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Letter from the Principal
Summer Greetings:
June 2, 2012:What a glorious day for all associated with our school, and what a vivid
snapshot of what makes our school such a special place. Our school family was blessed to
witness 209 members of the class of 2012 proudly receive their diplomas and take their
rightful place as proud alumni of Saint Francis DeSales High School. And, on that same
day, we joined our voices as one as we rooted our Baseball and Boys Lacrosse teams to
State Championships. After reflecting on this day, I realized that the success associated
with our school over the years is rooted in the type of young people that comprise SFD;
students of high character and incredible faith, students who value the gift of family, and
finally, students who work daily to discern and cultivate their God-given talents. Our
students possess a strong desire to contribute to that which is greater than themselves.
It is truly gratifying for me to work with such incredible young people.
The theme for this year is “Stallions United.” I cannot think of a more descriptive theme
for our school family as it permeates through all that we do. In order to deliver a quality Catholic education to our students we need
everyone in our community to embrace our primary mission as a faith-based institution. We also rely heavily on our loved ones to share
their time, talent, and treasure for our children. Fortunately we have been blessed by many who take great pride in ensuring a quality
Catholic education for our young people through their compassion and generosity. Please take the time to review the “Annual Report” that
is a part of this publication so that you can see how the gifts of our loved ones have enabled us to provide a holistic educational experience
for our students. I am proud to report that this past year’s annual drive witnessed a significant percentage increase both in dollars raised
and participants. At a time when schools are experiencing significant cuts in funding it is an incredible blessing to witness the financial
support for our school increasing.
As a result of the generosity of our benefactors we have been able to begin to move on action steps called for in on our Strategic plan.
Through the selfless giving of our alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends we were able to purchase the house at 4240 Karl Road. The
purchase of this property will enable us to begin the planning for an extensive Campus beautification; moreover, it will enable us to address
issues of traffic safety for our students and guests as they arrive and depart the school grounds. In addition, the support of our donors
has enabled us to lay the groundwork for our Saint Francis de Sales Merit Scholars and Franciscan Sister Scholars. These scholarships
enable us to attract outstanding scholars by providing significant financial assistance. And finally, we were able to launch our technology
enhancement initiative, completing an infrastructure upgrade by making our campus completely wireless, and equipping our teachers
with iPads as we prepare for the planned launch of a 1:1 program for our students in the 2013-2014 school year. To those who have given
please know how appreciative the students, faculty, and administration are for your continued love and support. A simple thank-you does
not adequately convey the true depth of our appreciation.
In light of the above, I am sure you can understand why we are so excited to add another chapter to the history of Saint Francis DeSales
High School. While we say goodbye to the class of 2012, and to a longtime faculty member of 30 years – teacher, coach, and Assistant
Athletic Director Deb Landig –we say hello to a freshman class of 245, the largest in the school.
In closing, as we prepare to embark on a new journey know that the students, faculty, and administration look forward to working with
each of you as we begin a new year full of wonderful opportunities for growth. Until we meet again, please know I hold you in my prayers.
Peace and God’s Blessings,
Daniel J. Garrick ’79
If we conduct ourselves with humility and good faith...
God will raise us up to heights that are truly great
~St. Francis DeSales
The Mighty Pen 1