Week At A Glance

Happy Mother’s Day: 
Thank you to the grade 1 class for preparing the Mother’s Day and May Crowning Mass today. We would like to extend a Happy Mother’s Day to all the Mother’s, Grandmothers and mums in our lives. We cannot thank you enough for everything that you do.

A Mother’s Day Prayer: Please watch over and support all mothers on earth and in heaven… and help them to know how much they are loved and appreciated on Mother’s Day and everyday.

Monday, May 12th, 2025:

• Track practice 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm. Please pick up your child from the school no later than 4:30 pm. Any students who have not been picked up by 4:30 pm will be sent to the After School Club and you will be charged for this service.

Tuesday, May 13th, 2025:

• Long Distance Track Practice at Templeton 7:45 am, Please drop your child off with the teacher. Students will be walked back to school.
• Sacrament of Confirmation at 7:00 pm

Wednesday, May 14th, 2025:

• NO High Jump practice moved to Friday morning
• Throwing Practice at lunch
• Hot Lunch

Thursday, May 15th, 2025:

• Track practice 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm. Please pick up your child from the school no later than 4:30 pm. Any students who have not been picked up by 4:30 pm will be sent to the After School Club and you will be charged for this service.

Friday, May 16th, 2025:

• High Jump practice 7:30 am. Please drop your child off with Miss Pratley at the Parish Hall. Students will be walked back to the school
• Sports Day, wear gym shorts and family group colour shirt, bring a water bottle
• Noon Dismissal
• After School Club Noon – 3:00 pm

Gala Thank You: 
Last Friday was a night to remember!  A big thank you to Melissa De Genova, Pamela Audia (Gala Co-Chairs) and Heather Maciver (SFA Special Events Leader) for putting together a fantastic event! Thanks to all of the SFA parents and alumni that came out to support a fun evening of dinner and dancing. A special thank you for all the families that supported the silent and live auctions. Please click on the link to see some fabulour photos of the Gala. The gallery will expiry on June 1st, 2025.
https://tinashoots.shootproof.com/gallery/27366607
Password is 2025SFGL

SFA Website – new features!: 
We are working on refreshing different aspects of our school website and now have a feature called, “Life at SFA”.  It contains video footage and interviews with students and staff at SFA.  A lot of hard work went into the production of this feature and we are incredibly proud that it showcases our school so well.  You can find the videos by going to the SFA school website under the “About” tab and look for “Life at SFA” or you can click HERE to be taken directly to the page.  Enjoy and share these clips with families and friends!

Sacrament of Confirmation: 
On Tuesday May 13th at 7:00 pm, the grade 7 students will be receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. As the Confirmands prepare to receive the Sacrament may the Holy Spirit guide them in all that they do. Please pray for all our confirmands and their families.

Uniform Reminders: 
A friendly reminder for both boys and girls uniforms: dress shorts, kilts, tunics, skorts are to be no higher than two inches above knee. When in uniform black shoes are required at all times.

PE uniform includes wearing the SFA PE t-shirt and SFA PE shorts for PE classes. The SFA jogging pants and jacket are to be worn on top of the shorts and t-shirt, if needed (it is optional). Thank you.

Pizza Lunches: 
The last two Grade 7 Fundraising Pizza lunches will take place on May 22 and June 5. Please click on the links below to order. Thank you for your support.

MAY 22 PIZZA LINK Deadline:  May 14, 2025
JUNE 5 PIZZA LINK Deadline:  May 28, 2025

Sports Day: 
Reminder, Friday May 16th is Sports Day and Early Dismissal at Noon. ASC is from Noon to 3:00 pm. Students are allowed to wear a shirt in their family team “colour” and are to wear their gym shorts or track pants. Please send your child with a hat and please make sure to wear sunscreen. Please have your child bring their water bottle with their name on it as there will not be a water station this year. 

Colours to wear for Sports Day:

Cougars – Red

Jaguars – Orange

Pumas  – Yellow

Pandas – Green

Spiders – Black

Lions – Purple

Bulldogs – Pink

Scorpions – Blue

Parish Education Committee Election (PEC) Update:

Please note that the nominating committee members for the PEC Elections that are to take place the weekend of May 24/25, 2025 are Mr. Matthew Langford and Ms. Annie Kaderly. If you have any questions about the PEC elections or nominating process please contact the school at office@sfaschool.ca

Grandparents Tea Friday May 30th:

SFA Carnival June 1st, 2025:

Italian Days On The Drive, June 8, 2025:
St. Francis of Assisi will be participating in the Italian Days on the Drive on Sunday, June 8, 2025!  We are in need of volunteers to help out. This is a great way to fulfill your Parent Participation hours! Those interested in volunteer opportunities for this day please reach out to our Parent Participation Coordinator, Mrs. Kathryn Percy at:  parentparticipation@sfaschool.ca

We are looking for volunteers to help set up, sell food and take payments and do take down. Especially looking for people with food safe. Please email Pamela at sfachurchevents@gmail.com for more information.

