COVID-19 Updates

All JPII communication regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and reopening for 2020-21 will be posted here.

September 6, 2020

Dear Cardinal Family:

This is 'Meet the Teacher Week.' Since we could not have Meet the Teacher Night in person, we decided to have the teachers make videos to introduce themselves to you. Below you will find the link to the teacher videos that you can view at your leisure this week. Also, September 18 is the parent-teacher conference day. You will be sent instructions as to how to make an appointment with your student's teachers that you would like to speak to. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your student's teacher, counselor, or me.

We hope that your student has had a good start to the new school year and look forward to our partnership this year.

Meet the Teacher Website

Blessings,

Dr. Marlene Hammerle
___________________________________________________________

September 1, 2020

Dear Cardinal Parents and Students:

Regular Schedule: Thank you for your patience as we transitioned into reopening our school. We are now in the last phase of our reopening with the regular schedule being in place from 8:40am - 2:45pm for both on-campus and online students. The few hiccups that we did encounter were handled.

Arrival to School: Students are well into the routine of having their temperatures taken and answering the COVID-19 questions. Please do the pre-screening at home and if your student has a temperature of 100+ or answers yes to any of the COVID questions, keep them home.

Dismissal/Pick up of Students: Thank you for picking up your students at 2:45pm. If you cannot pick them up at that time, please tell your student to go to the presentation hall or to tutorials to wait for your text. Students are not permitted to stand outside to wait for their rides if rides are not going to be here at dismissal. It will take them time to get used to standing apart between passing periods and after school. But they are cooperating and doing a good job. As you were told in the “Desk of the Deans” memo, the consequence for not wearing masks properly and not wearing masks until they get to their vehicle will be similar to what we do when students do not have blazers for Mass. The student’s badge is taken up and an automatic Saturday School is assigned which is $30. Everyone has to do their part in keeping all students and staff safe.

Lunch: Lunch actually went very smoothly; students had to get used to being handed everything, so they actually had more time to eat. We have told them “mask off to eat and mask on to talk.” This will take some getting used to. We did run out of hamburgers and personal pizzas the first day --- typical of young people! Please have your students check the menu, the link is here (Dining Hall Menu) and rank their choices in case one item runs out. There are four stations in the servery. Just so you know, we stagger the release of the students to lunch with a few classes at a time so that 180 students are not dismissed at once. There are three lunches. We will rotate the dismissal for the lunch period every week so that the same classes are not dismissed first every day. The classes are grouped by color. There are circles on the floor six feet apart to indicate where the students wait. They sanitize their hands before getting their tray. The lines have been moving quickly. If a student has brought their lunch, they may go directly into the dining hall or have been told if they do not need a drink or to heat their food, they may go straight to one of the assigned presentation halls. Seniors may use the senior courtyard weather permitting, where the tables have plexiglass and are marked where they may sit. There is a limited number that can be in the courtyard. We have assigned staff to be on duty in each of the lunch locations.

Attendance: Please make sure that students are here on time. Tardies and absences count towards the 90% rule on attendance. If a student is 20 minutes late, this is considered an absence, and whether it is excused or unexcused will depend on the reason and documentation. This also applies to online students.

Grades: For both on-campus and online students. Encourage your students to keep up with their work. All assignments, videos, resources are in Google Classroom. I will be going into all of the classes, once the cameras and mics are set up and talk to the students about this year, the PSAT which they will be taking in October, the importance of completing their work on time, their grade point average, and other pertinent information that they need to know. You have access to your student’s teacher’s grade book in Cardinal Connect and can check your student’s average at any time. I strongly recommend that you communicate with your student’s teachers whenever you have a question or concern.

Meet the Teacher Week: Will be September 6 - 12. Since we cannot have the regular Meet the Teacher Night this year, we decided to have a “Meet the Teacher Week.” The teachers have made videos introducing themselves to you and communicating with you some pertinent information. You will be receiving instructions on how to access the videos. With students typically having 7-8 classes, we wanted you to view the videos at your leisure during the specific week listed above.

Parent-Teacher Conferences: Will be Friday, September 18. This day is a student holiday. You will receive information from your student’s teachers on signing up for a time to virtually meet with them if you would like to. These conferences will be virtual via Zoom. This is for both on-campus and online students.

Rain/Bad Weather Dismissal: Was shared with you on Monday. Please read the procedures so that you are aware of what to do.

We are off to a really good start considering the challenges all schools are facing. Yes, it will be a different year. Yes, there may be some days/weeks that will be challenging. But know that we have an incredible staff who care not only about what your student learns but also cares about their health, physical and emotional wellness, and their safety. And finally, we are very grateful to have your students whether they are on campus or online. They have been respectful and cooperative throughout the transition. Thank you for your involvement and for being part of the Cardinal Family!

Blessings and Continued Prayers,

Dr. Marlene Hammerle, Principal

Mr. David Gaffney, Dean of Students

Ms. Melissa Downs, Dean of Innovation and Academic Programs

___________________________________________________________

August 24, 2020

Dear Cardinal Parents and Students:

Thank you for your patience as we moved into each phase of our reopening. Each phase has gone smoothly with a few hiccups to sort through. The students who came on campus were certainly happy to be here and to see their teachers in person. We are now going into the last phase of our reopening beginning Wednesday, August 26. This will be our schedule moving forward unless there are some unforeseen circumstances that cause us to change.

For August 26 Going Forward:

Here is the bell schedule for August 26 and going forward.
Please refer to the directions for August 20 -25 for both on-campus and online students as most of the directions will be the same except for lunch. Important Reminders for August 20-25.
Make sure that you have deposited money into your student’s mealtime account. ***Cash will NOT be accepted the first nine weeks of school, possibly longer. In order to purchase a meal, there must be money in the student’s account. Students must use their ID when they purchase a meal so that their account can be charged.

The dining hall will be open for breakfast each morning from 7:30 - 8:25. It is first-come, first-served because of limited seating in the dining hall.

