This past week, Holy Cross School was closed on Monday in observance of Labor Day. We hope all of our students, families, faculty, and staff enjoyed a restful long weekend. After our first full week of school, the additional day offered everyone a welcome opportunity to pause, recharge, and prepare for the weeks ahead.
Tuesday and Wednesday were quiet days on campus as our students and teachers returned to their routines. On Thursday, however, our campus came alive as we celebrated our annual First Responders Day. We extend our deepest gratitude to Mrs. Barton for the tremendous amount of time and care she devoted to coordinating this event. Planning began last school year, and Mrs. Barton worked diligently to connect with first responders throughout our community and bring this meaningful experience to our students.
Our campus welcomed an incredible variety of agencies and emergency personnel. Students saw a Delaware State Police helicopter, mounted police officers and their horses, canine units, ambulances, the Dover Police Department bicycle unit, the Mobile Crisis Center, lifeguards from the Delaware beaches, and many others. They also participated in CPR simulations and learned firsthand about the important responsibilities of those who serve and protect us.
Many members of our school community have family members who work in law enforcement or emergency services. We are especially grateful for the opportunity to honor them and help our students better understand their dedication, courage, and sacrifice. Thank you, Mrs. Barton, and thank you to all the first responders who serve our communities each day.
On Friday, we commemorated the twenty fifth anniversary of the attacks of September 11. We began our morning with a prayer service honoring the innocent lives lost and the brave men and women who responded with extraordinary courage. A special thank you goes to our choir for singing “God Bless America.” It was a beautiful and moving moment that allowed us to remember our nation, its heroes, and all those whose lives were forever changed by that tragic day.
During the service, we also paused to remember Corporal Matthew “Ty” Snook and offered a special prayer for him and his loved ones. We were honored to welcome members of his family to our campus that morning.
Following the prayer service, students gathered throughout campus to cheer for the Delaware Law Enforcement Thank You Ride. Participating officers rode their bicycles across Delaware over two days to recognize and thank members of law enforcement. Many rode in honor of a fallen officer, including those who carried Corporal Snook’s name through our campus. Together, we cheered, prayed, and remembered. Although Corporal Snook lost his life last year, his legacy of service will continue to live on. We will keep him and his family in our hearts, memories, and prayers.
This week reminded us of the courage shown by law enforcement officers and first responders each day. They leave their families to serve others, protect our communities, and save lives. As a Catholic school community, one of the greatest gifts we can offer is our continued gratitude and prayer.
Next week, we are especially excited to begin with our Feast of the Holy Cross Mass, celebrating our school’s feast day. Our eighth grade students will lead us in procession and prayer as we honor the cross of Christ and the hope, love, and salvation it represents.
September is certainly a busy month on campus, but we are grateful for every opportunity to gather in faith, reflection, and fellowship. Thank you, as always, for your continued support of Holy Cross School. May God bless you and your families.
Mrs. O’Mara
