A message from Director of Lower School, Jessica Hallin:

Greetings Lower School Families,

We are once again off to a great week of learning here in the Lower School! On Monday we practiced and discussed our first Hold Drill. During this type of drill, we discuss the importance of keeping hallways clear and doors closed for privacy. We discuss how an alert like this might take place in a medical situation, to keep hallways clear for paramedics, and doors closed for the privacy of the patient. One class talked about how this drill is similar to when an ambulance is on a highway, and we pull over to give them space, we would do that here at Visitation. We would pull into your classrooms, to give paramedics space. This drill took less than five minutes, and students had wonderful discussions to feel more prepared and safe in their classrooms.

Today, 5th graders departed for their Base Camp field trip. This trip will continue to unite the classes as a group, allowing them opportunities to stretch (literally) and climb, and overall build confidence and unity as a class. We are thankful to our teachers for arranging this wonderful experience, and look forward to hearing all about the kid’s adventures!

Our teachers and support staff look forward to welcoming parents to Back to School Parent Night on Thursday, Sept 15. This evening will kick off at 6:30 p.m. in DeSales Auditorium with a greeting from myself, Head of School Rene Gavic, and our Parents’ Association. Then parents will travel to meet and greet some of our specialists and will end with classroom teachers for their curriculum presentations. We look forward to welcoming you here on campus!

Next week, Visitation will kick off our Homecoming celebrations and we anticipate great pride and excitement. All students will receive a Homecoming T-shirt early in the week to wear on Thursday. Thursday promises to be a fun, spirit-filled day. Lower School will participate in our all-school pep rally in the morning and Visitation Parents' Association will host Lower School-specific games and activities after school; all are welcome to attend! Students should plan to wear their Homecoming T-shirts and uniform bottoms on Thursday. On Friday, students should dress in formal uniform for our opening Mass and flag-raising ceremony.

We have a busy few days ahead and look forward to meeting and connecting with you more!

Much appreciation,

Jessica Hallin
Director of Lower School