Author: SFA Editor

Spring Break has arrived! We hope this time provides an opportunity for rest, family time, and fun.

School will be closed during the break and will reopen on March 30th at 8:40 am. We look forward to welcoming students back refreshed and ready to learn.

Enjoy a safe and restful break!

Monday, March 30th, 2026:

• Holy Week

Tuesday, March 31st 2026:

Wednesday, April 1st, 2026:

• Lenten Mass K to Grade 7 at 7:45 am
• Chess Club 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm (Students in Grade 4-7 who signed up)

Thursday, April 2nd, 2026:

• Holy Thursday Retreat
• Noon Dismissal, No ASC, No After School Bus

Friday, April 3rd, 2026:

• NO SCHOOL – GOOD FRIDAY

LENTEN ALMS GIVING:
During Lent we give donations (called Alms Giving). As a school we would like to donate to our SFA Parish and help to repair the Tower.

We will have a raffle to raise money to buy some bricks to help repair the Tower. The prizes will be a St Francis mug with some treats in it. There will be 12 chances to win your own St Francis mug or a key chain.

Raffle tickets will be $2.00 each. Students will bring in the money for the raffle Monday March 30th to April 2nd. We will draw the winning tickets on Tuesday, April 7th during our Alleluia Bingo Easter Egg hunt day.

SFA GALA 2026: 

Where: Italian Cultural Centre

Date: April 17, 2026

Time: 6:00 pm

Tickets and tables are on sale! Come and enjoy a night of live music with the Cassandra Maze Band. Buy now and take advantage of early bird pricing available until March 13. Purchase now https://sfaschool.ca/gala-2026/

If you would like to donate to the live or silent auction, please contact Melissa or Pamela at Gala@sfaschool.ca

SUMMER CAMP:
Mrs. Busto and Mr. D will be running a summer camp from July 6th to July 31st. This camp is for current SFA students and incoming SFA students. More details will follow. Please forward any questions to Mrs. Busto or Mr. D.

CONSIGNMENT SALE:
There will be a consignment sale on April 24th at 1:45 pm to 2:30 pm at the front of the school.
Is your child going through a growth spurt and you need another kilt, pants or sweater?  Don’t forget we have gently used uniform items in great condition that are available for a discounted rate; please reach out to Kathryn at  SFAConsignment@gmail.com for further details. 

READING BUDDIES PROGRAM:
Reading Buddies Program @ Britannia Branch
 
Wednesdays, 4 – 5 pm
April 22 – May 13
 
“Reading Buddies pairs a child in Grade 2-4 with a teen “big buddy” for a fun and informal reading practice once a week. The goal of the program is to give middle-years children opportunities to work with teen mentors, who will demonstrate their love of reading and help their buddies become lifelong readers. Reading Buddies is not a tutoring program.”
 
We ask that families commit to the full run of the program – so that is 4 weeks in total. This IS NOT a drop-in program; you do need to register. Registration is now online. Please use the following link to the Reading Buddies page on our website to register.
https://vpl.bibliocommons.com/events/699e0c8b1e64afd01e5dc6b5

Interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith?
Father Lucca continues to lead RCIA classes on Wednesday nights at the parish for any adult interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or who is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church.  RCIA classes will be held from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm.  If you would like more information please contact the parish office at 604-255-8855.  Thank you.

Parent Night with Julia Eckert April 22, 2026 6:30 pm
Julia Eckert is back!  She will lead Part 2 of her series on providing tools and strategies to help make and keep connections with their children.  The topic for April 22 will focus on:  Different Brains, Different Needs: Helping Neurodivergent Children Thrive  All parents are welcome to attend.  (Attendance at Session 1 is not required for attendance at Session 2).  A sign up form will be made available after Spring Break.  If you have any questions please contact Ms. Welsh at d.welsh@sfaschool.ca 

School Calendar: Please click on the link for the school calendar.  https://sfaschool.ca/calendar/

SFA Instagram Page! Follow us on our new Instagram page @sfavancouver to keep up to date on all the news.

UPCOMING DATES:

Apr 6th  – NO SCHOOL – EASTER MONDAY

Apr 7th  – Easter Tuesday Celebration: 9:15 am Mass (Staff), Bingo and Easter Egg Hunt, Mite boxes due back to school

Apr 9th  – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

Apr 10th  – Full Scale Emergency Evacuation Drill 

Apr 11th  – Work Bee 8:30 am

Apr 14h  – Spelling Bee 10:30 am to Noon at Church Hall

Apr 16th  – Confirmation Retreat (Grade 7)

Apr 17th  – SFA Gala at the ICC: 6:00 pm Cocktails & Live Saxophone Music, 7:00 pm Dinner

Apr 21st  – Kindergarten Immunizations

Apr 22nd  – Parent Night with Julia Eckert 6:30 pm

Apr 23rd  – Friars Track Meet at Swangard

Apr 24th  – School Mass (9:15 am) Kindergarten, Confirmation Interviews with Father Lucca

Apr 27th  – Spring Uniform Starts

Apr 29th  – First Communion Retreat 9:00 – Noon, Parent Rehearsal 6:30 pm at the Church

May 1st  – Rosary (Grade 3), Confirmation Interviews with Father Lucca

May 2nd – First Holy Communion at 11:00 am

May 18th  – NO SCHOOL – VICTORIA DAY

May 19th  – NO SCHOOL – PRO-D DAY

___________________________________

Office | St. Francis of Assisi School
870 Victoria Drive, Vancouver BC V5L 4E7

Tel: 604-253-7311
Website: sfaschool.ca
Twitter: @SFASchoolVan
Like us on Facebook: SFASchool

Sunday, March 8th, 2026:

• Daylight Savings:  Turn Your Clocks one hour ahead on Saturday night

Monday, March 9th, 2026:

Tuesday, March 10th 2026:

• Grade 6 Confessions at 10:30 am

Wednesday, March 11th, 2026:

• Kindergarten to Grade 7 Lenten Mass at 7:45 am 
• Speech Arts at St. Joseph’s School
• Confessions Grade 5’s at 9:00 am and Grade 3’s at 10:30 am
• Hot Lunch
• Chess Club 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm (Students in Grade 4-7 who signed up)

Thursday, March 12th, 2026:

• Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser
• PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

Friday, March 13th 2026:

• School Mass at 9:15 am (Grade 5) $2.00 collection for our Foster Child Miguel
• Last Day before Spring Break
• Learning Updates Go Home
• Noon Dismissal, No ASC

CONTACTING TEACHERS / EMAILING OFFICE
Please email the office and class teacher if your child will be away, late for school or leaving early. Please contact the teacher directly regarding any classroom questions.

Kindergarten – Mrs. Busto – c.busto@sfaschool.ca
Grade 1 – Miss Hewiitt – a.hewitt@sfaschool.ca
Grade 2 – Ms. Montcalm – s.montcalm@sfa school.ca
Grade 3 – Ms. Lorenz – a.lorenz@sfaschoo.ca
Grade 4 – Mrs. Sudar – n.sudar@sfaschool.ca, Mr. Colford –
Grade 5 – Miss Gordon – a.colford@sfaschool.ca
Grade 6 – Mr. Sudar – j.sudar@sfaschool.ca, Mr. King – f.king@sfaschool.ca
Grade 7 – Mr. Teodosio – p.teodosio@sfaschool.ca

Miss Pratley – sports@sfaschool.ca
Ms. Raymond – m.raymond@sfaschool.ca
Mrs. Werner – n.werner@sfaschool.ca

CHECK OUT OUR CONSIGNMENT SHOP!
Is your child going through a growth spurt and you need another kilt, pants or sweater?  Don’t forget we have gently used uniform items in great condition that are available for a discounted rate; please reach out to Kathryn at  sfaconsignment@gmail.com for further details. Thank you.

RE-REGISTRATION PACKAGES DUE
Re-registration packages were due back to school on March 5th. Please return you package to the office. Late packages will automatically be charged $50.00.

