January Student and Family Newsletter

Dear Families,

Happy New Year and welcome back to an exciting second half of the school year at Immaculate Conception School! As we step into 2025, we are filled with hope and optimism for all the opportunities that lie ahead. A new year is a chance to reflect, refocus, and recommit ourselves to the mission of growth, faith, and learning.

In Philippians 3:13-14, St. Paul writes, “Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” These words inspire us to embrace the fresh start that each new year brings, reminding us to look ahead with purpose and determination.

At ICS, we are excited for the many events, projects, and moments of joy awaiting us in the coming months. From academic milestones to faith-filled celebrations, there is much to look forward to as we continue our journey together as one community.

Let us approach this new season with open hearts, ready to embrace growth and support one another in every endeavor. We are better together, and we thank you for entrusting us with the gift of your children’s education.

Here’s to a wonderful new year filled with blessings, opportunities, and success for all.

With gratitude and prayers,
Morris Johnson
Principal, Immaculate Conception School

This Month at the Immaculate Conception School

Respect Life Liturgy

On Monday, January 13th, the ICS school community will participate in the Respect Life Liturgy. The Respect Life Mass is a deeply meaningful celebration that calls us to reflect on the sacredness and dignity of all human life, from conception to natural death. Rooted in our Catholic faith, this Mass reminds us of our shared responsibility to honor and protect life in all its forms and stages.

During the Mass, we gather as a community to pray for those whose lives are most vulnerable—unborn children, the elderly, the sick, the marginalized, and the oppressed. The readings and prayers encourage us to embrace a spirit of compassion and advocacy, reminding us of Christ’s call to care for "the least of these" (Matthew 25:40).

The homily often challenges us to reflect on our role as stewards of life. It may address current social and moral issues such as abortion, euthanasia, poverty, and systemic injustice, while calling us to action through prayer, education, and service. This is an opportunity to renew our commitment to being witnesses of the Gospel and voices for the voiceless in our world.

Throughout the Mass, we are invited to unite our prayers with those of the universal Church for a culture of life—a world where every person is valued and protected. The Respect Life Mass is not only a time for reflection but also a celebration of hope, recognizing the power of love and faith to transform hearts and build a more just society.

As we leave the Respect Life Mass, we carry with us a renewed sense of mission: to defend the dignity of every human being and to promote a world that reflects God’s infinite love for all His children.

Tips for Talking to Students About the Respect Life Mass

• Start Simple:

  • Younger children: Emphasize God’s love and that every life is special.

    • Example: "We prayed at Mass because everyone is special to God."

  • Older students: Discuss themes of dignity, respect, and caring for vulnerable people.

• Encourage Questions:

  • Invite your child to share what they noticed or thought about during the Mass.

  • Be ready to listen and answer thoughtfully.

• Connect to Daily Life:

  • Younger children: "We respect life by being kind, sharing, and helping others."

  • Older students: "Respecting life means standing up for fairness and helping those in need."

• Include Prayer:

  • Encourage your child to pray for those who need help, like the unborn, the sick, or the poor.

• Address Tough Topics with Sensitivity:

  • Use age-appropriate language to discuss issues like abortion or social justice.

  • Emphasize empathy and the Church’s belief in the dignity of all life.

• Inspire Action:

  • Younger children: Help a friend, share, or donate items.

  • Older students: Volunteer, write letters, or join school/parish initiatives.

• End with Hope:

  • Remind your child that respecting life helps make the world a better place.

Enrollment Season

We are excited to announce that Immaculate Conception School is entering our enrollment season! As we continue to grow and build upon the incredible community we have created together, we need your help in spreading the word about our school and attracting new students and families.

This year, we have set an ambitious goal of welcoming 150 new students and families to Immaculate Conception School. To reach this milestone, it will take the collective efforts of our entire school community. Together, we can make it happen!

Here are some simple, practical ways you can support our enrollment efforts:

1. Post and Repost on Social Media

   • Share our school's mission and accomplishments on your own social media accounts.

