Year in Advance 2022-2023

St. Catherine's Montessori

YEAR IN ADVANCE

2022 – 2023

INSIDE THE YEAR IN ADVANCE

2022-2023

Mission and Philosophy

1

Welcome from the Head of School

2

Administration

3

Faculty and Staff

4-8

Board of Directors

9

Preparing for the First Days of School

10-11

Carpool Maps

11

Back to School and First Weeks on Campus

12

Community Activities Calendar

13-14

About Montessori Education

15

Spiritual Life

16

Parent Education

17-18

Environmental Education

19

School Trips

20

Sports

21

Music

22

Parent Service Organization (PSO)

23

Philanthropy

24

Calendar

25

MISSION AND PHILOSOPHY

As a Catholic Montessori school, St. Catherine’s is dedicated to an educational experience which awakens in our students the awareness of their gifts and responsibilities as individuals in relationship with Jesus Christ and as stewards of the global community.

Montessori Vision Dr. Maria Montessori frequently described the inner wisdom inherent in all human beings and envisioned education as a spiritual mission to unleash each child’s inner potential. In The Secret of Childhood she writes, “Our care of the child should be governed, not by the desire to make [them] learn things, but by the endeavor always to keep burning within [them] that light which is called intelligence.” Montessori believed that, properly nurtured, each child’s wisdom radiates outward to create a more peaceful world.

Catholic Roots Our Catholic vocation is to nurture and reveal the Spirit of God within each child. Revealing one’s inner light is an aspect of service to God outlined in the Gospel of Matthew. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:14-16).

Our Philosophy: Bringing Wisdom to Light The complementary messages of our Montessori and Catholic heritages are perhaps most simply summarized by our guiding philosophy: “Bringing Wisdom to Light.” As an AMI school, St. Catherine’s follows the curriculum and traditions established by Dr. Maria Montessori more than 100 years ago. More than simply a method of education, the Montessori approach fosters the development of the whole child—intellectually, physically, socially, morally, and spiritually. As a Catholic community, St. Catherine’s additionally nurtures children’s spiritual development so that each student may experience the presence of God both individually and in community.

1

WELCOME FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Greetings from St. Catherine's!

I hope your family is enjoying the remaining weeks of summer break.

With the start of another school year fast approaching, I look forward to welcoming our students to campus and seeing their eager faces ready to learn, create, and contribute to our community. Like Dr. Maria Montessori said, "The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence." We are delighted that your family has chosen St. Catherine's Montessori as your educational partner in this endeavor.

I am privileged to have the opportunity to serve as your Head of School and feel honored to work with our highly qualified and dedicated staff, outstanding students, and supportive parents.

Your children’s years at St. Catherine's are critical development times, and I look forward to working with you to make this school year successful. I am a lifelong educator with a deep commitment to students and families and to fostering a love for learning, and I am very excited to embark on my first year as a member of this beautiful community.

At the beginning of a new academic year, I always feel as though we are at the start of a new journey. During my summer vacation, I spent time in Florida at a hotel that offered different daily activities. When you first arrive you are handed a schedule and map to give you an overview of what will be happening during the week. If you follow the schedule, you will be able to enjoy and plan for the various activities available each day of your stay. I hope that this Year in Advance will be that type of guide for you.

You will find in these pages important dates, faculty and staff information, and details about all kinds of school programs and community events. I invite you to take the time to read through to familiarize yourself with the upcoming year. We will share additional information as the year progresses, and our administration, faculty, and staff are happy to meet and talk with you individually if you find you have questions. Please feel free to contact us.

In closing, please enjoy the remaining days of your summer. I look forward to seeing you on the first day of school.

Blessings for a great school year!

Lina Delgado Head of School

2

ADMINISTRATION

3

Lina Delgado

Emily Blackman

Head of School ldelgado@stcathmont.org

Campus Administrator eblackman@stcathmont.org

Holly Copeland

Sam Hemming

Business Director hcopeland@stcathmont.org

Facilities & Athletics Director shemming@stcathmont.org

Bruce Moses

Lyndsey Ray

Director of Lower School & Technology Director bmoses@stcathmont.org itmanager@stcathmont.org

Advancement Director lray@stcathmont.org

Dr. Brian Tucker

Amy Walz

Director of Upper School & High School Guide btucker@stcathmont.org

Enrollment Management Director awalz@stcathmont.org

FACULTY AND STAFF Lower School (Infant Community – Elementary) First and second planes of development

Elizabeth Villalobos

Ely Marron

Infant Community Guide

Infant Community Assistant

Erica Berwanger

Sarah Smith

Primary Guide

Primary Assistant

Kathy Richardi

Denise Rodriguez

Primary Guide

Jennifer Uitenbroek Primary Guide

Primary Assistant & Elementary After-School Program

Ashley Melchor Primary Assistant

Hannah Engelke

Lauren Lee

Lower Elementary Guide

Lower Elementary Assistant

Jaime Hope

Karol Lara

Lower Elementary Guide

Lower Elementary Assistant

Catherine McLachlan

LuAnn Sanchez

Lower Elementary Guide

Lower Elementary Assistant

Tim Snow

Maria Diaz

Upper Elementary Guide

Upper Elementary Assistant

Meg Spesia

Sharon Ortiz

Upper Elementary Guide

Upper Elementary Assistant 4

Upper School (Adolescent Community and High School) Third plane of development

Veronica Harth Adolescent Community Guide

Danielle Mouton Adolescent Community Guide

Teresa Onofre Adolescent Community & High School Guide

Lindsay Tucker Adolescent Community Guide

Gabriela Velez Adolescent Community Guide

Amy Lindsey High School Guide

Dr. Charles Novo High School Guide

Dr. Brian Tucker High School Guide

5

Student Support Staff

Kelley Bruso

Sr. Theresa Josephine Do, O.P.