There will be three lunch periods scheduled during the 3rd and 7th periods. In order to maintain social distance, we will be using the dining hall and several of the presentation halls for the students to eat their lunch. Plexiglass is being used for each of the tables in the dining hall. Only two per table will be permitted. Masks are required during the lunch periods except when eating. Presentation halls will seat 30 students socially distant. Students will not be permitted to move their chairs to another table or if in the presentation hall to get closer to other students. Students are asked to be quiet while they eat but are required to put their masks back on to talk to other students, who are still socially distant.
The school menu for the next month will be in the newsletter and on the school website. Dining Hall Menu The meals will be prepackaged, still freshly made, and all four stations in the servery will be used. Students will just need to get used to being handed everything, including a tray. The tray will be required. The cost of lunch had to go up 50 cents and will now be $6.25 because of the extra cost of packaging materials and disposables. Lunch still includes bottled water and canned soda. Remember again that you must deposit money into your student’s Mealtime account if your student purchases breakfast or lunch. Cash WILL NOT be accepted in the first nine weeks, maybe longer.
Students who have brought their lunch may purchase their drink in the dining hall, heat their food if they need to, and then go to the presentation halls. There will be duty people in the presentation halls and in the dining hall.
Dismissal from this time forward will be at 2:45. (and this includes the online students). We strongly encourage you to pick up your students at this time. Information from the “Desk of the Deans” regarding dismissal was sent to you including updates on operational procedures. 082320 JPII Daily Procedures Update. If rides are not here, students must report to the assigned presentation halls, practices, or to tutorials until the student's ride is here and you have notified your student. Junior presentation hall for 9th and 10th graders and senior presentation hall for 11th and 12th graders will be used for the ‘after school gathering.’ Students are not permitted to wait outside or stand in groups outside. They will need to report immediately. There will be no lag time for the students to report as was done last year. School will close every day at 5:00 unless students are in an athletic or fine arts practice.
Students who drive must come into school immediately when they arrive and leave right after school. Students will not be allowed to remain in their cars or congregate by their cars in the parking lots or anywhere on campus.
For Online Students: Your commitment is to continue online instruction through the end of the first quarter, October 8. There will be no changes approved to move from online to on campus.
The new cameras and mics should be installed by mid-September in which the online students will be learning synchronously along with the on-campus students.
Just a reminder that parents and volunteers are not allowed in the building unless you have an appointment with an administrator, the business office, or admissions. The receptionist will confirm first and then conduct the required screening.
HERE is our most updated school calendar for 2020-2021.

Please read the school’s weekly newsletter which will include the latest information along with other information that you may want to look up on our website. Thank you again for your patience as we transitioned back into school. There has been a lot of thought put into our reopening.

There still may be some ‘tweaks’ made. As we have told the staff and students, “We will pivot and not panic.” Our priority is to keep our students and staff safe at the same time providing an excellent college preparatory foundation. We appreciate your cooperation and encouragement of your students who are on campus to follow all of the safety protocols we have put into place. Everyone must do their part in making sure we are all kept safe.

Blessings and Continued Prayers,

Dr. Marlene Hammerle, Principal

Mr. David Gaffney, Dean of Students

Ms. Melissa Downs, Dean of Innovation and Academic Programs

___________________________________________________________

August 17, 2020

To Cardinal Parents and Students:

So far, the first phase August 10 - 19 with all students online, has gone very smoothly. Hopefully, students understand the expectations communicated by their teachers for both on-campus and online groups. Beginning Thursday, August 20 students will be either on-campus or online. Our number one priority is to make sure that students and staff on campus are safe and to assure that our online students receive excellent instruction. This is the list of very important reminders for the 2nd phase of our reopening, August 20-25. Thank you in advance to you and your students for reading over this information. Please encourage your students to follow all of the required safety protocols we have put into place when on campus.

Here is the bell schedule for August 20-25 with 12:30 dismissal and no lunches. Both groups (on-campus and online) will follow this schedule.

On-Campus Students:

The school opens at 7:30 am. Students may enter through the junior house or the main entrance at the front. Athletes are required to be screened by their coaches before entering their practice and after practice will enter through the freshman house.

Get into the habit of using the sanitizer station located at every entrance. This is good for 24 hours, even though you are washing your hands during the day.

Please be sure to have a copy of your schedule with you.

Have your temperature taken before you get to school. If 100 +, then please stay home. Be familiar with the COVID questions that will be asked of you every day. Your temperature will also be taken at school and you must verbally answer the COVID questions before being allowed to report to the assigned presentation hall or to go to your class. If your temperature is 100+, your parents will be called to pick you up. Please follow the social distance policy as you wait to have your temperatures taken.

Students - You must be in compliance with the dress code. If on campus, you must be in your school uniform. Girls, make sure that your skirts are at an appropriate length. Boys - No facial hair and hair length must be in compliance with JPII dress and grooming code. Remember: Hair color that is not a natural color is not permitted.

If you arrive before the first bell, please report to your grade level assigned presentation hall until the bell rings at 8:35 to go to your 1st/5th period class. The first class will begin at 8:40. Once again, you are not permitted to congregate in groups around the building. You must practice social distancing once you enter the building and throughout the school day.

Staff members will be in different areas of the school to help you to get to your classrooms.

Make sure you are on time for each of your classes. You must comply with the 90% attendance regulation. This began the first day of school, August 10th.

All of your teachers’ assignments, notes, videos, and resources will be located in Google Classroom. You should already know how to access this and if not, please ask our teachers.

During passing times, you are to follow the social distancing policy (at least 6 feet apart) and have enough room between you and the other students in the halls. ‘Walk and Talk.’ Make sure to walk on the right side of the hall going to your classes. Students are to get to their next class as quickly as possible.

Breakfast will be served during this transition. On August 20, you will need to let the cashier know your name/grade and your account will be charged. Students will receive their badges during 2nd period on August 20 and will use their badges for meals that they purchase. If students wish to purchase breakfast, this will be available from 7:30 - 8:25. This is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Food will not be allowed out of the dining hall. There is a limited number of students who will be able to sit in the dining hall. Remember that cash will not be accepted for the first nine weeks of school, possibly longer. Students must have money in their Mealtime account in order to purchase meals.

Students - When you eat, we ask that you eat quietly, per the diocesan guidelines. When you finish and if you wish to talk to your friend at your table, make sure to put your mask back on. Do not move your chair to sit closer to the next table. This is not permitted. We must adhere to the social distance policy.

During this second phase, August 20-25, parents are expected to pick up their students at 12:30 but no later than 2:00. Students whose rides are not here at 12:30 will need to report to either the junior presentation hall (9th and 10th) or senior presentation hall (11th and 12th) until your ride arrives. Students are not permitted to wait outside for their rides.

Masks are required to be worn during the entire time you are in the building, except when you are eating your lunch.

