The Buzz

Dear SBPS Parents and Guardians,

We have had a wonderful start to the new school year at St. Benedict Preparatory School. Over the past several weeks, our teachers, staff, and maintenance team have worked tirelessly to prepare our campus for the return of students, and I am deeply grateful for their dedication and care. Their efforts reflect one of our core commitments as a school: creating an environment where every child is known, valued, challenged, and supported in his or her growth as a learner and disciple of Christ.

I would also like to extend special thanks to Mr. Accardi and several of our middle school students who volunteered their time to help move materials and prepare hallways before the start of school. Their willingness to serve is a beautiful example of our community coming together in support of one another. Likewise, our administrative team, Mrs. Nota, Mrs. Moore, Mrs. Dodovich, Ms. Galindo, and Mr. Mazzone in the tuition office, have spent countless hours reviewing forms, ordering supplies, answering questions, and assisting families. Their work behind the scenes has played a vital role in ensuring a smooth beginning to the year.

We are also grateful for the many volunteers and parent leaders who have helped strengthen our community through recent events. Thank you to the Home & School Association and the Knights of Columbus for supporting our Back-to-School Mass and BBQ. The HSA's Preschool Parent Mixer and New Family Mixer provided wonderful opportunities for families to build relationships and experience the welcoming spirit that defines St. Benedict Prep. These gatherings remind us that education is most successful when school, family, and parish work together in partnership.

As I have visited classrooms throughout the week, I have been filled with joy and hope. I have seen students making new friends, teachers establishing caring and engaging learning environments, and classrooms rooted in both faith and academic excellence. It is a blessing to have our students back on campus, and I am excited for all that God has in store for our community this year. From the very first days of school, I have witnessed our mission in action as students learn fearlessly, lead responsibly and serve joyfully.

I would also like to share two staffing transitions currently underway. At the end of August, our Director of Admissions and Marketing, Ashley Foster, will be leaving St. Benedict Prep. We are grateful for the many ways she has supported prospective families and helped strengthen relationships within our community. We wish her God's blessings as she begins her next chapter. At the same time, I am pleased to welcome Kim Carmona, a current SBPS parent and former Upper School Spanish teacher, who has been working closely with Ashley during this transition. Please join me in thanking Ashley for her contributions and welcoming Kim to her new role.

Additionally, Kathy Moore, Administrative Assistant for the Middle School, will retire in mid-September. Mrs. Moore’s dedication to Catholic education and service to our community extends back many years, including her work with St. Benedict High School and her continued support throughout the school's transition and growth. While I will have more to share in the coming weeks as we celebrate her remarkable contributions, I want to begin by expressing our profound gratitude for all she has done for our students, families, and faculty. We are also excited to welcome Zelina Galindo, who has begun transitioning into Mrs. Moore’s role. Please join me in welcoming Ms. Galindo to the SBPS community.

Finally, we are currently seeking a few additional coaches for our fall athletic programs. If you know someone who may be a good fit for our mission and our student-athletes, please refer to the information below and reach out to Mr. Deakins.

Thank you for entrusting your children to St. Benedict Preparatory School. It is truly an honor, a privilege, and a joy to partner with you in their formation. Together, may we continue to build a community rooted in faith, characterized by belonging, and committed to helping every child become the person God created them to be. Let us become great saints together.

May God bless our students, families, faculty, and staff as we begin this new school year together.

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

• Extended care registration for grades K-8

• PE Uniform Clarification - please read

• Coaches needed for the Fall Season

Please find listed below important dates: 

• August 22: 9–11 AM - Baby and Kids Garage Sale Drop Off - Courtyard Door 4

• August 23: 9 AM–12 PM Baby and Kids Garage Sale Drop Off - Courtyard Door 4

• August 24, 2026 Extended Care Begins (both AM and PM) for Grades PK-8  

• August 25, 2026 - 2PM Dismissal for grades PK-8 (for professional development)

• August 29: 9–11 AM Baby and Kids Garage Sale Drop Off - Courtyard Door 4

• Sept 1: Running Club begins

• Sept 2 iReady MATH Diagnostics 8:10AM

• Sept 3 iReady Math Diagnostics 8:10AM

May God bless us all! 

Ms. Rachel Gemo, Head of School 

Ms. Rachel Gemo,
Head of School