Naturalist

Catechist

Sandra Espinosa

Heidi Flores

Counselor & Health Care Coordinator

Primary After-School Program & Substitute

Sarah Lewis

Melissa Lopez

Director of College Counseling & Testing Coordinator

Library Manager

Mindy Snow

Ricardo Vargas

Creative Expression & Music Guide

Athletics Associate

Staff

Samuel Garcia

Tom Mouton

Facilities Associate

Facilities Associate

Grecia Parra

Kesley Rodriguez

Analyst

Registrar & Administrative Coordinator

Annie Sallans Communications Coordinator

6

NEW FACULTY AND STAFF Kelley Bruso Naturalist

Kelley will join the staff as our part-time naturalist to encourage community awareness and appreciation of the environment, broaden student knowledge of science concepts, and foster student commitment to the protection of the natural world. She studied environmental science and sustainability in New Zealand as an undergraduate and is currently a Texas Master Naturalist involved with many local farms, gardens, and land institutes.

Maria Diaz

Upper Elementary Assistant

Ms. Maria will re-join our staff as the assistant in Mr. Snow’s Upper Elementary class. She has been part of the St. Catherine’s community for over 40 years and has experience substituting in Infant Community, Primary, and Elementary classrooms.

Sarah Smith

Primary Assistant

Sarah will assist in Ms. Erica’s Primary classroom. She has worked with young children since 2016 and will receive her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Loyola University this December.

Meg Spesia

Upper Elementary Guide

Meg will join us as an Upper Elementary guide this school year. She attended an AMI Montessori school from her Primary through adolescent years. Meg holds a B.A. in Theology and Peace Studies from the University of Notre Dame and received her AMI Elementary diploma from the Centro Internazionale Studi Montessoriani in Bergamo, Italy in 2022.

Ricardo Vargas

Athletics Associate

Ricardo will join our athletics team to assist with physical education and after-school sports.

He has coached and taught P.E. in Houston-area Catholic and Montessori schools for five years. Ricardo received his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from Sam Houston State University, where he also minored in education.

Elizabeth Villalobos

Infant Community Guide

Elizabeth will join St. Catherine’s as our new Infant Community guide. She began teaching in 2012 and has five years of experience guiding Montessori infant classrooms. Elizabeth holds an AMI certificate for ages 0-3 from the Montessori Institute of North Texas and a has a bachelor’s degree in interior design.

7

RETURNING FACULTY AND STAFF IN NEW POSITIONS Erica Berwanger

Primary Guide (formerly Primary Assistant)

Erica will guide a Primary classroom this school year. She has a bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing and Literature from Stephen F. Austin State University and received her AMI diploma in primary education from the Houston Montessori Institute in 2019. In addition, Erica has begun training in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd.

Heidi Flores

Primary After-School Program and Substitute (formerly Primary Assistant)

Heidi will return to her role guiding the Primary After-School Program and serving as our inhouse substitute. Heidi’s previous roles have included Primary and Lower Elementary assistant.

Veronica Harth

Adolescent Community Guide (formerly Upper Elementary Guide)

Veronica will join the Adolescent Community after nine years guiding Elementary classrooms.

She holds bachelor’s degrees in Spanish and computer science, an AMI Elementary certificate, and has completed the AMI Introduction to Adolescents course.

Catherine McLachlan

Lower Elementary Guide (formerly Upper Elementary Assistant)

Catherine will guide a Lower Elementary classroom this year. She has a degree in education from South Africa and taught in many different school environments before joining St. Catherine’s last year. She will begin her AMI Elementary certification this fall.

Bruce Moses

Director of Lower School (and Technology Director)

Bruce will serve as the school’s first Director of Lower School in addition to continuing as our technology director. In this new role, he will lend support to the Infant Community, Primary, Lower Elementary, and Upper Elementary classrooms. Bruce holds bachelor’s degrees in engineering and history and was certified by AMS as an Elementary guide. He has experienced classroom life as a full-time Elementary guide and as a Primary assistant. Bruce will receive his AMI Montessori Administrators certificate this school year.

Annie Sallans

Communications Coordinator (formerly Infant Community Guide)

Annie will transition into the full-time position of communications coordinator, after serving part-time in that role last year while also guiding the Infant Community. Over the years, Annie has provided Montessori information to parents in the form of written and visual communications, using design skills acquired at Savannah College of Art and Design, and guided by 20 years spent in Montessori schools as both a student and educator.

