever, they MUST stay home until they are fever free without fever reducing medication for 24 hours.  We want to keep all of our students healthy.  The flu season runs through May.

3/19 Reports cards live
3/21 Irish Step Dancers 11:10
3/23 MS dance at St. Leo’s 7-9 PM
3/23 Lenten Fish Dinner
3/25 Palm Sunday
3/27 Cool Kids Banking
3/28 Living Stations 9:00
3/29 Maundy Thursday
3/30 Good Friday- NO SCHOOL
4/3 PTO Out of Dress
4/5 Spring Lifetouch Photos- 
4/5 & 4/6 Vision/Hearing Screenings
4/6 Sweetheart Ball 7:00-9:00
4/7 Design Squad 12:00-4:00
4/7 St.  Anna Spirit GALA 5:30 PM
4/9 Science Fair Set Up/Class Previews
4/9 PTO Meeting 6:00
4/10 Science Fair Judging AND Science Fair Viewing & Awards 6:30 **Change in Date**
4/13 K-5 Trip to Theatre at the Mount to see Little Mermaid 
4/16 -4/20 April Vacation
4/23-4/27 Spring Book Fair
4/26 Author Jeff Nathan visit K-5
4/28 First Communion
4/30 Books & Beyond ENDS

Monday is the LAST day we are collecting PEEPS to send to Coach Donlan who is currently deployed to Kuwait.  We want to shower him with our St. Anna love and support with boxes and boxes of his favorite Easter treat- PEEPS!  Pick up a pack this weekend when you're shopping for the food drive!

SPIRIT OF ST ANNA GALA 2018
We are excited to bring you this year’s GALA! Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 7th. This year 2 complimentary Gala tickets were included with your paid tuition.  You MUST RSVP by March 26th in order to receive your complimentary tickets. Tickets are non-transferable and only one ticket per parent (two per family).
The Gala will be at the Wachusett Country Club at 6:00PM.  The Gala is Semi-Formal and includes appetizers, a buffet dinner, raffles, auction, music and more. 
 
LENTEN FISH DINNERS
If you haven’t attended a fish dinner at St. Anna Church, you are missing out! It is the BEST baked haddock dinner around!  Come out any or all Friday night’s during Lent for your fish dinner and support St. Anna Society.  The St. Anna Society has graciously donated $10,000 to our school for the past couple of years. Let’s show them the same support.
See the FLYER for more details…
 
PENANCE
Father Fred would like to encourage you all to attend penance together as a family during the Lent Season. All Leominster Catholic Churches will be holding Penance every Tuesday during Lent at 7:00 PM. 
 
PEEPS
Mr. Donlan (basketball coach, friend, husband to Mrs. Donlan) has been deployed overseas to Kuwait with the Army.  Mr. Donlan LOVES peeps... This is the best time of the year to find them.  Father Fred has challenged the students to bring in as many peeps as possible so that we can send them over to Mr. Donlan and his fellow soldiers to enjoy this Easter. Let's see how many PEEPS we can collect to show our Love to Mr. Donlan and everyone else that is away from their families this Easter season to keep us safe.
​
TERRA NOVA 
Students in grades 2-8 will have their Terra Nova testing March 5-13. Please help your child get a good night’s sleep and eat a healthy breakfast to prepare them for a day of testing. It is important to arrive to school on-time each day as testing will begin promptly at 9:00.  Any student who arrives to school AFTER 9:00 will need to wait in the lobby until their class has finished testing and then will need to make up the testing missed. Please make sure you let the office know if your child will be absent. Make up testing will take place on March 14-16.
 
