Vu's News
"The Eucharist is the supreme proof of the love of Jesus. After this there is nothing more by heaven itself.”
St. Peter Julian Eymar
June 28, 2024
Dear Parents,
This year, we will be celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Holy Family! Twenty-five years ago, a prayer became a reality as the school was founded. Over the last 25 years, many people have given their time, talent, and treasure to this wonderful community. This year, we will have many opportunities to celebrate our beautiful school's Silver Anniversary.
Additionally, during the 2024/2025 school year, our theme will be Food for the Journey. During the year, we will work to grow in holiness by focusing on the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist and building a strong relationship with Jesus. We will continue to celebrate the Mass weekly as we strive to grow in holiness, and we will spend time before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament during our schoolwide Adoration. As a special connection to our theme, we will reflect on a different Eucharistic miracle each month.
This newsletter is full of important information for the fall, and it is lengthy. For your convenience, the e-newsletter can be found on our school website. We know emails can get lost in the inbox, and we hope this will help families retrieve important information later. If you are reading this newsletter on your phone, please note that some phones will not allow you to read the entire newsletter without clicking and opening the newsletter in a separate window.
As you review this summer newsletter, I hope that you will find answers to questions that may be stirring in your hearts. If you have additional inquiries, our team is here to help! Please do not hesitate to reach out.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
June 14, 2024
Dear Holy Family Community,
As the year concludes, we have an opportunity to reflect on the 2023/24 school year and prepare and plan for the future of Holy Family Catholic School. This year, we used 5Cs to focus our work. Over the year, there were several accomplishments that
impacted the momentum of the school.
Accomplishments during the 2023/2024 school year:
Christ-Centered Culture
• Developed a liturgy team to plan and implement the faith initiatives at Holy Family. The team was composed of members of the faculty, administration, and parents.
• Began a monthly theme for the school year: Walk with Mary to focus on the different Marian Apparitions.
• Began a monthly time for students to pray before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament during the whole school Adoration.
• Implemented a Father’s Day event with a retreat and blessing for dads.
• Implemented a Mother’s Day event with a May Crowning for Mother Mary and a special blessing for our earthly mothers.
• Reviewed the virtue program and aligned it to the discipline process by implementing the Education in Virtue reflection process.
• Implemented the schoolwide guidance program, The Positivity Project, that promoted kindness to others and identifying strengths in themselves and others.
Championing Student Success
• Provided coaching for all faculty at Holy Family focused on supporting the development of differentiation within the classroom.
• Provided professional development sessions at faculty meetings, professional development days, and their off-campus experiences that support the development of skills to meet the many different learners at our school.
Examples of professional development sessions included:
o Classroom management
o DIBELS training for PK-4
o Thinking in Math
o Developing centers
o Differentiation
o Supporting students' needs
o Technology in the classroom
• Began scheduling opportunities for specific teachers to observe one another.
• Implemented the aligned phonics program in grade 2. The Fundations program is now
used in grades K-2.
• Restructured the Student Success Team at Holy Family to include a learning support specialist in Pk-4, a learning support specialist in 5-8, and a full-time learning support assistant.
• Opened the Student Success Center and developed a system for supporting the learning needs of students in the classroom by creating a structure which promotes a team approach.
• Began a pilot program to support extension opportunities for students.
• The Wisdom Building was completed. There is now a permanent learning space for students in grades 5-6 as well as elementary Spanish, technology, middle school art, and
music.
• Initiated the first Kid’s College opportunity for Holy Family from June 10-14 and June 17-21.
Collaboration
• Implemented the “School Within a School” model to include a principal, an
assistant principal for PK-4, and an assistant principal for 5-8.
• Implemented a leadership team within the campus with includes representatives from each grade level, specials teachers, student success, and the administrative team.
• Supported teachers who are new to Holy Family by designing and implementing a formal mentor program.
• Restructured the PSIA program to engage parents and encourage more students to participate. This year, 113 students participated in the PSIA program, and 26 parents and teachers served as coaches.
• The kidney tables to support small group lessons have arrived to campus. They are being installed to prepare for the 2024/2025 school year's opening. These came from Fund-ANeed resources.
• The school golf cart was purchased and received in May. This came from Fund-A-Need
resources.
Communication
• Initiated weekly communication from the grade level to the parents highlighting the important information happening within the grade level.