Dr. Brian Tucker

Director of Upper School (and High School Guide)

Brian will serve as the school’s first Director of Upper School in addition to continuing as a High School guide. In this new role, he will lend support to the students, parents, and guides in the Adolescent Community and High School classrooms. Brian holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in math education, a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Studies. He has 15 years of teaching experience in public and private schools and received his AMI Montessori Administrators certificate in Spring 2022.

8

BOARD OF DIRECTORS The primary charge of the St. Catherine’s Montessori Board of Directors is to maintain the institution’s essential character and integrity, and to ensure that it remains viable to serve the students of today, while being mindful of the boundary between board duty and day-to-day school operations and management. Collectively, the board is entrusted to ensure the financial integrity of the school, support the Head of School in their execution of operations and management, and ensure that the character and quality of the program and instruction remain consistent with the overall longterm commitment and mission of the school. In addition, in the appropriate years, the board directs the strategic planning process for the creation of the school’s five-year plan.

Ryan Patterson

President Chair, Officers of Corporation Committee Board Category: Community Current Term: 2020-2023

Angie Gubitz

Vice President Chair, Head of School Support and Evaluation Committee Board Category: Parent Current Term: 2020-2023

Misty Matin

Lauren Wasielewski

Secretary Chair, Advancement Committee Board Category: Parent Current Term: 2020-2023

Kathy Hijazi

Board Category: Community Current Term: 2022-2025

Kevin Smith

Board Category: Dominican Family Current Term: 2022-2025 9

Treasurer Chair, Finance Committee Board Category: Dominican Family Current Term: 2021-2024

Chad Mavity

Chair, Strategic Planning Committee Board Category: Parent Current Term: 2022-2025

Denise Stasio

Co-chair, Committee on Directors Board Category: Dominican Family Current Term: 2021-2024

Sarah Scherschel

Co-chair, Committee on Directors Board Category: Community Current Term: 2021-2024

Lina Delgado

Head of School Ex-Officio

PREPARING FOR THE FIRST DAYS OF SCHOOL Required Forms Required Forms for the upcoming school year were due on Friday, July 22, 2022. These forms must be completed before your child’s first day of school. To access all forms, log in to your FACTS Family Portal account at https://stcm-tx.client.renweb.com/pwr and use district code “STCM-TX.” Contact Emily Blackman at eblackman@stcathmont.org or (713) 665-2195 with questions.

Healthy Community It is important that every family conduct a daily assessment to determine whether their child is well enough to attend school. Students who are not well enough to attend must be kept at home.

A child having one or more of the following symptoms at school will be sent home: • • • • • • •

Fever 100.0 degrees or above Chills Sore Throat Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Fatigue Muscle or body aches New loss of taste or smell

• • • • •

Suspected contagious disease Nausea or vomiting Diarrhea Does not feel well enough to participate in usual school activities Lice

If your child has any of the above symptoms in the morning before school, they may not come to school.

Contact the Health Care Team at clinic@stcathmont.org to inform us of the nature of your child’s illness and to receive guidance on when they might return to school. If the child sees a physician, please provide a Return to School note from that physician prior to returning to school.

Please inform the school of any communicable disease your child's doctor confirms, including COVID-19.

In the case of a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, St. Catherine’s will follow CDC guidance regarding return to school protocols and timelines and communicate the appropriate steps to families.

Sandra Espinosa

Counselor & Health Care Coordinator

Emily Blackman

(COVID-19 matters)

Grecia Parra

(Health and immunization forms)

What to Bring to School Remember that all students must bring a reusable water bottle to school each day. Please refer to the Parent/Student Handbook and communications from your child’s guide for additional and classroomspecific information on what to bring (and not to bring) to school.

Uniforms for Mass and Special Outings Upper Elementary and Adolescent Community students are required to wear uniforms for Mass and special outings. Upper Elementary students wear SCM collared shirts with khaki slacks or khaki skirts. The SCM collared shirts can be purchased online at Lands’ End using the dedicated St. Catherine’s link located near the bottom of the school website main page (www.stcathmont.org). Adolescent Community students wear a navy-blue blazer, long-sleeve white dress shirt, and khaki slacks or khaki skirts.

The first Mass of the school year is Wednesday, September 21 at 2:15 p.m. in the gym. All members of the St. Catherine’s community are invited to attend.

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After-School Program Our after-school program is offered to all Primary PM and Elementary students from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. (from 2:30 p.m. on Fridays) on a space-available basis. Students must be registered SCM students to participate.

The Elementary after-school program opens on Tuesday, August 16. The Primary PM after-school program opens on Friday, August 19.

Carpool Maps Drop-off and pick-up are important transitions in your child’s day, and we make every effort to encourage your child’s confidence and independence. The following procedures are designed with your child’s needs in mind, along with the safety and efficiency of the carpool line.

Please use Link Valley Drive to queue up for the carpool line.

This prevents the line from backing up on Timberside Drive and extending towards the 610 freeway. If you do enter Timberside from the freeway, DO NOT jump the line. Turn down Link Valley to join the end of the line forming there.

Primary – High School parents DO NOT park in the carpool lane during arrivals or dismissals.

We ask that all parents stay in their vehicles during morning arrival and all dismissals (except for Infant Community parents).

During arrival, all students enter through the Welcome Center entrance.

