Hallway 8.22.2025

Last Friday, our students gathered for one of our most beloved traditions—the annual Buddy Match! Each child was paired with a buddy from another level, creating connections that span across classrooms and grade levels. These relationships are an important part of our school-wide community, giving younger students role models to look up to and offering older students the chance to practice leadership and care.

This week, buddies sat together in chapel for the first time, a simple but powerful reminder of the bonds that grow when we come together. Throughout the year, they’ll share lunches, reading time, and special activities, strengthening friendships that help make St. Stephen’s feel like one big family. The Buddy Program is a beautiful reflection of the values we hold dear—integrity, growth, respect, optimism, and wisdom—lived out in the relationships between our students.

Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a family can make. You’ve already chosen St. Stephen’s for your child, and you know the difference a nurturing, joyful, and inspiring environment can make. Do you have a friend, neighbor, or family member who is still searching for that kind of place? Invite them to experience our community at our first Orientation & Primary School Tour on Tuesday, September 9.

They can sign up here: Tour Registration!

Mark your calendars—the first Elementary & Middle Years Tour will be on September 23.

Join us for our next All School Chapel on Wednesday, September 17th at 8:30 am as we celebrate International Peace Day with a theme of peace and unity. Students have been working on pinwheels that reflect their thoughts and feelings about the world around them. At the conclusion of the service, the pinwheels will be placed in the Church Garden, creating a meaningful display for our community.

Started in 2005 by teachers Ann Ayers and Ellen McMillan, Pinwheels for Peace invites students everywhere to reflect on the world and their own experiences. We look forward to seeing our students’ expressions of peace!

Embark on a hands-on journey of discovery as we delve into the Montessori program at SSESH. From Orientation to Middle Years, step into each classroom as an incoming student and gain a profound understanding of our unique approach to learning. You’ll begin by observing the carefully curated environments, taking in the array of materials available at each level. Then, you’ll have the opportunity to engage directly with these materials, exploring how they contribute to the holistic educational experience we offer. After completing your journey, we’ll gather to debrief, share reflections, and discuss insights.

Childcare will be provided for currently enrolled St. Stephen’s students, so you can fully immerse yourself in this enlightening experience. To ensure childcare, please RSVP to lnewchurch@ssesh.org by September 12th.

Bulldog 360 classes start right after the school day, with students transitioning from their classroom to their activity group.

Parent Pick-Up

• All pick-up will take place outside of Pecore Hall—please use the Sul Ross carpool line.

• Extended care students will be taken directly to their aftercare location.

• Check your email from Ms. Celia for individual class pick-up times.

Thank you for helping us keep dismissal safe and organized! For questions, contact Celia Hughes at chughes@ssesh.org or 713-821-9100.

We’re excited to share that St. Stephen’s is part of Minted’s Fundraising Program! When you shop Minted’s beautiful cards, gifts, and art, you’ll enjoy 20% off your order—and Minted will donate 10% back to our school, all year long.

How to participate:

1. Visit Minted.com
2. Use promo code FUNDRAISESTEPHENS at checkout

It’s a great way to save on unique, high-quality products while supporting SSESH at the same time!