CELEBRATION OF LEARNING 
Thank you to all the students and parents that came to our Celebration of Learning. We hope you enjoyed seeing all your child(rens) progress this year.

SCHEDULE OF LENTEN MASSES:
This year, like last year, we are encouraging students to make a small sacrifice by attending Lenten morning Masses with their class and teacher on the date below.  Please note that morning Mass begins at 7:45 am and will end around 8:20 am.  Teachers will walk students back to the school once Mass is complete.  Parents are welcome to join the Mass, if they are able to.  

• K-7:  April 1

Interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith?
Father Lucca continues to lead RCIA classes on Wednesday nights at the parish for any adult interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or who is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church.  RCIA classes will be held from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm.  If you would like more information please contact the parish office at 604-255-8855.  Thank you.

SFA GALA 2026: 

Where: Italian Cultural Centre

Date: April 17, 2026

Time: 6:00 pm

Tickets and tables are on sale! Come and enjoy a night of live music with the Cassandra Maze Band. Buy now and take advantage of early bird pricing available until March 13. Purchase now https://sfaschool.ca/gala-2026/

If you would like to donate to the live or silent auction, please contact Melissa or Pamela at Gala@sfaschool.ca

School Calendar: Please click on the link for the school calendar.  https://sfaschool.ca/calendar/

SFA Instagram Page! Follow us on our new Instagram page @sfavancouver to keep up to date on all the news.

UPCOMING DATES:

Mar 16th to 27th  – NO SCHOOL – SPRING BREAK

Mar 16th to 27th  – NO SCHOOL – SPRING BREAK

Mar 30th  – School Re-Opens at 8:40 am, Holy Week

Mar 31st  –  Poverty Lunch (students/staff have bread and water for lunch) Holy Week

Apr 2nd  – Holy Thursday – Noon Dismissal, No ASC

Apr 3rd  – NO SCHOOL – GOOD FRIDAY

Apr 6th  – NO SCHOOL – EASTER MONDAY

Apr 7th  – Easter Tuesday Celebration: 9:15 am Mass (Staff), Bingo and Easter Egg Hunt, Mite boxes due back to school

Apr 9th  – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

Apr 11th  – Work Bee 8:30 am

Apr 14h  – Spelling Bee 10:30 am to Noon at Church Hall

Apr 16th  – Confirmation Retreat (Grade 7)

Apr 17th  – SFA Gala at the ICC: 6:00 pm Cocktails & Live Saxophone Music, 7:00 pm Dinner

Apr 21st  – Kindergarten Immunizations

Apr 23rd  – Friars Track Meet at Swangard

Apr 24th  – School Mass (9:15 am) Kindergarten, Confirmation Interviews with Father Lucca

Apr 27th  – Spring Uniform Starts

Apr 29th  – First Communion Retreat 9:00 – Noon, Parent Rehearsal 6:30 pm at the Church

May 1st  – Rosary (Grade 3), Confirmation Interviews with Father Lucca

May 2nd – First Holy Communion at 11:00 am

May 18th  – NO SCHOOL – VICTORIA DAY

May 19th  – NO SCHOOL – PRO-D DAY

___________________________________

Office | St. Francis of Assisi School
870 Victoria Drive, Vancouver BC V5L 4E7

Tel: 604-253-7311
Website: sfaschool.ca
Twitter: @SFASchoolVan
Like us on Facebook: SFASchool

Monday, March 2nd, 2026:

• SFA Preschool Open House 9:00 am to Noon and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, 2025 Napier Street

Tuesday, March 3rd 2026:

• Grade 7 Confessions at 11:30 am

Wednesday, March 4th, 2026:

• Grades Kindergarten – Grade 3:  Lenten Morning Mass at 7:45 am
• Hot Lunch
• Grade 4 Confessions at 1:30 pm
• Chess Club 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm (Students in Grade 4-7 who signed up)

Thursday, March 5th, 2026:

• No Regular Classes today, Celebration of Learning 11:30 am to 6:00 pm, Students come to school in uniform with their parents
• Re-Registration due back to school today ($50.00 Late Fee Will Apply)

Friday, March 6th 2026:

• Grades 4 – 7 Lenten Morning Mass at 7:45 am
• Stations of the Cross (LSC) 1:00 pm at the Church
• Early Dismissal 2:00 pm

CONTACTING TEACHERS / EMAILING OFFICE
Please email the office and class teacher if your child will be away, late for school or leaving early. Please contact the teacher directly regarding any classroom questions.

Kindergarten – Mrs. Busto – c.busto@sfaschool.ca
Grade 1 – Miss Hewiitt – a.hewitt@sfaschool.ca
Grade 2 – Ms. Montcalm – s.montcalm@sfa school.ca
Grade 3 – Ms. Lorenz – a.lorenz@sfaschoo.ca
Grade 4 – Mrs. Sudar – n.sudar@sfaschool.ca, Mr. Colford –
Grade 5 – Miss Gordon – a.colford@sfaschool.ca
Grade 6 – Mr. Sudar – j.sudar@sfaschool.ca, Mr. King – f.king@sfaschool.ca
Grade 7 – Mr. Teodosio – p.teodosio@sfaschool.ca

Miss Pratley – sports@sfaschool.ca
Ms. Raymond – m.raymond@sfaschool.ca
Mrs. Werner – n.werner@sfaschool.ca

UNPLUGGED CANADA

At our AGM last week we had a presentation from Unplugged Canada.  Please read below for more information:

“Unplugged Canada is a grassroots, volunteer parent-led organization raising awareness across Canada about the impacts of smartphones and social media on children’s mental health, social development, and education. Growing research, particularly from Canadian sources, highlights the concerning impacts of early and excessive smartphone use. In response, Unplugged is building a judgment-free community that empowers parents to prioritize their children’s mental health.
 
The way they do this is by asking parents to pledge to delay smartphones for their kids until at least 14 years old (the age now recommended by psychologists). Close to 8,000 parents in over 1,000 schools across Canada have joined the collective movement, which is changing the societal norms around when kids are given these devices. In fact, this parent pledge is recommended by the Canadian Paediatric Society’s Centre for Healthy Screen Use. If you are interested in learning more about Unplugged and signing the pledge, please visit their website: www.unpluggedcanada.com.  If you are interested in signing the pledge here is the pledge link https://www.unpluggedcanada.com/communitypledge. 

CHECK OUT OUR CONSIGNMENT SHOP!
Is your child going through a growth spurt and you need another kilt, pants or sweater?  Don’t forget we have gently used uniform items in great condition that are available for a discounted rate; please reach out to Kathryn at  consignment@sfaschool.ca for further details. Thank you.

RE-REGISTRATION PACKAGES
Re-registration packages are due back to school on March 5th, during the Celebration of Learning. Please bring your package to the library. There will be a $50.00 charge for any late packages. Please contact the office if you have any questions.

TAX RECEIPTS
Please note that any full-year tuition received for the 2025–26 school year, as well as any tuition payments received by December 31, 2025, are included in the 2025 receipts. Tax receipts are in your re-registration packages.

MITE BOXES
We are sending home mite boxes with the primary classes today. Intermediate students will receive their boxes soon. Mite boxes are a little cardboard box that the students are given every year. The RCAV Vocations Office sends the boxes to us and asks that all students take part in our yearly Lenten project. The money collected by the children, as acts of almsgiving during Lent, is given to support the education and formation of seminarians.

CHANGE TO APRIL & MAY GRADE 7 PIZZA LUNCHES
Please note that due to scheduling conflicts the dates of some of our upcoming Grade 7 Pizza Fundraising Lunches have changed. Pizza lunches ordered will be moved to the new dates. Our April and May Fundraising Lunches are set as follows:

April 9, 2026
April 30, 2026

May 14, 2026
May 28, 2026

CELEBRATION OF LEARNING 
“Celebration of Learning”, previously known as Student Led Conferences, will be on March 5th from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm. There are no regular classes this day and parents will come to school with their child. All students are to be dressed in their school uniform.  Sign up is available NOW – click HERE to link to the OnVolunteer Portal.  Deadline to sign up TODAY.