Infant Community parents park at the black cones in the carpool lane; walk their IC child to the classroom via the Welcome Center in the morning and pick them up in the Welcome Center at dismissal. Primary – High School parents pull all the way up to the first available cone (colors purple through red only) when dropping off your student.

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BACK TO SCHOOL AND FIRST WEEKS ON CAMPUS AC Goal-Setting Conferences

Wednesday, August 10 – Friday, August 12, by appointment

Parent Education – "Creating a Parent Partnership: Sharing the Value of Montessori" Friday, August 12 at 6:00 p.m.

Parent Orientations Thursday, August 11 • 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.

• 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

High School Adolescent Community

Monday, August 15 • 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.

• 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Infant Community and Lower Elementary Primary

Tuesday, August 16 • 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Upper Elementary

First Days of School Parents of NEW Infant Community and NEW Primary students consult your phasing in schedules.

Monday, August 15 • All NEW Lower and Upper Elementary students, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (all 1st, all 4th, and all NEW to SCM 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th year students) • All 7th-years and all NEW to SCM 8th and 9th year students, 8:00 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.

• All High School students on regular schedule, 8:00 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Tuesday, August 16 • Infant Community and Primary Looking Day, by appointment • All Elementary (new and returning) on regular schedule, 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

After-School Program opens for enrolled Elementary students from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m.

• All Adolescent Community on regular schedule, 8:00 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, August 17 • Returning Infant Community only on regular schedule, 8:30 – 11:20 a.m.

• Returning Primary only, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, August 18 • Returning Primary only, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Friday, August 19 • All Returning Primary on regular Friday schedules After-School Program opens for enrolled Primary PM students from 2:30 to 6:00 p.m.

• Friday dismissal for Primary PM - High School students, 2:30/2:45 p.m.

Welcome Back Parent Meeting Friday, September 2 at 8:00 a.m.

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COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES CALENDAR AUGUST 6 10-12 11 12 15 15 16

PSO Family Gathering AC Goal-Setting Conferences Parent Orientations (Adolescent Community & High School) Parent Education – “Creating a Parent Partnership: Sharing the Value of Montessori” First Day of School Parent Orientations (Infant Community, Primary & Lower Elementary) Parent Orientation (Upper Elementary)

SEPTEMBER 2 3 9-Oct. 15 19 21 TBD

Welcome Back Parent Meeting SCM On a Whim sign-up Parent Potlucks Enrollment applications open for new families Mass AC Spiritual trip (late Sept. or early Oct.)

OCTOBER 4 7-8 15 18 19 22 25 TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD

Blessing of the Animals Parent Education: The Montessori Journey PSO Garden Work Day SCM Annual Fund campaign launches Mass PSO Fall Fest Sociables Sign-up Day Picture Days Picture Retake Day Current 6th-years visit Adolescent Community (student-led tours) Current 9th-years visit High School AC Spiritual trip (early Oct. or late Sept.)

NOVEMBER 1 3-4 8 10 11 15 17 28-Dec. 1 28-Dec. 2 29 TBD

DECEMBER 1 2 8 14-15 TBD

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Mass Conferences (Lower School); No school for all students Parent Education: Moving Up Night (Adolescent Community) Parent Education: High School Open House PSO Meeting Parent Education: Moving Up Night (Lower Elementary) Parent Education: Moving Up Night (Upper Elementary) Ms. Meg’s UE class trip to NCI Book Fair Giving Tuesday (SCM Annual Fund campaign ends) Mr. Snow’s UE class camping trip College Information Night Christmas Concert Mass Conferences (High School); 1/2 day for HS students PSO Faculty/Staff Appreciation Luncheon

JANUARY 5 9-10 18 20 29-Feb. 4 30-Feb. 3

Alumni Night Conferences (Adolescent Community); No school for AC students Mass PSO Meeting High School trip Catholic Schools Week

FEBRUARY 2 10 11 17-20 22 27-28 TBD

MARCH 2-3 23-24 24 27-28 29 31 TBD TBD TBD

APRIL

6 15 22 26 27 28 29 TBD

Parent Education: Montessori Night School New Student Application deadline and Re-enrollment deadline Steps 4 Students 5K Run/Walk AMI Refresher Course for employees Mass Mr. Jaime’s LE class trip to Camp Allen AC Peace trip Conferences (Lower School); No school for all students Ms. Catherine's LE class trip to Camp Allen PSO Meeting Ms. Hannah's LE class trip to Camp Allen Mass Common Reply date Mr. Snow’s UE class trip AC Musical Parent Education: TBD Guest Speaker Grandparents’ and Special Friends Day Gala PSO Garden Work Day AC Literary Arts Magazine reading New Parent Welcome Mass PSO Spring Fling 9th-Year trip (late April or early May)

MAY 1-5 3 12 15-16 17 19 25 26 26 30-31 31 TBD TBD TBD

JUNE 1

Teacher Appreciation Week Senior Capstone Night PSO Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast High School Retreat Mass Commencement AC Portfolio Showcase Rising 7th-year activity with Adolescent Community Rising 10th-year activity with High School Conferences (High School); 1/2 day for HS students AC Affirmation Ceremony 6th-Year Rites of Passage 9th-Year trip (early May or late April) PSO Faculty/Staff Dessert Soirée Last Day of School/Splash Day

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ABOUT MONTESSORI EDUCATION An Education for Life Our care for the child should be governed, not by the desire to make [them] learn things, but by the endeavor always to keep burning within [them] that light which is called intelligence.