The Great Grandview Garage Sale June 21, 2025:
Rent a table and sell your no longer wanted items for some quick cash. if you don’t want to rent a table, but have items you want to donate to the church to sell, that’s also an option. We are looking for volunteers to help set up, sell food, sell donated items and do take down. Please email Pamela at sfachurchevents@gmail.com for more information.

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

2025 – 2026 School Application:
We are still accepting applications for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Please forward the attached application package to any family and friends.

UPCOMING DATES:

May 19th – Victoria Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 20th – PRO-D Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 22nd – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, New Kindergarten Early Learning Program, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

May 23rd – Grade 5 to Victoria, Rosary (Kindergarten), Jeans Day $2.00 for BC Children’s Hospital, Grade 7 Ice Cream Sandwich Fundraiser

May 27th – New Kindergarten Early Learning Program

May 28th – CISVA Track Meet at Swangard, Hot Lunch

May 30th – Grandparents Tea 10:30 am to Noon at church hall

Jun 1st – Carnival, Family Mass 10:30 am (Staff) at church hall and garden

Jun 2nd – Panorama photo – All students to be dressed in winter uniform (including school sweater)

Jun 3rd – Kindergarten & Grade 6 Immunizations (Information to follow from the school nurse)

Jun 4th – CISVA Track Meet at Swangard

Jun 5th – Staff Appreciation Lunch, Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser

Jun 9th – PRO-D DAY – NO SCHOOL

Jun 10th – New Kindergarten Orientation at 1:00 pm 

Jun 13th – Donuts for Dads, Grade 4 Nature Writing Workshop, Step Up Day 1:00 pm, Grade 7 Leaving Ceremony 

Jun 14th – Work Bee 8:30 am 

Jun 19th – Grade 7 Fundraiser Pizza Lunch, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm  

Jun 20th – School Mass Grade 7 at 9:15 am, No After School Bus   

Jun 24th – Wolf Recognition Assembly 1:00 pm  

Jun 25th – Last Day of Before & After School Club  

Jun 26th – Last Day of School, 9:15 am Mass (Grade 6), Noon Dismissal, Learning Updates Go Home 

___________________________________

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

Lapu Lapu Festival:
Today, all SFA students and staff gathered outside to pray the Rosary for all those affected by the tragic event at the Lapu Lapu Festival last weekend. Please continue to keep them in your prayers.

First Holy Communion: 
Congratulations to our communicants and their families on their First Holy Communion. Please continue to keep them in your prayers. 

St. Helen’s Track Meet:

All students attending this meet and taking the school bus to SFU,  please arrive at school no later than 8:15 am. For students being driven to SFU please arrive at 8:30 am. All students will need to be picked up from SFU no later than 2:45 pm and the bus will not be returning students back to school. Please send your child with a healthy lunch, snacks and water bottle and ensure your child is prepared for the weather.  

Please note: There is a new parking lot this year. There will be no extra fees for this lot and guests can park on any level and will not be subject to ticketing. Please see the parking map below.

Monday, May 5th, 2025:

• St. Helen’s Track Meet at SFU
• NO TRACK PRACTICE TODAY

Tuesday, May 6th, 2025:

• NO LONG DISTANCE PRACTICE TODAY
• Confirmation Rehearsal at 5:00 pm at the Church – Child, Sponsor and Parent attend

Wednesday, May 7th, 2025:

• High Jump practice 7:30 am. Please drop your child off with Miss Pratley at the Parish Hall. Students will be walked back to the school
• Grade 7 to Global News (All students in full uniform, including black shoes, grad hoodies may be worn) 
• Throwing Practice at lunch
• Hot Lunch

Thursday, May 8th, 2025:

• Grade 3 field trip to Vancouver Aquarium (All students in full uniform, including black shoes, bring gym strip for track practice)
• Grade 7 Pizza lunch fundraiser
• Track practice 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm. Please pick up your child from the school no later than 4:30 pm. Any students who have not been picked up by 4:30 pm will be sent to the After School Club and you will be charged for this service.
• Parent Night “Connecting With Our Children” 6:30 pm at the school