• A structure for increased communication among faculty and staff was initiated by scheduling weekly grade-level meetings with an administrator and learning support staff member.
• Surveyed families to learn about whether there was a need to communicate to families in a language other than English.
Confidentiality
• Engaged in training in the fall regarding confidentiality and how to navigate questions that go beyond confidentiality.
• Worked with the administration team and the board to draft a communication plan that will be shared in the fall.
As we review the accomplishments of the past year, there is still work to be done! Over the next several years, Holy Family will be working to support the development of the following areas. Within the key areas are major goals. The work over the next few years will guide us.
Governance Structure and Leadership
• Goal and Next Steps: Enhance administrative leadership structures, governance effectiveness, and explore opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Financial Management and Sustainability
• Goal and Next Steps: Ensure financial stability and sustainability through proactive budget forecasting, timely reporting, collaboration with the Advancement Office, and exploration of endowment fund options.
Advancement and Fund Development
• Goal and Next Steps: Strengthen institutional advancement efforts to support the school's mission and financial sustainability through the establishment of an Advancement Committee, annual review and update of the Advancement Plan, collaboration with the Business Office, and promotion of long-term giving options.
Catholic Mission, Identity, and Culture
• Goal and Next Steps: Foster a strong sense of mission, identity, and community at Holy Family Catholic School (HFCS) through the ongoing efforts of the Mission and Identity Committee, the development of a comprehensive written plan, implementation of
school-wide initiatives to increase student engagement and respect, and the cultivation of collaborative relationships with key stakeholders.
Academic Excellence
• Goal and Next Steps: Enhance academic excellence at Holy Family Catholic School (HFCS) through the development and implementation of a comprehensive curriculum plans, pacing guides, student support models, professional development programs, and technology plans.
Student Activities and Programs
• Goal and Next Steps: Enhance student engagement, enrichment, and well-being through the review and optimization of athletic programs, student clubs and activities, and innovative educational initiatives at Holy Family Catholic School (HFCS).
Facilities, Grounds and Beautification
• Goal and Next Steps: Enhance the quality and functionality of facilities and grounds at Holy Family Catholic School (HFCS) through the update and implementation of the Facilities and Grounds Master Plan.
Communication and Marketing
• Goal and Next Steps: Enhance communication and marketing efforts at Holy Family Catholic School (HFCS) through the review and optimization of staffing, establishment of a Communication and Marketing Committee, development and review of the Communication and Marketing Plan, and continued publication of "The Sentinel" and Annual Report Document.
We pray everyone has a fun, safe, and blessed summer break.
God Bless.
Mrs. Erin Vu
“Prayer is the key that opens the heart of God.” Padre Pio
June 6, 2024
Dear Parents,
I hope you are enjoying the first few days of summer vacation. Now that the students are home, the campus is a little quieter. During June, our administrative team and office staff are preparing for the new school year, which will be here before we know it!
There are a few key pieces of information that I would like to share with you as our summer begins.
Important Dates
End of June: Summer E-Newsletter - this will have important information for all families to review in preparation for the new school year.
August 8: Kick-Off: Parents Association Meeting
August 9: Open House
August 12: 1st Day of School
Dismissal Time for 24/25 School Year
Beginning August 12, the school day for students in PK-4 will end at 3:20 p.m. Students will plan to be in the gym by 3:20 for dismissal to begin promptly at 3:20.
The school day for students in grades 5-8 will end at 3:30 p.m. At 3:30, the students will leave the Wisdom and Hope Buildings to arrive at the gym after the dismissal bell. This means that the carline will begin around 3:35 p.m.
Many families have students at both Holy Family and Savio, so the dismissal change allows for an aligned calendar between the two campuses. Our students must have a specific number of minutes in their school year. By moving the dismissal back 5 minutes, we will no longer have school days when Savio is off from school.
Campus Updates
Based on feedback from faculty, students, and parents, there is a shift in the structure for the students in grades 5-8. Students in grade 5 will have three different core teachers, and they will rotate as a cohort among the teachers during their day. They will also take exploratory classes in art, music, physical education, Spanish, and STEM. The structure is intended to help students have a transition year before middle school. During this time, the students will develop executive functioning and organizational skills in preparation for middle school.
The middle school model will include grades 6-8. The students will continue to have block scheduling, but the students will have more choices. In adjusting to a course catalog with more options for students, the administration team worked with Savio to create a process that complements the high school process.