All water fountains are closed. You should bring your own water bottle but can also purchase bottled water in the dining hall or machines. You are not allowed to share your water bottles.

Remember that visitors and volunteers are not allowed in the building unless you have an appointment with an administrator or the admissions office. The receptionist will confirm this. Once confirmed, she will take your temperature and ask you to answer the COVID questions.

Once again, for the safety of students and per CDC guidelines, students cannot congregate in groups before school, during passing periods, at lunch, or after school both in the building or anywhere on campus, including parking lots and cars. Once again, students must comply with all of the safety protocols.

Online Students;

Important Reminder: Your commitment to being online is until the end of the quarter which is October 8. If you decide to remain online or change to on-campus, this renewal must be done by October 8. The commitment form should be submitted by Monday, August 17.

Students - You must comply with the online dress code: your uniform shirt or JPIIHS spirit shirt and appropriate bottoms. No facial hair for boys; and boys hair length should be in compliance with the JPII dress and grooming code. For all students, your hair color should be a natural color. Different hair colors are not permitted.

You are expected to be on time for each of your classes. Attendance will be taken every period, every day. Your teachers should have told you if you are expected to sign in via zoom, google meet, or google classroom during this phase.

Your teachers should have communicated how they want you to sign in to their classes, their expectations, and tutorial times.

All of your assignments, notes, videos, and resources will be in Google Classroom just like the on-campus students. Make sure to get into the habit of turning in your assignments to your teachers on time. Some of your teachers have already begun to assign work.

If you are online and participating in JPII activities such as sports, fine arts, cheer or drill, or other activities, make sure to report on time to the activity/practice/class and appropriately dressed. If you are not in sports, some of your directors may require that you report in your school uniform. Please follow the directions of your coaches and directors. You are not permitted to enter or wander around the building. Coaches/Directors are responsible for taking your temperature and have you answer the COVID questions before allowing you to participate in the practice or enter their practice area. Masks will be required if a practice is inside the building.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we work through each phase of reopening school. We will send you specific reminders again when we begin the third and last phase of our reopening, which will begin on Wednesday, August 26. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

JPIIHS Academic Administration

Dr. Marlene Hammerle, Principal

Mr. David Gaffney, Dean of Students

Ms. Melissa Downs, Dean of Innovation and Academic Programs

___________________________________________________________

August 6, 2020

Dear Cardinal Parents and Students:

The 2020-21 school year is about to begin and we are so excited to get the year started. The information in this letter will let you know the procedures for each schedule. We appreciate the time you have spent reviewing the FAQ list that was sent to you. Please read the following carefully.

Important to note: E-Learning will be very different than it was last spring. Last spring, there was more flexibility with the schedule and the students. This year there is more structure and accountability with online students. They will need to sign in to each of their classes on time, not just once a day as last spring. Attendance compliance will be in effect for both groups. When synchronous learning is implemented, online students will need to login to each of their classes on time just as they would if they were on campus. They will be in their classes with the on campus students and learn in real time. The expectations for both groups from the start of school will be the same, including attendance, assignments, tests, readings etc. Knowing these changes, if you wish to change your mind to on campus, we will need this decision by Wednesday, August 12. A reminder again that choosing online is a commitment to the end of the quarter, for first quarter is October 8th. The commit form is attached. Please send the commitment form to Ms. Julie Hopkins no later than Monday, August 17th.

As you are well aware, we are going through challenging times. We are ready to face the challenges. When updates occur, we will communicate these to you.

For August 10 - 19:

Here is the bell schedule for August 10-19. All students will be online until the 19th.
Make sure that your students are up, dressed according to the online dress code (uniform shirt or JPIIHS spirit shirt, appropriate bottoms) and ready to begin school on August 10. Students will follow the schedule that they received in Cardinal Connect.
Teachers will meet each of their classes the first two days (required) either through zoom or google meet. These will include both the teacher’s on campus and online students each period. The teachers will then spend as many class times as needed with their students as the teacher thinks are needed before August 20th. The frequency will be the teacher’s decision and will be communicated to their students.
Attendance will be taken each period and submitted through Cardinal Connect. Attendance begins the first day of school and that is August 10. The 90% attendance rule goes into effect the first day of school. After the first two days, if the teacher does not meet their classes every day, the students still need to check into each class through Google Classroom with a question the teacher wants answered. The response will be time stamped. This is for attendance purposes.

During the first two days of school, teachers will go over their expectations, syllabus, grading, grading weights, tests, and how to access Google Classroom (GC). This information will also be placed on GC for students (new and returning) just in case they are not present on the first day the class met. Teachers will review how to access/join google classroom and what the students will find on this platform - assignments, instructional notes, videos, and resources. Teachers will make sure that students understand how to use Google Classroom as every teacher will be using this platform.
As far as expectations for online students, be sure that you and your student read over the E-Learning Expectations / Attendance and E-Learning Accountability with your students. Yes, not all students will be online, but there may be some ‘on campus’ students who may decide 2nd quarter to go online and vice-versa.
Will teachers begin teaching their subject during this time? Yes. And they will begin assigning work/exercises through Google Classroom.
Teachers will explain to their students what will happen when we begin synchronous learning, that is logging into their teacher’s class and actually being present in the classroom with the on-campus students in real time.

August 20 - 25:

Here is the bell schedule with no lunches and early release (12:30) for August 20-25 (we will use the same schedule for both online and on-campus learners).

For on-campus students:

Doors will open at 7:30 am.
Students must enter through the front entrance or the junior house entrance. There will be a sanitizer station at each entrance.
Have your students get into the habit of using the sanitizer located at each entrance. It is good for 24 hours and is still good after students wash their hands.
Masks are required for all students and staff during the school day except when eating. Masks must be appropriate. If you have questions about this, please contact our Dean of Students, Mr. David Gaffney.
Students must be in their school uniform, except their blazer. Blazer season does not begin until November 1st. Boys must be well groomed (no facial hair) and hair length must be appropriate and meet JPII guidelines. Length of girls skirts must be school appropriate.