UPDATED SCHEDULE OF LENTEN MASSES:
Ash Wednesday:  February 18, 2026 marks the beginning of the Lenten season; it is a time for reflection by our school community as to how we can emulate and share in all the sacrifices Jesus has made for us.  This year, like last year, we are encouraging students to make a small sacrifice by attending Lenten morning Masses with their class and teacher on the dates below.  Please note that morning Mass begins at 7:45 am and will end around 8:20 am.  Teachers will walk students back to the school once Mass is complete.  Parents are welcome to join the Mass, if they are able to.  Please note there is a change to some of the dates:
 

• K-3: March 4 
• 4-7:  March 6
• K-7:  March 11, April 1

AFTER SCHOOL CHESS CLUB:
The Chess Club will run on Wednesday’s from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and students in grade 4 to grade 7 may participate. Mr. Colford will walk the students outside at 4:00 pm. Students not picked up by 4:00 pm will be sent to the after school club.

Interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith?
Father Lucca continues to lead RCIA classes on Wednesday nights at the parish for any adult interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or who is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church.  RCIA classes will be held from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm.  If you would like more information please contact the parish office at 604-255-8855.  Thank you.

SFA GALA 2026: 

Where: Italian Cultural Centre

Date: April 17, 2026

Time: 6:00 pm

Tickets and tables are on sale! Come and enjoy a night of live music with the Cassandra Maze Band. Buy now and take advantage of early bird pricing available until March 13. Purchase now https://sfaschool.ca/gala-2026/

If you would like to donate to the live or silent auction, please contact Melissa or Pamela at Gala@sfaschool.ca

School Calendar: Please click on the link for the school calendar.  https://sfaschool.ca/calendar/

SFA Instagram Page! Follow us on our new Instagram page @sfavancouver to keep up to date on all the news.

UPCOMING DATES:

Mar 11th  – Speech Arts Festival at St. Joseph’s School, Confessions Grade 5 & Grade 3, Hot Lunch, Chess Club 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Mar 13th  – School Mass 9:15 am (Grade 5) $2.00 collection for our Foster Child Miguel, Last Day of Classes Before Spring Break, Noon Dismissal, No After School Club

Mar 16th to 27th  – NO SCHOOL – SPRING BREAK

Mar 16th to 27th  – NO SCHOOL – SPRING BREAK

Mar 30th  – School Re-Opens at 8:40 am, Holy Week

Apr 2nd  – Holy Thursday – Noon Dismissal

Apr 3rd  – NO SCHOOL – GOOD FRIDAY

Apr 6th  – NO SCHOOL – EASTER MONDAY

Apr 7th  – Easter Tuesday Celebration: 9:15 am Mass (Staff), Bingo and Easter Egg Hunt

Apr 9th  – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

Apr 11th  – Work Bee 8:30 am

Apr 14h  – Spelling Bee 10:30 am to Noon at Church Hall

Apr 16th  – Confirmation Retreat (Grade 7)

Apr 17th  – SFA Gala at the ICC: 6:00 pm Cocktails & Live Saxophone Music, 7:00 pm Dinner

Apr 21st  – Kindergarten Immunizations

Apr 23rd  – Friars Track Meet at Swangard

May 2nd – First Holy Communion at 11:00 am

May 18th  – NO SCHOOL – VICTORIA DAY

May 19th  – NO SCHOOL – PRO-D DAY

___________________________________

Office | St. Francis of Assisi School
870 Victoria Drive, Vancouver BC V5L 4E7

Tel: 604-253-7311
Website: sfaschool.ca
Twitter: @SFASchoolVan
Like us on Facebook: SFASchool

Monday, February 23rd, 2026:

• Girls Grade 5, 6 & 7 Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s at 7:30 am
• Grade 3’s Snowshoeing

Tuesday, February 24th 2026:

• In School Speech Arts 9:00 am to Noon at Church Hall

Wednesday, February 25th, 2026:

• Grade K – 3 Lenten Morning Mass at 7:45 am
• Pink Shirt Day & Catholic Outreach Assembly (Students may wear a pink shirt and uniform bottom)
• Hot Lunch
• Chess Club 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm (for those students in Grade 4-7 who signed up)

Thursday, February 26th, 2026:

• Grades 4 – 7 Lenten Morning Mass at 7:45 am
• Grade 1’s Snowshoeing
• Grade 2 Sacrament of Reconciliation at 10:00 am

Friday, February 27th 2026:

• Boys Grade 5, 6 & 7 Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s at 7:30 am
• Stations of the Cross (LSC)
• Early Dismissal 2:00 pm

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Please click on the link for the AGM power point. AGM

RE-REGISTRATION PACKAGES
Re-registration packages are due back to school on March 5th, during the Celebration of Learning. Please contact the office if you have any questions.

TAX RECEIPTS
Please note that any full-year tuition received for the 2025–26 school year, as well as any tuition payments received by December 31, 2025, are included in the 2025 receipts.

CHANGE TO APRIL & MAY GRADE 7 PIZZA LUNCHES
Please note that due to scheduling conflicts the dates of some of our upcoming Grade 7 Pizza Fundraising Lunches have changed. Pizza lunches ordered will be moved to the new dates. Our April and May Fundraising Lunches are set as follows:

April 9, 2026
April 30, 2026

May 14, 2026
May 28, 2026

CELEBRATION OF LEARNING 
“Celebration of Learning”, previously known as Student Led Conferences, will be on March 5th from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm. There are no regular classes this day and parents will come to school with their child. All students are to be dressed in their school uniform.  Sign up is available NOW – click HERE to link to the OnVolunteer Portal.  Deadline to sign up Friday, February 27, 2026.

LENTEN MASSES:
Ash Wednesday:  February 18, 2026 marks the beginning of the Lenten season; it is a time for reflection by our school community as to how we can emulate and share in all the sacrifices Jesus has made for us.  This year, like last year, we are encouraging students to make a small sacrifice by attending Lenten morning Masses with their class and teacher on the dates below.  Please note that morning Mass begins at 7:45 am and will end around 8:20 am.  Teachers will walk students back to the school once Mass is complete.  Parents are welcome to join the Mass, if they are able to.
 

• K-3:  Feb. 25, March 3, March 10, March 31

• 4-7:  Feb. 26, March 4, March 11, April 1

After School Chest Club
The after school chest club will start on Wednesday February 25th to the end of the school year after school from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Students in grade 4 to grade 7 may participate. Consent forms must be be returned by Monday February 23rd. Students not picked up by 4:00 pm will be sent to the after school club.

Interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith?
Father Lucca continues to lead RCIA classes on Wednesday nights at the parish for any adult interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or who is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church.  RCIA classes will be held from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm.  If you would like more information please contact the parish office at 604-255-8855.  Thank you.

SFA GALA 2026: 

April 17, 2026

6:00 pm

Tickets and tables are on sale! Come and enjoy a night of live music with the Cassandra Maze Band. Buy now and take advantage of early bird pricing available until March 13. Purchase now https://sfaschool.ca/gala-2026/

If you would like to donate to the live or silent auction, please contact Melissa or Pamela at Gala@sfaschool.ca

School Calendar: Please click on the link for the school calendar.  https://sfaschool.ca/calendar/

SFA Instagram Page! Follow us on our new Instagram page @sfavancouver to keep up to date on all the news.