Here are the highlighted changes:
The courses now include an accelerated English course for students in grades 7 and 8.
The Spanish courses will cover the standards required for high school Spanish 1 over 2
years, and then students will take a course covering the standards required for Spanish 2.
Students in 6th grade will choose electives.
Students engaged in athletic co-curriculars can use that to fulfill the required physical
education credit, enabling them to select two other elective courses.
Families are welcome to review the full course catalog HERE.
Uniforms and Uniform Policy
HERE is the uniform policy for the 2024-2025 school year.
Please note that uniform items are required to be purchased directly through the vendor, Flynn O’Hara. There are other items that can be purchased elsewhere. When purchasing the required items, please note that the Angel Boutique sells gently used items. The Angel Boutique will be open during the summer and throughout the school year.
July 20 from 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
August 10 from 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
For more information, please visit the homepage of the school website: www.holyfamilycs.org. When purchasing through Flynn O’Hara, place orders no later than early July to ensure the uniforms arrive before the start of the school year.
Kid’s College
There is still time to register for Kid’s College. We have some openings for sessions. Families are welcome to invite a friend or family member to join in the fun! The courses now include an accelerated English course for students in grades 7 and 8. The Spanish courses will cover the standards required for high school Spanish 1 over 2 years, and then students will take a course covering the standards required for Spanish 2. Students in 6th grade will choose electives. Students engaged in athletic co-curriculars can use that to fulfill the required physical education credit, enabling them to select two other elective courses.
Summer Reading
The summer reading program is available, and the required books for grades 5-8 can be found
on the list. The summer reading link can be accessed on the homepage of the school website:
www.holyfamilycs.org.
Reading is one of the best ways to help our children stay engaged in learning over the summer. Whether your child reads alone, you read together, or listen to an audiobook, I hope you enjoy reading this summer.
Math Practice
Families are encouraged to engage in math learning over the summer. Students continue to have access to their IXL accounts, and this is a great place for students to practice math skills based on their readiness level. Baking, puzzles, and logic games are also great ways to engage students in math over the summer!
Please feel welcome to reach out if you have questions!
God Bless,
Erin Vu
“Whenever you begin any good work, you should first of all make a most pressing appeal to Christ our Lord to bring it to perfection.” St. Benedict
May 23, 2024
Dear Families,
On Tuesday, we bid farewell to our 8th-grade students. Fr. Tom celebrated Mass with the students and families, and he reminded the students that while they depart from Holy Family that we are all together as the Body of Christ when we come together for the Mass. He also challenged our students to trust in the Lord. As our 8th-grade students depart for high school, let us pray for them that they continue to trust in the Lord and grow in virtue.
This has been a busy week, but it has been filled with many graces. The 1st-grade vocabulary parade showcased the new terms that the students have learned this year. The field day was a day filled with games, running, jumping, and laughter. The kindergarten writer’s showcase allowed parents to see how much our youngest authors have learned this year. Our last school Mass was the highlight of today, with our community praying for one another.
Tomorrow, we will have our last day of school. As we conclude our school year, I hope that we will continue to pray for one another as we prepare for the transition to summer break. Tomorrow, families will receive information about the summer reading program.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
“Whenever you begin any good work, you should first of all make a most pressing appeal to Christ our Lord to bring it to perfection.” St. Benedict
May 16, 2024
Dear Families,
Last week, the elementary music classes hosted class performances where they showcased the lessons they learned during the year. It was a blast to see the students sing, dance, jump, and play instruments. The elementary students have so much creativity, and it was beautiful to see them work together to create music!
This week, our middle school students showcased their talents. It was such a gift to see the theater class perform a mystery. Also, the band, orchestra, and choir students performed their pieces for the students and families in a school and evening performance. The groups played music from the movies and band marches; the audience enjoyed the different pieces. I thoroughly enjoyed the performances which highlighted the many talents of our students.
The students have grown so much over the year in all their classes. As we begin to wrap-up the year, there are many ways that the achievements of the students have been highlighted, from the middle school awards assembly this morning to the presentation of the 3rd place PSIA state championship trophy yesterday.
As we approach the end of the year, there is still more to come. Next week, families are invited to witness the fun of field day on Wednesday, our final school Mass on Thursday, and the parent social on Friday.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
“The priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus." - St. John Vianney
May 9, 2024
Dear Families,
Each week, we are so blessed to have priests and deacons who come to our school and celebrate Mass with our students. The Eucharist is the Source and Summit of our faith, and we cannot have our school Mass without the loving service of our priests.
