Skip Navigation

Crusader Chronicle

The Crusader Chronicle is our weekly parents' newsletter. It includes everything you need to know for the upcoming week: a calendar of events, important dates, deadlines, and a message from the principal. The Chronicle is sent via email to all registered families on Thursday afternoon at 4:00 p.m. and updated here by Monday. If you have notes to include or are not receiving an email, please contact Melissa Haak
 

 

24 April 2025


In this issue: Field trip recaps! Attitude of gratitude, Pope Francis Memorial Mass, K-3rd Special Person Day, Middle School Dance moved, May Clubs, Tie Dye with the teachers, Summer Skills registration, Talent Show, Crusader Chase, Dad's hype squad, LFHS Lacrosse night. 


Dear SOSM Families,

It is spring and the School of St. Mary is on the move!

On Thursday, April 11th, our third graders embarked on their annual field trip to the Art Institute of Chicago—an enriching experience that brings to life the artistic skills, history, diverse cultures, and styles they’ve explored throughout the years with PGC art teacher, Mrs. Bridget Halloran.

Upon arrival, the third graders were greeted by knowledgeable docents who led them in the study of three selected works of art. Through engaging, interactive discussions, students deepened their appreciation of artistic expression and had the opportunity to explore the museum’s incredible collection.

Two standout highlights of the trip were the Armor Room and the Thorne Miniature Rooms, both of which captured the imaginations of our students and sparked lively conversation.

 

On April 4th, the SOSM 7th graders visited the Discovery Center Museum in Milwaukee for an enriching field trip. Their excellent behavior and enthusiasm reflected our Catholic values and commitment to academic growth.

The students explored the freshwater ecology of the Great Lakes, learning about environmental stewardship through interactive exhibits. They engaged with physics displays on simple and complex machines, experimenting with pulleys and gears in “The Lab.” The highlight was a squid dissection, where the seventh grade studied marine anatomy with respect and curiosity.

The politeness and engagement of our students earned praise from the museum staff. The Discovery Center’s 300+ exhibits sparked a love for learning, aligning with our mission to nurture faith and intellect. We thank the museum staff for their dedication and look forward to future opportunities to explore.

Earlier today, the 7th grade class embarked on a field trip to Carmel Catholic High School, leaving a mark with their positive behavior and enthusiastic spirit. These young ambassadors represented our school and their families with grace, embodying the values we hold dear and demonstrating the promise of a bright future.

The day began with a burst of energy as students participated in a series of engaging team-building activities. A cup stacking challenge tested their dexterity and collaboration (Congratulations Alex Cook!), while a balancing game brought laughter and camaraderie (Great work Thomas Robbins). These lighthearted moments set the tone for a day filled with exploration and inspiration.

The group then set out to tour Carmel’s impressive facilities, starting with the newly renovated weight room and cardio center. This glimpse into the school’s athletics program highlighted the importance of physical fitness and teamwork, resonating with our students’ active spirits. Next, a visit to the National Championship Robotics and Engineering program captivated their imaginations. The innovative projects and cutting-edge technology showcased the power of creativity and problem-solving, inspiring our students to dream big.

In the fine arts studio, the 7th graders were treated to a trio of breathtaking performances. The dance team’s graceful movements, the choir’s harmonious melodies, and the band’s vibrant rhythms filled the room with joy, offering a testament to the transformative power of the arts. These experiences underscored the diverse opportunities awaiting our students as they grow.

The day concluded with a golf cart tour of Carmel’s sprawling campus, allowing students to appreciate the beauty and serenity of the grounds. A pizza lunch provided a moment of fellowship, as students reflected on the day’s adventures and forged new connections with peers from other schools.

This field trip was more than just a day away from the classroom; it was a window into the possibilities that await our 7th graders as they prepare for the next chapter of their educational journey. Their curiosity, respect, and enthusiasm made us immensely proud, and we are excited to see how they will continue to grow in faith, knowledge, and service. The future is bright for these young Crusaders, and we thank Carmel Catholic High School for hosting such a memorable and uplifting experience!

Respectfully

Kathy Thompson
Principal, School of St. Mary

Today, our 8th graders celebrated another milestone in their journey to graduation. This morning, they gathered for their last morning Mass as a class. The students were delighted to join in prayer with Fr. Radley, some of their teachers, and their classmate, Drew, with his family. As a thank you to the eighth graders for all the love and support they have shown Drew during the last year and a half, the Janos family generously provided a breakfast buffet after the Mass, overflowing with treats of every kind. It was a beautiful reminder that love and support go both ways.

Pope Francis
1936 – 2025
We shall always remain thankful for your message of LOVE.


UPCOMING IMPORTANT DATES

  • Tuesday, 4/29 - School Mass (4th - 8th), Church of St. Mary
  • Tuesday, 4/29 - UGC Talent Show, 10 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
  • Tuesday, 4/29 - First Communion Rehearsal (Last Names A-L), Church of St. Mary
  • Wednesday, 4/30 - School Mass (Jr. K - 3rd), St. Patrick Church
  • Thursday, 5/1 - Early dismissal, PGC 2:05 p.m., PGC 2:21 p.m.
  • Thursday, 5/1 - CrusaderWear Day for PanCan
  • Thursday 5/1 - PGC School Store
  • Thursday, 5/1 - First Communion Rehearsal (Last Names M-Z), Church of St. Mary
  • Thursday, 5/1 - PA Meeting, UGC MPR
  • Friday, 5/2 - PGC K-3 Special Person Day
  • Friday, 5/2 - 4th Grade Field Trip, Open Lands

School News

K-3rd Special Person Day 
Invite a special person to join your PGC student for a memorable morning at the School of St. Mary. Please complete and return the attached form with your child’s name and the name of the one special person* they will invite. This day is for a special adult in your child’s life, such as a grandparent, godparent, parent, uncle, aunt, or close family friend. Paper invites went home with your student, please return your RSVP.

