Head of School Back to School Update – July 22, 2022

Happy Aloha Friday Saint Mark Parents!

I am writing with the latest Saint Mark updates as we prepare to welcome students back to school next week.

COVID-19 CAMPUS PLAN (Now Complete!)
As promised, the Saint Mark Lutheran School’s COVID-19 Campus Plan – Policy and Procedures 2022-2023 is complete and has been attached.  I implore you to please take some time to carefully read through this document.  While it does contain many similarities to last year’s plan, great care was taken to update and relax the plan to reflect the latest guidelines, vaccination rates, and community conditions.  Please pay particular attention to page 7.

Just as was the case the last two years, this plan prioritizes health & safety, educational excellence, practicality, and flexibility. Every COVID-19 decision that is made for our school will be one that is well-researched, well-thought-out, and continually puts the well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and families at the forefront.  Saint Mark is committed to continuing our safe transition out of COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you for your Support!

FACULTY/STAFF BACK TO WORK
The entire faculty and staff were excited to return to campus today for a wonderful day of collaboration and training.  Time was spent discussing and practicing Saint Mark Lutheran School’s COVID-19 Campus Plan as well as other important topics as we prepare to welcome students back on campus.  The entire faculty and staff also participated in its annual Emergency First Aid and CPR Training.

CLASSES RESUMING NEXT WEEK
K-8 Students Return on Wednesday, July 27 (with early dismissal)
Drop-off:  Gr K-8    7:15 to 7:55 a.m.
Pick-up:   Gr K-2    11:15 a.m.
Gr 3-5    11:30 a.m.
Gr 6-8    11:45 a.m.

ELC Students Return on Friday, July 29 
Drop-off:  PK to 8    7:15 to 7:55 a.m.
Pick-up:   Gr K-2     2:15 p.m.
Gr 3-5     2:30 p.m.
Gr 6-8     2:45 p.m.
PK3&4    3:00 p.m.

OTHER IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES
K-8 Parent Visitation/Supply Drop Off – Monday & Tuesday, July 25 & 26
ELC Parent/Student Visitation Day – Thursday, July 28
Before/Aftercare Begins for Registered Students – Monday, August 1
Back-to-School Orientation (K-5) – Wednesday, August 3 at 6:00 pm (In-Person)
Back-to-School Orientation (6-8) – Thursday, August 4 at 6:00 pm (In-person)
Back-to-School Orientation (PK) – Tuesday, August 9 at 6:00 pm (In-person)

WELCOMING FACULTY & STAFF
In case you missed it last week, please join me in wishing a very warm aloha to all of our new and returning faculty and staff: Mrs. Alissa Menza (PK3), Mrs. Janine Kiyono (PK3/4); Ms. Erin Shiroma (PK4); Mrs. Dawn Somera (K); Mrs. Charlene Lazaro (grade 1); Ms. Cynthia Chung (grade 2); Ms. Makamae Nottage (grade 3); Ms. Rochelle Chang (grade 4); Mrs. Sarah Selph (grade 5); Mrs. Melissa Sanborn (m.s.), Mrs. Miriam McMillian (m.s.), Mrs. Kristy Schroppel (m.s.);  Mrs. Alyssa Hutchens (band & choir); Mr. Paul Markillie (school programs, athletics & computers); Ms. Kaui Dias (E.A., P.E.& beforecare); Mrs. Dale Gibo (E.A., art, aftercare); Mrs. Mele Manu (E.A., school programs, library); Mr. Matthew Schroppel (E.A.); Mr. Nolan Chan (E.A.); Mrs. Julie O`Conner (E.A.); Ms. Calsea Shaner (E.A.); Mrs. Melelani Lawrence (business manager); and Mrs. Debbie Jenkins (admin asst, admissions).

Thank you for your time and support and please do not hesitate to contact the school office should you have any questions.

Mahalo, Blessings and See you Soon,

David Gaudi
Head of School