Next week, we will be thanking all the clergy who have celebrated Mass with our students this year. If your student would like to thank our priests by drawing a picture or making a card, please bring the cards to the office by Tuesday afternoon. Then, we will be sharing the notes of appreciation with our clergy at a special luncheon on Wednesday.
As May continues, we continue to celebrate our teachers and our school nurse. Our teachers work so hard to help our students grow and learn. Mrs. Guzman works to help keep our students and teachers healthy! Thank you to all our families who have showered our faculty and staff with love and appreciation this week.
Today, we thank our volunteers. Many of the events that happen at Holy Family would not be possible without our volunteers. Thank you to our volunteers for welcoming new families, attending field trips, hosting the NET ministry adults, coaching PSIA, assisting in the office, setting up before events, helping during an event, and cleaning up after an event, to name a few ways that our volunteers have helped make our school an amazing place. I am so thankful for the servant leadership and countless hours of assistance this year.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
“Our good Jesus always puts grace where He puts sacrifice.” - St. Leonie Aviat
May 2, 2024
Dear Parents,
As we begin May, the year is not over yet! This month will be busy with 8th-grade commencement, field day, and other fun traditions. Even with all this fun, it is important to remember that there are still many learning opportunities yet to come as well. I invite our students to remain focused on learning during these last few weeks and to enjoy the moments of fun too. Please visit the school calendar for a full list of all the great activities happening this month!
Calendar - Holy Family Catholic School (holyfamilycs.org)
God Bless,
Erin Vu
“Teach by works more than words.” St. Teresa of Avila
April 18, 2024
Dear Parents,
Tomorrow, the students do not have classes due to the professional development day for our faculty and staff. We hope that all of our students enjoy the day off after a busy week of MAP testing!
Have you ever wondered what the faculty does when we have a scheduled professional development day? The short answer is that the faculty participates in learning opportunities to grow as an educator.
During the professional development days, we learn about topics related to our faith, teaching the content that students learn, developing strategies and skills to support students in the classroom, and collaborating with one another.
Tomorrow, the elementary teachers will be trained on using a screener called the DIBELS. This screener is used to help inform how students are learning phonics and reading skills. The middle school teachers will spend time reviewing student expectations on campus and work to build common expectations for the many areas of the campus that the students use at school. In the afternoon, the teachers will attend sessions that will be led by different faculty and staff members. Topics will range from using different online tools to support instruction, building extension activities in the classroom, and supporting math instruction in the classroom.
Our teachers are lifelong learners and are always looking for new ways to support the students in their classrooms. I am thankful for the dedication of our teachers, and I am excited to learn alongside them tomorrow.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
“I desire that the whole world know My infinite mercy. I desire to grant unimaginable graces to those souls who trust in My mercy.” Jesus to Saint Faustina
April 4, 2024
Dear Parents,
Alleluia! He is Risen! Alleluia! This is a week of joyous celebration as we continue to celebrate the Easter Octave. During this season, we are reminded of God’s love for us, and we are thankful for His divine mercy for us!
During this week, we have welcomed the NET team who have been leading retreats for our students in grades 6, 7, and 8. The NET team is a group of young adults who travel the country and spread the message of Jesus’ love to young people through retreats. These retreats are a time for our middle school students to have an authentic encounter with the Lord.
As a gentle reminder, the final MAP tests will begin on April 15. More information about your child’s testing schedule will be shared in the grade-level newsletters. Also, April 19 is a professional development day for teachers. Students do not have school on the 19th.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
What could Jesus Christ refuse St. Joseph, who never refused him anything during his mortal life on earth?” St. Augustine
March 21, 2024
Dear Families,
As we begin the 4th quarter of the school year, the days are becoming longer, and the weather is getting warmer. It can be tempting to look beyond the last nine weeks and dream of days playing, traveling, and relaxing.
During this final quarter, I invite all of us to remain in the present. Let us work toward listening to where God is calling us to be right now. I am guilty of planning and worrying about the future and things to come, but I believe these final days of Lent and this final quarter of school are an invitation to remain fixed on what God is calling us to do today. Is there a kind word that I can extend to someone else? Is there a task that I can accomplish for the good of others? Is there a moment of silence that is an invitation for prayer?
