A letter from Valley Catholic Early Learning School Principal Amber Ploussard
Dear VCELS Families,
I cannot believe it is already December! We hope everyone had a delightful Thanksgiving break filled with joy and gratitude. As we returned to our weekly routine, we have harnessed the positive energy from the holiday season and channeled it into the incredible work we do each day. Last week we celebrated the feast day of St. Nicholas. We read all about St. Nicholas in our classes and he visited our students and left a treat in their shoes! On Dec. 11, our students had a visit from Santa! Our students got to tell Santa their wish list and take photos. Our littlest Valiants are also preparing for the upcoming Christmas program which takes place Dec. 18 at 4 p.m. in the high school auditorium. We look forward to spreading the Christmas spirit with the VC community.
A big thank you to all our families who are helping make the KGW Great Toy Drive a big success. We have already collected many toys for children in need. We have until Dec. 12 to donate. The generosity shown is a great example of who we are as a community of faith. Let us continue to pray for the children who will receive these toys and hope they have a wonderful Christmas season.
Valley Catholic School incorporates faith every day into the curriculum – especially during Advent. There are many ways families can celebrate Advent at home. Here are a few simple ideas:
- Create and light an Advent wreath
- Read an Advent reflection daily during family meal time
- Read Advent and Christmas stories together
- Decorate a Jesse Tree with Bible-inspired ornaments
- Read aloud from the Gospels, especially the Gospel of St. Luke
- Volunteer and/or donate to others in the community as a family
- Sing Christmas carols
- Explain and discuss the significance of the Nativity scene and other Christmas symbols
- Celebrate December feast days with special events
- Attend your parish Advent events and Christmas Mass with family and friends
Thank you for your support, kindness, and partnership throughout this season. We are truly grateful for the trust you place in us and for the joy your children bring to our school each day.
As we look ahead, we are excited for a wonderful new year together — one filled with growth, curiosity, and precious moments as our youngest Valiants continue to learn, explore, and shine.
Wishing you a peaceful Christmas season and a joyful start to the new year.
With gratitude,
Amber Ploussard
