Old+News



**May Procession Shows Strong Tradition of St. Anne School**

The May Procession is a tradition known by most every Catholic school in the country. The school children process to the church in order to honor Mary during her month of May. The eighth grade class dons their graduation gowns for the first time, the Communion class gets one more wear of their dress whites, and the Confirmation class wears their celebratory gowns as well.

Last year the May Procession returned to the school day to place proper importance on the event and ensure that all students were able to participate. It is a great exercise that brings the students of St. Anne together and provides parents with a sense of pride and plenty of picture taking opportunities.

The event would not have been possible with out the efforts of our wonderful staff. Mr. O'Brien and Mr. Woods worked with the 8th grade, who did a spectacular job. Mrs. McCormick and Mrs. Ringenary oversaw the music, Ms. Joyce and several parents helped to get the Communion class ready, and of course Mrs. Yost was behind the scenes making sure gowns and flowers and booklets were ready to go. We'd like to thank everyone who came out to the May Procession and our students who did a great job on this special day.

**Boy Wins, Befriends Droid**  It is quite an honor to take home T.W.I.G.G.Y! The friendly droid was given to one of our top students in the Computers for Education fundraiser. T.W.I.G.G.Y, a very useful, if slightly meddlesome, droid had an important message for our winner that it played over and over, "Help me Obi Wan Kenobi, you're my only hope."

We thought maybe he meant the old hermit, Ben Kenobi, who lives in a small dwelling on the edge of the Jundland Wastes. Our winner and his droid were already gone when we tried to reach them for comment early this morning. They must have gone to find old Ben.

Congrats to our winner and thank you to all who sent in postcards for the Computers for Education fundraiser!

**2nd Grade Raises Money for Haiti with Bake Sale **
==Way back in January, the 2nd graders did a great and generous thing and we wanted to make sure they got proper recognition for their commendable effort on our school website. == ==They were to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation shortly after the earthquake in Haiti and we looking for do a good work. The children decided to do a bake sale and donate all the money to Catholic Relief Services. The money will go towards food, shelter and clean water for the people affected by the earthquake. ==

2nd graders have once again made St. Anne proud. Great job!
 Saint Anne School News media type="file" key="sasnewsfinished.wmv" width="304" height="304" Camera/ Editing: James Bellicini Technicians: Kevin McCormick, Christian Considine Managing Editor: Mr. Archer  If there is one thing the Pre K has mastered in their first 100 days, it is finding ways to learn and have fun. The 100th day of school gave the Pre-Kers another chance to celebrate. Mrs. Ringenary, who is a bakery cake decorator when she is not at St. Anne, showed the children how to make flowers and write with the icing.
 * For Pre-K It's 100 Days Down;**
 * Only 2,240 To Go**

After the morning's activities the class held a "Pre K's Got Talent Show" for the parents in the afternoon that included Michael Jackson, skateboarding, singing and even a harmonica solo. Afterward, just about every Pre-Ker was ready to sign on for another hundred.

** Stewardship Council Visits Senior Center ** Stewardship Council is about serving the school, serving the community and sometimes serving lunch. The Council members took a walking field trip during Catholic Schools Week to the St. Anne Senior Center. They brought board games and cards with them to play with the seniors, but for the most part they were there for some good company and conversation. After about an hour of games and socializing, the Stewardship Council helped serve lunch and ate with their new friends.

The seniors always welcome us with open arms and our students enjoy our visits. We would like to thank Barbara Jo and Joanne at the St. Anne Senior Center for their help.

**Blue Edges Gold In 2nd Annual St. Anne Challenge** The Blue Team, made up of the Pre K, 1, 3, 5, and 7th grades, are always at a slight disadvantage. Their counterparts on the Gold team (K, 2, 4, 6, 8th) are all a year older. That has not stopped Big Blue from repeating as champs. All week the teams accumulated points in various ways, a penny walk for Haiti, a St. Anne History Challenge, a Guess Which Teacher Trivia and of course the Feats of Strength at the end of the week. The Gold team got off to a great start after the penny walk and held a 177-148 lead going into the last two days. The Blue team closed the gap with their knowledge of St. Anne history and then overcame the Gold team by winning 4 out of 6 events and defending the title. The thrilling 223-217 victory included arguably the best tug of war match in the history of the tug of war between the 7th and 8th grade girls. This reporter didn't have a watch, but if you told me it went on for an hour and a half, I'd believe you. In the end, the exhausted 7th grade girls barely outlasted the 8th graders.

The week started with a children's Mass followed by a terrific pancake breakfast put on by our Mrs. Kehan and our CYO. We had an open house and Scholastic Book Fair to help kick off registration (REGISTER NOW! 215-634-4231). Wednesday night saw "The Return of the Annual Talent Show," presented by Mr. Woods and the outstanding Stewardship Council, that brought the house down with our students showcasing their many talents.

The first graders took on the 100 Book Challenge from Ms. Ani and James Brown and Hailey Fahy led the class by reading several books each night. Ms. Trish conducted a Math Scavenger Hunt for the older grades that included acquiring the elusive and very rare Mr. Archer autograph (which was inexplicably valued at just one point).

We would like to thank all of our teachers and staff for their making this such a memorable week for our students and families. As always, a thank you to Father Brandt for his continued support of the school and leadership of our parish.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">Let's face it, you have students show their personalities in their socks and ties, you never know what you're going to get. As you can see things got kind of crazy and pretty preposterous as many St. Anne's students took us up on sock and tie independence. It was just one of many things happening during an event filled Catholic Schools Week!
 * Crazy Sock, Preposterous Tie Day Crazier, More Preposterous Than Anticipated**



<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 190%; text-align: center;">**8th and 1st Grades Make Lunches for St. Francis Inn** <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 94%; text-align: left;">Catholic Schools Week promotes "Dividends for Life" and along with all the fun and games that we like to have during the week, we make sure to focus on selfless, community oriented activities as well. We believe our community is our greatest responsibility and it is what gives us our identity.

St. Francis Inn has long been a place where the less fortunate can turn for help, a meal, or a place to stay. Our 8th and 1st graders spent Tuesday morning making lunches to be given out at St. Francis to those in need. The lunches were peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chips and fruit all donated by St. Anne families. Over 150 lunches were assembled and bagged by the 8th and 1st graders who did a great job!

The 8th graders have become role models for the 1st grade. They all have a 1st grade reading buddy that they work on reading skills with every Friday. This activity gave the students yet another opportunity to bond while doing something to help those less fortunate.

Well done everybody! <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 180%; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 10.92pt; text-align: left;"> <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 190%; text-align: center;">St. Anne After Care Program Up and Running <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">Our new aftercare program is off to a great start. If you are looking for a safe place for your child after school where they can do homework, work on our computers and play under our supervision by our faculty, please come in and get a registration for from the office or call to have one sent home with your child. Information is listed below. If you have any questions, please call the school.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">2:30-5:30 Daily Computer Labs <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; text-align: center;">*Play in the Schoolyard/ Gym* *Snack provided by Nutritional Development Services*
 * Homework Help*

__Rates (per child):__ $65.00 a month $20.00 a week $5.00 a day

Goodsearch Continues to Benefit St. Anne School

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">By putting Goodsearch on our homepage last year, we saw a huge jump in the number of searches in the name of St. Anne School. Good Search donates roughly a penny each time you use it as a search engine. You can find it right on our front page. At our Home and School meeting it was suggested that we provide instructions to make Goodsearch your homepage, or the page your computer will open when you go online. Goodsearch has a link to walk you through it, http://www.goodsearch.com/makehomepage.aspx. Make sure you choose St. Anne School as the recipient of your searches.