ST ANNA SCHOOL FOOD DRIVE
Help Us Make a Difference for Families in Need
 As a Pillar of Lent Service, the 4th grade has taken on organizing a Food Drive.  The food drive will continue through Lent, ending on Holy Thursday.  The school (grades PK-8) will collect canned goods and dry goods to donate to the St Anna food pantry. Our food drive will help families in our community.
 Every single donation helps, and together we hope our combined donations will make a real difference for those in need.  Here are some suggestions:
 Canned chicken, Peanut butter, Dried beans, 100% fruit juices, Canned fruit, Rice, Pasta, Canned soups, Multigrain & low-sugar cereals, Canned tuna, Canned vegetables, Granola bars, Instant potatoes, Nuts, Salad dressing

Each item donated is worth 1 point, We will have an item of the week (The Blue Light Special).    This item will be worth 2 points.  The class with the most points will win a pizza party!  The donations will be collected and counted by class each morning by the 4th grade.  
​Thank you for your help!
Sincerely,
The Fourth Grade Class

YEARBOOKS
Have you ordered your 2017-2018 St. Anna School Yearbook year?  You don’t want to miss out on the memories. Preschool through grade 8 are ALL included in the yearbook.
This year's book is only $22!  You can reserve your copy today by sending in the form or ordering online. Use Our Yearbook ID Code: 12276518.  Lifetouch will also be sending you yearbook ordering email reminders!  Don't miss out on the memories.
 
REGISTRATION for 2018-2019
Don’t forget to re-register soon. ALL students need to re-register for the next school year.  You can find registration forms for returning students and applications for new students, including preschool, on our website. OR ask for a registration form in the office.
 The Registration Fee increases to $250 on April 1st. Please make sure to re-register before the end of the month.
***You Do NOT need to create a new FACTS account if you already have one *****
 
FACTS Grant and Aid info/letter
The Diocesan 2018-2019 Grant and Aid Financial Aid application for students in grades K-8 is now open :https://online.factsmgt.com/signin/3H1T8  The deadline to apply for Grant & Aid has been extended until March 9th, Your child will need to be re-registered for next year by March 16th in order for you to be eligible for Grant & Aid allocations if you qualify. 

Organization Skills Workshop-  March 17th 10:00-12:00
APRIL Vacation Boredom Busters!!! Check out these offerings from the Mount!

Session III  January 29-March 29
Mondays- 4-8 Minecraft World Development, 6-8 The NOVELties
Tuesdays- 1-3 Sphero 2.0, Archery 4-8 (Feb 27-March 20)
Wednesdays- 4-8 Engineering, K-3 Lego Club
TinkerCad- see Miss Ellis can be done in free time/indoor recess/homework club
BOK (before school gym fun)- No sign ups needed…. K-3 on Tuesdays // 4-8 Fridays 7:45-8:25 

Yearbook (6-8) Tuesdays 8:00
Choir grades 3-8 Wednesdays 8:30 
Drama grades 4-8 Thursdays   
Math Olympiad Thursdays 7:50
Cheerleading- grades 3-8 Saturdays 

Homework Club grades 3-8- Monday-Thursday 3:15-4:30  **students are welcome to attend homework club to complete homework or study for quizzes/tests.  Students must stay at homework club until their ride arrives unless they are scheduled to go to extended care

​March Menu – we will have a second non-meat pizza option each week during Lent. Teachers will let students know in class that day their options- for example this week it is cheese or pineapple pizza!

​We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting TUESDAY, MARCH 13  at 6:00. Childcare will be available. We will be planning for the annual Mother-Son event, brainstorming BBQ themes, choosing fall fundraisers and more.  We’d love to have you join us. Have a voice in your school.
Contact the PTO anytime

​The flu is nothing to take lightly this year.  Please take a minute to read the Flu information from the CDC.  If you child has any flu symptoms, especially a fever, they MUST stay home until they are fever free without fever reducing medication for 24 hours.  We want to keep all of our students healthy.  The flu season runs through May.