UPCOMING DATES:

Mar 5  – Student Led Conferences 11:30 am to 6:00 pm (No Regular Classes), Re-Registration Packages Due ($50.00 Late Fee Will Apply)

Feb 26th  – Grade 1 Snowshoeing, Sacrament of Reconciliation (Grade 2)

Mar 5  – Student Led Conferences (No Regular Classes), Re-Registration Packages Due

Mar 13th  – School Mass 9:15 am (Grade 5) $2.00 collection for our Foster Child Miguel, Last Day of Classes Before Spring Break, Noon Dismissal, No After School Club

Mar 16th to 27th  – NO SCHOOL – SPRING BREAK

Mar 30th  – School Re-Opens at 8:40 am, Holy Week

Apr 2nd  – Holy Thursday – Noon Dismissal

Apr 3rd  – NO SCHOOL – GOOD FRIDAY

Apr 6th  – NO SCHOOL – EASTER MONDAY

Apr 7th  – Easter Tuesday Celebration: 9:15 am Mass (Staff), Bingo and Easter Egg Hunt

Apr 9th  – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

Apr 11th  – Work Bee 8:30 am

Apr 14h  – Spelling Bee 10:30 am to Noon at Church Hall

Apr 16th  – Confirmation Retreat (Grade 7)

Apr 17th  – SFA Gala at the ICC: 6:00 pm Cocktails & Live Saxophone Music, 7:00 pm Dinner

___________________________________

Office | St. Francis of Assisi School
870 Victoria Drive, Vancouver BC V5L 4E7

Tel: 604-253-7311
Website: sfaschool.ca
Twitter: @SFASchoolVan
Like us on Facebook: SFASchool

Reminder: There is no school Thursday, February 12th and Friday, February 13th as all staff are at the Catholic Educators Conference.

Monday, February 16th, 2026:

• NO SCHOOL – FAMILY DAY

Tuesday, February 17th 2026:

• Shrove Tuesday
• Mad Hat Day
• Pancake Lunch for all Students
• Happy Lunar New Year

Wednesday, February 18th, 2026:

• Ash Wednesday Mass 9:15 am (Grade 3)
• Hot Lunch
• Meatless Lunch

Thursday, February 19th, 2026:

• Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser
• School AGM 6:45 pm at the Church Hall (Mandatory Meeting for all Families), Re-Registration Packages Handed Out

Friday, February 20th 2026:

• Grade 2 Reconciliation Re-Treat 9:00 am to Noon
• Early Dismissal 2:00 pm

Saturday, February 21st 2026: Work Bee 8:30 am

TUMBLER RIDGE TRAGEDY
Please keep in your prayers all members of the Tumbler Ridge community in light of the tragedy that occurred on Wednesday.   The BC Ministry of Education and Child Care has provided several links to resources that can help both parents and children as they deal with feelings of loss and bewilderment.  Please see below for more information. 
 

?       Canadian Mental Health Association

?       ERASE

?       Healthlinkbc: Helping Children with Grief

?       Kelty Mental Health

?       Learning through Loss

?       Foundry Virtual BC – Foundry BC App

SHROVE TUESDAY AND MAD HAT DAY 
Tuesday, February 17th students are encouraged to wear a crazy hat for the day (full uniform is required). Get in the spirit, make a new fun and crazy hat or wear something you already have! Student will also be having a pancake lunch from Fuel Catering.

MEATLESS LUNCH 
Lent is a time when we are asked to offer sacrifices, both big and small.  On Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (Ash Wednesday) we are encouraging all students to eat a meatless lunch as a way to start off the Lenten season with a small but, significant sacrifice. Traditionally abstinence from meat is observed on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and all Fridays throughout the Lenten season.  

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – FEBRUARY 19, 2026
Our Annual General Meeting will be held this Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 6:45 pm at St. Francis of Assisi Parish Hall – at least one parent must attend. Re-registration packages will be given out this night.

CELEBRATION OF LEARNING 
“Celebration of Learning”, previously known as Student Led Conferences, will be on March 5th from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm. There are no regular classes this day and parents will come to school with their child. All students are to be dressed in their school uniform.  Sign up is available NOW – click HERE to link to the OnVolunteer Portal.  Deadline to sign up Friday, February 27, 2026.

LENTEN MASSES:
Ash Wednesday:  February 18, 2026 marks the beginning of the Lenten season; it is a time for reflection by our school community as to how we can emulate and share in all the sacrifices Jesus has made for us.  This year, like last year, we are encouraging students to make a small sacrifice by attending Lenten morning Masses with their class and teacher on the dates below.  Please note that morning Mass begins at 7:45 am and will end around 8:20 am.  Teachers will walk students back to the school once Mass is complete.  Parents are welcome to join the Mass, if they are able to.
 

• K-3:  Feb. 25, March 3, March 10, March 31

• 4-7:  Feb. 26, March 4, March 11, April 1

Interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith?
Father Lucca continues to lead RCIA classes on Wednesday nights at the parish for any adult interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or who is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church.  RCIA classes will be held from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm.  If you would like more information please contact the parish office at 604-255-8855.  Thank you.

SFA GALA 2026: 

April 17, 2026

6:00 pm

Tickets and tables are on sale! Come and enjoy a night of live music with the Cassandra Maze Band. Buy now and take advantage of early bird pricing available until March 13. Purchase now https://sfaschool.ca/gala-2026/

If you would like to donate to the live or silent auction, please contact Melissa or Pamela at Gala@sfaschool.ca

School Calendar: Please click on the link for the school calendar.  https://sfaschool.ca/calendar/

SFA Instagram Page! Follow us on our new Instagram page @sfavancouver to keep up to date on all the news.

UPCOMING DATES:

Feb 23rd  – Grade 3 Snowshoeing

Feb 24th  – In School Speech Arts at the Church Hall 9:00 am to Noon

Feb 25th  – Pink Shirt Day (Students may wear a pink shirt and uniform bottom)

Feb 26th  – Grade 1 Snowshoeing, Sacrament of Reconciliation (Grade 2)

Mar 5  – Student Led Conferences (No Regular Classes), Re-Registration Packages Due

Feb 26th  – Grade 1 Snowshoeing, Sacrament of Reconciliation (Grade 2)

Mar 5  – Student Led Conferences (No Regular Classes), Re-Registration Packages Due

Mar 13th  – Last Day of Classes Before Spring Break, Noon Dismissal, No After School Club

Mar 16th to 27th  – NO SCHOOL – SPRING BREAK

Mar 30th  – School Re-Opens at 8:40 am, Holy Wekk

Apr 2nd  – Holy Thursday – Noon Dismissal

Apr 3rd  – NO SCHOOL – GOOD FRIDAY

Apr 6th  – NO SCHOOL – EASTER MONDAY

___________________________________

Office | St. Francis of Assisi School
870 Victoria Drive, Vancouver BC V5L 4E7

Tel: 604-253-7311
Website: sfaschool.ca
Twitter: @SFASchoolVan
Like us on Facebook: SFASchool

Monday, February 9th, 2026:

• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Girls Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s School at 7:30 am, Students Will Be Bussed Back to School 

Tuesday, February 10th 2026:

• ND Choir Festival 

Wednesday, February 11th, 2026:

• Grade 5 Snowshoeing
• Red Day for Variety ($2.00 to Wear Red or Pink)
• Hot Lunch

Thursday, February 12th, 2026:

• NO SCHOOL – CATHOLIC EDUCATORS CONFERENCE

Friday, February 13th 2026:

• NO SCHOOL – CATHOLIC EDUCATORS CONFERENCE

SAVE THE DATE – ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING FEBRUARY 19, 2026
“Reminder” our Annual General Meeting will be held on February 19, 2026 at 6:45 pm at St. Francis of Assisi Parish Hall – at least one parent must attend. Re-registration packages will be given out this night.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS’ WEEK COMPLETE!
SFA students enjoyed a great Catholic Schools’ Week engaging in different activities focusing on the joy of being a Catholic School student!  A big thank you to all families for donating cans of soup on Tuesday; a special kudos to the Grade 4 class who brought in the most (over 100 cans!).  Overall, SFA families donated over 350 cans of soup!  Way to go SFA!

VALENTINE’S DAY 
Please note that students, if they wish,  are permitted to exchange cards in anticipation of Valentine’s Day however, we are asking that treats are not brought in (candy, chocolates, trinkets, etc.).  Thank you.

CATEGORY 1 AUTHORIZATION MEETINGS WITH FATHER LUCCA
Father Lucca will be holding Category 1 Authorization meetings in late February.  Please see an excerpt from the letter below:  

If a family has been going to weekly Sunday Mass for the past year, is registered in our Parish, and participates in the life of our community, they are indeed Category 1 and should come see  me so I can formally confer Category 1 status.   

