The Buzz

Greetings SBPS Parents and Friends:

As we journey through this beautiful Advent season, let us take time to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ at Christmas. Advent invites us to slow down, reflect, and share joy with others as we await the greatest gift of all, our Savior.

First, a heartfelt thank you to our Home and School Association for hosting today’s wonderful Christmas Luncheon for our parish and school faculty and staff. What a blessing it was for teachers and staff to enjoy a full hour of peace and fellowship with colleagues! This special treat was only possible because of the generosity of so many parents who volunteered to cover lunch and recess duties. We are deeply grateful.

Thank you as well to all the families who donated Target gift cards—each staff member received one! And a special thanks to everyone who supported the 2025 Fun Run. Because of your efforts, our teachers and staff will receive a generous Christmas bonus. These gifts truly make an impact, and on behalf of the entire faculty and staff, thank you for your kindness and support.

Today, first trimester report cards were emailed to parents in grades PK–8. Earlier this week, I shared the Parent Guide to Understanding our new Mastery-Based Learning report cards. Please refer to this guide if you have questions about interpreting the information. Take time to celebrate your child’s accomplishments and set goals for Trimester 2.

Advent is also a time to bring joy to others. Our Middle School Student Council is hosting a new toy drive for Lurie Children’s Hospital. Donations of new toys can be dropped off at school now through the last day before Christmas break. Thank you for helping us bring smiles to children in need!

Finally, congratulations to our Middle School students who performed The Gift of the Magi at Tuesday’s Christmas Concert and Play—you truly helped us embrace the spirit of the season! And a big bravo to our preschool students and teachers for their adorable Christmas concert. What a joyful way to celebrate!

Wishing you peace and hope as we continue to prepare for the coming of Christ.

There’s a lot more important information below. Be sure to check out the following:

• Livestream Links for the Grades K-2 and Grades 3-5 Christmas Concert

• Holiday BBall Camps and Summer Sport Camp Registration Available

• Bengal Bash Athletic Fundraiser - Save the Date and Buy Tickets today

Please find listed below important dates:

• December 12, 2025 - Be Still Friday - Church open for prayer from 2-4:30PM

• December 12, 2025 - K-8 Extended Care ends at 4:30PM today

• December 13, 2025 - First Reconciliation Service at 9:30AM

• December 14, 2025 - Christmas Caroling on the Steps of the Church 5PM

• December 15, 2025 - First Reconciliation Service at 6PM

• December 18, 2025 - Primary Christmas Concert at 5:30PM

• December 18, 2025 - Intermediate Christmas Concert at 7PM

• December 19, 2025 - Last Day to Donate a Toy to Lurie’s Children’s Hospital (sponsored by the student council)

• December 19, 2025 - Last day of school before Christmas break - 11:30AM dismissal

• December 22, 23, 29, 30 and January 5 - Holiday Sports Camps for Students grades 1-8 - Registration Information below

• December 20-January 5, 2026 - Christmas break

• January 5, 2026 - Teacher Professional Development Day

• January, 6, 2026 - School Resumes

Wishing you a blessed Advent season filled with hope and joy!

Ms. Rachel Gemo, Head of School

Ms. Gemo’s Prayer Corner

Advent Prayer - For Third Week of Advent

Lord Jesus,

Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.

We who have so much to do and seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day,

We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.

We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.

We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.

We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light.

To you we say, "Come Lord Jesus!'

Amen.