– Dr. Maria Montessori Montessori is more than a method of education. It is an outlook on life with a deep reverence for the innate potential of each person. It is a spiritual mission to create a more peaceful and loving world.

Dr. Maria Montessori believed that each child is born with a unique personality and gifts, along with a desire to learn and to experience the world. By encouraging children’s interests and cultivating their innate strengths, Montessori believed that children would develop into productive, community-minded adults. At heart, education must serve the whole child – intellectually, socially, physically, and spiritually.

At St. Catherine’s, academic progress is a crucial focus of our program, but it is only part of our goal. Our underlying mission is to help students develop the character, confidence, and resilience to handle whatever life brings.

Academic Support St. Catherine’s is dedicated to meeting each student’s academic needs. This school year, through Catapult Learning, we have on-campus, AMI-trained support members who will work in partnership with Primary and Elementary guides, parents, and the administration to help students receive the support they need to succeed at the level appropriate to their learning development.

If parents believe that more academic support is needed for their child, their first step would be to consult with their child’s guide to discuss concerns and a course of action. Likewise, if a guide observes that support may be needed, they first will notify the student’s parents. As needed, the support members will assess and work with the student. They also will maintain communication about the student’s needs and progress. In the event support staff determines additional, perhaps outside, testing and support is warranted, St. Catherine’s will assist the family in locating these resources. This academic support is funded through the Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools (EANS) program and provided through Catapult Learning.

Jacinta Edussuriya Primary and Elementary 15

Sterling Richards Primary and Lower Elementary

SPIRITUAL LIFE Our Dominican foundresses, Sr. Edna Ann Hebert, O.P. and Sr. Shirley Owens, O.P., envisioned the rich potential of combining Montessori and Catholic principles to serve the hearts and minds of students. Children of all ages have a unique relationship with God, and assisting even the youngest children in spiritual and moral growth is a crucial aspect of our mission. In accordance with both our Montessori and Catholic beliefs, St. Catherine’s has adopted the teachings of “The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd” to support the spiritual life of our students. Inspired by the profound religious intuition of children, the Catechesis curriculum combines the self-teaching principles of Montessori with the theological moorings of Hebrew scholarship, scripture studies, and Roman Catholic liturgy and doctrine.

Beginning at the Primary level, students attend monthly Mass, and children in Primary and Elementary visit the school catechist in our Atrium weekly. The Atrium is a prepared environment specifically intended for the spiritual growth of children. The space helps to nourish each child’s relationship with God by allowing for a period of retreat that facilitates introspection and silence; encourages religious life through community and worship; provides concrete, tactile work through which children may converse with God; and prepares the child for involvement in the larger worshiping community.

In adolescence, students are encouraged to recognize the responsibilities that come with receiving God’s gifts and to envision themselves as collaborators in a life committed to spiritual work and understanding. Our Catholic Adolescent Community and High School students receive lessons in preparation for Confirmation. In their Theology course, students study each of the sacraments and their function and operation under a panoply of Catholic teaching and social practice.

Mass Schedule Mass will be celebrated by Fr. Richard Hinkley, director of spiritual formation at St. Mary’s Seminary.

Mass will be held in the SCM gym, and all members of our community are invited to attend.

Wednesday, September 21 at 2:15 p.m.

Wednesday, October 19 at 2:15 p.m.

Tuesday, November 1 at 2:15 p.m.

Thursday, December 8 at 2:15 p.m.

Wednesday, January 18 at 2:15 p.m.

Wednesday, February 22 at 1:45 p.m.

Wednesday, March 29 at 2:15 p.m.

Friday, April 28 at 8:45 a.m.

Fr. Richard Hinkley

Wednesday, May 17 at 8:45 a.m.

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PARENT EDUCATION Students benefit the most from their journey at St. Catherine’s when families connect with Montessori philosophy and understand the workings of our classrooms. We understand that the Montessori approach may be new to parents who have grown up with more traditional schooling. Throughout the year we offer several Parent Education opportunities. We encourage you to attend to deepen your awareness of your child’s growth as they progress through the Planes of Development and transition from one classroom level to another. Our guides also use these opportunities to suggest practical applications of Montessori at home.

Additionally, the Parent Service Organization (PSO) maintains a Parent Library in the Welcome Center, which includes many resources on Montessori principles and parenting.

"Creating a Parent Partnership: Sharing the Value of Montessori" Friday, August 12, 2022 at 6:00 p.m.

Sue Pritzker, AMI trainer and consultant, will join us via video conference to discuss some essential Montessori principles that span the early childhood, elementary, and adolescent years, and to offer touchpoints for Montessori in the home. The presentation will be recorded and shared with the full community.

Classroom Orientations

Parents will meet their child’s guide and learn about the daily rhythms of the classroom.

Thursday, August 11, 2022 • 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.

• 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

High School Adolescent Community

Monday, August 15, 2022 • 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.