If a family, after reflection, decides they better fit in the Category  2 description this past year, you may schedule a meeting with me, or simply check the Category  2 option on the re-registration form for the 2026-2027 scholastic year.  

IMPORTANT – GRADE 7 FAMILIES WHOSE CHILDREN WILL ATTEND NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER 2026 AND WILL NO LONGER HAVE ANY OTHER CHILDREN ATTENDING SFA, MUST CONTACT THE PARISH OFFICE (604-255-8855) TO SCHEDULE AN CATEGORY 1 AUTHORIZATION APPOINTMENT WITH FATHER LUCCA.

Please note that the LINK to sign up for a meeting with Father Lucca will go live on TODAY February 6, 2026.

LENTEN MASSES:
Ash Wednesday:  February 18, 2026 marks the beginning of the Lenten season; it is a time for reflection by our school community as to how we can emulate and share in all the sacrifices Jesus has made for us.  This year, like last year, we are encouraging students to make a small sacrifice by attending Lenten morning Masses with their class and teacher on the dates below.  Please note that morning Mass begins at 7:45 am and will end around 8:20 am.  Teachers will walk students back to the school once Mass is complete.  Parents are welcome to join the Mass, if they are able to.
 

• K-3:  Feb. 25, March 3, March 10, March 31

• 4-7:  Feb. 26, March 4, March 11, April 1

Interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith?
Father Lucca continues to lead RCIA classes on Wednesday nights at the parish for any adult interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or who is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church.  RCIA classes will be held from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm.  If you would like more information please contact the parish office at 604-255-8855.  Thank you.

SFA GALA 2026: 
SAVE THE DATE!

Friday, April 17

Mark your calendars, book the babysitter, and pull out your dancing shoes! 

Join us to celebrate 80 years of SFA School. This fundraiser, supporting the school, will feature a live band, a multi-course dinner, and exciting live and silent auctions.

If you would like to donate to the live or silent auction, please contact

Pamela and Melissa Gala@sfaschool.ca

School Calendar: Please click on the link for the school calendar.  https://sfaschool.ca/calendar/

SFA Instagram Page! Follow us on our new Instagram page @sfavancouver to keep up to date on all the news.

UPCOMING DATES:

Feb 16th – NO SCHOOL – FAMILY DAY

Feb 17th  – Shrove Tuesday, Pancake Lunch, Mad Hat Day & Lunar New Year

Feb 18th  – Ash Wednesday School Mass 9:15 am (Grade 3), Meatless Hot Lunch

Feb 19th  – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, School AGM 6:45 pm at the Church Hall (Mandatory Meeting for all Families), Re-Registration Packages Handed Out

Feb 20th  – Grade 2 Reconciliation Re-Treat 9:00 am to Noon

Feb 21st  – Work Bee 8:30 am

Feb 23rd  – Grade 3 Snowshoeing

Feb 24th  – In School Speech Arts at the Church Hall 9:00 am to Noon

Feb 25th  – Pink Shirt Day (Students may wear a pink shirt and uniform bottom)

Feb 26th  – Grade 1 Snowshoeing, Sacrament of Reconciliation (Grade 2)

Feb 27th  – Stations of The Cross (LSC)

Mar 5  – Student Led Conferences (No Regular Classes), Re-Registration Packages Due Back to School

Mar 11th  – Speech Arts Festival at St. Joseph’s

Mar 12th  – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

Mar 13th  – Last Day of Classes Before Spring Break, Noon Dismissal, No After School Club

Mar 16th to 27th  – NO SCHOOL – SPRING BREAK

Mar 30th  – School Re-Opens at 8:40 am, Holy Week

Apr 2nd  – Holy Thursday – Noon Dismissal

Apr 3rd  – NO SCHOOL – GOOD FRIDAY

Apr 6th  – NO SCHOOL – EASTER MONDAY

Apr 7th – Easter Mass 9:15 am (Staff), Easter Egg Hunt & Bingo 

___________________________________

Office | St. Francis of Assisi School
870 Victoria Drive, Vancouver BC V5L 4E7

Tel: 604-253-7311
Website: sfaschool.ca
Twitter: @SFASchoolVan
Like us on Facebook: SFASchool

Monday, February 2nd, 2026:

• Catholic Schools Week – Celebrate Our Parents
• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Girls Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s School at 7:30 am, Students Will Be Bussed Back to School 
• Grade 4’s Snowshoeing

Tuesday, February 3rd 2026:

• Catholic Schools Week – Celebrate Our Community – please bring in a can of soup

Wednesday, February 4th, 2026:

• Catholic Schools Week – Celebrate Our Students
• Grade 5 Boys Basketball Game at OLS at Noon
• Hot Lunch

Thursday, February 5th, 2026:

• Catholic Schools Week – Celebrate Our Staff
• Grade 2 Snowshoeing
• Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser
• Grade 5 Boys Basketball Game at St. Mary’s at 3:15 pm & 4:00 pm
• PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

Friday, February 6th, 2026:

• Catholic Schools Week – Celebrate our Pastor Father Lucca
• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Boys Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s School at 7:30 am, Students Will Be Bussed Back to School
• 9:15 am Prayer Assembly (Grade 6) at the Church
• Early Dismissal 2:00 pm

Saturday, February 7th, 2026: Family Dance 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK:
This year is a special one for the St. Francis of Assisi Community! We are celebrating the 80th anniversary of our school’s opening and the 90th anniversary of our parish church being built! It is a great time to celebrate all that Catholic education has given our families throughout the years! 

We are gearing up to celebrate Catholic Schools Week next week (February 1-6, 2026).  Below details some of the themes for each day of the week and we would like to ask in particular that on Tuesday each child brings a can of soup for our “Souper Bowl”; on this day we will focus on supporting those in our community by donating cans of soup to a local charity.  Thank you!

Sunday, February 1st – Celebrate our Parish:  10:30 am Mass – All are welcome to attend. Grades 2 and 7 who will receive the sacraments are required to attend the Enrollment Mass – 10:30 am. At this Mass we ask the students come dressed in their school uniform.

Monday, February 2nd – Celebrate our Parents – We thank all our parents and guardians for their love and support.

Tuesday, February 3rd – Celebrate our Community –  We will support our community by hosting a Souper Bowl.  Students are to bring in cans of soup.

Wednesday, February 4th – Celebrate our Students – Today we celebrate our students who bring love and joy to our school.

Thursday, February 5th – Celebrate our Staff –  We thank our staff who love and care for all members of our school community.

Friday, February 6th – Celebrate our pastor, Father Lucca:  We thank Father Lucca for being our spiritual leader.  

FAMILY DANCE:
Get your tickets before it’s too late! Ticket sales will end on Tuesday, February 3rd. Tickets will not be sold at the door! You can also pre-purchase food and concession tickets to avoid lines at the dance. Alcoholic beverage tickets will be available for purchase on site. 

All tickets will include one free concession item! You will receive your free ticket when checking in at the dance. Stay tuned for more details next week!

https://sfaschool.ca/sfa-2026-family-dance/

SAVE THE DATE – ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING FEBRUARY 19, 2026
“Reminder” our Annual General Meeting will be held on February 19, 2026 at 6:45 pm at St. Francis of Assisi Parish Hall – at least one parent must attend. Re-registration packages will be given out this night.

CATEGORY 1 AUTHORIZATION MEETINGS WITH FATHER LUCCA
Father Lucca will be holding Category 1 Authorization meetings in late February.  Please see an excerpt from the letter below:  

If a family has been going to weekly Sunday Mass for the past year, is registered in our Parish, and participates in the life of our community, they are indeed Category 1 and should come see  me so I can formally confer Category 1 status.   

If a family, after reflection, decides they better fit in the Category  2 description this past year, you may schedule a meeting with me, or simply check the Category  2 option on the re-registration form for the 2026-2027 scholastic year.  