Please check your student’s temperature before they come to school. If they have a fever of 100+, please keep your student home and call the attendance office and nurse to let the school know. Remember that students with a fever may not return to school for 72 hours; they must be fever free for this time without taking fever-reducing medication. When students arrive at school (either front entrance or junior house entrance), their temperatures will be taken. If over 100, the student’s parents will be called to pick up the student. Students must stand 6 feet apart when waiting for temperature to be taken. The students will then be asked to answer each of the COVID-19 questions. If ‘yes’ is answered to any one of the questions, students will be escorted to the clinic to be checked by the nurse.
When students arrive before the first bell at 8:35 they must report to their grade level presentation hall.
Students are not permitted to congregate in groups before school, in between classes, lunches, after school and anywhere on campus.
1st/5th period will begin at 8:40, with the first bell ringing at 8:35 to get to class.
Students will attend their scheduled classes for A day and B day.
Since this is an early release day with no lunches, please be here by 12:30 to pick up your students. Students whose parents are not here will report to their assigned presentation hall, 9th and 10th to 9th grade presentation hall and 11th and 12th to junior presentation hall. Students will be socially distanced in the presentation halls. On early release days at 12:30, students must be picked up by 2:00.

For online students:

Until the cameras and mics are installed in all of the classrooms (scheduled for completion by mid-September) online students will check into each of their classes via Google Classroom and answer their teacher’s questions which will be time stamped. They must be signed into each class when the class begins. If they check-in after this time, the student will be counted tardy, and if they check-in after 20 minutes, the student is counted absent.
Online students need to follow the dress code for being online.
Online students will check Google Classroom every day for each class during this period of time for their notes, assignments, and if there are any instructional videos that the teacher wants the students to watch.
Assignments are due at the same time for both on-campus and online students.
When we go to synchronous learning, the teacher will take regular attendance for both on-campus and online students.

For August 26 Going Forward:

Here is the bell schedule for August 26 and going forward.
Please refer to the directions for August 20 -25. The directions are the same except that lunches are scheduled.
Make sure that you have deposited money into your student’s mealtime account. ***Cash will NOT be accepted the first nine weeks of school.
There will be three lunch periods. In order to maintain social distance, we will be using the dining hall and the presentation halls for the students to eat their lunch. Plexiglass is being used for each of the tables used in the dining hall. Only two per table will be permitted. Masks are required except when eating.
The menus for lunches will be communicated every week via the school website.
Students who have brought their lunch may purchase their drink/dessert in the dining hall, heat their food and then go to the presentation halls.
Dismissal from this time forward will be at 2:45. We strongly encourage you to pick up your students at this time. If rides are not here, students must report to the assigned presentation halls until the student's ride is here and you have notified your student. Students are not permitted to wait outside or stand in groups outside. School will close every day at 5:00 unless students are in a practice. We will remind you of the procedures as each new schedule begins.

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to ask. This information will also be placed on the school website. Thank you for the support that you provide JPII in so many ways. Welcome again to our Class of 2024 and to our transfer students. Just know, you have joined a wonderful family and we are here to support you as you make this journey through high school. As we continue to do, we will keep the Cardinal family in our prayers and will say a special prayer to God to help guide us through the new school year.

A Prayer for Guidance When Life is Challenging
Lord, we are here today with open hands and an open heart, ready to depend on you to help us through the new school year, and all it will bring our way. Help us come to you for guidance, strength, provision, and protection. As we face tough choices and hard situations, help us remember that we are your children and Your representative to the world around us. Help us live each day in a way that brings honor to Your holy name. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings and Continued Prayers,

Academic Administration

Dr. Marlene Hammerle, Principal --- marlenehammerle@johnpauliihs.org

Mr. David Gaffney, Dean of Students --- DavidGaffney@johnpauliihs.org

Ms. Melissa Downs, Dean of Innovation and Academic Programs ---melissadowns@johnpauliihs.org

___________________________________________________________

July 29, 2020

Dear Cardinal Family:

Thank you for taking the time to read the reopening plan for John Paul II High School and for submitting your choice for your student’s learning environment. Thank you for your patience as we put together the plan and now provide you with information that you will need to know as we begin the new school year on August 10. We know that as parents you want what is best for your students and that is our goal, to provide your students with the best Catholic education possible under both platforms, on campus and online. From your comments on the survey and the emails you sent to us with your questions, we have put together an FAQ list (click HERE to view) that covers topics not addressed in the reopening plan. As you are well aware, we are living in uncertain times and will continue to update you with any changes that may have to be made.

Online instruction will be different this year with synchronous learning being made available which means that students will be required to login to each of their scheduled classes in real time. Please refer to the accountability expectations for students who select online. If after reading the FAQ list, you decide to change the choice you previously indicated in the online / on-campus survey, that decision will need to be made by August 7.

We want to welcome our Freshman class, Class of 2024, and the students who have transferred to JPII. We want each of you to have a great JPII high school experience. We also want to recognize our senior class, Class of 2021. Whether you have decided to be on campus or online, you are now the leaders of JPII, and we have high expectations of your class.

Let us continue to pray for our families who are suffering whether financially, family illness, or tragic loss that they will find peace in their lives. Let us pray for our students that although this will be a different year, they will continue to receive an excellent JPII education and experience. Let us pray for our faculty and staff who have worked very hard both in the spring when everyone was online and this summer, as we prepared for the upcoming school year, teaching students on campus and online. We are fortunate to have excellent teachers who will continue to place their students’ well-being and success as a priority. And lastly, we are grateful for your partnership in this journey.

Blessings and Continued Prayers,

JPII Academic Administration

___________________________________________________________

July 17, 2020

Dear Cardinal Family,

We intend to publish our Back-to-School plans the week of July 20. All plans must be approved by the Diocese of Dallas. We have been working hard to prepare for our planned opening on August 10. Students will have the option to take classes on-campus or on-line.

Today, the Texas Attorney General, Ken Paxton, released a letter of guidance exempting religious private schools from the local mandates that require all private schools be closed for in-person school from the beginning of the year. Also today, the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) released their plans for TAPPS sponsored co-curricular activities in the fall.

We are so excited to begin the next academic year. We look forward to seeing you soon and to welcoming the Class of 2024. Thanks for your patience and your support.

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Jake Schroepfer

President

_______________________________________________________

May 22, 2020

Dear Parents,

I am happy to announce that our first day of school will be Monday, Aug. 10. YES!! While we will open the school year on campus, it will not be a “typical” first day of school due to the COVID – 19 pandemic. We are in the process of developing specific protocols for the next school year at JPII, and we will follow CDC/Diocese of Dallas guidelines that center on four foundations: monitoring and responding to student and faculty health, limiting and eliminating unnecessary or risky activities, revising cleaning and disinfection protocols, and finally, having additional blended learning and virtual learning options available for planned or unplanned shutdowns.