   • Repost our Instagram stories and posts to help extend our reach to your network.

2. Leave a Positive Review on Google Maps

   • Visit our school’s Google Maps page and leave a positive review and rating.

   • A few kind words about your experience at ICS can go a long way in helping prospective families learn more about us.

3. Spread the Word

   • Talk to your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors about our school.

   • Encourage them to schedule a tour or learn more about what we have to offer.

4. Bring a Friend to School Events

   • Invite a prospective family to join us for a school event or community activity to see our vibrant school in action.

Your involvement plays a critical role in ensuring our school continues to thrive and serve as a place where students excel academically, grow spiritually, and are nurtured in a community rooted in faith and family.

Let’s work together to reach our goal of 150 new students and families. Every conversation, share, and positive review makes a difference. Thank you for your continued partnership and for helping to make Immaculate Conception School the special place that it is.

Winter Administration of NWEA

We are preparing to administer our second round of NWEA MAP testing in the coming weeks. This assessment is an important tool that helps us understand your child’s academic growth and progress over time. We are excited to see how our students have advanced since the beginning of the school year and use this data to guide instruction that meets their individual needs.

What is the NWEA MAP Test?

The NWEA Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) is a computer-adaptive test that measures a student’s skills in key subject areas such as math, reading, and language usage. Unlike traditional standardized tests, the MAP assessment adjusts to each student’s learning level, providing a personalized testing experience that delivers precise information about what they know and what they are ready to learn next.

Why is the MAP Test Important?

The MAP assessment is valuable because it:

• Tracks Growth Over Time: Provides insights into your child’s academic progress throughout the school year and from year to year.

• Informs Instruction: Helps teachers identify areas of strength and areas where additional support may be needed, allowing for tailored instruction.

• Prepares Students for the Future: Offers a benchmark for how students are performing compared to national norms, helping to ensure they are on track for success.

How Can You Support Your Child?

As we approach the testing period, here are some ways you can help your child prepare and perform their best:

1. Encourage Rest: Ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep before each testing day to help them stay focused and alert.

2. Provide a Healthy Breakfast: A nutritious meal on the morning of the test will give them the energy they need to concentrate.

3. Promote a Positive Mindset: Remind your child that this test is simply a tool to help their teachers understand how to support their learning. Encourage them to try their best without feeling stressed.

4. Discuss the Test: Talk with your child about the MAP test and its purpose, so they feel prepared and confident.

5. Ensure Timely Arrival: Arriving at school on time creates a calm and organized start to their day.

We appreciate your partnership in supporting your child’s success. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about the NWEA MAP test or how to help your child prepare.

Second Quarter Report Cards

As we begin the new year, we want to remind you that the second quarter will officially end on January 31st. With just three weeks remaining, this is a crucial time for students to focus on their studies, complete any outstanding assignments, and work hard to maintain or improve their grades.

Important Information for Families

To ensure academic success, we are closely monitoring student progress. Families of students who currently have an average of 70% or lower in English Language Arts (ELA) or Math will receive a Promotion in Doubt Letter in the coming weeks. This letter is an early notice designed to open a dialogue between school and home, not a final decision about retention or summer school placement.

What Does This Notice Mean?

Receiving a Promotion in Doubt Letter does not mean that your child has been retained or will automatically be referred to summer school. Instead, it serves as a proactive step to:

• Alert Families: Provide transparency about your child’s current academic standing.

• Encourage Collaboration: Allow students, families, and teachers to work together to improve grades.

• Avoid Consequences: Offer time and resources to help students strengthen their academic performance.

How Can You Support Your Child?

If you receive this letter or are concerned about your child’s grades, here are some steps to take:

1. Check Progress: Review your child’s assignments and assessments in ELA and Math to identify areas needing improvement.

2. Communicate with Teachers: Reach out to your child’s teachers for guidance, resources, or suggestions to support learning at home.