As we reflect on the present, thank you to all our dads and father figures who came to our celebration this morning. We are thankful for the presence of our dads and father figures who model growing in holiness. This evening, I look forward to seeing you at the STEM Night!
God Bless,
Erin Vu
Erin Vu
March 8, 2024
Dear Parents,
It was wonderful to see the students in PK-4 perform in the “Sound in Motion” show. I would also like to congratulate the students in the One Act Play who won 1st place at the state competition yesterday!
The registration period for Kid’s College is officially open! All Holy Family students will have priority registration through March 22nd. Session selections will be assigned based on the order in the registration is submitted. Each session has a cap, so please do not delay. Forms should be submitted electronically to Mrs. Walker by emailing kwalker@holyfamilycs.org or by turning them in to Mrs. Flores in the Grace Building.
Today, we added a few more sessions to the Course Catalog for the students to choose. Please see the Course Catalog for more details about Kid’s College by clicking on this link. The registration form is attached.
I hope you have a great spring break!
March 7, 2024
Dear Families,
This week, I am excited to share new information about Kid’s College. The Holy Family Catholic School Kid's College is where kids can come and pursue their interests. Like college, scholars will have the freedom to select sessions. Scholars are invited to explore a new skill, engage in an interest, and learn. Sessions include a range of options, from music to math to traveling adventures to fairytales, STEM and so much more! Here is the Course Catalogue.
Sessions are open to students who will be entering grades K-8 next year. Students entering grades 7 and 8 are invited to participate in our Master Classes. These classes will help students to refine their skills within specific areas of focus.
CAMP DETAILS
Dates: June 10-14 and June 17-21
AM Session: 9:00 am – 11:30 am
PM Session: 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Session Cost: $125 per session
Scholars who choose the AM and PM session during the same week will have a lunch and stretch break from 11:30-12:30. Registration for Kid’s College will open tomorrow, and the registration information will be sent via email. I anticipate that sessions will fill up fast, so do not delay! Priority registration will be given to Holy Family students until March 22nd.
As we depart for spring break, I hope that you and your family have a wonderful time! Please know of my prayers for you whether you are traveling far or staying home.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
February 29, 2024
Dear Families,
The last few weeks have been filled with celebrations and recognitions for our students at Holy Family. Our students are growing in their heart, mind, body, and soul.
Congratulations to our students who participated in the PSIA District Meet. The school won 1st place, and many of our students will compete in the state competition in April.
Congratulations to the One Act Play who earned 2nd place at the District Meet. The group will compete in the state competition next week.
Congratulations to our 5/6 6A girls' basketball team who won the CAPPS championship.
Congratulations to Ellie and Sydney for their outstanding science fair projects. Both of our 8th grade students had great projects.
Congratulations to the recipients of the St. Thomas Aquinas Award from Holy Family: A.J., Alan, Bennett, and Daniela.
I am so proud of all our students as they use their gifts and talents!
As we continue to celebrate our community, we will be praying a Novena to St. Joseph beginning on Monday, March 4. This will culminate on Thursday, March 21 and we will celebrate our dads on the same day. I hope to see many of our dads join us on March 21 for our Father’s Day celebration. Dads are invited to enjoy Food, Fellowship, and Fun from 8:00-11:00 a.m. Our celebration will include breakfast, a mini-retreat, and school Mass at 10 a.m. where our dads will receive a special blessing.
We also hope to see our families at the STEM night on March 21 from 5:00-6:00 p.m. There will be science fair projects on display, interactive tables, and STEM professionals. This is a great event for the whole family as we celebrate STEM at Holy Family!
God Bless,
Erin Vu
The third quarter ends on Friday, March 8th. Report cards will be sent home electronically on Thursday, March 21st.
Dayli
February 22, 2024
“Every good and perfect gift is from above” James 1:17
Dear families,
This week, students brought home their individual MAP scores for the winter test. The test is used to measure a student’s learning progress over time, and it also provides information regarding the skills that a child is ready to learn.
As a school, we have the ability to review our scores in comparison to the national average as well as the diocesan average. The graphs compare the winter scores from the students at Holy Family with the mean (average) in the Diocese of Austin and the Nation for each grade level that takes the test.
The MAP test is the same test that all schools use in the Diocese of Austin. The MAP test is taken three times per year, and the next tests will be taken in April.