For additional perspective and details, please click HERE to read the letter from Dr. Matt Vereecke, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Dallas.

SAVE THE DATES

Athletic Strength and Conditioning Camp: Tentative Dates June 8 - July 30. Click HERE for more information, and please complete thesurvey.

2020–2021 Tuition Due: June 1, 2020

Summer School: May 26 - July 24. Registered students will receive more information.

Baccalaureate Mass and Graduation: Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12. More information to follow.

Student Schedules for 2020-2021: These can be accessed on Wednesday, Aug. 5, subject to health forms and payments being current. More information to follow.

New Student Orientation: Thursday, Aug. 6 from 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Parents are welcome from 8 - 10:30 a.m. with a new parent meeting/breakfast at 9:30 a.m. More information to follow.

Class Commissioning Mass for Class of 2021: Wednesday, Aug. 19 at 10 a.m. More information to follow.

Congratulations and Welcome!

Congratulations to the Class of 2020! We wish them all the best as they begin to make a difference on their respective college campuses, and in the world, by walking in the footsteps of John Paul II. We are so proud of this fantastic class. Hats off to all the underclassmen who are completing their academic year today. Given all the accomplishments recognized this week at the virtual Awards Ceremony, the future looks exceedingly bright for our future JPII graduates.

Please allow me to close with a special welcome to the parents of the Class of 2024 and all new families joining the Cardinal Family. I look forward to seeing you in August!

Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend and best wishes for a healthy and happy summer.

Blessings,

Deacon Jake Schroepfer

President, John Paul II High School

___________________________________________________

May 8, 2020

Dear Cardinal Parents and Students,

The end of the school year is quickly approaching. We do hope that you are all staying healthy and safe. The following are some academic reminders about student grades. Please make sure to review the reminders carefully, and if you have questions, do not hesitate to contact me, one of the deans, your student's counselor, or your student's teacher.

Seniors: If seniors are passing their classes for the 4th quarter, semester, and the year (if applicable) in each of their classes, their last day will be Friday, May 15. If seniors are failing a class, they will need to attend e-learning classes during the week of May 18 - 22, to bring up their grades to passing and to meet the requirements for graduation. If seniors have not passed a required course(s) for graduation, their counselor will contact the senior and their parents.

Underclassmen: If underclassmen are passing their classes for the 4th quarter, semester, and the year (if applicable) in each of their classes, their last day will be Friday, May 22. If underclassmen are failing a class, they will need to attend e-learning classes during the week of May 26 - 29 to bring up their grades to passing and receive credit for the course. Counselors will also contact students and parents who have failed classes and give them options for the summer.

Final 4th quarter progress reports: Progress reports for the students were available to check this past Monday, May 4, in Cardinal Connect for parents and students. If students want to complete their courses by the early dates indicated above, they will need to be passing each of their classes. Hopefully, this will encourage students to turn in the missing work turned in for their classes and pass upcoming tests scheduled.

AP Testing: Begins on Monday, May 11, and will continue through Friday, May 22. AP teachers have prepared their students for the first time online AP exam that the College Board will administer. Please make sure that the students get enough rest prior to their scheduled exam. Good luck to all of the students taking the AP tests! 2020 AP EXAM INFORMATION AND LINKS

Virtual Awards Ceremonies: At 3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, we will have the Senior Awards Ceremony to recognize the many accomplishments of our seniors. At 3 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, we will have the Academic Awards Ceremony to honor our underclassmen. More specific information to follow. We hope that you will be able to tune in and watch these virtual ceremonies.

2019-2020 JPII End of Year Closeout: For the end of school closeout, students who have items to pick up or return will be contacted by the Dean of Students' office with specific procedural instructions as well as a Sign-Up Genius to select your date, time, and a specific entrance to pick up or return items to the school. Students are not allowed to enter the building, and all entries will be used to execute this task. Please make sure that students come to school at their designated times. If you have any questions, please contact David Gaffney.

As we receive more information from the state and the diocese, we will make sure to communicate these updates to you. The staff and students have done an excellent job using the e-learning platform. We appreciate all of your support and positive feedback. Please continue to follow the guidelines outlined by the state and local officials and stay safe.

Continued prayers,

Dr. Marlene Hammerle

Principal

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May 1, 2020

Greetings Class of 2020,

It’s hard to believe that your high school days are rapidly coming to an end. Where did the time go? It must seem like just yesterday that you entered JPII as a freshman (or a transfer student) wearing a clean and tidy uniform with no clue how to find your first class. You have met friends for life and amazing teachers, while being well formed academically, spiritually, physically, emotionally, and socially. You have developed skills that will lead to success in college and your chosen career.

While this isn’t how your days at JPII were supposed to end, it remains an exciting time as you live in the space between sentimental thoughts of the past and hope-filled thoughts for the future. We will not let COVID-19 dampen the JPII spirit or define your senior year!

I’m excited to update you on upcoming special events. While restrictions concerning commerce and leisure begin to ease, there remains uncertainty and the possibility of the limits being tightened again should the pandemic have a resurgence. As of today, we cannot offer complete certainty to the size of public gatherings that will be allowed in the near future, or the requirements of social distancing, etc. However, we feel that we must set dates and have contingency plans as appropriate.

First and foremost, our Commencement ceremony will be held at the Allen Event Center (AEC) on Sunday, July 12, at 3 p.m. and our Baccalaureate Mass will be held on campus on Saturday, July 11, at 7 p.m. Both events are subject to state/local restrictions, and the number of attendees could be limited. Yet with a seating capacity of approximately 6200 for graduations, the AEC provides a high probability that we will celebrate a “live” graduation ceremony while keeping a safe distance. Should we be prohibited from hosting either event live, we will host “virtual” events as scheduled on July 11 and 12 with live streaming.

Other Upcoming Events:

Saturday, May 16 “Drive Through Celebration” Noon – 2 p.m.

A “car parade” will allow all seniors the opportunity to drive through admiring faculty and staff in the carpool line to pick-up caps, gowns, cords, stoles, and JPII swag. Show-up and show your JPII spirit by decorating your vehicle. Please RSVP HERE so that we know what time to expect you. We can’t wait to see you! If you are unable to attend, please indicate that on the form and leave your mailing address in the space provided so that we can mail your items to you. SAVE THE DATE!

Wednesday, May 20 “Senior Awards Ceremony” 3 p.m.

