Yeehaw for Go Texan Day!
What a rootin’-tootin’ day on campus! From boots and bandanas to denim, fringe, and cowboy hats, our hallways were full of Texas pride as students, teachers, and administrators showed up and showed out for Go Texan Day. The energy was high, the smiles were big, and the Bulldog spirit was shining bright.
A huge thank you to Troy and Nikki Guard — parents of Jameson (1st grade) and Jagger (5th grade) — and owners of Guard and Grace — along with their entire incredible team for the amazing Tex-Mex feast they generously provided for our community. From tacos and quesadillas to all the delicious fixings, it was a lunch to remember. Our students, faculty, and staff were absolutely thrilled.
One of the sweetest parts of the day? Watching our students enjoy an indoor picnic together in Pecore Hall — sitting on blankets, sharing laughs, connecting with friends from other levels, and chowing down while a little country music played in the background. It felt joyful, relaxed, and beautifully communal.
And in a moment that made the day even more special, Jameson and Jagger stepped into the kitchen to serve as honorary sous chefs alongside their parents. What a gift to see family, generosity, and community come together in such a hands-on way.
We are incredibly grateful for the Guards’ generosity and heart for St. Stephen’s. Today was more than just great food — it was connection, celebration, and community at its finest.
Upper Elementary Cultural Fair
Yesterday’s Upper Elementary Cultural Fair was a vibrant celebration of learning, creativity, and global awareness. After weeks of research and preparation, our students brought Central and South America to life through colorful displays, informative reports, traditional art, music, dance, and delicious food tastings. From beautifully designed posters to interactive presentations and passport stamps for visitors, the room was buzzing with energy and pride.
What makes this annual tradition so special is not just the final showcase, but the depth of understanding behind it. Students explored geography, history, culture, economics, and daily life — then confidently shared their knowledge with peers, teachers, and guests. Watching them speak with such ownership and enthusiasm about their countries was a powerful reminder of the meaningful, hands-on learning happening in Upper Elementary every day.
We are so proud of their hard work, collaboration, and curiosity. The Cultural Fair continues to be a highlight of the year — a joyful celebration of global learning and community.
Upcoming Events
Building Primary Connections
Current Primary families and rising Primary families are invited to join the Room Parents for a fun, off-campus playdate to connect, play, and start building relationships before next year! This is not an official SSESH-sponsored event, just a casual opportunity for families to gather and get to know one another.
Please RSVP and sign up for snacks/drinks: HERE.
Questions? Contact Kelsey Bowen at kelseymbowen@gmail.com
Picture Make-Up & Re-Take Day
Picture make-up and re-take day will take place on Thursday, March 5, in the morning. Any student who was absent on picture day will have their photo taken, and students who would like a re-take are also welcome. Please email lnewchurch@ssesh.org if you’d like your child to receive a picture make-up.
Get Your Tickets Starting Friday, March 6th
Get ready to boogie, Bulldogs! Tickets and tables for our 2026 Gala, A Saturday Night at Studio 54, go on sale Friday, March 6th.
Join us on Saturday, April 18th, beginning at 6:00 PM at the fabulous C. Baldwin Hotel for a night of disco, dancing, dinner, auctions, and community — all in support of St. Stephen’s Episcopal School.
Mark your calendar, rally your table crew, and get ready for a sparkling evening you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for the ticket link coming soon!
Spring Break Reminder
SSESH will be closed Monday, March 9, through Friday, March 13, for Spring Break. We hope your family enjoys a restful, joy-filled week together—whether you are traveling or simply slowing down at home. We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for a strong finish to the spring semester!
Meet, Play, Belong
Current Elementary families and rising 1st grade families are invited to join the upcoming Kindergarten, Lower & Upper Elementary meet-up! This is not an official SSESH-sponsored event, just a fun, off-campus opportunity to build community and connect before next year.
Please RSVP and indicate pizza/snack participation: HERE.
Questions? Contact Allissa Ward at allissaward12@gmail.com
Iowa Assessments
Students in 2nd–8th grade will take the Iowa Assessments during the week of March 23. This nationally normed assessment provides a helpful snapshot of each student’s academic progress. At SSESH, we use this information thoughtfully—as one of many tools—to better understand student growth and guide instruction.
Please help your child come prepared each day with a good night’s sleep, a healthy breakfast, and a calm, confident mindset. We are proud of the hard work our students do every day, and this is simply another opportunity for them to show what they know!
2025/2026 At-A-Glance Calendar
Bulldog Compliments
At St. Stephen’s, we have an easy way for anyone in the St. Stephen’s community to show their appreciation for a faculty, staff, or leadership team member. We call it sending a “Bulldog Compliment.”
Here is how it works. Click the Send A Bulldog Compliment image and follow the prompts. It only takes a few clicks, and you are done.
All compliments are anonymous and will be sent to the person (or persons) you choose to recognize. There is no limit to how many you can send, so be as generous as you wish!