3. Encourage Consistency: Help your child establish a study routine and stay on top of upcoming assignments and tests.

4. Utilize Resources: Take advantage of tutoring sessions, online tools, and other resources provided by the school.

Let’s Finish Strong!

We are committed to helping every student succeed and are here to support your family in this effort. Let’s work together to ensure all students finish the second quarter strong and remain on track for success.

Catholic Schools Week at ICS

Get ready for one of the most exciting weeks of the year—Catholic Schools Week 2025! This year, we are thrilled to revamp our celebrations with a fresh focus on collaboration and community, involving our parents, local community members, students, and staff in a vibrant celebration of all that makes Catholic education extraordinary.

Our theme this year is "Students Today, Professionals Tomorrow"—a reflection of our commitment to nurturing well-rounded, faith-filled individuals who are prepared to excel in their future endeavors. Throughout the week, we will highlight the skills, values, and knowledge our students are building today that will serve as the foundation for their success as tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

Why Catholic Education?

Catholic schools offer more than just academic excellence. Rooted in faith and driven by values, our education equips students with the tools to grow intellectually, spiritually, and morally. As part of the Archdiocese of New York’s mission, Catholic schools are called to "ensure the evangelizing mission of the Church," providing a community where students can encounter Christ while developing their God-given talents. At Immaculate Conception School, we embrace this mission by striving to guide each child to a future that reflects their highest potential.

A Week Full of Celebration and Opportunities

We have an exciting lineup of events planned, designed to celebrate the beauty of Catholic education while fostering community connections. Highlights include:

• Parent and Community Involvement: Join us for special events where parents and community members can witness firsthand the incredible work our students are doing.

• Career Day: Inspiring professionals from our community will share their journeys, showcasing the many possibilities that await our students.

• Service Projects: In the spirit of our faith, we will engage in acts of kindness and service to give back to those in need.

• Student Showcases: Students will display their talents, creativity, and academic achievements through presentations, performances, and exhibitions.

• Staff and Faculty Appreciation: A heartfelt recognition of the dedicated educators and staff who make Catholic education possible.

Join the Celebration!

We invite every member of our school community to be part of this joyful week. Whether you’re a parent, a parishioner, or a local community member, your presence and participation will help make this celebration even more special.

Career Day 2025

We are thrilled to invite parents to participate as presenters in this year’s Career Day at Immaculate Conception School, which will be held on January 31st from 9:00-11:00!

This exciting event aligns with our Catholic Schools Week theme “Students Today, Professionals Tomorrow” and celebrates the incredible talents and professions of our families. We firmly believe that students benefit immensely from seeing the dedication and passion that our families bring to their work.

As a Career Day Parent Presenter, you will be asked to:

• Present a 10-minute slideshow about your career or profession.

• Allow time for student questions (5 minutes).

• Lead this session for 5 groups of students ranging from Pre-K to 8th grade.

While we hope to include as many parents as possible, please note:

• We may not be able to accommodate all volunteers due to limited slots and classroom availability.

• Parents with similar career paths may be partnered to present together.

• We will confirm participation and provide additional details once we finalize the schedule.

Your participation will inspire our students and offer them a glimpse into the diverse careers they can aspire to. Thank you for considering this opportunity to share your expertise and story with our school community!

If interested, please complete the signup form linked here.

Launching our One-to-One Chromebook Program

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our one-to-one computer program, a significant step forward in enhancing the educational experience for our students in grades 1-8. Starting this month, each student will be assigned a Chromebook for use during the school day. This initiative reflects our commitment to providing a modern, engaging, and equitable learning environment that prepares students for the demands of their academic careers and beyond.

To ensure the effective and responsible use of these devices, we will be sharing a Chromebook Usage Agreement with families by next week. This agreement will outline the expectations for both students and families regarding the care, use, and security of the Chromebooks. Families are required to review, sign, and return the agreement before students receive their assigned devices. Please keep an eye out for this important document.