Due to current public gathering restrictions, we will live stream the annual Senior Awards ceremony to honor your incredible accomplishments. More information to follow. SAVE THE DATE!

Please know that more information on these events is forthcoming, and should conditions radically change, we will respond accordingly. I am cautiously optimistic that we will conclude your senior year with a memorable Commencement ceremony on July 12 at the Allen Event Center.

I will continue to pray for you as you conclude your academic work and prepare for AP exams. I will also continue to pray for all those in our community suffering physically, emotionally, and financially. We are called to be united in prayer and support each other during these challenging times.

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Jake Schroepfer

President, John Paul II High School

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April 21, 2020

Summer camp for grades 5-8 (not to be confused with summer school courses for current students) at JPII scheduled to start this June has been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All registration fees will be refunded in full to the original payment method.

For questions, please contact JPII Director of Communications Lauren Loyless at laurenloyless@jpiihs.org.

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April 17, 2020

Dear Cardinal Family,

I hope this finds you safe and in good health as we continue to deal with the harsh realities of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today marks the end of Week 5 of our shelter-in-place existence and e-learning, a time that has been very challenging and has tested our patience and our resolve. Our thoughts and prayers continue for all those who are suffering physically, financially, and emotionally.

As the academic year nears its conclusion, we will continue to adapt and adjust to the realities of fulltime e-learning.

Campus Closed Through the End of the Academic Year

Today Governor Greg Abbott issued an Executive Order mandating that all school campuses in the State of Texas must remain closed through the end of the academic year. As such, our academic year will continue, and conclude, with e-learning.

Additional information and potential mandates will be forthcoming from the Governor’s office regarding the end of the school year, summer school/programs, and other issues. Once we have more information, we will plan and communicate accordingly.

In keeping with this order and the health interests of all involved, TAPPS has also moved to the conclusion of our Spring activities. The TAPPS leadership will continue their development of guidelines and parameters for our return to activities over the summer months and into the fall of 2020. To see the full announcment, please click here.

Year-End Dismissal

Subject to passing all 3rd and 4th quarter classes:

Seniors will conclude classes on Friday, May 15
Underclassmen will be dismissed on Friday, May 22

Those students not meeting these criteria will be required to attend classes for an additional week. Click here for detailed information from Dr. Hammerle that covers multiple scenarios for students who have failing grades.

No Final Exams

There will be no final exams; however, most classes have required successful completion of comprehensive tests and projects, which are the equivalent of a final exam. An essential consideration for eliminating final exams this year was the schedule change for AP exams. AP exams for 10th, 11th, and 12th graders will take place between May 11-22.

No Pass/Fail

As many of you know, several Independent School Districts in our area are temporarily shifting to Pass/Fail grades. It will be our policy not to adopt Pass/Fail grading. To do so would compromise your investment in a college preparatory education for your child while diminishing the hard work put forth by your child. In addition, our Director of College Placement, Mr. Mickey Saloma, has advised that Pass/Fail could harm college admission and scholarship awards.

Graduation

In conjunction with the Executive Order from Governor Abbott to keep campuses closed, the Governor’s Office will also be providing additional information on graduation ceremonies.

While we have not yet postponed our Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 24, at the Allen Event Center, it is highly unlikely that our graduation will be held as scheduled due to state/county mandates. Once we have more information from the state, we can make a better-informed decision on our graduation plans. In preparation for a postponed graduation date we have two additional dates on hold at the Allen Event Center:

Sunday, June 7
Sunday, July 12

Summary

While there are still unknowns related to graduation and other miscellaneous year-end issues, I wanted to share definitive information on the continuation of e-learning through the end of the academic year, the dates for student dismissal, the decision to suspend finals this year and the decision to continue letter grading rather than shifting to adopt Pass/Fail grading.

Thank You

Thank you for all your input, patience, and support during these unprecedented times. I continue to marvel at the resiliency and positive attitude of our community. I’m so grateful to be a member of the Cardinal Family!

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Jake Schroepfer

President, John Paul II High School

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April 2, 2020

Dear Cardinal Parents and Students,

Thank you for your support of our teachers and staff during these unprecedented times. I want to update you on where we go from here regarding online instruction, considering the Bishop has issued the order for all schools in the diocese to be closed through May 1.

During the time we have implemented our e-learning platform, we have heard from you - our parents, students, and teachers. We appreciate all of your positive comments and have taken into account your concerns. Beginning on Monday, April 6, we will be implementing a shortened class schedule for the students and teachers. In order to reduce the amount of screen time, we will be implementing a new schedule with 50 minute classes (click HERE for the new schedule) including tutorial times along with time for students to work on their assignments built into the new schedule. The new schedule also includes tutorial times both before and after classes. The teachers will communicate to the students when they will offer tutorials. Just like when we were on campus, students will determine which teachers they need to connect with each week for tutorials.

Parents and Students: Please follow these guidelines:

Have your students work online following the schedule provided. Attendance is still due via the forms your 2nd/6th period teachers provide and should be submitted by 10 a.m. each day. Any Zoom, Google hangouts/meet sessions will be scheduled by the teacher during the class period indicated. This may or may not be every day. Hopefully, the students will use the new schedule to their advantage, since it provides a block of time for them to work on their assignments. If students have not finished their assignment during this time, then have them spend a reasonable amount of time in the evening on their assignments, but there should be a stop time of 9 p.m. As is diocesan policy, communication between students/parents and teachers stop at this time and questions will be answered the next day. We want our students and families to have time together in the evening. We do understand that many of our students also have other duties and chores they must help out with at home that may interfere with their day. If that is the case, communicate this to the teachers. Please understand that our staff also face the same challenges while trying to teach from home and take care of their own families who are also home.

Submit all assignments and projects on time. If you have questions, make sure to ask the teachers. We are requesting our teachers reduce the number of assignments. Our teachers are very understanding about the situation. If you have not communicated with them, and you are several days late with the work, then there will be consequences, just as there normally would. If the work is not turned in at all, then teachers may assign a “0.” Follow our mission, “to become effective communicators.”

Check thegradebook in Cardinal Connect to find out grades and averages for each class. If students have zeros or low grades, make sure to contact the teacher. If you have questions about a zero, please check with the teacher to see if the assignment was submitted correctly. The first progress report for 4th quarter ends on April 8 and the progress report will be available to you on April 14.