As you can see from these bar graph illustrations, at Holy Family, every grade level in each content area is performing above the National levels and above the Diocesan levels.
The Math and Reading MAP tests are given to students in grades 1-8.
If you have individual questions about your child’s individual MAP scores, please reach out to your child’s teacher.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
December 5, 2023
Dear Parents,
As the first week of Advent begins, I pray that you and your family are experiencing the hope of this
season. This is a busy season with many school events, and the students are looking forward to the
Christmas break which will be here soon. Today, I wanted to share an update about a few important
things that have been happening on campus.
Play Space Update
The beautiful green space is now ready for students to use! Following the Thanksgiving break, the
students have been using the new play space for their recess.
Yesterday, we received word from the playground company that our playground has not shipped yet.
The company stated that the structure is taking longer to build due to the high number of playground
orders. The company has promised to communicate as soon as the structure has been shipped. Once I
have received word that the product has shipped, I will share that with our families.
Following the confirmation that the structure has been shipped, the next step will be to confirm the
installation of the structure. The installation will include the playground flooring, play structure,
sunshade, and gaga pit. I enjoy seeing our students use the field, and I am excited to see the completion of the play structure.
Music Program Additions
Due to generous donations from a previous Fund-A-Need for the arts, 2 beautiful pianos have arrived
to campus. Additionally, we have purchased a rolling stand for the xylophones, metallophones, and
glockenspiels. This allows for students in both music rooms to use these great instruments.
Campus Safety Update
Due to a federal grant called GAPS funding, our school has been able to upgrade our security.
When visitors come to campus, they are now asked to login using SchoolPass. Volunteers and visitors
will receive a printed visitor badge that has a photo as well as a clearly printed label with the
individuals name, intended location, date, and time.
Additionally, the school has been upgrading the camera security system. At Holy Family, an audit
identified blind spots as well as cameras that were no longer working. Over the past few weeks, many
of the new cameras have been installed. The project is not completed yet, but during the next few
weeks, the final cameras will be installed.
The cameras will now be combined on one network which can be monitored by designated staff to
support the safety on campus. The cameras capture the movements of individuals on campus. The
security team has access to the cameras to monitor the campus in real-time, and recorded
footage can be used to identify people and/or cars if needed.
The installation of a badge swipe system throughout the campus has been scheduled too. This will
allow faculty and staff to gain access into the different buildings at Holy Family. This project will be
completed soon.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
November 9, 2023
Dear families,
Last Friday evening, after I got home and put my children to bed, I had a little bit of time to quietly reflect on my day. I was honestly speechless and filled with gratitude. The entire day was filled with little moments of blessings, and it took me time to be able to describe the beautiful moments that I witnessed throughout our day together. Today, I thought I would share a few of the highlights from Friday:
In the Hope Building, students wrote the Our Father in many of the languages that are spoken in Africa. The display created a visual reminder that regardless of the language that we speak, we all pray the same prayer to the same God.
During the Cultural Fashion Show, it was great to see so many students proudly parade through the pavilion. I enjoyed watching siblings walk together showcasing their clothing with pride.
At the spirit rally, the students practiced saying hello in multiple languages. The sounds of bonjour, привет (privet), hola, and 你好 (nǐhǎo) echoed through the pavilion.
All these moments happened before the Taste of the World event, which was one of my favorite parts of the day.
In my opinion, food unites people. There is something special to share a dish with another person, whether you are enjoying something yummy or making something special. I really enjoyed tasting the dishes from each country that was present. The dishes were made and shared with love. I also enjoyed listening to stories, seeing photos, and looking at the different saints from various countries.
To all the families who shared, thank you. To all the families who came, thank you. I was deeply humbled to see our community come together to celebrate the beautiful gifts that each person brings to Holy Family. I hope that this will be the start of a new celebration!
God Bless,
Erin Vu
Thursday, November 2, 2023
Dear families,
Over the past few weeks, I have witnessed so many amazing examples of collaboration on our campus. I am so thankful to see the witness of loving service from our families, faculty, and staff.
Earlier this month, the Eucharistic Rally for students in grades 6-8 was a beautiful day for students across the diocese to experience the love of Jesus. This day ran smoothly thanks to the parents who organized, set up, and served.
