December 7, 2025

Dear Families,

A Prayer for the Second Sunday of Advent

Heavenly Father,

As we gather on this Second Sunday of Advent, we lift our hearts to You with gratitude and hope. In this season of preparation, You call us to make straight the paths of our lives and to welcome Your Son with renewed faith and joy.

Lord, just as John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, help us prepare our own hearts with patience, compassion, and love. Remove from us anything that keeps us from You, and strengthen in us the desire to grow in holiness, kindness, and peace.

Bless our families, our children, and our school community. May our homes be places of warmth and forgiveness, where Christ’s light shines in all we do and say. Guide us to be instruments of Your love to those who are lonely, hurting, or in need during this sacred season.

As we light the second candle of Advent, the candle of Peace, fill us with the peace that only Your Son can bring. May this peace settle in our hearts, be present in our relationships, and radiate through our entire community.

Come, Lord Jesus.

Renew us, guide us, and prepare us for the joy of Your coming.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen

Upcoming Week

We hope you will support our 8th Annual Angel Tree of Giving with a $1 or $2 donation by December 11th. Teachers will take the donations and purchase a Christmas gift for the ACS Holiday Toy and Gift Drive.

Monday, December 8th

• Feast of the Immaculate Conception: Mass at 8:30 am (full dress uniform for Grades 3 to 8)

Tuesday, December 9th:

• SJHA Elementary School Christmas Tree Lighting at 5:00 pm by the Golden Doors

Wednesday, December 10th:

• SJHA Christmas Fair Day One (Pre-K 3 to 3rd Grade)

Thursday, December 11th:

• SJHA Christmas Fair Day Two (Grades 4-8)
• Third Grade Trip to see "North Pole Nonsense" at CSI

Friday, December 12th:

• Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Mass at 8:30 am (full dress uniform all grades)

December 2025 Calendar is available online.

Campus Store Update

Our Campus Store is a little behind with some orders due to higher demand than anticipated. New shipments are arriving and many of the items that were out of stock will be available at our Christmas Carnival this week for immediate purchase.

Please visit our campus store for more information: Campus Store

News from the Hill

As we journey through these blessed weeks of Advent, our school community has been truly alive with the joy, hope, and meaning of the Christmas season. Advent invites us to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, God made flesh in the humble manger of Bethlehem. In these days filled with faith, tradition, and celebration, our students have embraced the spirit of anticipation and gratitude that defines this sacred time of year.

One of the most beautiful symbols of Advent and Christmas is the Nativity itself. In the stable scene, Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the animals, and the Infant Jesus, we are reminded of God’s profound love and His choice to enter our world in simplicity and peace. The Nativity teaches our children that holiness is found not in power or wealth, but in humility, kindness, and trust.

This week, we also celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, a holy day honoring Mary’s unique and grace-filled beginning. The Church teaches that Mary was conceived without original sin so that she could be a pure vessel to bear Christ into the world. Her “yes” to God changed human history, and this feast calls us to reflect on how we, too, can say “yes” to God in our daily lives. Mrs. Benson and Mrs. Innocente have prepared a beautiful Mass for Grades 3–8, and we look forward to celebrating this important feast together.

Our Advent traditions continue with the blessing of our school Christmas tree and wreaths. The Christmas tree, with its evergreen branches, symbolizes eternal life, an unending reminder of Christ’s timeless presence with us. The lights represent Christ as the Light of the World shining in our darkness. Our Christmas wreaths, formed in a perfect circle with no beginning or end, reflect God’s everlasting love. With the help of generous volunteers from both the elementary and high school campuses, our Christmas Intention wreaths now decorate the Hylan Boulevard fence with beauty and prayerful meaning.

On Tuesday, we will come together for our Christmas Tree Lighting, the blessing of our wreaths and nativity, and a joyful evening of music. Mrs. Innocente and our 5th Graders have prepared a beautiful selection of carols, and our Cheerleaders will begin the festivities with their Christmas performance. We hope many families will join us in song as we celebrate the light of Christ.