General Acceptable Use Policies 

As part of this program, we emphasize the importance of digital responsibility. Students are expected to:

1. Use Devices for Educational Purposes Only: Chromebooks are tools for learning and should be used for classwork, research, and school-related activities.

2. Treat Devices with Care: Students should handle Chromebooks responsibly and avoid activities that may damage the device.

3. Maintain Security: Students should not share their login credentials and must only access their assigned Chromebook.

4. Follow School Guidelines: Adhere to all rules outlined in the Chromebook Usage Agreement and the school’s broader technology policy.

5. Practice Digital Citizenship: Use the internet and applications in a respectful, safe, and ethical manner.

Failure to adhere to these policies may result in disciplinary actions, including restricted access to the Chromebook.

Academic Benefits This one-to-one Chromebook program represents a pivotal investment in our academic program. By integrating this technology, we aim to:

• Enhance Learning Opportunities: Chromebooks will provide students with access to a wide range of educational tools, platforms, and resources, making lessons more interactive and engaging.

• Develop Digital Skills: Familiarity with technology will prepare students for the technological expectations of high school, college, and the workforce.

• Promote Collaboration: Students can work more effectively with peers and teachers through shared documents, virtual discussions, and real-time feedback.

• Personalize Education: Adaptive learning tools and platforms will allow students to progress at their own pace, addressing individual strengths and areas for growth.

We are excited about the possibilities this program brings to our school community and are confident it will empower our students to excel. Thank you for your partnership as we continue to strengthen our academic offerings and prepare our students for a bright future.

8th Grade High School Process

As we approach the arrival of high school acceptance letters, we want to provide guidance to support you through this exciting time. For families applying to highly selective private, independent, and parochial schools requiring financial aid, here are the next steps:

• Review Acceptance and Financial Aid Offers: Carefully read all financial aid packages and meet deadlines for accepting offers or submitting additional documents.

• Advocate for Financial Aid: If the financial aid offer does not meet your needs, contact the school’s financial aid office to inquire about an appeal process. Be prepared to provide updated financial documentation if necessary.

• Share Information with Ms. Pagan: Please provide copies of all acceptance letters and financial aid offers to Ms. Pagan so she can continue to assist you in the matriculation process and advocate on your behalf.

This is a moment to celebrate your child’s hard work and dedication, and we are here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to Ms. Pagan or the school office. Together, we’ll ensure a smooth transition to high school for all our students.

We’re thrilled to share the basketball schedule for our ICS Eagles! Our players have been working hard, showing great teamwork and dedication both on and off the court. We’d love to see our ICS families in the stands, cheering them on whenever you’re able to make it. Your support means the world to our athletes and adds to the vibrant spirit of our community. Go Eagles!

Basketball Game Schedule

Christmas at ICS: A Magical Celebration!

This year’s Christmas festivities at ICS were nothing short of magical! From joyful performances to cherished moments with friends and family, the season was truly special. We captured almost 2,700 photos to commemorate these memories, and we’re excited to share them with you.

Given the large volume of photos, we kindly ask families to download and review the images, selecting the specific ones they’d like to have edited. Once you’ve chosen your favorites, please send them back to us for final editing.

We apologize for not being able to make this process more seamless, but we hope this approach allows us to share the best moments with you more efficiently. Thank you for your understanding, and we hope these photos bring joy to your holiday season!

Santa’s Workshop Photos can be found here.

Please email your selected photos to [email protected]

ICS Lessons and Carols 2024

Relive the beauty and reverence of the ICS 2024 Lessons and Carols through this recorded performance! This cherished tradition brought our school community together in joyful song and scripture, celebrating the story of Christ’s birth. Experience the heartfelt performances by our talented students, friends of ICS and choir, showcasing the spirit of faith and togetherness that defines ICS. Let this recording fill your hearts with the hope and peace of the Christmas season.

Please forgive Mr. Johnson’s videography skills. He did his best. You can find the video by following the link below.

ICS Lessons and Carols 2024