Dear Parents,
      As the holiday season approaches and the year draws to a close, thoughts naturally turn to family and friends, to memories of Decembers past, and especially to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  This is the season to celebrate the enduring bonds of family and the sustaining ties of friendship.  For me, I will miss your children and await their return. I wish to take this opportunity to thank all of you for our success this year. 

      You have assisted in the growth and successes of our school: whether you’re on the PTO, School Board, St Joseph Organized Youth, Choir, parent volunteer, committee work or you trust us with your child’s education.  I have so much to be thankful for; especially for my family at home, and my St. Joseph’s family.  I have had the opportunity to visit many classes this week, and have witnessed the incredible instruction your children are receiving.  We are blessed with a hard working, dedicated staff.

     The Christmas Dollars for Scholars was a great success.  However, we need all of you to continue participating in this program.  I shared with every parent at the Principals night how important this program is.  Please, we need everyone purchasing as many items as possible, (ex. groceries, gas, gifts etc.), with your script cards.    Students will be bringing home 10 copies of a Catholic Education Association, (scholarship tax credit), letter to send to friends, employers, relatives in order to boost our campaign and insure quality scholarships for your children.   Please have them personalize these letters before sending them.  Forms are enclosed.  Parents should receive a personalized letter, enrollment form and instructions.

     Congratulations to the students, parent volunteers and staff of St. Joseph Organized Youth for their 1st place float in the creative category, and a $100.00 prize in the Cottonwood Christmas Parade.  

     Mrs. Andrews essay writers took 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the VFW essay regional competition.  Elijah Flores won $50.00 for 3rd place, Adam Koster won $100.00 for 2nd place, and Carli Winchester took 1st place honor and $150.00.  Carli and Adam will move to the state competition.

     Track season is around the corner.  This year Dennis Burke will take the lead and Ruth Gallegos will assist.  Track season is for fifth through sixth grade.  Mingus High School is allowing us to use their facility two days a week. Our Christmas Production is this Friday at Immaculate Conception.  Students are to report to the social hall at 5:45 in costume.    Make sure all students have had something to eat before arriving for the program; they will be standing for a long time.  After you have dropped off your son/daughter, please be seated at the church.

     Thank you again for allowing us to educate your children. Merry Christmas and God bless your holiday.  

Greg Kirkham