We have also reduced the number of minimum grades and major tests required for this quarter. Note these changes for 4th quarter - for Honors/Dual Credit/AP classes, 2 major gradeswill count 70% and 5 minor grades will count 30%; 7 grades total minimum. For On-level classes, 2 major grades will count 50% and 6 minor grades will count 50%; 8 grades total minimum. We know that some teachers will have more, but this is what will be required for this unique 4th quarter. Because of the situation we are in, we will not have final exams. Second semester average will be the average of 3rd and 4th quarter grades.

The College Board has communicated to the AP teachers that AP tests for this year will be online. The tests will be 45 minutes. Dates and times for the AP tests will be communicated to us on April 3. Our AP teachers feel confident that the students will be prepared.

If you have questions about your student’s choice of subjects for next year or if your student has completed this but you need to have something changed, please contact your assigned counselor. Our counselors are also a great resource if you are struggling emotionally, academically, etc. Please do not wait to reach out if there is a concern.

Please read the JPII Newsletter that is being sent out every Friday. Our Communications Director, Lauren Loyless, is working on making sure that it has the most up-to-date information for you.

We have said this numerous times and it is true. Working together, we will get through the challenging times we are facing. Please continue to take care of yourselves. One of the governors said this, “we must choose ‘sacrifice’ over ‘selfishness”; and that is what we are doing now. The Cardinal Family will remain strong!

Continued Prayers,

Dr. Marlene Hammerle, Principal

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March 31, 2020

Dear Cardinal Family,

Bishop Edward Burns, Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas, has extended our school closing through May 1, 2020, meaning that the first possible day of on-campus activities resuming will be Monday, May 4. This mandate from the Bishop will require us to continue to prohibit any on-campus activities and meetings. Concurrently the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) has suspended all athletic and fine arts practices and competition until May 4.

While this is not the news we had hoped for, it should come as no surprise as cases of COVID-19 continue to grow in the Metroplex and across the country. However, on a positive note, we should begin to see a downward trend in cases very soon. Please continue to do your part to “flatten the curve” through self-isolation, social distancing, and by following hygiene recommendations.

I also wanted you to know that you will be receiving an important letter from Dr. Hammerle in the next few days with news on adjustments to our e-learning schedules as we continue to respond to student, parent, and faculty input.

My continued thanks for your input and support as we walk together through these unprecedented challenges.

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Jake Schroepfer
President

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March 27, 2020

Dear Cardinal Family,

I am writing to inform you that we are going to extend our campus closure to Tuesday, April 14. Given the rapid growth of positive tests in our state and community, I anticipate that our campus closing date will extend beyond April 14. As we know all too well, every day is a new day in the fight against this pandemic, things change quickly, and uncertainty continues to prevail. We should also be mindful that every day is a new gift from God and that in God, hope prevails.

As we continue classes via e-learning, we follow the school calendar, which means that there will be no classes on Good Friday, April 10, or Easter Monday, April 13. The holiday will be a welcome and well-deserved break from the virtual classroom amid Holy Week, where we celebrate the Paschal Mystery of Christ’s suffering, death, and resurrection. The Easter resurrection is a special time of transformation, new life, and hope. This Easter, in particular, brings great hope for a transformed world and a new life without COVID-19.

While we cannot control the timing for resumption of classes on campus, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the successful completion of this Spring Semester and the graduation of the Class of 2020. We are continuing to prepare for the Baccalaureate Mass on May 22 at St. Jude Catholic Church in Allen and our Commencement ceremony at the Allen Event Center on Sunday, May 24. We also have a contingency date of Sunday, June 7, on hold for Commencement at the Allen Event Center.

As I think about graduation, my heart goes out to the Class of 2020 and their families. This is not how the last semester of senior year was supposed to end! This year, this semester has been 12+ years in the making only to have an unprecedented pandemic disrupt their senior year along with joy and lasting memories that senior year brings. Just as winter gloom gives way to the warmth of the sun, so too will this pandemic quickly pass for our community and the Class of 2020.

In closing, I continue to be humbled, but not surprised, by the resiliency of our students and the incredible “all-hands-on-deck” commitment of our faculty and staff. I also continue to be grateful for the support and collaborative spirit exhibited by you, the parents.

While your children continue to learn in the virtual classroom, this period of trial and challenge is teaching them far greater lessons of life.

Let us continue to pray for healing and new life as we approach the Easter Season. Let us ask God to continue to bless and protect our community, especially the Class of 2020.

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Jake Schroepfer
President

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March 20, 2020

Dear Parents and Students,

As you know, Deacon Jake sent out a letter to the community that per Governor Abbott’s executive order, all schools in the state will be closed through April 3. For John Paul II High School, this means e-learning will continue through at least this date. I have asked teachers to plan online lessons through Friday, April 10 just in case school closure is extended even longer.

Parents: So far the online platform has gone smoothly. Once again, I strongly encourage students to structure their days and follow their regular schedule; they need to submit their assignments/projects by the due dates; and they need to communicate with their teachers if they have specific questions. I have encouraged teachers to find ways to have personal contact with their students to keep them engaged. Some are using ZOOM, GoogleMeet, and GoogleHangouts. Others use email since that is working well for them. Please be sure to check Cardinal Connect by the end of next week to see if grades for some of their assignments have been posted. If you have any concerns, please make sure to contact me, your student’s teachers, counselors, or one of the Deans. I have emphasized to the teachers and staff to respond to the students and parents’ emails in a timely manner.

Students: This is the last quarter of the school year. School will continue; assignments will be expected to be completed and submitted on time; and if you have questions, you must communicate with your teacher by email or for some, during a tutorial session that some teachers will hold. Be sure to submit your 2nd and 6th period attendance form to your teachers. It seems like everyday we face new challenges. But one of our 5 R’s is “Resilience.” And JPII students must show that resilience in the challenging times that we now find ourselves in.

Parents and Students: The counselors are working on your student’s choice of subjects for next year. If you have questions regarding the subjects your student must take and/or electives, please get in touch with your assigned counselor. You can email them with your questions and just like the teachers, they will be answering these questions in a timely manner. They are also contacting students about their 3rd quarter grades if there is a chance they will fail for the semester, especially seniors. Remember that students must not only have a passing grade for the year, but they are required to pass 2nd semester.

Just as I told the staff, please take care of yourselves.Take breaks, wash your hands often, eat healthy (not too many snacks), go outside and take a short walk, exercise, practice social distancing, watch a good movie, continue to pray and do whatever you need to do to keep a positive attitude.

