We are back, Stuart! The excitement of the first day of school was contagious as students, families, faculty, and staff returned to campus, ready to Step Into Their Power for the 2024-2025 school year.
The day began in community with prayer, reflection, and celebration. As Ms. Wall and three students, representing each division, led the symbolic ringing of the bell at the Sundial Garden, we were reminded of Stuart's rich history, steeped in over 200 years of Sacred Heart tradition. Following the bell-ringing, the entire school gathered in Cor Unum for the opening Convocation, where remarks were given by a student from each division, Jamila (Grade 4), Ella (Grade 8), and Nyla (Grade 12). This was followed by a reading of the Sacred Heart Goals, with students and adults chosen to bring an artifact representing each Goal up to the stage.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Wall touched upon the nearly completed Cor Cordis project, describing it as a beautiful "work in progress." In keeping with the theme of being a work in progress, a slideshow of the senior class was shown, featuring images of them at various ages and stages of their growth at Stuart. Laughter and sentimental reactions erupted from the senior section of the room as the images advanced. Ms. Wall commented on the seniors' growth as a model for the rest of the student body: “Each one of our seniors has had goals and dreams for their lives. They’ve had many successes, and also some moments of disappointment, doubt, and struggle. Throughout their years of growing up, they made space for new goals and dreams, and kept taking steps forward toward their true, powerful selves within THIS community—among friends, faculty and staff, parents, and all community members who truly care about them. None of them are perfect, and no one is asking them to be."
In closing, and in the spirit of the theme Step Into Your Power, Ms. Wall encouraged students to focus on self-care and growth: “I’m not asking you to feel perfectly powerful and strong every day… instead, take care of yourself, and take one step forward each day towards your goals and dreams.”
On the second day of school, parents and guardians gathered for a welcome back reception at Lainie’s House (the home of the Wall family). It was a wonderful opportunity for new families to begin making connections and building relationships within the Stuart community. Ms. Wall emphasized the importance of fostering connections and encouraged parents to get involved with the Stuart Parent Association, reinforcing Stuart’s commitment to Goal 4: building community as a Christian value.
As we enter a new school year together, guided by a Cor Cordis mindset, let us take care of ourselves and each other. The stage is set for a year of growth, leadership, and community as we continue to Step Into Our Power together!
Click here for photos from the day and from our community. If you would like to contribute to our community album, please email news@stuartschool.org.
Click here for photos FROM THE RECEPTION.
Click here to watch our video from the first day of school and scroll down for photos.