Dear Sacred Heart Cathedral School Families,
As we celebrate Catholic Schools Week, I find myself reflecting with a heart full of gratitude—gratitude for this extraordinary community and for the countless blessings God has poured out on Sacred Heart Cathedral School.
This week invites us to pause and celebrate what makes Catholic education so special, but for me, it is also deeply personal. Sacred Heart Cathedral School has been an important part of my life—and my family’s life—for the past 14 years. What began as a professional calling quickly became a spiritual home. SHCS has shaped me as an educator, a leader, a mother, and most importantly, as a woman of faith. My family has grown here, my faith has deepened here, and some of our most cherished memories are rooted in this community.
Throughout this week, our celebrations intentionally reflect who we are and what we believe.
On Monday, our focus is on honoring service and community as students dress as community helpers. While winter weather may impact our schedule, please know that our School Spelling Bee will take place later in the week on Friday, ensuring all students have the opportunity to participate.
On Tuesday, our hearts turn outward as we intentionally focus on supporting our sister school in Haiti. Through a $2+ out-of-uniform donation, our students are given a tangible opportunity to live out the Gospel by standing in solidarity with fellow Catholic students and families who share our faith but face very different circumstances. Alongside this important act of generosity, students will also enjoy a student-versus-teacher volleyball game and ice cream—joyful reminders that giving and celebration can go hand in hand when rooted in love and community.
Wednesday’s red, white, and blue day invites us to recognize our role as faithful citizens, supporting organizations like Samaritan House and living out our call to serve those in need.
On Thursday, College Day and our Pep Rally allow us to honor the faculty, staff, and volunteers who pour themselves into this mission daily, while also lifting up future vocations through care packages for seminarians.
Finally, Friday’s focus on vocations—through Hat Day after Mass and our Middle School Know Your Faith Game—reminds us that God calls each of us, in unique ways, to love, serve, and follow Him.
Each activity, while joyful and fun, is rooted in our mission: to form disciples, to grow in faith, and to live the Gospel in community. Catholic Schools Week is not just about celebrating what we do—it is about celebrating who we are together in Christ.
I also want to acknowledge that times of uncertainty—whether related to weather or changing plans—can be stressful for families. Please know that we approach each decision prayerfully, with the safety of our students and the well-being of our community at the forefront. I am deeply grateful for your flexibility, trust, and partnership.
To our families, faculty, staff, parish partners, and students: you are a blessing to me beyond words. Thank you for entrusting your children to this school, for walking alongside us in faith, and for making SHCS a place where hearts, minds, and souls are formed every day.
As we continue this week of celebration, I pray that we remain grateful for the past, joyful in the present, and hopeful for all that God has in store for Sacred Heart Cathedral School.
With a grateful heart and prayers for you all,
Mrs. Valerie Hanks
SHCS Principal