• 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Infant Community and Lower Elementary Primary

Tuesday, August 16, 2022 • 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Upper Elementary

The Montessori Journey

Friday, October 7 and Saturday, October 8, 2022 A unique opportunity for current parents to experience Montessori education as a participant in the classroom. Designed by a Montessorian and guided by our faculty, this two-day event provides parents with a hands-on tour of each level from Infant Community through High School. The first evening is spent in silent observation of each level, followed by the second day when parents are presented with lessons and encouraged to work with classroom materials as their children do each day. Space is limited; registration will open in September. We recommend that every parent attend The Montessori Journey during their time at St. Catherine’s.

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AC Moving Up Night

Tuesday, November 8, 2022 Parents of all levels are invited to join the Adolescent Community guides for a conversation about the classroom environment, integrated curriculum, and everything else about the AC that serves the needs of the early adolescent.

High School Open House

Thursday, November 10, 2022 Families of all levels are invited to receive an overview of the High School's curriculum, three-year cycle, and assessment process. This event is led by the students from the High School community.

Guides will be available to answer questions.

Elementary Moving Up Nights

These evenings are designed to introduce parents to what they and their children can expect as they transition to the Lower Elementary and Upper Elementary levels.

Tuesday, November 15, 2022 • Lower Elementary Thursday, November 17, 2022 • Upper Elementary

College Information Night Thursday, December 1, 2022

Sarah Lewis, SCM’s director of college counseling, will discuss the ins and outs of college admissions and financial aid.

Alumni Night

Thursday, January 5, 2023 St. Catherine’s alumni will speak about their college experiences and how their time at SCM prepared them for life after high school.

Montessori Night School Thursday, February 2, 2023

This evening is an opportunity for parents to see Montessori work in action, as Primary and Lower Elementary children will show off their classrooms and demonstrate the lessons they are learning.

Upper Elementary classrooms each host an academic fair in which students give presentations on a topic of their choosing.

TBD Guest Speaker March 2023

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ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION Dr. Montessori viewed humans as an integral part of nature, here to appreciate with awe and wonder all of God’s creations and to be stewards of the global community. In The Absorbent Mind she stated, “Only through freedom and environmental experience is it practically possible for human development to occur." From the Infant Community through High School, St. Catherine’s students learn to see how their actions impact those around them, understand the interdependency of the web of life, and recognize their responsibility to preserve and enhance the earth. Students of all ages maintain outdoor classroom gardens and harvest what they grow as part of snack and lunch. They care for classroom pets, studying their lifecycles and behavior.

Japhet Creek Campus St. Catherine’s owns three acres and additional property in the Japhet Community, a pastoral enclave in Houston’s Greater East End District.

Just five minutes from downtown Houston, the land is next to Japhet Creek, a mile-long tributary that feeds into Buffalo Bayou. The Japhet campus provides the opportunity for students at all levels to experience land-based learning as envisioned by Dr. Montessori – delving into nature-related subjects and studying the relationship between nature and the human society around it. Care of the environment flows naturally from students’ interest in participating in their community, and from their curiosity about how their farm experience fits into the bigger picture of living in society.

One example of how Adolescent Community students use Japhet is when they plan crops, start seedlings in the greenhouse, transplant them into their garden, tend them until harvest, and then prepare them for sale in their market, The Hive. They deposit market revenue into their classroom bank account to invest in future needs of the Adolescent Community. Other projects include beekeeping, raising chickens, soap-making, and researching renewable energy sources. In this way, adolescents begin their roles as adults in society.

Dr. Montessori placed significant value on the power nature has on a child. In The Secret to Childhood she advises, “There must be provision for the child to have contact with nature, to understand and appreciate the order, the harmony and the beauty in nature…so that the child may better understand and participate in the marvellous things which civilisation creates.”

Our Japhet Educational Programming Committee is a newly created committee tasked with developing the vision and mission for our Japhet Creek campus, determining the educational needs Japhet can provide for all St. Catherine’s students, and planning the educational spaces to support those needs. We look forward to sharing more about this committee and upcoming plans for Japhet soon.

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SCHOOL TRIPS Beginning in Lower Elementary, St. Catherine’s students take overnight trips with their class. The excursions support ongoing classroom work, foster independence as students learn to make connections with the world beyond their school community, and provide additional freedom within limits. Students take an active role in planning their trips by researching locations, selecting activities, and preparing itineraries.

Lower Elementary February 27-28, 2023 Mr. Jaime’s class to Camp Allen in Navasota, TX March 23-24, 2023 Ms. Catherine's class to Camp Allen in Navasota, TX March 27-28, 2023 Ms. Hannah’s class to Camp Allen in Navasota, TX

Upper Elementary November 28-December 1, 2022 Ms. Meg’s class to Nature’s Classroom Institute (NCI) in New Ulm, TX November 2022 Mr. Snow’s class camping trip (location TBD) March 2023 Mr. Snow’s class trip (location TBD)

*Adolescent Community Late September/early October AC Spiritual trip (location TBD) February 2023 AC Peace trip (location TBD) Late April/early May 2023 9th-Year trip (location TBD)

*High School January 29-February 4, 2023 High School trip (location TBD) May 2023 High School Retreat *Part of the third plane studies entails involving students in the trip planning process, therefore trip dates and locations are still undetermined at this time. More information will be provided throughout the school year.

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SPORTS Program Philosophy St. Catherine's is dedicated to giving students the opportunity to develop and strengthen their athletic abilities. Our after-school sports program is committed to building an athletics tradition that provides opportunities for students of all skill levels to enjoy the excitement, community, and physical development of sports. Athletes make a commitment to themselves and their teammates when they join a team. This commitment includes always working hard, being a good teammate, and attending all team practices and games.

After-School Sports Offerings The following after-school sports are offered for 4th-12th year students throughout the school year. Practices will begin on the dates listed below.

• • • •

Volleyball and Soccer – Monday, August 22 Basketball – Monday, October 31 Baseball – Monday, January 30 Track and field – Monday, February 27

Upper Elementary students will practice on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m.

Adolescent Community and High School students will practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:45 to 5:00 p.m.

Registration forms for all sports will be released in August.

St. Catherine’s competes against other area Catholic schools in the Greater Houston Catholic Athletic Association (GHCAA). All members of the St. Catherine’s community are invited to attend games.

The sports and music schedules are designed to make it possible for every student to participate in both activities, if desired, and to avoid interrupting the Montessori work cycle. Our sports and music personnel work together to assist students in navigating any scheduling conflicts that may arise during the school year.

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MUSIC Program Philosophy The St. Catherine’s music program is dedicated to helping each student reach their maximum potential by teaching them to realize the significance of commitment, musicianship, loyalty, teamwork, and work ethic. We expect each student-musician to be a respectable representative of themselves, their ensemble, and their school.

Music Offerings Registration details for the following music offerings will be released in August.

Instrumental •

Beginning Strings Lessons for all new or continuing 2nd- through 12th-year players on violin, viola, cello, or bass (electric or double). Lessons will be during the school day as part of the work period on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students will move at their own pace on their instrument but will be expected to do some at-home practice.

•

Chamber Orchestra for returning 4th- through 6th-year players on violin, viola, cello, or bass (electric or double). It is recommended that players have at least one year of experience on their instrument for this group. The Chamber Orchestra will play in small groups – “Chamber Music Style” – and meet after school on Tuesdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Players will be arranged in small trios and quartets and work on balancing melody and harmony in their groups.

•

Chamber Ensemble for Adolescent Community and High School players on violin, viola, cello, or bass (electric or double). It is recommended that players have at least two years of experience on their instrument for this group. This small ensemble will practice during the school day as part of their Creative Expression work period and will have numerous performance opportunities during the year.

Vocal •

Acapella Choir for 4th- through 6th-year singers. Acapella Choir is an opportunity for young singers to develop their musical skills and hold their own parts in harmony. Choir will meet after school on Thursdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Singers should have desire to sing together and explore fun performance opportunities.

•

Choir Ensemble for singers in Adolescent Community and High School. Choir Ensemble is an opportunity for older singers to sing in parts together with others who love to sing. The group will meet once a week during the day as part of their work period. Singers should have desire to sing together and explore fun performance opportunities.

The sports and music schedules are designed to make it possible for every student to participate in both activities, if desired, and to avoid interrupting the Montessori work cycle. Our sports and music personnel work together to assist students in navigating any scheduling conflicts that may arise during the school year.

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PARENT SERVICE ORGANIZATION (PSO) The PSO is dedicated to enhancing the experience of St. Catherine’s students, staff, and parents by creating a community founded on parent involvement and warm hospitality. Parents are welcomed as PSO members as soon as their child is enrolled at St. Catherine’s, and are invited to participate in all activities. The organization strives to build a school where parents know they will be welcomed, and their families are all known by name. Parental service reinforces the strong foundation of education, spirituality, and social and emotional development laid down by the school foundresses over 50 years ago.

The PSO hosts a variety of meetings, volunteer activities, and social events throughout the school year. Visit the PSO page on the school website (www.stcathmont.org) to learn more.

PSO Meeting and Major Events Schedule Friday, September 2, 2022 Welcome Back Parent Meeting Tuesday October 25, 2022 Sociables Sign-up Day Saturday, October 15, 2022 PSO Garden Work Day Saturday, October 22, 2022 PSO Fall Fest Friday, November 11, 2022 PSO Meeting November 28 – December 2, 2022 Book Fair Friday, January 20, 2023 PSO Meeting Saturday, February 11, 2023 Steps 4 Students 5K Run/Walk Friday, March 24, 2023 PSO Meeting Saturday, April 22, 2023 PSO Garden Work Day Saturday, April 29, 2023 PSO Spring Fling Friday, May 12, 2023 PSO Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast 23

PHILANTHROPY St. Catherine’s is blessed to have a community that is deeply committed to the school’s mission and gives generously in support of our advancement. As an independent non-profit school, we rely on tuition income and philanthropic contributions to support our operating expenditures and capital projects (campus expansion). By design, tuition covers approximately 90% of the school’s operating expenses and fundraising covers the rest. St. Catherine’s has been able to grow and continue as an exceptional institution because of volunteer participation and a tradition of giving.

SCM Annual Fund

October 18 – November 29, 2022 The SCM Annual Fund is the school’s primary fundraiser. It is designed to provide additional support to our operating budget, helping us fund our daily operations and accomplish immediate campus improvements and program updates. The 6-week annual fund drive is the first and most important fundraiser for St. Catherine’s and benefits every member of our community.