New this year is Goodshop, a place to shop online and find coupons to your favorite stores and each time you use it a donation is made to St. Anne. You can find it at http://www.goodsearch.com/goodshop.aspxdshop.com. We are curretnly working on creating a permanent link to Goodshop like the one you see on our homepage.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 140%; text-align: center;">St. Anne Has Plenty of Ways to Help with Tuition in 2009

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 98%; text-align: left;"> St. Anne is committed to helping parents with the cost of Catholic Education in 2009. Our Lunch Monitor Program which got off to a terrific start last year and helped build a strong sense of community with our parents. Monitors earned hundreds of dollars in tuition assistance for just an hour a day. The program is sponsored by the Alumni and all you need to do is get your clearances which can be printed out by clicking on the two links below. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">

The St. Anne Lottery has long been a way to help off set the cost of tuition. Sellers receive 20% on the each ticket sold. Tickets are available in the Rectory or you can contact the school.

Children's Scholarship Fund is a wonderful program that helps many families in need. Applications are sent home early in the year and are always available in the office. The Development Committee secured our first St. Anne BLOCS participant, setting aside funds specifically for St. Anne families. These forms are also sent home and always avaialble in the office.

We will also strongly encourage families to fill out NDS forms this year. The statistics from these forms make us eligible for grants, services and money for the school. This is one way to help fund the school with out raising tuition or fees.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 156%; text-align: center;">

Students Show No Fear of Highly Evolved Cow <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 98%; text-align: left;">St. Anne kids don't scare easy, so when an enormous cow was standing outside waiting for them at dismissal last Wednesday, they didn't run away screaming, they bravely approached the cow in an attempt to befriend it.

The cow is a scientific phenomenon the likes of nothing the world has ever seen. It walked upright, dressed itself and even chose a wardrobe with its own self preservation in mind (though his spelling left something to be desired). Mr. Archer thought for sure his Students of the Month were responsible for this evolutionary breakthrough, but it turns out the people at Chick-Fil-A have created these cows to help promote their delicious chicken sandwiches.

Chick Fil-A sent the cow over to help promote a Home and School fundraiser last Wednesday evening. The turn out was terrific! Students, parents and teachers packed the Chick Fil-A on Aramingo Ave. to help raise money for the Home and School Association. We would like to thank Dolores Nelson for setting the event up. Dolores has been a huge part of St. Anne Home and School for a long time and we are lucky to have parents that work so hard for our school. Thank you Dolores for the event and all your time and hard work over the years. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 140%; text-align: center;">

Best Picture Goes to Nana Yip; Will Become New Pic For Website <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">

The website has a new look courtesy of our first student photograph contest. 8th grader Nana Yip's warm and fuzzy picture of the first floor before our open house took the prize over some tough competition. See Nana's photo on the front page of the website

There were several great shots of the school and church, but only one could be on the "cover."

Check out the other nominees below. Thank you to all who participated. We hope to do this again next year!





<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 200%; text-align: center;">Chestnut Brass Band Delights St. Anne Students <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;">The Connelly Foundation has a wonderful program that sponsors field trips and assemblies to enrich the educational experiences for Archdiocesan students. Last month, we welcomed the Philadelphia Civic Ballet and on Wednesday we were treated to the music of the Chestnut Brass Band.

The students got to hear plenty of great music and learned about the history of the instruments from the players. It was a wonderful morning that the children really enjoyed and it is the kind of experience they might not otherwise have, if not for the Connellys. We would like to extend our gratitiude to the Connellys and to Jay Krush and the Chestnut Brass Band for their visit yesterday. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 150%; text-align: center;">Students Getting St. Anne History 101 As They Prepare for Catholic Schools Week <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;">In the two weeks leading up to Catholic Schools Week, our 8th graders have been giving the history lessons about our school and our parish to the rest of the school at the end of the announcements. The students should pay close attention as the knowledge may prove useful during next week's activities. Listed below are all of the announcements so far:

//- St. Anne became a parish in 1845, the same year that Florida and Texas became states.//

//- If you look closely at the stained glass windows in church, you will find tiny shamrocks in every window. This was a secret code to let Irish Catholics know the church was built by the Irish and that Irish Catholics were welcome there.//

//- The Social Hall, also known as "the new school" was built in 1925. The third floor held classes for both John W. Hallahan and North Catholic high schools. St. Anne was the only elementary school to do this.//

//- On November 11, 1947, the original church burned down as a result of arson. The story goes that it was a boy playing with matches in the bell tower. The church was rebuilt and re-opened on Christmas Day 1949.//

//- Our school building was built in 1895 and was the largest school in Philadelphia at the time. The 4th floor was an auditorium that could seat 1,400 people for shows on the stage. It was lit by electric light, which was brand new at the time.//

//- Reverend John McFadden was the longest serving priest in St. Anne history. He came to St. Anne in 1928. He saw the Great Depression, World War II, the church and convent fires, the first Irish Catholic president and St. Anne School and Parish grow to its largest population. he was named pastor in 1945 and Monsignor in 1965. He retired in 1969, but continued to say Mass until his death in 1977.//

//- Did you know that our church has a relic of St. Anne. The relic, a piece of St. Anne's wristbone, was brought back from Rome by Father Thomas Barry in 1898.//

//- The first burial in St. Anne Cemetery was on July 3, 1849. The cemetery was known as "God's Acre" and in it rest fifty three Civil War soldiers.//

//- Franklin Pierce was president when St. Anne School first opened. St. Anne has seen 31 different presidents. None were more important than the first Irish Catholic president, John F. Kennedy, who stopped at St. Anne when he ran for president in 1960.//

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 15.6pt; text-align: center;">2010 And Still No Hoverboards; Students Report Good Christmas Nonetheless <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 10.92pt; text-align: left;">Welcome to the future, everyone! A new decade is upon us, and although it is looking more and more like Back to the Future II was nothing but empty promises, we are excited about the New Year here at St. Anne.

The students came back to a cold morning, but smiling, after their long winter's nap, with reports of Santa sightings and staying up well past midnight on New Years Eve. These reports are still being investigated.

A very busy December (as usual) has left us with a backlog of news to report and the new year has plenty more to come. Please make sure you check out the entire page for the latest on St. Anne School.

First, however, we would like to thank everyone for their generosity at Christmas. We are always overwhelmed with gifts, cards, candy and well wishes and we certainly couldn't be more thankful that you have chosen to send your children to St. Anne School. It is you who make this such a wonderful school community. St. Anne Will Open in 2010

<span style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">Father Brandt made the announcement we've been waiting for this weekend at all Masses. St. Anne School will open for its 156th year in 2010/11. We are certainly grateful to the Alumni for their outstanding fund raising efforts and to the parents and students who have been supportive and enthusiastic throughout this entire process. We would also like to recognize our wonderful teachers and staff who always go above and beyond for our school.

