Fr. Steve’s updates

Today was our end of the year retreat for our graduating 8th graders.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Today was our end of the year retreat for our graduating 8th graders.

Parts of the day recalled memories of the year and asked the students to share some of their highs and lows. Other parts of the day were meant to help them think about high school and beyond, while helping identify their hopes and fears. Other events were meant to help them pray and celebrate being together.

Staff were invited to write a few words of advice or congratulations to any of the students in a letter. We took a half hour of quiet to let the students read through the notes. I noticed quite a few tears of gratitude, nostalgia and laughter. Many of these young people I’ve known since they were third graders, and they’ve grown up right in front of my eyes. I have vivid memories of so many of them.

I said a few words of goodbye since I won’t be at graduation. Graduation is a big event for our youngsters, and I’ll miss being a part of it all. But, I plan to be back strong in the fall and be what support I can through their high school years.

Our current crop of high school students finished their semester at the public school today. As I walked around campus, I noticed many of their families had arrived and were loading up their cars with clothes and memorabilia from another year completed. We’ll see a good number of them back in another week to start summer school or work experiences.

Lakota youth reading letters at St. Joseph's retreat

Lakota youth reading letters at St. Joseph's retreat

Author: St. Joseph's Indian School

At St. Joseph's Indian School, our privately-funded programs for Lakota (Sioux) children in need have evolved over 90 years of family partnership, experience and education. Because of generous friends who share tax-deductible donations, Native American youth receive a safe, stable home life; individual counseling and guidance; carefully planned curriculum based on Lakota culture and individual student needs and tools to help build confidence, boost self-esteem and improve cultural awareness. All of this helps children to live a bright, productive, possibility-filled future.

One thought on “Fr. Steve’s updates”

  1. I can sure remember MY 8th.grade graduation!
    It was a very long time ago. One of the girls who graduated with me remains my friend and is in regular contact with me today. It has been interesting to watch how our lives have been similar..and in what ways different.
    There will be MANY graduations ahead for you, Father Steve. Now is your time to prepare for that..!
    Prayers and Hugs..
    Mia and Bob

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