A message from Director of Lower School, Jessica Hallin: 

I am hoping that everyone had a safe, warm and fun Halloween and kick off to November! I always enjoy Halloween and fun celebrations in schools, as you see the personalities of kids peeking out more. We had a wonderful day here at Visitation, including the always popular trick-or-treating with the Upper School students.

Last week we welcomed parents on campus for our first Montessori Parent Pop In. This is always a special day, as parents can witness our littlest learners take great pride in showing their loved ones their materials, presentations, and community space. From the earliest moments, you see that dedication to academic excellence and the inspiration to learn. 

Last week also included a special birthday bash, as both Mrs. Mansour and Mr. Loftin in 5th grade share the same birthday! They treated their class to a special birthday party full of birthday themed games and activities -- Watching students race in potato sacks was my favorite!

Last week's out of uniform day was a great success. Our Visitation community joined the call together to support Catholic Relief Services. As Bishop David Malloy, from United States Council of Catholic Bishops wrote “As we pray urgently for peace, we recall especially all the families and individuals suffering from these events. We call on the faithful, and all people of goodwill to not grow weary and to continue to pray for peace in the land Our Lord, the Prince of Peace, called home.” 

There are many exciting events coming up in the Lower School, including STEAM Day for Girls this Saturday November 4. We look forward to welcoming both Visitation girls and those from the community for an inspiring and engaging day of learning, friendship and growth. 

Also coming up in November will be our newly updated report cards. You will receive your report cards in mid-November, prior to conferences. You will notice that we are working to create a report card that is more relevant and precise. It will showcase your child’s learning and growth, and will better capture their learning. We will include details in your mailing related to the report card. Teachers will also review the report cards with you at our upcoming conferences. Conferences this year are Monday November 20 and Tuesday November 21. Monday’s conferences will be offered in-person from 3:30 to 7 p.m. and Tuesday’s in-person conferences will be offered noon to 7 p.m. Our in-person conferences will provide you a personal connection with your child’s teachers. Please sign up for a time with both classroom and specialist teachers, as all have great things to share with you about your child!

Also at fall conferences, we encourage you to connect with our new Technology Integration Specialist, Mr. Tim Friedrich. Mr. Friedrich will be giving a Parent Tech Talk multiple times during conferences, with the hopes of meeting you and welcoming you into his space. This will take place in Opus Hall Stem Center on Monday Nov 20 at 5 p.m.  and 6 p.m. and Tuesday Nov 21 at 1p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Please stop by the Opus Hall Stem Center during conferences to attend a brief presentation on Social Media Wellness (The Good, The Bad, & The Other) and walk through the space to see all the amazing things your student has the chance to utilize this year.

I look forward to celebrating our first Salesian Stars this Friday at our all school assembly. These assemblies bring our M-5th grade students together to shine, and it will be a great way to end the week.

I wish you all a weekend of warmth and love.  Thank you for sharing your amazing children with me here at Visitation!

With gratitude,

Jessica Hallin
Director of Lower School