3/5-3/16 Terra Nova Testing
3/11 Daylight Savings Begins
3/13 PTO Out of Dress // PTO Meeting 6:00
3/16 Lenten Fish Dinner
3/19 Reports cards live
3/23 MS dance at St. Leo’s 7-9 PM
3/23 Lenten Fish Dinner
3/25 Palm Sunday
3/28 Living Stations 9:00
3/29 Maundy Thursday
3/30 Good Friday- NO SCHOOL
4/3 PTO Out of Dress
4/6 Sweetheart Ball 7:00-9:00
4/7 Design Squad 12:00-4:00
4/7 St.  Anna Spirit GALA 5:30 PM
4/9 Science Fair Set Up/Class Previews
4/9 PTO Meeting 6:00
4/10 Science Fair Judging AND Science Fair Viewing & Awards 6:30 **Change in Date**
4/13 K-5 Trip to Theatre at the Mount to see Little Mermaid 
4/16 -4/20 April Vacation
4/23-4/27 Spring Book Fair
4/26 Author Jeff Nathan visit K-5
4/28 First Communion
4/30 Books & Beyond ENDS

SPIRIT OF ST ANNA GALA 2018
We are excited to bring you this year’s GALA! Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 7th. This year 2 complimentary Gala tickets were included with your paid tuition.  You MUST RSVP by March 26th in order to receive your complimentary tickets. Tickets are non-transferable and only one ticket per parent (two per family).
The Gala will be at the Wachusett Country Club at 6:00PM.  The Gala is Semi-Formal and includes appetizers, a buffet dinner, raffles, auction, music and more. 
 
LENTEN FISH DINNERS
If you haven’t attended a fish dinner at St. Anna Church, you are missing out! It is the BEST baked haddock dinner around!  Come out any or all Friday night’s during Lent for your fish dinner and support St. Anna Society.  The St. Anna Society has graciously donated $10,000 to our school for the past couple of years. Let’s show them the same support.
See the FLYER for more details…
 
PENANCE
Father Fred would like to encourage you all to attend penance together as a family during the Lent Season. All Leominster Catholic Churches will be holding Penance every Tuesday during Lent at 7:00 PM. 
 
PEEPS
Mr. Donlan (basketball coach, friend, husband to Mrs. Donlan) has been deployed overseas to Kuwait with the Army.  Mr. Donlan LOVES peeps... This is the best time of the year to find them.  Father Fred has challenged the students to bring in as many peeps as possible so that we can send them over to Mr. Donlan and his fellow soldiers to enjoy this Easter. Let's see how many PEEPS we can collect to show our Love to Mr. Donlan and everyone else that is away from their families this Easter season to keep us safe.
​
TERRA NOVA
Students in grades 2-8 will have their Terra Nova testing March 5-13. Please help your child get a good night’s sleep and eat a healthy breakfast to prepare them for a day of testing. It is important to arrive to school on-time each day as testing will begin promptly at 9:00.  Any student who arrives to school AFTER 9:00 will need to wait in the lobby until their class has finished testing and then will need to make up the testing missed. Please make sure you let the office know if your child will be absent. Make up testing will take place on March 14-16.
 
ST ANNA SCHOOL FOOD DRIVE
Help Us Make a Difference for Families in Need
 As a Pillar of Lent Service, the 4th grade has taken on organizing a Food Drive.  The food drive will continue through Lent, ending on Holy Thursday.  The school (grades PK-8) will collect canned goods and dry goods to donate to the St Anna food pantry. Our food drive will help families in our community.
 Every single donation helps, and together we hope our combined donations will make a real difference for those in need.  Here are some suggestions:
 Canned chicken, Peanut butter, Dried beans, 100% fruit juices, Canned fruit, Rice, Pasta, Canned soups, Multigrain & low-sugar cereals, Canned tuna, Canned vegetables, Granola bars, Instant potatoes, Nuts, Salad dressing

Each item donated is worth 1 point, We will have an item of the week (The Blue Light Special).    This item will be worth 2 points.  The class with the most points will win a pizza party!  The donations will be collected and counted by class each morning by the 4th grade.  
​Thank you for your help!
Sincerely,
The Fourth Grade Class

YEARBOOKS
Have you ordered your 2017-2018 St. Anna School Yearbook year?  You don’t want to miss out on the memories. Preschool through grade 8 are ALL included in the yearbook.
This year's book is only $22!  You can reserve your copy today by sending in the form or ordering online. Use Our Yearbook ID Code: 12276518.  Lifetouch will also be sending you yearbook ordering email reminders!  Don't miss out on the memories.
 
