A letter from Valley Catholic Elementary School Principal Dr. Yvonne Ayesiga

Dear VCES Families,
I hope everyone had an enjoyable Spring Break and got some much deserved rest.
As we near the end of the third academic quarter, report cards will be sent home on Friday, April 16. Our students and teachers are continuing to work hard as we go through the last weeks of the school year.
During the past year and a half, our staff has been busy working on a plan of continuous improvement for the school. This is part of the Cognia accreditation process and on April 2, the school had its final Accreditation Engagement Review (AER). The accreditation process ensures a school is meeting high standards of educational quality and continuous improvement. The process further provides assurance that the school is committed to student success, effective teaching practices, and strong leadership. Schools undergoing Cognia accreditation engage in a thorough self-evaluation and external review, using data and stakeholder input to identify strengths and areas for growth. This process not only validates the school’s achievements but also drives strategic improvements that benefit students both now and in the future.
The external evaluators had a chance to hear directly from three stakeholder groups during the AER review day: students from grades K through 5, parents, and staff members.
We look forward to a positive response and feedback from Cognia at the end of the accreditation process.
As the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon celebrate 140 years of devoted and faithful service, we reflect with deep gratitude and admiration on the legacy they have entrusted to us. Their unwavering love for God and steadfast commitment to serving others continue to inspire all of us who are touched by their ministry.
We are truly blessed to stand on the shoulders of these extraordinary women whose faith, compassion, and tireless dedication have shaped countless lives, strengthened our school community, and exemplified a living witness to love in action. Their influence is woven into the very fabric of our community and continues to guide and uplift future Valiants.
In celebration of this remarkable milestone, we give thanks for the enduring spirit and vision of the Sisters, and for the deep roots of faith, service, and care they have planted; roots that will continue to flourish for years to come.
Our elementary school joyfully honored the Sisters with a Heritage Prayer Service on March 18, held in the Motherhouse Chapel, a meaningful gathering that reflected on the Sisters’ lasting legacy.
With heartfelt gratitude, we thank the Sisters for their vision and dedication. May their legacy of faithful service continue to inspire and grow for generations to come.
We appreciate your continued support and collaboration in the education of our students.
Valiantly,
Dr. A