For the Eat-N-Treat, I was so thankful to see the collaboration between the Parent Association, the Holy Family clubs, and the Savio athletics and clubs. With the weather, everyone was so flexible. The event was a great success, and I heard so many happy students who enjoyed hot dogs, games, and candy.
Yesterday, there were beautiful moments of collaboration across the campus as everyone helped build special memories for our students on the Solemnity of All Saints. Thank you to the parents who helped with the sixth-grade Saint expo, decorated heaven in kindergarten, and ran the second-grade stations.
Tomorrow is another opportunity to collaborate! The hallways are filled with research about different countries, and the students are all excited about tasting the delicious dishes tomorrow night. I hope to see many of our families celebrate the beautiful cultures that form our Holy Family Catholic School community at the 1st ever Taste of the World event.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
“Every good and perfect gift is from above” James 1:17
Dear families,
Last week, students brought home their individual MAP scores for the fall test. The test is used to measure a student’s learning progress over time, and it also provides information regarding the skills that a child is ready to learn.
As a school, we have the ability to review our scores in comparison to the national average as well as the diocesan average. The graphs compare the fall scores from the students at Holy Family with the mean (average) in the Diocese of Austin and the Nation for each grade level that takes the test.
The MAP test is the same test that all schools use in the Diocese of Austin. The MAP test is taken three times per year, and the next tests will be taken in January.
As you can see from these bar graph illustrations, at Holy Family, every grade level in each content area is performing above the National levels and at or above the Diocesan levels.
The Math and Reading MAP tests are given to students in grades 1-8.
Math MAP Mean Scores Fall 2023
Reading MAP Mean Scores Fall 2023
Language MAP Mean Scores Fall 2023
Science MAP Mean Scores Fall 2023
Next week, I will share more information about the schoolwide fall MAP scores.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
October 5, 2023
“Where the Rosary is recited, there will be days of peace and tranquility.” St. John Bosco
Dear Families,
As we begin the month of October, we begin our month-long focus on Our Lady of the Rosary. On Monday, the students joined to pray the Rosary in the pavilion. The students in 7th and 8th grade sat in a circle on the ground as the other children sat around them. As one student prayed the Our Father or Hail Mary, the student released a balloon into the air. Slowly, our prayers and the balloons on a string went up toward the heavens.
I am excited to share that our second-grade class has taken on a special initiative this month. They are inviting one family each night to pray the Rosary as a way of ensuring that this beautiful prayer is offered every evening throughout October. This initiative is a wonderful example of how our school community is continuing to build a Christ-centered culture.
As we continue to celebrate the Month of the Rosary, I encourage all of our families to take some time to pray the Rosary together at home. Parents are also invited to join other parents in praying the Rosary on Friday after the school day starts. Praying the Rosary is a practice that can strengthen our bond as a school community and deepen our connection to Our Lady of the Rosary.
If you have any questions or need guidance on how to pray the Rosary as a family, please feel free to reach out to our dedicated staff, who would be happy to support you.
May Our Lady of the Rosary intercede for us and guide us in our journey of faith.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
“I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things.” Saint Mother Teresa
Dear Families,
I am not a runner, but I love watching cross-country races. There is something special about watching a runner make the last turn in a course. Often, when the runner sees the finish line in the distance, a sudden burst of energy propels the athlete forward. In the face of exhaustion, the runner pumps her arms and gathers speed as she pushes through to the end.
This past weekend, Holy Family hosted the Angel Invitational. It takes so many volunteers to help make the event a success. The parent volunteers and coaches began setting up on Friday night, and the final volunteers wrapped up their responsibilities long after the last runner crossed the finish line.
The campus was filled with people to support this event including the Angels 4 Life who ran the concession stand, the student council, and the cheerleaders rallying the athletes, the parents, and so many of our teachers who came out to enjoy the race.
Thank you to everyone who helped to make the Angel Invitational truly a community event, where we came together to do something great!
There are many other events on the horizon in the next few weeks. From the Spirit Night (9/29) to the Balloon Rosary for Life (10/2) to the Supper with Sisters and Jesus (10/6), there are so many opportunities to come together as a Holy Family community.
For more information on all our upcoming events, please visit the school calendar: Calendar - Holy Family Catholic School
God Bless,
Erin Vu
A message from Holy Family Catholic School (HFCS) Principal, Erin Vu
"Let us run to Mary, and, as her little children, cast ourselves into her arms with a perfect confidence.”