IMPORTANT – GRADE 7 FAMILIES WHOSE CHILDREN WILL ATTEND NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER 2026 AND WILL NO LONGER HAVE ANY OTHER CHILDREN ATTENDING SFA, MUST CONTACT THE PARISH OFFICE (604-255-8855) TO SCHEDULE AN CATEGORY 1 AUTHORIZATION APPOINTMENT WITH FATHER LUCCA.

Please note that the LINK to sign up for a meeting with Father Lucca will go live on February 6, 2026.

LENTEN MASSES:
Ash Wednesday:  February 18, 2026 marks the beginning of the Lenten season; it is a time for reflection by our school community as to how we can emulate and share in all the sacrifices Jesus has made for us.  This year, like last year, we are encouraging students to make a small sacrifice by attending Lenten morning Masses with their class and teacher on the dates below.  Please note that morning Mass begins at 7:45 am and will end around 8:20 am.  Teachers will walk students back to the school once Mass is complete.  Parents are welcome to join the Mass, if they are able to.
 

• K-3:  Feb. 25, March 3, March 10, March 31

• 4-7:  Feb. 26, March 4, March 11, April 1

Interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith?
Father Lucca continues to lead RCIA classes on Wednesday nights at the parish for any adult interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or who is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church.  RCIA classes will be held from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm.  If you would like more information please contact the parish office at 604-255-8855.  Thank you.

SFA GALA 2026: 
SAVE THE DATE!

Friday, April 17

Mark your calendars, book the babysitter, and pull out your dancing shoes! 

Join us to celebrate 80 years of SFA School. This fundraiser, supporting the school, will feature a live band, a multi-course dinner, and exciting live and silent auctions.

If you would like to donate to the live or silent auction, please contact

Pamela and Melissa Gala@sfaschool.ca

Update Your Parent Participation Hours:

As the second term kicks off,  a reminder to everyone who hasn’t yet entered their Parent Participation hours for the fall of 2025 to do so by January 31^st.
 
Looking for hours? Here are some opportunities and current needs :
 
Supervision:
Lunchtime  Supervision:  Tuesday (X2), Wednesdays, Thursdays
Afterschool: Tuesdays, Wednesdays , Thursdays, Fridays (X3)
If you are available and interested please email:  parentparticipation@sfaschool.ca
 
Special Events: The special events team is always looking for extra hands. If you are interested in supporting any upcoming events please reach out to Heather hdmaciver@gmail.com for more details.
 
Logging your Parent Participation hours on the Volunteer Portal:
In order to properly coordinate and record volunteer tasks, we use the   SFA online volunteer portal .   Your default password is set to SFA1234 and your login is the email address you’ve provided to the school. If you haven’t received your login, please reach out to Jeremy Neese at onvolunteer@sfaschool.ca.  Once you have completed your volunteer task, log into the portal  SFA online volunteer portal and log your hours within your ad hoc tasks section (see instructions below).

Instructions on entering ad hoc hours in the portal:
From the main menu, select “Activities”, then “Ad hoc.”
On the right, click “New Ad Hoc Request”.
Ad Hoc Type = “Unscheduled”
For Activity = “<YOUR VOLUNTEER ACTIVITY>”
Description = free form note, not required but you can detail the work done here
Task Date = select or enter the date you performed the task
Total Hours = the number of hours you spent on that day performing the task
Click  “Submit Request”
*tip: if you’re having trouble, check your browser, chrome works best*
 
There are resources on the portal that detail step by step instructions on how to submit your hours. You will find “Start Guide” & “How To Guide” in the top right corner of the login page. A video tutorial can also be found here.
 

School Calendar: Please click on the link for the school calendar.  https://sfaschool.ca/calendar/

SFA Instagram Page! Follow us on our new Instagram page @sfavancouver to keep up to date on all the news.

UPCOMING DATES:

Feb 10th  – ND Choir Festival

Feb 11th  – Red Day for Variety ($2.00 to Wear Red or Pink), Grade 5 Snowshoeing

Feb 12th & 13th – NO SCHOOL – CATHOLIC EDUCATORS CONFERENCE

Feb 16th – NO SCHOOL – FAMILY DAY

Feb 17th  – Shrove Tuesday, Pancake Lunch, Mad Hat Day & Lunar New Year

Feb 18th  – Ash Wednesday School Mass 9:15 am (Grade 3)

Feb 19th  – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, School AGM 6:45 pm at the Church Hall (Mandatory Meeting for all Families), Re-Registration Packages Handed Out

Feb 20th  – Grade 2 Reconciliation Re-Treat 9:00 am to Noon

Feb 21st  – Work Bee 8:30 am

Feb 23rd  – Grade 3 Snowshoeing

Feb 24th  – In School Speech Arts at the Church Hall 9:00 am to Noon

Feb 25th  – Pink Shirt Day (Students may wear a pink shirt and uniform bottom)

Feb 26th  – Grade 1 Snowshoeing, Sacrament of Reconciliation (Grade 2)

Mar 5  – Student Led Conferences (No Regular Classes), Re-Registration Packages Due

Feb 26th  – Grade 1 Snowshoeing, Sacrament of Reconciliation (Grade 2)

Mar 5  – Student Led Conferences (No Regular Classes), Re-Registration Packages Due

Mar 13th  – Last Day of Classes Before Spring Break, Noon Dismissal, No After School Club

Mar 16th to 27th  – NO SCHOOL – SPRING BREAK

Mar 30th  – School Re-Opens at 8:40 am, Holy Wekk

Apr 2nd  – Holy Thursday – Noon Dismissal

Apr 3rd  – NO SCHOOL – GOOD FRIDAY

Apr 6th  – NO SCHOOL – EASTER MONDAY

___________________________________

Office | St. Francis of Assisi School
870 Victoria Drive, Vancouver BC V5L 4E7

Tel: 604-253-7311
Website: sfaschool.ca
Twitter: @SFASchoolVan
Like us on Facebook: SFASchool

Monday, January 26th, 2026:

• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Girls Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s School at 7:30 am, Students Will Be Bussed Back to School 
• Grade 5 Boys Basketball Game at St. Jude’s at 3:15 pm

Tuesday, January 27th, 2026:

• Grade 6 Immunizations

Wednesday, January 28th, 2026:

• Hot Lunch
• Parent Night with Julia Eckert 6:30 pm at the School

Thursday, January 29th, 2026:

• Grade 5 Snowshoeing
• Grade 7 Girls Basketball Game at St. Mary’s at 3:15 pm

Friday, January 30th, 2026:

• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Boys Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s School at 7:30 am, Students Will Be Bussed Back to School
• Rosary (Grade 1)
• Early Dismissal 2:00 pm

GRADE 2 & GRADE 7 ENROLMENT MASS:
Sunday, February 1, 2026 – all students in Grades 2 and 7 who will receive the sacraments are required to attend the Enrollment Mass – 10:30 am. At this Mass we ask the students come dressed in their school uniform.

FAMILY DANCE:
 Tickets will not be available for purchase at the door. Last year we reached our max capacity at our venue and we expect the same, so get your tickets early! 
You can also pre-purchase pizza and concession tickets to avoid lines at the dance. (Note: Bar tickets will be available at the dance only) 
Come dressed in your favourite team colours, jersey, or sport-inspired outfit—football, hockey, basketball, soccer, baseball, or gymnastics… it’s all fair game! DJ Rock n’ Beau is back for another memorable year to get everyone on the dance floor! Get ready for a fun filled half time show with dance contests, prizes and more!

https://sfaschool.ca/sfa-2026-family-dance/

SAVE THE DATE – ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING FEBRUARY 19, 2026
“Reminder” our Annual General Meeting will be held on February 19, 2026 at 6:45 pm at St. Francis of Assisi Parish Hall – at least one parent must attend. Re-registration packages will be given out this night.

CATEGORY 1 AUTHORIZATION MEETINGS WITH FATHER LUCCA
As mentioned in an email sent last week, Father Lucca will be holding Category 1 Authorization meetings in late February.  Please see an excerpt from the letter below:  

If a family has been going to weekly Sunday Mass for the past year, is registered in our Parish, and participates in the life of our community, they are indeed Category 1 and should come see  me so I can formally confer Category 1 status.   