This past week has been equally rich in experiences that reflect the spirit of generosity, fellowship, and community. On Thursday evening, our talented 2nd graders brought the Living Nativity to life at Msgr. Farrell’s Christmas Tree Lighting. Accompanied by The Msgr. Farrell Singers and enhanced by lights, sound, and music, our students shared the beauty of the Christmas story with reverence and joy. We extend heartfelt thanks to the parents who braved the cold, and to Mr. Lou Tobacco for welcoming us so warmly into this cherished tradition.

We are also proud of our spelling champions! At the regional Catholic elementary school Staten Island Spelling Bee, 7th Grader Philo Apedo and 8th Grader Katherine Wong represented our school with excellence. In an unprecedented moment, after ten rounds and no remaining words, our regional superintendent, Ms. Jann Amato, declared all five finalists regional winners. Katherine was among these top competitors, marking an extraordinary achievement for our school.

Today, our brave 7th and 8th graders joined the Hill High School girls at the Annual Polar Plunge, raising funds for the Special Olympics, a global organization that empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities through athletics and community. Their courage and compassion reflect the very heart of Catholic service. We are grateful to Mrs. Gaudet and Mrs. Mayrose for their leadership and for inviting our students to participate in this special event.

On Friday, December 12th, we will honor Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the Americas. Students in Pre-K to Grade 2 will join in a special procession and offer flowers in her honor. The story of Our Lady’s appearance to St. Juan Diego in 1531 is a reminder of Mary’s motherly love for all people. Her image, miraculously imprinted on Juan Diego’s tilma, continues to inspire faith, unity, and devotion throughout the world. We thank Mrs. Klein for her beautiful floral creations, Mrs. Innocente for preparing the hymns, and Mrs. Benson for coordinating this meaningful celebration.

And of course, as we keep the joy of the season alive, please remember our festive Aloha Christmas Day on December 22nd. Students are welcome to wear Christmas-themed Hawaiian shirts, sweaters, and accessories for a cheerful and spirited end to our Advent journey.

I hope these weeks of preparation fill your homes with peace, love, and the true meaning of Christmas. We are grateful for your partnership as we guide our children in faith, community, and joy.

Wishing you a blessed and grace-filled Advent season.

Have a Blessed Sunday Evening,

Mr. Lawrence Hansen

Principal, St. Joseph Hill Academy Elementary School

lhansen@stjhill.org

T (+1) 718.981.1187 

Classroom Highlights and SJHA's Embrace of Project-Based Learning

1st Grade Embracing the Advent Season:

Our first graders are embracing the beauty of Advent as they learn about this sacred season of waiting, hope, and light. Students are discovering the meaning behind each candle of the Advent wreath and reflecting on how we prepare our hearts for Jesus’ birth. Their enthusiasm reminds us of the wonder and simplicity of the Christmas story.

3rd Grade A Christmas Season Field Trip:

Our third graders are counting down the days until their exciting trip to the College of Staten Island to see North Pole Nonsense! Field trips play an essential role in a child’s educational development as they enhance classroom learning, build curiosity, strengthen social skills, and expose students to real-world experiences that deepen understanding. This festive live performance promises not only holiday cheer but also meaningful exposure to the arts and culture.

4th Grade ELA Exploring Identity and Friendship Through Literature

Fourth graders are opening their second class novel, In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson by Bette Bao Lord. This beautifully written story follows a young girl who emigrates from China to the United States in 1947, discovering friendship, culture, and self-identity along the way. Lord, an author and humanitarian, drew from her own childhood experiences, offering students a compassionate window into the immigrant experience. Reading novels together allows students to discuss big ideas, connect to characters, and build empathy. All skills that enrich their academic and personal growth.

4th Grade Science - Volcanic Eruption

To conclude their study of Earth’s features, our fourth graders will witness an exciting volcanic eruption demonstration. Hands-on learning helps students transform abstract concepts into real experiences, supporting a deeper understanding of Earth science.

5th Grade Science - Earth Biomes

Fifth graders are researching Earth’s major biomes and will demonstrate their learning through either Google Slides or 3-D models. This project encourages creativity, research skills, and public speaking, all hallmarks of project-based learning, which strengthens student independence and comprehension.