Special Person Day is only for students in Kindergarten through 3rd grade who will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m. All other grades will have a regular day of school. 

Heart of a Crusader Award

The Heart of a Crusader Award recognizes students who demonstrate passionate faith, leadership, and dedication to serving others in ways that uplift and encourage. Recognized students embody the Crusader Creed values of respect, honesty, and responsibility and demonstrate a strong sense of mission and purpose. Congratulations to the April 2025 Nominees: 

Leo B. - 6th GradeNicholas B. - 8th GradeLucy C. - 8th Grade
Caroline C. - 3rd GradeCosi D. - 8th GradeZander D. - 6th Grade
Cora F. - 5th GradeCJ - 8th GradeEloise H. - 8th Grade
Andy J. - 2nd GradeRJ - 6th GradeJames M.  - 8th Grade
Jackson P. - 8th GradeTJ - 6th GradeSiena V. - 4th Grade
Steven V. - 2nd GradeVivian W. - Kindergarten 

Find out what traits they were nominated for and read their nomination on our website: Heart of a Crusader Nominees. Join us for Mass on April 29th (UGC) or April 30th (PGC) for the winner's announcement. 


Student Activities

Middle School Spring Dance - MOVED
The Student Council spring dance has been MOVED to May 16th.

May Clubs! 
The last set of PGC extracurriculars is starting. Click the links to learn more and register:

Tie Dye Time! 
End the school year by making a tie-dye shirt with Ms. Agostinelli and Ms. Recker! They will host two single-day sessions - one at each campus. Please confirm you are registering for the right day!

Crusader Summer Skills Program 
The School of St. Mary will offer two 3-week sessions of our Summer Skills program to rising Jr. K-5th graders for the 25-26 school year. Families can register for either one or both sessions. Join us this summer to focus on literacy, math, social studies/science, as well as some summer fun! Click here to learn more. 

Register for Summer Skills


Class of 2025

TALENT SHOW!
Thanks to the dedication and perseverance of Mrs. Ferguson, the 8th Grade class will have a number in the talent show. We want all 8th-grade students to stay after school on Monday for rehearsal. You can plan to pick them up at 4:30 p.m.  (MCs will likely need to stay until 5 p.m.)

Graduate Feature - ACTION REQUIRED!
We will celebrate our students' upcoming graduation by featuring all of them on our social media channels and in the weekly newsletter. Please complete the Class of 2025 Feature Survey ASAP - even if you don't want your child shared on social media as some of the questions are for internal use only (i.e. bulletin boards). 

Class of 2025 Feature Survey


Parents Association

CRUSADER CHASE
Kick-Off Pep Rally: Monday, May 5th        Race Day: Friday, May 16th 
We will soon launch our most FUN Fundraiser of the year, the Crusader Chase, with a pep rally at both campuses! We have a lofty goal of $50,000 to help finish the Crusader Fund! All students participate in this fun run regardless of financial participation. Registration will open on April 28th, 1 week prior to kickoff at mybooster.com.  In the meantime, you can sign up as a  VOLUNTEER. Volunteers are needed at both campuses to help cheer on grade levels. We also need someone to help with music in the afternoon as a UGC coordinator. Please sign up HERE.

Crusader Chase Committee, 
Ali Zeleniuch (alison.zeleniuch@gmail.com) and Linda Harmer (LindaAnnHarmer@gmail.com)

PGC Pep Rally: Monday, May 5th

Calling all LOUD Dads, we need your help!!! To kick off the Crusader Chase, there will be a Pep Rally at both campuses on Monday, May 5th. For the PGC Pep Rally we are looking for a group of dads to help “hype up” our kids! Help the kids to show their school spirit, get them cheering, and play a few simple FUN games! The Pep Rally will take place at the end of the school day. For more information and to sign up, please click here or contact alison.zeleniuch@gmail.com with questions.


Parish Events


Community Events

Future Scouts Night – Friday, May 2 at 6:45 pm
Come support the LFHS Girls Varsity Lacrosse Team as they take on Montini High School at Varsity Field!

Youth lacrosse players and fans are invited to wear their club jerseys or favorite lax gear and join in the fun. At halftime, youth players will be welcomed onto the field to be recognized. The evening also features a T-shirt toss and food from LaPlancha Loca.

Don’t miss this fun community event celebrating our future Scouts!

You can find past issues and all flyers shared on the Crusader Chronicle Drive

 

 

Crusader Chronicle Archive

The School of St. Mary Crusader Chronicle is our weekly parent newsletter and principal's note. All issues can be found on the Crusader Drive. 
Please click on the dates below to find PDF versions of the newsletters and past flyers. 
Registration