If a family, after reflection, decides they better fit in the Category  2 description this past year, you may schedule a meeting with me, or simply check the Category  2 option on the re-registration form for the 2026-2027 scholastic year.  

Please note that the LINK to sign up for a meeting with Father Lucca will go live on February 6, 2026.

LENTEN MASSES:
Ash Wednesday:  February 18, 2026 marks the beginning of the Lenten season; it is a time for reflection by our school community as to how we can emulate and share in all the sacrifices Jesus has made for us.  This year, like last year, we are encouraging students to make a small sacrifice by attending Lenten morning Masses with their class and teacher on the dates below.  Please note that morning Mass begins at 7:45 am and will end around 8:20 am.  Teachers will walk students back to the school once Mass is complete.  Parents are welcome to join the Mass, if they are able to.
 

• K-3:  Feb. 25, March 3, March 10, March 31

• 4-7:  Feb. 26, March 4, March 11, April 1

FREE – Parenting Workshop “Helping Our Children Thrive” – January 28, 2026
All parents are encouraged to attend a FREE parenting workshop with parenting expert, Julia Eckert!

The workshop will be held from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at the school.  Topics Julia will address will include:

• How stress and anxiety show up in every day behaviour
• How to support children when they are struggling with connection and trust
• Support mental health and wellness in children and youth

This workshop is the first in a series of two workshops by Julia (the second workshop will be held on April 22, 2026).  You can choose to attend just one or both!  Registration below is for the workshop this January.

To register:  Click on the link below:

JANUARY 28, 2026 – PARENTING WORKSHOP WITH JULIA ECKERT
 

Interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith?
Father Lucca continues to lead RCIA classes on Wednesday nights at the parish for any adult interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or who is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church.  RCIA classes will be held from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm.  If you would like more information please contact the parish office at 604-255-8855.  Thank you.

SFA GALA 2026: 
SAVE THE DATE!

Friday, April 17

Mark your calendars, book the babysitter, and pull out your dancing shoes! 

Join us to celebrate 80 years of SFA School. This fundraiser, supporting the school, will feature a live band, a multi-course dinner, and exciting live and silent auctions.

If you would like to donate to the live or silent auction, please contact

Pamela and Melissa Gala@sfaschool.ca

Update Your Parent Participation Hours:

As the second term kicks off,  a reminder to everyone who hasn’t yet entered their Parent Participation hours for the fall of 2025 to do so by January 31^st.
 
Looking for hours? Here are some opportunities and current needs :
 
Supervision:
Lunchtime  Supervision:  Tuesday (X2), Wednesdays, Thursdays
Afterschool: Tuesdays, Wednesdays , Thursdays, Fridays (X3)
If you are available and interested please email:  parentparticipation@sfaschool.ca
 
Special Events: The special events team is always looking for extra hands. If you are interested in supporting any upcoming events please reach out to Heather hdmaciver@gmail.com for more details.
 
Logging your Parent Participation hours on the Volunteer Portal:
In order to properly coordinate and record volunteer tasks, we use the   SFA online volunteer portal .   Your default password is set to SFA1234 and your login is the email address you’ve provided to the school. If you haven’t received your login, please reach out to Jeremy Neese at onvolunteer@sfaschool.ca.  Once you have completed your volunteer task, log into the portal  SFA online volunteer portal and log your hours within your ad hoc tasks section (see instructions below).

Instructions on entering ad hoc hours in the portal:
From the main menu, select “Activities”, then “Ad hoc.”
On the right, click “New Ad Hoc Request”.
Ad Hoc Type = “Unscheduled”
For Activity = “<YOUR VOLUNTEER ACTIVITY>”
Description = free form note, not required but you can detail the work done here
Task Date = select or enter the date you performed the task
Total Hours = the number of hours you spent on that day performing the task
Click  “Submit Request”
*tip: if you’re having trouble, check your browser, chrome works best*
 
There are resources on the portal that detail step by step instructions on how to submit your hours. You will find “Start Guide” & “How To Guide” in the top right corner of the login page. A video tutorial can also be found here.
 

SFA Merchandise: 
Boost your school spirit and support our community by grabbing the latest SFA merchandise! The perfect holiday gift! Our accessory collection is designed for students, parents, and alumni who want to show their pride in style. Every purchase directly supports school programs, making it a meaningful way to give back. Shop now and help us continue building a vibrant and connected SFA school community. Order pick up will be coordinated offline with each family. 

School Calendar: Please click on the link for the school calendar.  https://sfaschool.ca/calendar/

SFA Instagram Page! Follow us on our new Instagram page @sfavancouver to keep up to date on all the news.

UPCOMING DATES:

Feb 1st – Grade 2 & Grade 7 Enrolment Mass 10:30 am

Feb 2nd – Grade 4 Snowshoeing

Feb 5th  – Grade 2 Snowshoeing, Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

Feb 6th  – School Mass 9:15 am (Grade 6)

Feb 7th  – Family Dance at Famee Furlane’s Hall 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Feb 12th & 13th – NO SCHOOL – CATHOLIC EDUCATIORS CONFERENCE

Feb 16th – NO SCHOOL – FAMILY DAY

Feb 17th  – Shrove Tuesday & Mad Hat Day

Feb 18th  – Ash Wednesday School Mass 9:15 am (Grade 3)

Feb 19th  – School AGM 6:45 pm at the Church Hall (Mandatory Meeting for all Families)

Feb 20th  – Grade 2 Reconciliation Re-Treat 9:00 am to Noon

Feb 21st  – Work Bee 8:30 am

Feb 23rd  – Grade 3 Snowshoeing

Feb 24th  – In School Speech Arts at the Church Hall 9:00 am to Noon

Feb 25th  – Pink Shirt Day (Students may wear a pink shirt and uniform bottom)

Feb 26th  – Grade 1 Snowshoeing, Sacrament of Reconciliation (Grade 2)

Feb 25th  – Pink Shirt Day (Students may wear a pink shirt and uniform bottom)

Mar 5  – Student Led Conferences (No Regular Classes), Re-Registration Packages Due

Mar 13th  – Last Day of Classes Before Spring Break, Noon Dismissal, No After School Club

Mar 16th to 27th  – NO SCHOOL – SPRING BREAK

Mar 30th  – School Re-Opens at 8:40 am, Holy Wekk

Apr 2nd  – Holy Thursday – Noon Dismissal

Apr 3rd  – NO SCHOOL – GOOD FRIDAY

Apr 6th  – NO SCHOOL – EASTER MONDAY

___________________________________

Office | St. Francis of Assisi School
870 Victoria Drive, Vancouver BC V5L 4E7

Tel: 604-253-7311
Website: sfaschool.ca
Twitter: @SFASchoolVan
Like us on Facebook: SFASchool

Monday, January 19th, 2026:

• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Girls Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s School at 7:30 am, Students Will Be Bussed Back to School (Canceled)
• Grade 5 Boys Basketball Game at Our Lady of Sorrows at Noon (Postponed)

Tuesday, January 20th, 2026:

• Grade 6 Snowshoeing

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026:

• Hot Lunch

Thursday, January 22nd, 2026:

• Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser
• Sacramental Parent Meetings at School – Grade 2 at 6:00 pm, Grade 7 at 6:30 pm 

Friday, January 23rd, 2026:

• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Boys Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s School at 7:30 am, Students Will Be Bussed Back to School
• School Mass 9:15 am (Grade 4) ($2.00 Collection for our Foster Child Miguel)
• Early Dismissal 2:00 pm