St. Francis de Sales
Dear Families,
During the 2023/2024 school year, our school will focus on walking with Mary. It is exciting to share that
we will spend time reflecting on different titles and images of Our Lady. Mary has appeared throughout
the world to specific people at a specific time. This year, we will highlight one Marian title per month as
we learn about the message that Mary shared and reflect on how her message connects with us today.
I invite you to join us in our reflections this year as we walk with Mary toward holiness. Each month,
please visit the Grace Building to see our new image of Mary and be on the lookout for reflections about
Mary under the title for the month.
While she has appeared all over the world, she has come with one purpose: to bring us closer to Jesus.
Mary is our mother too, and this year, we will look to our mother in the hope that we too can magnify
God through our life. We will ask Mary to pray for us as we walk with her on the path to holiness.
God Bless,
Erin Vu
Dear Families,
Over the last two weeks, there have been many exciting things happening on campus! The month of June has been a time for preparations for the 23/24 school year. Yesterday, pallets of textbooks arrived which are ready to be sorted and brought to the classrooms. I hope you are enjoying the time off with your families, and you continue to be in my prayers during the summer.
Administration Update
Andrea (Andie) Masanda, April Morley, and I have begun to meet and collaborate in preparation for the fall. In addition to redesigning our leadership team, we have also been working on preparations for the new school year including the new mentor program for all new faculty and staff.
Reminder: Office Closed
The school office will be closed beginning Monday, July 3. The office will re-open on Thursday, July 20.
Staffing Update
Last week, Mrs. McGrath announced that she will not be returning to Holy Family in the fall and has decided to go back to school. We wish Mrs. McGrath well as she continues her education.
Over the last few weeks, the hiring committee has continued to interview and hire new faculty and staff who are mission driven. We have already hired several new people, and I will highlight the new personnel in the next update on July 7.
The current faculty openings are for the following:
Kindergarten Teacher- still accepting applications
Third Grade Teacher- still accepting applications
Fourth Grade Teacher- still accepting applications
ELA Teacher- still accepting applications
Math Teacher- still accepting applications
The current staff openings are for the following:
Receptionist-interviews in process
Play Space
A committee of parents, teachers, and staff have worked together to design and recommend a design for the play space behind the Charity Building. The recommended design includes a play structure, gaga pit, walking path, open field, irrigation, and picnic tables.
Over the past month, we have been working with companies to secure the final bids for the design. More information about the timeline for the completion of the work will be shared once in July.
Survey Update
I am sorry that we did not meet our initial date for sharing the survey data. We are working on reviewing the information with representation from the advisory board and parents, and we will share the information by the end of July.
Reminder: School Supplies
Once again, Mrs. Walker is ordering and coordinating the school supplies for your children. Here is a message from Mrs. Walker regarding the school supply order:
Holy Family Catholic School will be ordering the 2023-2024 school supplies in bulk again this year. By doing so, we are continuing to take advantage of the cost-saving opportunity to purchase all school supplies through one vendor and have them delivered directly to each classroom in bulk.
It has been a great start to the summer as we continue to prepare for the new school year!
God Bless,
Erin Vu
Principal
May 26, 2023 Newsletter
Dear Parents,
On Tuesday, we said goodbye to our 8th grade students at our Commencement Ceremony. Our celebrant for the Mass was Fr. “Mac” McMillan. During the Homily, Fr. Mac gave an example of how he was unexpectedly asked to give the Anointing of the Sick to a man just before coming for the Mass. This meant that he took an alternate route to the Church via Hutto.
Fr. Mac invited the students to consider the unexpected moments as opportunities. He asked that we allow God to work through us when we choose the path that presents itself and not necessarily the path we originally intended to take. As our 8th-grade students begin their high journey, I hope they take the path that God presents even when it may be unexpected.
As we conclude our school year, I hope that your paths this summer bring peace and rest. I hope that all our families will take time to be present to one another this summer. No matter where your travels take you, I pray for your safety and health.
On a practical note, this newsletter does contain the summer reading information. Additionally, some families have asked about IXL (K-4), Mathletics (5-8) and Lexia (K-8). These online programs are available to the students throughout the summer through your child’s Holy Family login. The programs can be found in their “MyApps.” These programs are a great way to continue building skills throughout the summer, and the skills are tailored to your child’s present learning level. Please reach out to your child’s teacher if you have questions about these online resources.
God Bless,
Erin Vu