Psalm 62:1-2 My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

Continued Prayers,

Dr. Hammerle

Principal

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March 19, 2020

Dear Cardinal Family,

As you probably have heard by now, Governor Greg Abbott has issued an Executive Order that all schools in the State of Texas must remain closed until midnight on Friday, April 3, 2020. As such, we will continue e-days at least through April 3. I would not be surprised if state and local authorities extend this deadline given the current environment. As new information becomes available, I will continue to provide updates.

Tomorrow (Friday, March 20), as we come to the close of our first week of e-days as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, I want to thank our amazing students and their families along with our equally fantastic faculty and staff for the tremendous collaborative effort this week. I have heard many stories of enthusiasm and the joy of learning in our virtual classrooms. I have heard that students and faculty are quickly adjusting to the current academic environment. That being said, I know that this disruption of the educational, work, and home life routine continues to bring unique challenges and stress on all of us. This is an unprecedented and challenging time that will require us all to continue to be steadfast, resilient, and patient.

Let us continue to pray for each other and the end of this terrible pandemic. Let us be kind, patient, and ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Let us make a difference in our community and our school by walking in the footsteps of John Paul II.

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Jake Schroepfer
President

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March 16, 2020

Dear Parents and Students,

E-learning begins tomorrow, Wednesday, March 18. Students - Everyday, you are to send in your 2nd or 6th period google form for attendance depending on whether it is an A day or B day. We are working in uncharted territory but we will get through this together.

Students: Try to do your work in order of your schedule. If it is an A day, start with your 1st period assignments and go from there. On B day, do the work your teachers have sent for B day. And certainly, if you want to get ahead, you may. Watch the videos the teachers have provided for you and when they say to take notes on the videos, do just that. Use the resources they have provided. Take notes over your readings. Scan your math work and email these to your teachers if you have been instructed to do so. And if you have questions, write these down and do not hesitate to email your teachers. If you follow your schedule each day, you may not get overwhelmed. As one teacher advised, do not procrastinate. There should be no excuses for procrastination. This is a time when you must be disciplined. Take appropriate breaks if needed and rest.

Parents: We need your help and support for your students' success. The teachers are there for them. You might want to ask your 9th and 10th graders to show you the work they are submitting. For 11th and 12th graders, they should already know the importance of getting the assignments completed as they are closer to being in college. If your student is sick, please communicate this to their teachers and make sure that they are healthy before resuming classwork. Please continue to encourage them as we will do the same.

We are living in challenging times, one that is unprecedented. With our faith and working together, we will get through this.

Prayers and Blessings,

Dr. Marlene Hammerle

Principal

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March 16, 2020

Dear Cardinal Family,

As promised in my email of March 13 (see below correspondence), I will be providing timely updates on the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on our school operations. Since my last email, our e-learning days, which begin this Wednesday, have been extended to Friday, March 27, by Decree of Bishop Edward Burns, the Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas. The Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) has suspended all athletic and fine arts practices and competitions until April 12, 2020.

Our commitment is to the successful completion of the Spring Semester, and I look forward to our seniors receiving their diplomas. Our outstanding faculty and support staff are well prepared to make the shift to e-days. While we will be engaged in e-learning, we must not lose the essential relational and formative aspects of a JPII education. Being in real-time communication with faculty and staff has never been more important, so I encourage students and parents to stay connected with teachers.

I think it is also important to emphasize here that unlike some other schools, we are not extending Spring Break; instead, we are resuming our excellent college preparatory education on Wednesday. Each student will be accountable for the successful completion of the work through commitment, discipline, and time management. With the suspension of co-curricular activities, students should have additional time to complete assignments successfully.

At this time of uncertainty and change, it is crucial that we “over-communicate.” To that end, we will be publishing a weekly newsletter to keep you informed. The weekly newsletter and all communication regarding COVID-19 will be made available on this webpage.

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Jake Schroepfer

President

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March 13, 2020

Addendum

Dear Cardinal Family,

The decision has been made by Bishop Burns and the Catholic Schools Office that all schools in the diocese will be closed through March 27. With that decision, John Paul II High School will not be returning to campus on the 23. This means all extracurricular and co-curricular activities, meetings, school events, practices will be suspended. As this is a very fluid situation, we will be updating you if changes occur.

The health and safety of our students, families, and school staff are of utmost importance. Families should follow all local and national ordinances regarding quarantine, large group gatherings, health protocols, etc.

Teachers will be posting online work for the students beginning March 18 and will continue the e-learning through March 27. Let us continue to pray that the spread of COVID-19 will be limited and that the effects of the illness will be mitigated. Thank you for your patience and support as we all travel this challenging journey together. If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Respectfully,

Dr. Marlene Hammerle
Principal - John Paul II High School

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March 13, 2020

Dear Cardinal Family,

Out of caution and concern for the health and wellness of our students, faculty, and staff returning from Spring Break amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, our campus will remain closed next week while classes will resume via e-learning on Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Final instructions on the upcoming e-Days will be forthcoming shortly from our academic leadership, faculty, and staff. Our students and faculty already have experience with e-Days, so classes should resume with minor if any, disruption. In addition, all events, meetings, and co-curricular activities will be canceled next week to include competitions, practices, and rehearsals.

This pandemic continues to be a very dynamic and fluid situation. As such, you can expect more updates as conditions change. When circumstances change, we will respond swiftly and accordingly. We must be flexible and agile in dealing with the realities of this new normal. We must be prepared for inconveniences and changes in routines, not to mention additional confirmed and presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in the Metroplex over the coming weeks.

As such, due to our concern for the safety of our guests and volunteers, we will also postpone our 15th Anniversary Gala & Auction initially scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2020. Our Advancement Department will contact all ticket holders and sponsors as we work on rescheduling the event at a later date. My sincere thanks for all those who have given their time, talents, and treasures to make this vital fund-raising event a great success.

I ask that during this time of uncertainty, we come together in prayer as a community of faith. Let us pray for the continued safety of our students, their families, and our faculty and staff. Let us also pray for all those suffering, physically, emotionally, and financially. Let us pray for containment and prevention of the coronavirus. Let us ask the Holy Spirit for courage, wisdom, and patience in the coming weeks.

My sincere thanks for your support and prayers during this unprecedented time.

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Jake Schroepfer

President

COVID-19 Updates

Reopening Diocesan Schools Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

John Paul II High School