Saturday, January 24th, 2026: Work Bee 8:30 am

Family Dance “Early Bird Tickets”:
SFA Family Dance Bowl – Last Day for Early Bird Tickets! 
Today, January 16th, is the last day to get your family dance tickets at early bird pricing at $20/ticket. Tomorrow the prices will increase to $25/ticket. Buy now and save! Tickets will not be available for purchase at the door. Last year we reached our max capacity at our venue and we expect the same, so get your tickets early! 
You can also pre-purchase pizza and concession tickets to avoid lines at the dance. (Note: Bar tickets will be available at the dance only) 
Come dressed in your favourite team colours, jersey, or sport-inspired outfit—football, hockey, basketball, soccer, baseball, or gymnastics… it’s all fair game! DJ Rock n’ Beau is back for another memorable year to get everyone on the dance floor! Get ready for a fun filled half time show with dance contests, prizes and more!

https://sfaschool.ca/sfa-2026-family-dance/

Grade 2 and Grade 7 Sacramental Meeting and Enrollment Mass 
For all families of  Grade 2 and Grade 7 students who will be receiving the Sacraments of Communion (Grade 2) and Confirmation (Grade 7) please note the following important dates:

• Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 6:00 pm – Grade 2 parents are required to attend a mandatory sacramental prep meeting with Father Lucca and Ms. Montcalm
• Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 6:30 pm – Grade 7 parents are required to attend a mandatory sacramental prep meeting with Father Lucca and Mr. Teodosio
• Sunday, February 1, 2026 – all students in Grades 2 and 7 who will receive the sacraments are required to attend the Enrollment Mass – 10:30 am. At this Mass we ask the students come dressed in their school uniform.

SAVE THE DATE – ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING FEBRUARY 19, 2026
“Reminder” our Annual General Meeting will be held on February 19, 2026 at 6:45 pm at St. Francis of Assisi Parish Hall – at least one parent must attend. Re-registration packages will be given out this night.

Parent Support Group (PSG):
The PSG are a group of two or three SFA parents tasked with apply for the government gaming grant and distributing the monies received to the school towards extra-curricular needs.  We have openings for our PSG for the upcoming school year.  If you are interested in potentially being on the PSG, please contact Ms. Welsh at:  d.welsh@sfaschool.ca Thank you.
 

Drop off Zone:
Reminder: The drop off zone is drop off only. Please do not park in the drop off zone and walk your child in. If you need to walk your child to the school please park in the neighbourhood and walk in. Thank you for your cooperation.

FREE – Parenting Workshop “Helping Our Children Thrive” – January 28, 2026
All parents are encouraged to attend a FREE parenting workshop with parenting expert, Julia Eckert!

The workshop will be held from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at the school.  Topics Julia will address will include:

• How stress and anxiety show up in every day behaviour
• How to support children when they are struggling with connection and trust
• Support mental health and wellness in children and youth

This workshop is the first in a series of two workshops by Julia (the second workshop will be held on April 22, 2026).  You can choose to attend just one or both!  Registration below is for the workshop this January.

To register:  Click on the link below:

JANUARY 28, 2026 – PARENTING WORKSHOP WITH JULIA ECKERT
 

Interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith?
Father Lucca continues to lead RCIA classes on Wednesday nights at the parish for any adult interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or who is interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church.  RCIA classes will be held from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm.  If you would like more information please contact the parish office at 604-255-8855.  Thank you.

Update Your Parent Participation Hours:

As the second term kicks off,  a reminder to everyone who hasn’t yet entered their Parent Participation hours for the fall of 2025 to do so by January 31^st.
 
Looking for hours? Here are some opportunities and current needs :
 
Supervision:
Lunchtime  Supervision:  Tuesday (X2), Wednesdays, Thursdays
Afterschool: Tuesdays, Wednesdays , Thursdays, Fridays (X3)
If you are available and interested please email:  parentparticipation@sfaschool.ca
 
Special Events: The special events team is always looking for extra hands. If you are interested in supporting any upcoming events please reach out to Heather hdmaciver@gmail.com for more details.
 
Logging your Parent Participation hours on the Volunteer Portal:
In order to properly coordinate and record volunteer tasks, we use the   SFA online volunteer portal .   Your default password is set to SFA1234 and your login is the email address you’ve provided to the school. If you haven’t received your login, please reach out to Jeremy Neese at onvolunteer@sfaschool.ca.  Once you have completed your volunteer task, log into the portal  SFA online volunteer portal and log your hours within your ad hoc tasks section (see instructions below).

Instructions on entering ad hoc hours in the portal:
From the main menu, select “Activities”, then “Ad hoc.”
On the right, click “New Ad Hoc Request”.
Ad Hoc Type = “Unscheduled”
For Activity = “<YOUR VOLUNTEER ACTIVITY>”
Description = free form note, not required but you can detail the work done here
Task Date = select or enter the date you performed the task
Total Hours = the number of hours you spent on that day performing the task
Click  “Submit Request”
*tip: if you’re having trouble, check your browser, chrome works best*
 
There are resources on the portal that detail step by step instructions on how to submit your hours. You will find “Start Guide” & “How To Guide” in the top right corner of the login page. A video tutorial can also be found here.
 

SFA Merchandise: 
Boost your school spirit and support our community by grabbing the latest SFA merchandise! The perfect holiday gift! Our accessory collection is designed for students, parents, and alumni who want to show their pride in style. Every purchase directly supports school programs, making it a meaningful way to give back. Shop now and help us continue building a vibrant and connected SFA school community. Order pick up will be coordinated offline with each family. 

SFA Staff Update:

Welcome to Ms. Mizobuchi, Ms. Belanger and Mr. Santos – they have joined SFA as Education Assistants.  We are happy to have them on board our SFA team.  And a big thank you to Ms. Chin who has now moved onto other endeavours.

Rain and Colder Weather:
Please remember to send your child to school with a jacket everyday. If it is raining lightly students will be staying outside before the morning bell and during recess and lunch. Please remember to label all items with your child’s name that you send to school.

School Calendar: Please click on the link for the school calendar.  https://sfaschool.ca/calendar/

SFA Instagram Page! Follow us on our new Instagram page @sfavancouver to keep up to date on all the news.

UPCOMING DATES:

Jan 26th – Grade 5, 6 & 7 Girls Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s School at 7:30 am

Jan 27th – Grade 6 Immunizations (Consent forms will be sent home the first week of January)

Jan 28th – Parent Night with Julia Eckert 6:30 pm at the School

Jan 29th – Grade 5 Snowshoeing

Jan 30th – Grade 5, 6 & 7 Boys Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s School at 7:30 am, Adoration & Benediction 1:00 pm

Feb 1st – Grade 2 & Grade 7 Enrolment Mass 10:30 am

Feb 2nd – Grade 4 Snowshoeing

Feb 5th  – Grade 2 Snowshoeing, Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

Feb 6th  – School Mass 9:15 am (Grade 6)

Feb 7th  – Family Dance at Famee Furlane’s Hall 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Feb 12th & 13th – NO SCHOOL – CATHOLIC EDUCATIORS CONFERENCE

Feb 16th – NO SCHOOL – FAMILY DAY

Feb 17th  – Shrove Tuesday & Mad Hat Day

Feb 18th  – Ash Wednesday School Mass 9:15 am (Grade 3)

Feb 19th  – School AGM 6:45 pm at the Church Hall (Mandatory Meeting for all Families)

Feb 20th  – Grade 2 Reconciliation Re-Treat 9:00 am to Noon

___________________________________

Office | St. Francis of Assisi School
870 Victoria Drive, Vancouver BC V5L 4E7

Tel: 604-253-7311
Website: sfaschool.ca
Twitter: @SFASchoolVan
Like us on Facebook: SFASchool

Monday, January 12th, 2026:

• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Girls Basketball Practice at St. Joseph’s School at 7:30 am, Students Will Be Bussed Back to School
• Spirit Week – Western Day
• Grade 7’s Snowshoeing  

Tuesday, January 13th, 2026:

• Spirit Week – Black-Out Day

Wednesday, January 14th, 2026:

• Spirit Week – Superhero Day (traditional, modern, creative)
• Hot Lunch

Thursday, January 15th, 2026:

• Spirit Week – Athletic Day
• PEC Meeting 6:30 pm  

Friday, January 16th, 2026: