the
VOL. 6 • WINTER 2015
CARDINAL Have You Heard The Good News? by Dr. Michael Pratt, Head of School
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ar too often Heads of Schools spend much of their time putting out fires and communicating difficult decisions. I feel particularly blessed that I get to spend most of my time working with the faculty and administration to plan and implement programs that enhance the experience of our students. It was a distinct pleasure to be able to share so much good news about the School at the recent State of the School evening and to showcase our students.
As stated in the recent tuition letter, the School Committee and administration are committed to providing the best education at the most affordable price possible. Through increasing productivity and efficiency, we have been able to hold the tuition flat next year, even while bringing many exciting enhancements to our already strong program. Beyond Technology, Robotics, Music Together, Instrumental Music, Dance, and Mandarin Chinese were among the many new and engaging programs on display at State of the School. By any standard, St. John’s has accomplished a great deal in a very short time. The key to great schools is preserving what is strong and essential, while innovating to meet the needs of
“ASHES TO GO” by Fr. John, Vicar
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new St. John’s tradition is our all-school Holy Eucharist service with baptisms each November. Though it runs a little longer than our usual liturgy, I’m always amazed at how attentive our students are to both the words and actions in the service. The sacramental climax is when the priest touches the person’s forehead with water and baptizes in the name of the Holy Trinity. But for me, the most moving moment is making the sign of the cross on the newlybaptized’s forehead and saying, “You are sealed by the Holy Spirit in baptism and marked as Christ’s own forever.” Which brings me to our plans for Ash Wednesday on Feb. 18. All are welcome at our services at 7 a.m. and 9:15 a.m., noon, and 7 p.m. But if you would like your “ashes to go,” Mrs. Patti and I (and possibly Mother Martha, depending on how we divide up duties) will be waiting for you at the ECC and back lot drop-offs. Just stop and roll your window down, and we’ll impose ashes -- making the same sign of
students as they prepare for the next level of education and ultimately the workplace. I was proud to document our students’ success in high school and college matriculation. Our students compete well for coveted spots and then perform at a high level beyond the classroom. From medicine to business, from television to the Broadway stage, and from ballet to the NFL, our alumni pursue their dreams with passion and commitment. We encourage our students to aim high, and they do so enthusiastically. The School will not stand still but rather will continue to refine programs to make every student’s experience as engaging and rewarding as possible. I look forward to continuing to share good news with you. n the cross on your forehead as during Holy Baptism — and say a few sacramental words. It will take less than ten seconds. Then get ready for people to tell you all day that you’re got something on your forehead! If you have any questions about Ash Wednesday, or if anyone in your family is interested in being baptized at St. John’s School next November, please drop me a line at revjht@msn.com or call (714) 319-4421. n