Saint James School is benefitting from a newly formed development board that is bringing a fresh outlook along with a network of supporters who believe in the mission of Saint James and are committed to its long-term sustainability. The Board met for the first time in November, 2010, chaired by Sheri Stuckey, a member of the Vision of Hope Advisory Board. Sharing their professional expertise and varied talents, the group has already spearheaded a successful major fundraising campaign and has formed sub-committees to focus on budget preparation, marketing and more fundraising events. The Board will play a critical role in assisting the school to keep Catholic education affordable for inner-city youth now and in the future.
In the fall, a Halloween Hop is being planned for October 28 at Immaculate Conception Academy’s auditorium. Principal, S. Mary Susanna says, “If you’re in the vicinity, get your costume ready and come join us for a ghoulish, good time!”
This year the children of Saint Elizabeth have been part of a wonderful non-profit program called First Tee.
More than 50 students are learning to play golf once a week, journeying by bus to local courses. The Saint Elizabeth golfers, from 2nd to 8th grade, are learning the important lessons of the game, including respect, honesty, citizenship, appropriate dress, and courtesy.
One of the adults who accompanied the students states: “Once the kids got to the golf course, they became quiet and absolutely respectful. It was amazing. Perhaps the cause of this was their total wonder at seeing such vibrant, seemingly unending greens. Many just wanted to touch the grass — they had never seen anything like it and did not even know golf courses existed.”
Not only is the program allowing the children to learn golf, with emphasis on driving, putting, grip, posture and aim, but it is also exposing them to important values and the glorious outdoors.
What could be more marvelous except, perhaps, a hole in one?