Friday, May 9th, 2025:

• School Mass at 9:15 am (Grade 1), Mother’s Day and May Crowning
• Confirmation Interview at 12:45 pm
• No afternoon bus today
• Early Dismissal 2:00 pm

Saturday, May 10th, 2025: Work Bee at 8:30 am

St Francis of Assisi Gala:            

Friday, May 2, 2025
Italian Cultural Centre
6:00 PM Cocktails
7:30 PM 4-course Dinner

Save the Date – “Connecting with Our Children” Talk:

Thank you to all the parents who registered for the talk with Susie Lang-Gould. Please note that the talk will take place at the school on May 8th, 2025 from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm.

Parish Education Committee Election (PEC) Update:

Please note that the nominating committee members for the PEC Elections that are to take place the weekend of May 24/25, 2025 are Mr. Matthew Langford and Ms. Annie Kaderly. If you have any questions about the PEC elections or nominating process please contact the school at office@sfaschool.ca

Grandparents Tea Friday May 30th:

SFA Carnival June 1st, 2025:

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

2025 – 2026 School Application:
We are still accepting applications for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Please forward the attached application package to any family and friends.

UPCOMING DATES:

May 13th – Confirmation 7:00 pm

May 16th – Sports Day, Noon Dismissal, After School Club Noon – 3:00 pm

May 19th – Victoria Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 20th – PRO-D Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 22nd – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, New Kindergarten Early Learning Program, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

May 23rd – Grade 5 to Victoria, Rosary (Kindergarten), Jeans Day $2.00 for BC Children’s Hospital

May 27th – New Kindergarten Early Learning Program

May 28th – CISVA Track Meet at Swangard

May 30th – Grandparents Tea 10:30 am to Noon at church hall

Jun 1st – Carnival at church hall and garden

Jun 2nd – Panorama photo – All students to be dressed in winter uniform (including school sweater)

Jun 4th – CISVA Track Meet at Swangard

Jun 9th – PRO-D DAY – NO SCHOOL

Jun 10th – New Kindergarten Orientation at 1:00 pm 

___________________________________

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

First Holy Communion Sunday April 27th at 1:30 pm: 
As our students prepare to receive their First Holy Communion, we invite you to keep them in your hearts and prayers. This is a sacred and joyful milestone in their spiritual journey. Let us pray that their hearts remain open to God’s love, that they grow in faith and grace, and that this special day marks the beginning of a lifelong relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist.
May their joy be full, their spirits be blessed, and their lives always be guided by the light of Christ.

Friars Track Meet:

All students participating in the Friars Track Meet and taking the school bus to Swangard, please arrive at school no later than 8:25 am. For students being driven to Swangard please arrive at 9:15 am. All students will need to be picked up from Swangard no later than 2:15 pm and the bus will not be driving students back to school. Please send your child with a healthy lunch, snacks and a water bottle and ensure your child is dressed and prepared for cold and wet weather.  

Monday, April 28th, 2025:

• Friars Track Meet at Swangard Stadium
• Spring uniform starts
• NO TRACK PRACTICE AFTER SCHOOL

Tuesday, April 29th 2025:

• NO LONG DISTANCE PRACTICE TODAY IN THE MORNING

Wednesday, April 30th, 2025:

• High Jump practice 7:30 am. Please drop your child off with Miss Pratley at the Parish Hall. Students will be walked back to the school
• Notre Dame Musical SpongeBob (Students will walk or be bussed to and from Notre Dame)
• Hot Lunch (Hot lunch will be delivered early for students to eat before leaving for the musical)

Thursday, May 1st, 2025:

• Track practice 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm. Please pick up your child from the school no later than 4:30 pm. Any students who have not been picked up by 4:30 pm will be sent to the After School Club and you will be charged for this service.

Friday, May 2nd, 2025:

• Early Dismissal 2:00 pm
• SFA Gala at Italian Cultural Centre

St Francis of Assisi Gala:            

Join us for a fabulous evening of dinner and dancing in support of our school!  You definitely don’t want to miss this year’s Gala!

Friday, May 2, 2025
Italian Cultural Centre
6:00 PM Cocktails & Live Saxophone Music
7:30PM 4-course Dinner

Monday April 28th at noon is the last chance to purchase tickets. https://sfaschool.ca/gala-2025/
Tickets will be available for pick up after school on Monday April 28th. If you are unable to pick up your tickets they will be at the office for pick up till Friday.