The motto of the SCM Annual Fund is “Every Family for Every Child,” and we ask that 100% of our families make a meaningful contribution each year. Reaching 100% parent participation in the annual fund is just as important as reaching our financial goal of $200,000. This year, St. Catherine’s will prioritize the following four areas for annual fund spending: • • • •

Improving compensation packages for employees Better meeting the financial aid needs of families through tuition assistance Enhancing the strength of our educational programs through increased professional development opportunities for faculty and staff Improving campus facilities and prepared learning environments

Gala

Saturday, April 15, 2023 The gala is our biennial fundraising event designed to raise additional funds for special projects. The gala is an adults-only celebration that includes dinner, dancing, and silent and live auctions. Stay tuned for more details. Contact Advancement Director Lyndsey Ray at lray@stcathmont.org to join the gala planning committee.

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SCHOOL CALENDAR 2022 - 2023 M

T

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

M 5 12 19 26

AUGUST TH W 4 3 11 10 18 17 25 24 31

SEPTEMBER TH W T 6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

F 5 12 19 26

F 2 9 16 23 30

M 7 14 21 28

M 5 12 19 26

T 4 11 18 25

W 5 12 19 26

2

Aug. 15 First Day of School for: • All NEW Lower and Upper Elem. 8am-12pm (all 1st, all 4th, and NEW to SCM 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th year students) After-school program closed • Adolescent CommunityAll 7th years and all NEW to SCM 8th and 9th year students, 8am-3:45pm • All High School on Regular Schedule, 8am-3:45pm

Aug. 16 Looking Day for Infant Community and Primary by appointment only All Elementary (New and Returning) on Regular Schedule, 8am-3:30pm. After-school program opens for enrolled Elem. students

TH 6 13 20 27

F 7 14 21 28

Aug. 17

{ 9}

16 23 30

M 6 13 20 27

Aug. 18 Returning Primary only, 8:30-11:30am Primary after-school program closed

NOVEMBER W TH T {3} 2 1 9 10 8 16 17 15 23 24 22 29 30 DECEMBER TH W T 1 8 7 6 {14} {15} 13 22 21 20 29 28 27

All Returning Primary on Regular Friday schedules After-school program opens for enrolled Primary students Friday Dismissal, 2:30/2:45pm

Sept. 5

No School – Labor Day

Oct. 10

No School – In-service Day

Nov. 3 - 4 Nov. 21-25

F 2 9 16 23 30

Jan. 3 Jan. 9-10 Jan. 16 Feb. 17 Feb. 20

Apr. 6 Apr. 7 Apr. 10

No School – In-service Day No School for AC students - AC Conferences No School – MLK, Jr. Holiday 12pm

Front Desk: 713 665.2195

Early Dismissal. After-school program closed No School – President’s Day Holiday

6 13 20 27

F 3 10 17 24

M 3 10 17 24

T 4 11 18 25

APRIL W 5 12 19 26

TH 6 13 20 27

F 7 14 21 28

M 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 {30}

MAY W 3 10 17 24 { 31 }

TH 4 11 18 25 1

F 5 12 19 26 2

F {3} 10 17 24 31

No School – Conferences No School – Spring Break 12pm

May 30-31 Jun. 1

1/2 day for HS students - HS Conferences No School – Christmas Break

5 12 19 26

T

No School – Conferences No School – Thanksgiving Break

Dec. 14-15 Dec. 19-Jan. 2

F

FEBRUARY TH W T 2 1 9 8 7 16 15 14 23 22 21 28

Aug. 19

F {4 } 11 18 25

TH

6 13 20 27

Returning Infant Community on Regular Schedule, 8:30-11:20am Returning Primary only, 8:30-11:30am Primary after-school program closed

JANUARY W T 4 3 {10} 11 18 17 25 24 31

MARCH TH W {2} 1 9 8 7 16 15 14 23 22 21 30 29 28

M

March 2-3 Mar. 13-17

25

M

All Adolescent Community on Regular Schedule, 8:00-3:45pm

OCTOBER M 3 10 17 24 31

Important Dates

(Reference online calendars for most current schedule)

Early Dismissal. After-school program closed No School – Easter Holiday No School – Easter Holiday

Holiday In-service Day

1/2 day for HS students - HS Conferences 12pm

Early Dismissal. Last day of school After-school program closed

{}

Early Dismissal 12pm for all full day levels.

Conferences

Calendar Dates as of 8/4/22

Stay Informed Throughout the Year The Globe

The Globe is our biweekly e-newsletter that features upcoming school events, key deadlines, student and community stories, and engagement and volunteer opportunities. We email it every other Wednesday during the school year (except during school holidays) and post it on the school website under the What’s New tab. We encourage all parents to read The Globe to stay up to date on school happenings.

Social Media

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

www.facebook.com/stcathmont www.instagram.com/stcathmont

Web Calendars

We regularly update our website calendars throughout the year and suggest that parents use the subscribe feature to sync them to their personal calendars.

1. Navigate to the events page from the school’s home page. 2. Select the calendar(s) you want to sync. 3. Click “subscribe” and choose your personal calendar application.

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9821 Timberside Drive

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Houston, TX 77025

713 665.2195

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stcathmont.org

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