Traditionally, when I am introduced to a new community, I will have met hundreds of people in late spring and early summer to begin the transition period. Things in life prevented us this opportunity, but in short, I’m very excited to be the new principal at what I’m learning is a really terrific school and community.
I have been getting acclimated through Flocknote reflections by Mrs. Regan and SSP Nightly News by Mrs. Wobbe since the week I was hired. I have watched virtual SSP prayer services, Masses, and Parish Picnic Day events via the internet. I watched many of these with a great sense of pride that I was now a part of this community. Awesome job by the Picnic Committee and the people that patronized the picnic, breaking all kinds of fundraising records. Thank you to the generosity of the PTO, the Men’s Club, and the parish at large who made a financial commitment for a new safe and secure entryway and Admin Office for the school.
Many good people have copied me on emails so that I learn what is going on in the school community during these summer months, for which I am grateful. You now have the opportunity to reach out to me directly at greg.sturgill@saintstephenstl.org. You are welcome to email me or stop by the Rectory Parlor (where I am stationed during the construction at school). I keep summer hours of 9-1 almost every day.
What I’ve been working on since July 1:
Many parents (and teachers) want to know our plans for the fall at SSP School. To be honest, there are many, many questions that need to be answered. For every scenario that we think we get a grasp on ... two, three, four more questions spring up as we brainstorm and articulate solutions. We will be transparent in this process. We will share information in a timely fashion. We just can’t put the cart before the horse right now.
It is hard to say what will transpire during the next four to five weeks; this virus has not been predictable. It is my goal, and the goal I put before our committee, to have our recommendations to Fr. Ron and communicated to our school families by July 31. This is also the goal of all Catholic school principals in the City of St. Louis.
If you want to know what I am thinking and hoping for, it is for a full return to school for all families on Monday, August 17. We have some work to do to meet that goal to ensure all children are safe and secure and that we follow best practices in social distancing, wearing masks, hand washing, and properly cleaning and disinfecting of our facilities.
Together we can make a difference. Together we can remain SSP Strong!