Dear Families,

As we come to the close of another remarkable school year at St. Stephen’s, our hearts are full. Together, we’ve built a year rooted in connection, discovery, and the quiet, steady power of community. From the first cheerful greetings at the Back to School Rally in August to the laughter echoing across the field on the final day of school, this has been a year of growing kinder and smarter, just as we always strive to do.

We watched our students form deep friendships and take on new challenges, both big and small. In September, colorful pinwheels danced in the church garden during Pinwheels for Peace, a beautiful reflection of our commitment to justice and empathy. Later that fall, the halls were buzzing with excitement as we welcomed loved ones to Grandparents and Special Friends Day—a cherished tradition that reminds us of the wider circle that surrounds and supports our children.

As the holidays approached, the entire community gathered in the Nave for our Christmas Program, a joyful celebration of light, song, and the spirit of the season. It was a moment of warmth and wonder, made all the more special by the voices and hearts of our students.

Throughout the year, our students led meaningful celebrations of culture and identity—through vibrant Hispanic Heritage Month presentations, the cultural fair, and Black History Month storytelling. They explored the world through hands-on invention fairs, science expos, author showcases, and performances in music, Spanish, and theatre. They learned not just facts, but how to collaborate, speak up, reflect, and lead.

In the spring, we saw students and families reconnect at the All School Playground Meetup, a simple but powerful reminder that community is often built in shared spaces, with laughter, snacks, and time to be together.

Through it all, our IGROW values guided every step:
Integrity in our actions,
Grace in our challenges,
Respect for ourselves and one another,
Optimism in our outlook,
and Wisdom in our choices.

It’s these values that allowed our buddy program to flourish, our South by St. Stephen’s festival to shine, and our students to boldly perform, present, and create in front of peers and families alike. It’s what makes this place feel like home.

To our teachers and staff, thank you for your unwavering dedication. To our families, thank you for entrusting us with your children, partnering with us, and showing up in countless ways. To our students, thank you for inspiring us every day with your questions, your laughter, and your hearts.

We wish each of you a restful, joy-filled summer. We can’t wait to see where next year takes us.

With gratitude,
Team SSESH