REGISTRATION for 2018-2019
Don’t forget to re-register soon. ALL students need to re-register for the next school year.  You can find registration forms for returning students and applications for new students, including preschool, on our website. OR ask for a registration form in the office.
 The Registration Fee increases to $250 on April 1st. Please make sure to re-register before the end of the month.
 
FACTS Grant and Aid info/letter
The Diocesan 2018-2019 Grant and Aid Financial Aid application for students in grades K-8 is now open :https://online.factsmgt.com/signin/3H1T8  The deadline to apply for Grant & Aid is March 9th, Your child will need to be re-registered for next year by March 9th in order for you to be eligible for Grant & Aid allocations if you qualify.  This includes any students on a wait list.
If you know of any new families interested in St. Anna School and Grant & Aid, please let them know the deadline to file their application and that their child(ren) needs to be registered as a student by March 9th.
Please reach out if you have any questions. I encourage you all to apply even if you're unsure if you will qualify.  There are funds available each year and the list that is generated by the applications (even if you do not qualify) is used by the state to allocate our Title Funds which support our school.

APRIL Vacation Boredom Busters!!! Check out these offerings from the Mount!

Session III  January 29-March 29
Mondays- 4-8 Minecraft World Development, 6-8 The NOVELties
Tuesdays- 1-3 Sphero 2.0, Archery 4-8 (Feb 27-March 20)
Wednesdays- 4-8 Engineering, K-3 Lego Club
TinkerCad- see Miss Ellis can be done in free time/indoor recess/homework club
BOK (before school gym fun)- No sign ups needed…. K-3 on Tuesdays // 4-8 Fridays 7:45-8:25 

Yearbook (6-8) Tuesdays 8:00
Choir grades 3-8 Wednesdays 8:30 
Drama grades 4-8 Thursdays   
Math Olympiad Thursdays 7:50
Cheerleading- grades 3-8 Saturdays 

Homework Club grades 3-8- Monday-Thursday 3:15-4:30  **students are welcome to attend homework club to complete homework or study for quizzes/tests.  Students must stay at homework club until their ride arrives unless they are scheduled to go to extended care
 

​March Menu – we will have a second non-meat pizza option each week during Lent. Teachers will let students know in class that day their options- for example this week it is cheese or pineapple pizza!

ICE CREAM Sales every Friday.  Ice cream sales are a fundraiser for National Junior Honor Society.
Students can bring in $1.00 ($2.00 for the big bomb pops in 4-8) each Friday to purchase ice cream after lunch.

There's also a vending machine with plastic bottles of water, iced tea, flavored water and Gatorade/Powerade (12 oz) for $1.00.

​We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting TUESDAY, MARCH 13  at 6:00. Childcare will be available. We will be planning for the annual Mother-Son event, brainstorming BBQ themes, choosing fall fundraisers and more.  We’d love to have you join us. Have a voice in your school.
Contact the PTO anytime

The flu is nothing to take lightly this year.  Please take a minute to read the Flu information from the CDC.  If you child has any flu symptoms, especially a fever, they MUST stay home until they are fever free without fever reducing medication for 24 hours.  We want to keep all of our students healthy.  The flu season runs through May.

​3/5-3/16 Terra Nova Testing
3/7 School Mass canceled due to a funeral – choir will practice in the music room
3/9 NO SCHOOL ** Change from original Calendar**
3/9 Lenten Fish Dinner
3/11 Daylight Savings Begins
3/13 PTO Out of Dress // PTO Meeting 6:00
3/16 Lenten Fish Dinner
3/19 Reports cards live
3/23 MS dance at St. Leo’s 7-9 PM
3/23 Lenten Fish Dinner
3/25 Palm Sunday
3/28 Living Stations 9:00
3/29 Maundy Thursday
3/30 Good Friday- NO SCHOOL
4/3 PTO Out of Dress
4/6 Sweetheart Ball 7:00-9:00
4/7 Design Squad 12:00-4:00
4/7 St.  Anna Spirit GALA 5:30 PM