8th Grade Math - 3D Solids

Our eighth graders are mastering formulas for finding the volume of 3D solids, including spheres, cylinders, cones, and prisms. This work prepares them for next week’s exciting cross-curricular project-based learning initiative, where students will design original 3D solid creations and produce bilingual advertisements to market them. This is a blend of math, engineering, design, and world language and it will showcase the power of group work and performance-based assessments helping students transfer skills to meaningful real-world applications.

Why SJHA Embraces Project-Based Learning Across Grades

In 4th grade science, 5th grade science, and 8th grade math, students are fully immersed in hands-on, inquiry-driven learning. Our school embraces this model because:

• It builds critical thinking and creativity
• It supports teamwork and communication
• It mirrors real-life problem-solving
• It offers performance-based assessments that allow students to show what they know

Project-based learning ensures SJHA students are deeply engaged while developing the skills needed for future academic success.

7th & 8th Grade Spanish 

Our 7th graders are building sentences using estar, prepositions of location, and emotions, while our 8th graders are learning to express the future using ir + a + infinitive. Learning a foreign language is a powerful part of a child’s academic journey. It enhances cognitive development, broadens cultural awareness, and strengthens communication skills.

We are especially proud to be one of the only Catholic schools on Staten Island offering Spanish in every grade from Pre-K through 8th grade. With two dedicated Spanish teachers and several bilingual faculty members, our students enjoy continuity, cultural exposure, and strong language foundations that will benefit them for years to come.

Music

From Pre-K to 8th grade, Mrs. Innocente works enthusiastically to bring the gift of music into every classroom. SJHA prioritizes Music education because it enhances creativity, memory, confidence, and emotional expression. We believe these are essential elements of a complete education. Students are joyfully preparing for upcoming celebrations, including the Immaculate Conception, Christmas Tree Lighting, Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Christmas Assembly, and Christmas Mass. Music helps us pray, celebrate, and come together as a school community.

Christmas Fair Info and Times

A visiting schedule by grade can be found below. Each grade will visit the Christmas Fair for one hour.

When arriving at school to visit the Christmas Fair, you may not park on campus, please find legal parking nearby. No driving or parking on campus is permitted. Parents may enter the building at the Golden Doors as the Christmas Fair will be held in the main gym on the first floor.

The Christmas Fair will have games to play, raffle baskets, Christmas pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus, a bakery section, a craft table and merchandise to purchase. Most items are $15 and under. The Christmas Fair is cash only.

We will have one table set up with some Hillwear from our Campus Store - credit cards can be used to purchase Hillwear. 

If you pre-ordered a ticket packet, they will be given out to your child by their teacher the morning of the Fair. Ticket packets will also be sold at the Christmas Fair for cash payment. (Fair share will not be accepted at the Fair)

This year's Super Raffle is 4 tickets to a Knicks vs Nets game, with food vouchers included! Super raffle tickets will be on sale for $5 per ticket. 

December 10

7:50-8:50 - Kindergarten

9:00-10:00 - 1st Grade

10:10- 11:10 - Pre-K 3&4

11:20- 12:20 - 2nd Grade

12:30- 1:30 - 3rd Grade

December 11

7:50-8:50 - 4th Grade

9:00- 10:00 - 6th Grade

10:10- 11:10 - 7th Grade

11:20 - 12:20 - 8th Grade

12:30- 1:30  - 5th Grade

With much appreciation for your support,

Executive Council & Christmas Fair Committee - sjhaxmasfair@gmail.com 

Save the Date: Spotlight Theater Company at St. Joseph Hill Academy Elementary School Presents: Willy Wonka Jr.!

Get ready for a world of pure imagination! Our talented elementary school students will be taking the stage for their spectacular production of Willy Wonka Jr. on:

Friday, January 9th

Saturday, January 10th

This magical musical adventure is sure to delight families of all ages—filled with laughter, music, surprises, and the incredible creativity of our young performers.

Tickets go on sale Monday, December 15th at 8:00 AM!

Be sure to mark your calendars and grab your seats early—this show is always a sell-out!

And that’s not all…

Keep an eye out for our special sale of Wonka Bars! Some bars will contain Golden Tickets with exciting prizes and special deals. Don’t miss your chance to win something sweet while supporting our school production!

Stay tuned for more delicious details and get ready for a show you won’t forget!

Reminders and Flyers below (all images are clickable and will lead you to relevant website)

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