Dear Parents and Friends of St. Andrew the Apostle School,

With the news that Brother Martin High School will have a 7th grade next year, I thought it would be important for everyone to know our feelings and plans for the future.

SAS is academically strong and committed to meeting the needs of all our children.  For the 2010-2011 school year St. Andrew will have 7th and 8th grade.  Our enrollment has never been affected by those schools that currently have a 7th grade.   We have maintained  large 8th grade classes over the past years whose members have gone on to Catholic high schools as well as to Ben Franklin.

St. Andrew is a great preparation for high school and beyond.  The success of our students is evident in the high percentage of those accepted into the high school of their choice.  Our kids have always been highly recruited by the best high schools in New Orleans.

We believe that 7th grade is too young for “kids” to leave us before we can complete the mission entrusted to us since pre-kindergarten.  Children are growing up too fast.   Our boys and girls learn appropriate social skills together and create memories with lifelong friends in our solid “Family and Parish” environment.  Our Masses and curriculum are designed for our students to facilitate their emotional, educational, and spiritual development during these formative years.  Our 7th and 8th graders learn how to lead and be role models for the younger students.  Their confidence develops beyond their own expectations because of their achievements and their security.

The advantages of staying at SAS are many:

* Smaller classes
* Leadership opportunities
* Child friendly environment with age appropriate play areas, equipment, and activities
* Academic reputation
* Co-ed environment which provides the opportunity to learn socialization skills
* Lower tuition
* Convenience of attending neighborhood school
* More opportunities to participate in team sports
* Supervised before and after school care

There will be plenty of opportunities for teens to enjoy high school events when they reach their teenage years.  Please, let the children enjoy their childhood in an age appropriate environment.

Our love for your children is steadfast.  We support and pray for all of our families, and we just wanted you to know that we are here to stay.

Please feel free to call if you have any questions or comments.

Sincerely In Christ,

Rev. Paul S. Hart
Pastor, St. Andrew