Get ready for our student-only Fall Party on the morning of Friday, November 1st! This fun-filled event is just for students and will feature performances of songs and dances, field games, arts and crafts, and more! Students are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes to school on this day (please avoid wearing them on Halloween itself). Remember, no weapons or costumes that aren’t comfortable or appropriate for school.

Parents are invited to join us in the Nave from 8:30-9:00 am to watch students from Primary to Middle Years perform special Halloween-themed dances and songs. We kindly ask that parents leave afterward so the children can enjoy the rest of the day with their classmates.

Join us on Thursday, November 14th, from 5:00-6:30 pm for an insightful Parent Education session on Language and Culture in the Montessori Classrooms from Orientation to Middle Years. In Montessori, “culture” includes history, geography, botany, and zoology, offering a holistic learning experience. Discover how language development is woven into cultural studies, as children build vocabulary and explore the natural world. Learn how these subjects nurture curiosity, global awareness, and a deep understanding of the world. Whether you’re new to Montessori or familiar with its methods, this session will provide valuable insights into your child’s educational journey.

Please RSVP to Liz Newchurch at lnewchurch@ssesh.org.

Mark your calendars for Grandparents and Special Friends Day on Friday, November 22nd—which is also an early dismissal day! This beloved tradition gives students the chance to share their school experience with a grandparent or a special friend. More details will be coming soon, but in the meantime, feel free to let your student’s guest know the date so they can plan to join us for this memorable day. Stay tuned for more information!

We’re thrilled to share this week’s Annual Fund update, showing great growth from last week! As of now, total Annual Fund support has reached $84,099, with overall parent participation rising to 34%. Here’s the breakdown by division: Orientation is at 34%, Primary is at 31%, Lower Elementary leads at 46%, Upper Elementary is at 43%, and Middle Years is at 42%.

As you consider your tax-deductible gift, remember that tuition covers basic costs, while the Annual Fund helps provide the enriching experiences our students deserve. Faculty/Staff and Board member participation remains at 100%—please join them by giving generously today!

Donate Here!

We kindly ask you to take a few minutes to complete our confidential parent survey. Your feedback is invaluable in helping our teachers and administrators understand how we can continue to offer the best education and community for your children and families. As a valued member of our community, your insights will guide us in making improvements and ensuring that we meet your needs.

Please take a moment to share your thoughts by completing the parent survey here: Parent Survey. Thank you for your time and input!

It has been absolutely wonderful to see so many parents on campus during our Bring Your Parent to School Days! Watching our students proudly share their knowledge and give you a little peek into their daily experiences has been a true joy. The excitement in their eyes as they showcased what they’re learning is a beautiful reminder of the meaningful work happening here every day.

We are deeply grateful for our partnership with you and for the opportunity to work together in supporting your children. We are incredibly proud of the academic and emotional growth our students are achieving, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you by our side. Thank you for being such an important part of our school community!

Ready to unwind beneath the starry skies and tall pines? Our annual Fall Retreat is happening November 15-17 at Camp Allen in Navasota, and we invite our entire church and school community to join in the fun!

This is a wonderful opportunity for younger students to become familiar with Camp Allen before their Lower Elementary trip in the spring, and a chance for older students to return to their old stomping grounds. Whether you’re staying 1 night, 2 nights, or just visiting for the day on Saturday, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a range of activities, or simply take the time to relax—sit on a porch, go for a peaceful walk, or indulge in a well-deserved nap. This retreat is designed for you—offering a true escape.

Registration is open now and closes October 30. Don’t miss out!

Register here!

Next week is the last week of October, and your last opportunity to participate in St. Stephen’s SOCKTOBER service project.  Socks are one of the most-needed and least-donated items to shelters. Socktober is a national movement to connect young people with their communities by donating socks and financial support to a local organization that serves people experiencing homelessness. The collection box is in the front of the church by Ms. Whitney’s desk, and you are encouraged to drop off NEW socks any time.  If you would like to make a monetary donation, you can give HERE.