Now that our future is assured, we must focus on registration, where the Alumni has stepped up again. From the opening of registration until April 15th, the Alumni is paying the $125 registration fee for all families (new and returning).

As everyone knows, word of mouth is the best kind of advertising, so please make sure to promote St. Anne and encourage people to come to our Open House after Mass on January 31st.

St. Anne Offering //Dividends for Life// During Catholic Schools Week

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;">The theme for Catholic Schools Week this year is "Dividends for Life." The two things we believe to be the building blocks of any child's life are education and community and we will do our best to demonstrate our commitment to both during Catholic Schools Week. We hope you can join us and we celebrate our school. Even if you have never been or are considering St. Anne, this is a great time to come in and see our commitment to educational excellence and strong sense of community.

CATHOLIC SCHOOL WEEK AT ST. ANNE SCHOOL

Sunday 1/31:
 * - 10:30 Family Mass**
 * - Pancake Breakfast after Mass in the Social Hall/ $5 a person**
 * - School Open House/ Registration Begins!**
 * o Theme: //Dividends For Life//**
 * o Each class has chosen a school subject as their focus**
 * - Book Fair in Rm. 23**

Monday 2/1: **Opening of Blue and Gold Week Social Hall 8 AM**
 * Brain Buster Challenge Grades 1-8**
 * Book Fair Pre K- 2 (AM)**
 * Reading Challenge/ Math Challenge**
 * Stewardship Council to Senior Center (LUNCH/ PM)**

Tuesday 2/2: **Peanut Butter & Jelly Lunches for St. Francis Inn (AM)**
 * Book Fair 3-6 (AM)**
 * Pennies from Heaven (PM)**
 * Thank You Cards for the Alumni (PM)**

Wednesday 2/3: **Silly Sock and Incongruous Tie Day**


 * Alumni Day – Open House to Alumni**
 * Deadline for St. Anne Photograph Contest and**
 * Essay Contest “Best St. Anne Story/ Memory”**
 * Book Fair 7-8**
 * Talent Show Dress Rehearsal (PM)**
 * Registration Open 5-7 PM**
 * Talent Show 7 PM**

Thursday 2/4: **Reading Challenge/ Math Challenge Results** SUBJECT TO CHANGE
 * Book Fair Make ups (AM)**
 * Mass 10 AM/ Living Rosary to follow**
 * Blue/ Gold Games (PM)**
 * Student/ Faculty Game (PM)**

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 19pt;">St. Anne Announces First Annual Photography Contest

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">We are looking for all amateur photographers out there to get creative and take pictures of our neighborhood. What do you think of when you think of St. Anne? What images come to mind? We are taking submissions for the first ever St. Anne Photography Contest. **All submissions will be displayed and people will have a chance to vote for their favorites.** Rules: Picture can not be of a person or people**.**
 * //All entries must be submitted by Wednesday, February 4, 2010.//**
 * //Only St. Anne students are eligible.//**
 * //One submission per student.//**
 * //Can be developed photograph or digital photograph. Can be handed in or emailed to saint.anne.school@gmail.com. Hard copy photos will be scanned to be put on the website.//**
 * //Pictures can be edited or enhanced.//**
 * //Pictures containing an identifiable person or people will be disqualified.//**
 * //Picture must be taken within parish boundaries (Frankford/ York/ Cambria/ Richmond).//**
 * //For example: Picture of Liberty Bell would not be eligible. Picture of skyline from your block would be eligible.//**

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 15.6pt; text-align: center;">December Features Jam Packed Christmas Calendar <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 10.92pt; text-align: left;">It's Christmas time and no one does Christmas like Good Old St. Anne! The festivities start tonight with a Craft Night in the Social Hall at 6 pm. Mrs. McKenna has put the event together that is FREE to all St. Anne students. All children are welcome for $2.

The big event of course is the Dinner and Dancing with the "Big Man" himself. Santa sold out the Social Hall last year and will return on Saturday, December 12th for some food and fun! Tickets go on sale Monday at school! Call 215-634-4231 for tickets and information. It is a great night and all proceeds go to benefit St. Anne Home and School Association.

Then, on December 7th, we will have the Parish tree lighting ceremony at 7 pm in the lower church. This wonderful tradition has been revived this year, so we hope you can come out and celebrate with us.

After recovering from dancing, Santa will bring his Secret Workshop here to St. Anne School. He will happily let the children of St. Anne shop for gifts for their families with gifts from his workshop. This will happen the week of the 14th. More information once Santa sets his busy schedule.

That week will also see the return of the St. Anne Christmas Spectacular Parts I and II. The 3rd-8th grades will perform on December 16th and the Pre-K-2nd grades will perform on Thursday December 17th with the world famous 1st grade Christmas play headlining. Both shows will start at 7 pm.

Of course we will have Christmas Eve Mass at 5 pm (8 pm, as was originally posted, was incorrect) that will feature the 1st grade play and contributions from the children of St. Anne School.

There will be no school on December 8th for the Immaculate Conception and on December 18th to allow everyone to recover from the Christmas Spectaculars. We have report card conferences on December 10 and 11th for report card conferences (grades 1-4 11:30 dismissal on Dec. 10th, grades 5-8 11:30 dismissal on Dec. 11th).

As you can see it is going to be a busy month of celebrating the Christmas holiday. We hope to see you at St. Anne!

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 15.6pt; text-align: center;">

5th Graders Sweep Turkey Raffle 8th Graders Repeat as Can Champs <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;">The annual Turkey Raffle and Canned Good Drive wrapped up on Tuesday and as always St. Anne proved how generous a community they are. Over 1,000 canned goods were brought in by our students. The 8th graders held on to their crown as "Most Generous Class" for the second year in a row, beating out the 7th and 4th grades who made it a very exciting race.

Both turkeys were surprisingly won by 5th graders, a long shot considering it is our smallest class. The winners promised to give the turkeys a good home in the freezer before cooking and eating them on Thanksgiving. They laughed for some time after that and then lugged their birds home.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 15.6pt; text-align: center;">Students of the Month Vow to Protect Citizens Through the End of November

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;">If you thought Buffalo Springfield was a supergroup, wait until you see the November Students of the Month. The Little Mermaid, St. Cecilia, The Beast, Darth Vader, Chase Utley, Lithuania, are you kidding?! The group is rounded out by couple of Phillies fans and a half girl half kitten and if there is one thing this group loves more than fighting crime and battling arch villains, it's school. This is with out a doubt the most star studded cast we've had in Student of the Month history and only at Halloween could we get them all in the same place at the same time. A copy of this picture was signed by all of our November Students and will be sent to the Justice League and Planet Hollywood. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 140%; text-align: center;"> Alumni Make Move to Ensure Financial Stability <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 12pt; text-align: left;">The students of St. Anne past are making big moves to secure its future. The uncertain climate of Catholic schools has driven the Alumni, one of the strongest associations of parish school alumni in the city, to take control of their alma mater's destiny.

A letter was sent out this week by the Alumni to raise $100,000 to augment parish subsidies and eventually replace them. The school will create a St. Anne Alumni Education Fund and form an Advisory Board for the school.

These moves are necessary for long term viability. Schools that have made this transition are among the strongest in the Archdiocese. The Alumni's proactive move is exactly what the school needs to succeed in the years ahead. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 15.6pt; text-align: center;">

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 90%; text-align: left;"> October Students of the Month Practice Cirque Du Soleil Routine <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;">The September Students of the Month said they would consider taking this act on the road, if only it wasn't for their love of school. They also tell us they can spell just about any word, provided it is one or two syllables long and doesn't have too many "curvy" letters. Spelling St. Anne was easy for these top students. You may notice our 2nd grade Student appears to be missing, but the truth is he turned himself into glue and is actually the only thing holding all of the pieces together. Great job Students of the Month, keep up the great work! You can read about these students on the Student of the Month page and in our newsletter.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 13pt; text-align: center;"> Abitibi Removes Paper Dumpsters, Again <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 10pt;">The company that runs the paper recycling program gave very little notice before once again removing the dumpsters from a site they approved and we publicized.

The Senior Center was not notified and there have been many calls to the Senior Center and the school to complain about the situation. The excuse given was that after months of pick ups, their drivers felt it was “unsafe.” “The entrance/exit is too narrow for the truck to make the turn in/out of the center because cars are parked close to the entrance,” is the official word from Abitibi representative Carol Hurst. This is the second site that was cleared by Hurst and her drivers only to have them change their minds.

We understand your frustration and we sympathize. The school still has bins and bins of paper and old books that were waiting for the dumpsters to be emptied. We brought this program in to both raise money for the school and to teach children the importance of recycling. We have been very disappointed by the way we have been handled.

We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your support of the program. When Abitibi removed the bins last time, we looked for a better program, but unfortunately Abitibi seems to be the only one in town. If you know of another company that can help us raise money by recycling paper, please email the school. Headline Busy First Week = = <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 120%; text-align: center;">

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">With the school year starting this late (this is the latest first day possible) we'll be in mid September next week. That means we'll be hitting the ground running in the class room and out. Not only will students be opening their books, they will have a chance to buy them as well. The annual Fall Book Fair is in town and every student will have an opportunity to buy. The schedule will be posted on the website and students will be made aware Monday which day their class will be able to buy. The Book Fair will be open after Mass on Sunday as well if you would like to come and browse or buy.

Wednesday, the Kidstuff coupon books will be going home. It is the only send home fundraiser we ask you to do and we appreciate your support. The books are $25 and a significant portion of each book sold goes to the Home and School Association.

Home and School does a great deal to help fund the school. Over the summer, the Home and School purchased new rugs for the Pre K and Kindergarten and in the spring they donated $500 in tuition vouchers to our Silent Auction. They hope to do even more this year. If you are interested in being a part of our Home and School Association, please come to our first meeting Wednesday, September 23rd, in the Social Hall.

Back to School Night is Thursday September 17th. We will meet in the Social Hall briefly and then parents will have an opportunity to meet any or all of the teachers in the school. The Book Fair will be open that night as well. We will ask people to fill out NDS forms that night and we hope that you will help us. The statistics from our NDS forms are used only to determine our eligibilty for government programs and funding. It is a very important thing for our school and we hope you can help.

It is just the first of many busy months for St. Anne School and we are looking forward to a terrific year.

St. Anne Readies For 2009/10 School Year After Busy Summer = =

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">The summer is winding down and St. Anne is beginning to set up for the new school year. As always, the new year promises plenty of new things. We are in the process of installing Smartboards in our classrooms and hope to have the new technology up and running early in the year. With academics our top priority, we have added a full time Improvement of Math teacher. We also will welcome our new 1st Grade teacher, Ms. Gennaro, to the faculty. The big news for our returning students is the new uniforms and of course everything will be new for our Pre-Kindergarten, which is filling up fast. It is sure to be an exciting year for us at St. Anne and we look forward to seeing everyone in a few short weeks. In case you need some of the information sent home in the August newsletter, we have posted it below:

SCHOOL OPENING DATES – Wednesday 9/9: Grades 1-5. Dismissal 11:30 AM Thursday, 9/10: Grades 6-8. Dismissal 11:30 AM Friday, 9/11: Grades 1-8. Dismissal 11:30 AM Monday, 9/14: Grades 1-8. Full Day. Dismissal at 2:40 PM. Bring Lunch! Monday, 9/14: Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten boys only. Dismissal at 11:30 AM Tuesday, 9/15: Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten girls only. Dismissal at 11:30 AM Wednesday, 9/16: Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten boys and girls. Dismissal at 11:30AM Thursday, 9/17: Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten full day, with dismissal at 2:30 PM

STATIONERY FOR GRADES 1-4 – There will be a stationery fee of $25 for these grades. For this fee, they will receive a packet of supplies that will equip the student for what they need to start the year. You may need to replace copybooks as the year continues. The Stationery Store will be open all year if you need to buy more supplies.

STATIONERY FOR GRADES 5-8 – Below is a suggested school supply list for these grades. You may purchase supplies at school or elsewhere. You may purchase your copybooks elsewhere also. Spiral notebooks will be permitted. We will absolutely not allow permanent markers, paint markers, sharp scissors. All hard back text books must be covered in brown paper or with fabric book covers. Grade 5:6 copybooks, 2 theme tablets, pencils, red pen, black/blue pens, pencil case, scissors, glue stick/bottle, crayons, ruler, 4 folders. Grade 6: 6 copybooks, 1 3-subject copybook, 1 theme tablet, 3 folders, pencil case, 12 pack of red pens, 12 pack of blue or black pens, 12 pack of pencils, pencil sharpener, crayons, scissors, glue stick, index cards. Grades 7 & 8: 3 3-subject copybooks, 2 copybooks, 4 folders, 2 red pens, 2 black or blue pens, 6 pencils, pencil case, 6 inch ruler, index cards, 2 theme tablets.

SCHOOL INFORMATION – Teachers to Lines: <span style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">Please do not allow children to arrive at school before 7:50 AM as we cannot provide supervision. Tucker Street will be blocked off between 7:50 and 8:05 AM. __Doors Open:__ 8:00 AM __Dismissal:__ Grades 1-8 is at 2:35 PM. Pre-K and Kindergarten dismiss at 2:30 PM. __Friday Dismissal:__ Please note! In line with new Archdiocesan policy, we have made an adjustment to our Friday dismissal. It is no longer 2:00. Friday dismissal will be at 2:35 (2:30 for PreK and K). __Lateness:__ A child is considered late if they miss their line. Children arriving late must report to the school office. __Absenteeism__: Parents must call school to report a child’s absence. A note must come in with the child upon his or her return to school. A doctor’s note is required after a three day absence. Although we understand the occasional difficulties and disruptions that accompany morning routines, we ask that you make every effort to have your child here on time every day and properly prepared. ARRIVAL LINES – __Pre-Kindergarten__: students are to meet at the back door of school, located in the driveway between the convent and school on Tucker Street. They will also dismiss from the back door. __Kindergarten__: Cedar Street, in the front of school. They will dismiss from the front center doors on Cedar Street. __Grades 1-5__: School Parking lot next to the Social Hall. __Grades 6-8__: Tucker Street. 8th Grade will line up from the corner of Cedar and Tucker along the school wall on Tucker Street. 7th Grade will line up behind the 8th Grade, and 6th Grade behind the 7th Grade.

DISMISSAL LINES FOR GRADES 1-8 – All students should know which line to take at dismissal as lines start on the first day of school. Cedar Street Line Down Cedar Street to Huntingdon Street. Memphis Street Line Over Tucker Street to Memphis Street, then down to Huntingdon Street. Lehigh Avenue Line Up Cedar Street to Lehigh Avenue, then to Aramingo Avenue.

SCHOOL UNIFORMS – Here at St. Anne School, we not only pride ourselves in the quality Catholic education that we provide for your children, but in how we present ourselves. Our school uniform is a point of pride and we expect children to be dressed neatly in the appropriate school clothes from the moment they arrive to their lines in the morning until the time they reach the end of their lines in the afternoon.


 * PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THIS IS A TRANSITION YEAR FOR THE SCHOOL UNIFORM. This means last year’s uniform is still acceptable for returning students. Students new to the school will wear the new school uniform.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">*Please make sure that shirts of other colors are not worn underneath the school shirt.
 * Plain, white, short sleeve undershirts that are not visible at the sleeves or collar are acceptable.
 * Demerits will be given to any student in Grades 5-8 who are missing a piece of the uniform or wearing a part of the uniform improperly. A student can receive demerits for the same infraction twice in one day if necessary. Taking pride in how we look in part of taking pride in who we are. We hope that you support us in this belief and help us in our efforts.

Girls K-8th Grade: plaid jumper, short or long sleeve Peter Pan collar blouse in white or light blue, navy knee socks or tights, and navy blue saddle shoes. Navy pocket cardigan is optional. Boys K-8th Grade: grey dress pants, plaid tie, long or short sleeve dress shirt in white or light blue, belt, black socks, plain black dress shoe with laces, preferably with rubber sole. Navy pocket cardigan is optional. Pre-Kindergarten: students wear the gym uniforms each day.

BREAKFAST PROGRAM – Breakfast Program begins on Monday, 9/14 from 7:30 AM until 7:50 AM in the Social Hall. Students will not be permitted in the Social Hall before this time. In case of inclement weather, all students in Grades 1-8 should report to the Social Hall in the morning. Lines will be brought over to school at 8:00 AM. Pre-K and Kindergarten should report directly to their lines at all times. They will be brought directly into school in inclement weather, and breakfast will be brought to their classrooms.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION SHEETS – Attached to this newsletter is a copy of our Emergency Information Sheet. We need one completed sheet for each child in your family who will be attending St. Anne School. Please complete the sheet and sent it to school with your child on their first day. Please make as many copies as you need. Additional sheets are available in the school office. Please let us know immediately if any information on your Emergency Information Sheet changes. It is of the utmost importance that our information be kept up to date.

FEES – These fees are due in the beginning of the school year. Please be aware that students will not be given a religion book unless the fee is paid. Students will not participate in technology and art classes until the fee is paid. __Religion Books__: Pre-K through 6th Grade - $20.00 7th and 8th Grades - $30.00 __Technology/Art Fee__: all students - $25.00 __Pre-K and Kindergarten Stationery__ - $25.00 __Pre-K and Kindergarten Sleep Mat__ - $20 (must be purchased through school) Please send fees in an envelope marked with the student’s name.

CRAFTERS – Our Home & School Association is preparing our Homecoming, Fall Festival, and Craft Show. If you are interested in a table for the Craft Show, please call the school. It is for crafters only, no vendors or flea markets. The Craft Show will be on Saturday, October 24th, from 10 AM until 4 PM. The cost is $30 for 1 table or $50 for 2 tables. Enjoy the rest of your summer! <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">GYM UNIFORMS

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">Gym Uniforms will be sold in the school stationery store each morning from 7:30 AM until 7:50 AM. They will also be sold at our sale on August 19th and 20th. The gym uniform can only be purchased at school. Please note that students may only wear the St. Anne School gym shirt on gym day, not CYO shirts. Short sleeve tee shirts Youth small through large $8.00 Adult small through x-large $8.00 Adult XXL and up $8.00 Sweat shirts Youth small through large $12.00 Adult small through x-large $12.00 Adult XXL and up $12.00 Navy blue shorts Youth small through large $15.00 Adult small through x-large $15.00 Adult XXL and up $15.00 Navy blue sweat pants Youth small through large $10.00 Adult small through x-large $13.00 Adult XXL and up $13.00

We will be offering a combo pack. $40 for a complete gym uniform including tee shirt, sweat shirt, shorts, and sweat pants.

There is no longer a season uniform. Please dress responsibly according to the weather.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 140%; text-align: center;">St. Anne Models Pose for New Billboard On Lehigh and Aramingo



<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 127.4%; text-align: left;"> The St. Anne Development has secured a prime location for a billboard to advertise for the upcoming school year. The billboard, filled with more than a dozen of our most adorable St. Anne students, will be on the corner of Lehigh and Aramingo Avenues for the month of August. It will help get our name out there for the final registration rush that often comes this time of year. For more information about the school please contact us at 215-634-4231**.**

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 140%; text-align: center;">St. Anne Has Plenty of Ways to Help with Tuition in 2009 <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 98%; text-align: left;"> St. Anne is committed to helping parents with the cost of Catholic Education in 2009. Our Lunch Monitor Program which got off to a terrific start last year and helped build a strong sense of community with our parents. Monitors earned hundreds of dollars in tuition assistance for just an hour a day. The program is sponsored by the Alumni and all you need to do is get your clearances which can be printed out by clicking on the two links below. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">

The St. Anne Lottery has long been a way to help off set the cost of tuition. Sellers receive 20% on the each ticket sold. Tickets are available in the Rectory or you can contact the school.

Children's Scholarship Fund is a wonderful program that helps many families in need. Applications are sent home early in the year and are always available in the office. The Development Committee secured our first St. Anne BLOCS participant, setting aside funds specifically for St. Anne families. These forms are also sent home and always avaialble in the office.

We will also strongly encourage families to fill out NDS forms this year. The statistics from these forms make us eligible for grants, services and money for the school. This is one way to help fund the school with out raising tuition or fees.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 120%; text-align: center;">Scouts Get New Leader <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;">Chris Lousenberry will head up the St. Anne scouts this year. He will be at Back to School Night for those interested. You can find more information at their website, www.saintannespack500.org <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 120%; text-align: center;">

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 140%; text-align: center;">Summer Enrichment Program Draws Praise in First Year

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 110.11%; text-align: left;">St. Anne had to hustle to become one of the locations for the Catapult Summer Enrichment Program and it was well worth it. Students enjoyed themselves and learned quite a bit as the three hour a day program focused on Reading and Math skills for students K-8th grade. St. Anne teachers staffed the program, which was funded by Title I money and was free to Title I eligible students. Catapult is already looking forward to next year.

St. Anne served as the central location for several local schools and had students from St. Laurentius, Mother of Divine Grace, Our Lady of Port Richmond and Pope John Paul II in attendance. Parents had plenty of nice things to say about the program and many of the visiting parents were very impressed with our school.

We thank Catapult for the opportunity to help our children and for all of the students who attended.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 143%; text-align: center;">New Dismissal Time for St. Anne <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 100.1%; text-align: left;"> Beginning this year St. Anne will be dismissing at 2:35 pm every day. The change from 2:40 pm dismissal last year comes from an Archdiocesan mandate to eliminate early dismissals on Fridays. City schools have followed the suburbs, who have not had early dismissals for years because of bus scheduling. Last year many schools adjusted their dismissal times and this year St. Anne will follow suit. There will be no more 2:00 pm dismissal on Friday. Every school day, Monday-Friday, will end at 2:35pm, unless otherwise noted. The hope is that it will make things a little more routine for parents, some of whom are rushing to make the earlier 2:00 dismissal on Friday.

thank you for your cooperation in this matter. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 143%; text-align: center;">

Download the Class of 2009 Slideshow Here!

Anti-Gravity Boots a Success for May Students of the Month <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 143%;">

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"> They had been working in secret for weeks. Even Mrs. El didn't know what they were up to. When it was revealed to us today, we could hardly believe our eyes. Anti-gravity boots! Amazing. Some would say the Nobel Prize race just got a little tighter. When asked for comment the Students simply said they had to get back to work. Good job May Students of the Month, we can't wait to have you paint the ceilings. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 143%;">

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">Mrs. Kehan Wins Teacher of the Month

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;">This has been a year of new beginnings for Mrs. Kehan. She moved from the 8th to the 6th grade, she got married in February, and she is in the process of changing her name from something completely unpronouncable using customary English rules (5 of the 8 letters in her last name were vowels) to good old Mrs. Kehan. Some things haven't changed, however, and they are that Mrs. Kehan cares about her class, loves teaching and does a great job for St. Anne School. Congratulations, Mrs. Kehan, on being named St. Anne May Teacher of the Month.

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<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 143%; text-align: center;">Awards Continue to Mount for 8th Grade Brainiacs

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 93%; text-align: left;">We are blessed with a very bright and talented 8th grade class. This spring has been an ongoing parade of scholarships and awards for our soon-to-be graduates and this week the hits kept on coming.

8th grader Erica Rudy and Amanda McKee were visited by Little Flower on Wednesday. Erica was surprised to see her sister, a St. Anne graduate and high school standout, as the Little Flower representative. Amanda was awarded the highly selective St. Therese Scholarship.

On Thursday, the Connelly Scholarships were announced and Ashley Weinberger and Thomas Prince were the two worthy recipients of the award, worth nearly $1,700 a year. Thomas is headed to North Catholic and Ashley to Hallahan.

Billy Broadbent, John Gallagher, Alex Denner and Jose Rodriguez joined Tom as North Catholic Alumni scholarship winners, helping St. Anne to their very strong showing.

St. Anne could not be represented by a better group of students and is very proud of the Class of 2009. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 143%;"> Development Committee Lands First BLOCS Participant <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;"> The Development Committee had a few goals this year, but none was more important than to get our BLOCS (Business Leaders Organized for Catholic Schools) program off the ground. It was imperative to have one business to go through the process and name St. Anne School as the beneficiary of their donation so they could see how the process worked and could recruit more businesses to join. Last week, they accomplished that goal.

McAlvarr Funeral Home filled out one simple form and dedicated $1,000 of the money they paid in state taxes to tuition assistance for St. Anne students. They are the first business to designate their money to St. Anne exclusively, and hopefully the first of many. In the past, St. Anne families that applied would be put in a general pool of applicants along with every other family in the Archdiocese. The money designated by McElvarr will stay here and be used to help St. Anne families.

We would like to thank McElvarr for their generosity and participation in this wonderful program, and esepcially Lisa Miller, who made the whole thing happen.

If you are interested in participating in the BLOCS program, please call the school or visit the BLOCS link. The form is available on the page as well. Mrs. McCabe Fits Right In at St. Anne School <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;">

Mrs. McCabe came to St. Anne with the highest recommendations. The impression was we were very lucky to have a Pre-K teacher so caring and talented join our staff. Mrs. McCabe has certainly lived up to that lofty billing. Her classroom is buzzing with activity, and our hallways are always decorated with her class' work. Mrs. McCabe does a great job preparing her students for kindergarten. They have learned so much this year and have all grown into very respectful and caring boys and girls. We would like to congratulate Mrs. McCabe on her earning St. Anne Teacher of the Month. If you would like to see our Pre-K classroom and meet Mrs. McCabe, we are hosting an Open House from 3-7 pm on April 14. Children are welcome. Call the school for more details, 215-634-4231.

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<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 150%; text-align: center;">April Students of the Month Pity Fools

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 91%; text-align: left;">This group of St. Anne students always demand the best and have no time for anything less. As you can see, they do not take kindly to anyone crossing them. They make sure all of us at St. Anne School are working as hard we can. Congratulations Students, your flat refusal to take shorts or guff is what sets you apart from the rest. April Teachers of the Month Refuse Picture, Accept Award <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 108%; text-align: left;">Ms. Ani and Ms. Snyder have been very important additions to St. Anne School this year and there is no debating the results. Kindergarteners through 3rd graders are making strides in reading like never before under the watchful eye of Ms. Ani. Ms. Snyder has helped our students to the biggest 6th month gains of any Title I school. Ms. Ani and Ms. Snyder declined to have their pictures taken for the website, but thank all of their students for making them proud! <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 180%; text-align: center;">

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 130%; text-align: center;">CBS 3 Visits St. Anne for Weather Wednesday <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">CBS 3 News at Noon reported live from Cedar and Tucker Sts. today and the 5th and 6th graders made their television debut. Meteorologist Maria LaRosa visited with the 5th and 6th graders and answered all of their weather related questions. Then they turned the cameras on and Maria did the weather live from our Sullivan Lab! If you missed the noon news, you can see another segment at 4:00 and again tomorrow morning at 6:40. You can see the St. Anne segment here: []. Our students had a great time and represented St. Anne very well for the entire Delaware Valley to see.

Thank you Maria for visiting St. Anne School!

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Mrs. Kehan Changes Name to Mrs. Kehan <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 105%; text-align: left;">Mrs. Kehan has been known as Ms. Chrissy and not Miss Yiannios since coming to St. Anne way back in 2005/06. Now that the former Miss Yiannios is married, she is no longer Ms. Chrissy, but Mrs. Kehan. Congratulations to all of you! <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 150%; text-align: center;"> Radiation Blast Hits March Students of the Month; Faces Turn Funny <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">
 * [[image:IM003659.JPG caption="No faces could be saved"]] ||
 * No faces could be saved ||

The shame of it is they were all such cute kids. The March Students of the Month are seen here with their funny faces. Some claimed to have gained superpowers as well, but other than James lifting a car over his head and laser beams shooting out of Kieran's eyes, nothing was reported. Of course there is nothing funny about the work these students have been doing around school lately. They are all model citizens and top students and we congratulate all of them on the month's highest honor. St. Anne Shows Support for 26th District

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 100.1%; text-align: left;">It has been a very difficult year for Philadelphia's Finest and our Stewardship Council wanted to bring a smile to faces of our local officers. Each student in our school made a card with the Policeman's Prayer inside. As a school we recited the prayer together with Mr. Archer leading over the loudspeaker. Mrs. McBride lent her baking services to the project and on Tuesday morning the 8th grade Stewardship Council members delivered a care package of cookies, candy and cards. It is the least we could do to show our appreciation for the men and women who keep us safe! Thank you officers, for all you do! St. Anne Celebrates Spirit and Service During Catholic Schools Week <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">St. Anne School celebrated Catholic Schools Week last week by focusing on helping their community. On Tuesday, the Stewardship Council went to St. Anne Senior Center and helped serve lunch. The 1st Graders, with a little help and guidance from the 8th grade, made peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for St. Francis Inn.

The biggest service the school provided was helping one of their own. Class of 2000 graduate George Post, whose grandmother was the long time school secretary, has been diagnosed with an Arterio-Venous Malformation (AVM) and needs help to pay his mounting medical bills. In just three days, the school managed to raise over $600.

The week ended with a full day of activity for parents and students. The school hosted an open house for the parents followed by lunch with the students and an afternoon of competition between the classes. It all came down to a tug of war between the 7th and 8th grade to decide the day with the 8th grade pulling to victory. The big finale was the annual student/ faculty basketball game (which the faculty won handily).

The week left the St. Anne School community smiling, proud of their school and happy to have helped their neighbors and neighborhood.

Lacey Gallagher Scholarship Committee Surprises Two 8th Graders with Award <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 110%; text-align: left;">In a very competitive field of applicants, two of our best and brightest were awarded the Lacey Gallagher Memorial Scholarship on Tuesday. Eighth graders Ashley Weinberger and Erica Rudy received the award by a surprise visit in front of their classmates. Congratulations Erica and Ashley from all of us at St. Anne! For more information about the Lacey Gallagher Scholarship Fund please go to www.thelaceyfund.org <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 180%; text-align: center;">

Kixx Star Pat Morris Visits St. Anne <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"> Philadelphia Kixx star Pat Morris came to St. Anne for Catholic Schools Week to talk to our students about hard work, dedication, North Catholic and of course, soccer. The students had a great time at the assembly and Pat combined fun soccer activities with advice and life lessons. Pat Morris has local roots, growing up in Port Richmond, where he lives to this day. He attended Northeast Catholic High School and excelled at soccer, going on to play in college at Philadelphia University (formerly Textile). He has been lucky enough to make a living from the sport he loves, playing for his home town Kixx for the last ten years.

He took time after the assembly to take a picture with our soccer team and spoke to a few of our 8th grade players before the event. We would like to thank Pat for a terrific afternoon!

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 150%; text-align: center;">Amanda McKee Awarded Little Flower's <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 150%; text-align: center;">St. Therese Scholarship <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;">Amanda McKee, President of St. Anne Stewardship Council, was awarded one of Little Flower's most prestigious scholarships last week. The St. Therese Scholarship, which is only given to a select number of incoming freshmen each year, is truly an honor for each girl who receives it. The candidates all had to go through the application and interview process and Amanda was nervous beforehand, but felt confident afterward. Amanda has made us all very proud and we look forward to a bright future for our Stewardship Council President. Congratulations Amanda! <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 17.5pt; text-align: center;">

Two St. Anne Students to Take Neumann Test <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 12.25pt; text-align: left;">Not everyone is eligible for the Neumann Scholarship test. In fact, their standards are the highest of any scholarship in the Archdiocese. This year, St. Anne 8th Graders Erica Rudy and Alex Denner have both met the lofty Neumann standards and will proudly represent our school at West Catholic on January 31. St. Anne has had five Neumann winners in its history, Lauren Welte was the last, winning Honorable Mention in 2000.

Good luck Erica and Alex! <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 17.5pt; text-align: center;"> <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 91%; text-align: center;">Students of the Month Have Meeting <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 91%; text-align: center;">to Decide if Best Was Good Enough <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 12.25pt; text-align: left;">The Student of the Month Awards were given out this week to a very deserving bunch. They are among our best and brightest students and certainly some of our hardest working. At the meeting, our Pre-K representative gave a passionate speech about giving more than 100%, as some scientists believe SoM's are able to give. He made some interesting points and gave everyone a lot to think about before realizing he was late for his nap. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 17.5pt; text-align: center;"> Mr. Woods Captures Teacher of the Month <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 12.25pt; text-align: left;">Mr. Woods was a super sub for St. Anne last year, filling in any time, anyplace and anywhere. This year, when given full command of our 7th grade, he decided to start taxing them immediately. Last month, Mr. Woods showed his 7th graders how the American Revolution started by giving his class shillings and then taxing them unfairly for everything they needed. He has fit right in and his students have responded to his creative approach.

Thank you Mr. Woods for all you do for our school. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 17.5pt; text-align: center;">

St. Anne Announces Catholic Schools Week Agenda <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 12.25pt; text-align: left;">It will be the biggest Catholic Schools Week in years. The faculty has been hard at work planning and even now plans are still being made. It will be a week of spirited and good-natured competition as the Gold Team and the Blue Team will battle for school supremacy! The Gold Team is comprised of Kindergarten, 2nd,4th, 6th, and 8th grades. The Blue Team will be the Pre-K, 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th grades. All of the events will lead to the Olympic Relays on Thursday, January 29th. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: center;">Catholic School Week Schedule of Events <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">

Monday- Thursday Events All Grades Nickels for Our Neighbor We have a member of our parish family whose medical bills have mounted and we have decided to dedicate the proceeds from our Catholic Schools Week fundraiser to him to help him with some of those bills. George Post is a graduate of St. Anne and his family has been one of the cornerstones of the parish and the community for generations.

Lateness The three classes with the fewest number of times late per student will be awarded points. Two bonus points will be awarded for any class that has zero students late all week.

Grades 1-2 Reading Challenge Students in 1st and 2nd grade have been logging how many books they have read with Ms. Ani. This week the class with more books read will win points for their team.

Sunday Mass Attendance Hopefully all will attend Mass, but in an effort to have a greater turnout, we will be awarding points to the class that has the highest percentage of students in attendance.

Tuesday/ Wednesday Who Knows More Challenge Grades 5/6 and 7/8 Students will be split up into teams of five and answer rounds of questions. The three groups with the highest point total will win points for their teams.

Pie Contest 3-4, 5-6 Students will stick their face in a pie in order to find a hidden object. The first team to do so, wins points for their team.

Olympic Relays Pre K vs. K Baton Relay 1 vs. 2 Scooter Relay 3 vs. 4 Golf Ball on Spoon Relay 5 vs. 6 Buddy Walker Relay 7 vs. 8 Tug of War

Other Events:

Stewardship Council Visit to Senior Center Time and day TBD.

Open House – Sunday After 10:30 Mass we will host an Open House with a Book Fair and of course, coffee and doughnuts.

Open House - Thursday We are planning an Open House on Thursday at 10:30 AM. Parents will be invited to come into the classroom and observe or participate. More information about individual classroom activities will be on the website.

At 11:30 all classes 1-8 will attend lunch. Parents will be invited to attend lunch as well

The Olympics will follow in the afternoon which the parents will also be invited to attend. We will dismiss from the Social Hall.

Student/ Faculty Basketball Game - Thursday 8th Grade Boys and Girls will play the faculty in the game, with the faculty inevitably winning.

Bob Kelly/ CBS 3 – Wednesday Bob Kelly is tentatively scheduled to come in on Wednesday afternoon to read to the primary grades. This, as always, and like everything above, is subject to change. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; text-align: left;">The top two students from Northeast Catholic Class of 2008 were St. Anne students, so it is no surprise to see another one of our students atop the Class of 2012. Freshman Justin Weinberger is the top student in his class after the first semester. Congratulations to Justin, continue to make us proud.

In other report card news, we are happy to report the Stewardship Council has led the way this trimester with exemplary grades and conduct. As a group, the Stewardship Council's general average was a 90.6 and their collective Conduct Grade was a 95. Congratulations to our Stewardship Council and keep up the good work! <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 17.5pt; text-align: center;"> Tickets Going Fast for Alumni Winter Reunion <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 12.25pt; text-align: left;">Alumni events are always a good time with old friends. The Shore Thing has been a huge success over the past several years, but not everyone can get down to Wildwood for the day. This year, the alumni has decided to host a Winter Reunion on March 7th from 7-11 pm at Polonia Hall (4431 Belgrade St., 19137). Ticket are $35.00 and have been going fast, but are still available. Please contact Bernadette Dugan Carter for tickets and more information at 215-815-4745 or via email at B1960C@aol.com or Claire Gardner at 215-425-3232. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 17.5pt; text-align: center;">

Alumni Makes Christmas Merry for All St. Anne Families <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 103.48%; text-align: left;">The Alumni has always been the backbone of our school and the St. Anne School Families are very thankful for their generosity this Christmas. They have given every family a gift towards their 2008-09 tuition. The first child in a family receives a $100 gift and every additional child a $75 gift. They also gave each faculty member a generous Christmas gift as well. In all, the Alumni gave over $19,000 in tuition and gifts.

Our school is very lucky to have our strong and supportive alumni known throughout the Archdiocese for their passionate support of St. Anne School. All of us at St. Anne School are eternally grateful for your generosity.

Wrong Numbers Keep Getting Picked, Lottery Goes to $61,000 <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 103.48%; text-align: left;"> The St. Anne Lottery just won't hit. Week after week it goes with no big winner and next week the drawing will be worth $61,000! You can purchase tickets at the Rectory or from Ms. El in the Stationery Store. Did you know that you make 20% of your ticket sale? Call the Rectory for details. Santa Sells Out Social Hall <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 102.96%; text-align: left;">The Home and School Association thought Dinner and Dancing with Santa would be a big event, but they had no idea how big! Every seat was taken in the Social Hall for the Special Audience with the Big Man, and he did not disappoint. All night long he was talking to the kids, taking last minute gift requests, and of course dancing his brains out. St. Anne would like to thank everyone who helped put this wonderful night together, especially Sue Gallagher, Karen Bielecki, Terry Ringenary, Dolores Nelson, Kathy McCormick, Lori Morgan, Al Brown, Anne Dugan, Mr. and Mrs. Suarez, The Stewardship Council and of course, Santa Claus. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 171.6%; text-align: center;">

Bishop Cistone Returns to St. Anne

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">Bishop Cistone left St. Anne sixteen years ago, but has never forgotten us. On Monday he celebrated Mass with the school and visited each of the classrooms to speak with our students. It was a very special Mass and the first school Mass of the year in the Upper Church. Deja Potts-Johnson, Erica Rudy, Cassie Meehan, Beth McCormick, and Melanie Smith (on short notice) did a terrific job reading, and nearly the entire Stewardship Council participated in the event. St. Anne welcomed the Bishop at the close of Mass with a beautiful banner by the K and Pre-K, a St. Anne gift bag and a fruit basket and candle compliments of our generous families. The Bishop was greeted with even more as he visited the classrooms including a spiritual bouquet, flowers, a even a few songs. President Amanda McKee and V.P. Alex Denner escorted the Bishop around the school after Mass and the Bishop said our students did a great job and spoke very highly of St. Anne.

The students did a great job at Mass and we showed the Bishop just how proud we are of our school. We would like to thank Bishop Cistone for making this special visit and look forward to seeing him again in December when he celebrates Mass for the Parish (Dec. 21, 7:30, 10:30). <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 140%; text-align: center;">
 * [[image:December_SOM.JPG caption="The Students and Antlers"]] ||
 * The Students and Antlers ||

December is always a good time to be the Student of the Month. Not only is Christmas right around the corner, but it is report card time! As you can see, Santa is watching and I am sure he will be very happy with this group of top students. Congratulations to all of our Students of the Month and be sure to read their teacher's comments on the Student of the Month page! <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 132%;"> Mrs. McCormick Awarded Teacher of the Month


 * [[image:mccormicktom.JPG caption="Mrs. McCormick and her Kindergarten"]] ||
 * Mrs. McCormick and her Kindergarten ||

No one cares about St. Anne School more than Mrs. McCormick. She is a St. Anne lifer who is always willing to do what is necessary to make St. Anne the best it can be. She teaches Music and Kindergarten, plays the piano, coaches, and in her spare time volunteers for just about every event we have. Mrs. McCormick is a major part of St. Anne's success this year and a big reason why our future is so bright. Thank you Mrs. McCormick for all you do for our school!

7th Grade edges out 5th Grade in Historic Canned Good Drive The competition was fierce and the stakes were high. Not only would the class who brought in the most cans be crowned Canned Good Champion of St. Anne and reign supreme for a full year, but they would also get the most sought after prize any school has to offer, a pizza party.

The fifth grade worked very hard and even tried a last minute gerrymandering of the 4th grade, but the move was disallowed by Mr. Archer and the 7th grade claimed the victory, 228 cans to 206. It was an amazing effort overall with a total of 970 cans collected by the school, an outstanding number considering the 210 student enrollment. We thank everyone for their participation and generosity. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 110%; text-align: left;"> Plastic Man Battles Old Man Winter

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 165%; text-align: left;">
 * Who will save the children of St. Anne from the ruthless winter? Bill Stahl is certainly doing all he can. Bill is a St. Anne lifer, an active Alumni Board member and now, according to several eye witnesses, moonlighting as Plastic Man. Bill has been working in the school for weeks putting plastic and weather stripping on all of our windows and doors. The results have been immediate and the classrooms are warmer than they have been in years. We would like to thank Bill and Plastic Man for all their hard work, but you can never seem to get both of them in the same place at the same time.**

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 136.5%; text-align: center;"> Woods Welcome New Mr. Woods <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 114.66%; text-align: left;">Mrs. Woods, wife of 7th grade teacher Mr. Woods, delivered their second child in the early morning hours of Wednesday November 19, 2008. Reagen James Woods (named for the president, but not the actor) weighs in at 4 lbs. 14 oz. and both mother and child are doing fine. Congratulations from all of us here at St. Anne to the Woods family. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 136.5%; text-align: center;">