Email Pamela and Melissa for more information at 2025gala@sfaschool.ca

Italian Days on the Drive :            

St. Francis of Assisi will be participating in the Italian Days on the Drive on Sunday, June 8, 2025!  We are in need of volunteers to help out.  This is a great way to fulfill your Parent Participation hours!  Those interested in volunteer opportunities for this day please reach out to our Parent Participation Coordinator, Mrs. Kathryn Percy at:  parentparticipation@sfaschool.ca

PEC Elections :            

St. Francis of Assisi School will be holding PEC elections on May 24 and 25, 2025. If you are interested in being nominated for a position on the PEC please click HERE for more information or contact Ms. Welsh at the school.

SFA Carnival:
 

Save the Date – “Connecting with Our Children” Talk:

We are fortunate to have Susie Lang-Gould come and present to all parents on the topic:  Connecting with Our Children.  Susie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who has over 30 years of experience as a Coach, Teacher, and Clinical Counsellor working in both private and public school settings, Family Services of Greater Vancouver, and Private Practice.  Susie’s presentation will provide parents with strategies and tips of how to engage with your child as they grow, mature and present different challenges.

WHAT:            Presentation by Susie Lang-Gould:  “Connecting with Our Children”
WHEN:           Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 6:30 pm
HOW LONG:  1 – 1 and 1/2 hours
WHERE:         Parish Hall
COST:             FREE

If you are planning to attend, please click on this LINK to confirm your attendance.  Deadline to RSVP:  Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Pizza Lunch: Next Pizza Lunch: ORDER PIZZA FOR MAY 8 – deadline to order is April 30, 3:00pm. 

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

2025 – 2026 School Application:
We are still accepting applications for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Please forward the attached application package to any family and friends.

UPCOMING DATES:

May 5th – St. Helen’s Track Meet at SFU

May 6th – Confirmation Rehearsal at the Church at 5:00 pm

May 8th – Grade 3 to Vancouver Aquarium, Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, “Connecting with Our Children” Talk at 6:30 pm at the church hall

May 9th – School Mass at 9:15 am (Grade 1), Mother’s Day Mass and May Crowning, Confirmation Interview at 12:45 pm

May 10th – Work Bee 8:30 am 

May 11th – Mother’s Day

May 13th – Confirmation Mass at 7:00 pm

May 16th – Sports Day, Noon Dismissal, After School Club Noon – 3:00 pm

May 19th – Victoria Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 20th – PRO-D Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 22nd – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

May 23rd – Grade 5 to Victoria, Rosary (Kindergarten), Rosary Kindergarten, Jeans Day $2.00 for BC Children’s Hospital

May 28th – CISVA Track Meet at Swangard

May 30th – Grandparents Tea 10:30 am to Noon at church hall

Jun 1st – Carnival at church hall and garden

Jun 2nd – Panorama photo – All students to be dressed in winter uniform (including school sweater)

Jun 3rd – Kindergarten & Grade 6 Immunizations (Consent forms to follow from the school nurse)

Jun 4th – CISVA Track Meet at Swangard

___________________________________

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

Happy Easter:

Alleluia! Christ is Risen, Indeed He is Risen! As we celebrate Easter, a Catholic message of hope and renewal, we remember the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of new life. May this Easter season bring you joy, peace, and a renewed sense of faith. Happy Easter to you and your families from all the staff at SFA.

Triduum Schedule:

Thursday April 17th   7:00 pm                        Mass of Lord’s Supper 

                                     9 pm to 12 am             Adoration

Friday April 18th        3:00 pm                        Good Friday Service

Saturday April 19th    9:00 pm                       Easter Vigil

Sunday April 20th       9:00 am                       Easter Mass (Italian)

                                     10:30 am                     Easter Mass       

Monday, April 21st 2025:

• EASTER MONDAY – NO SCHOOL

Tuesday, April 22nd 2025:

• Long Distance Track Practice at Templeton 7:45 am, Please drop your child off with the teacher. Students will be walked back to school.
• School Mass 9:00 am (Staff), Easter egg hunt and bingo
• Mite boxes due back

Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025:

• High Jump practice 7:30 am. Please drop your child off with Miss Pratley at the Parish Hall. Students will be walked back to the school
• First Communion Retreat/Confessions
• Throwing practice at lunch
• Hot Lunch
• First Communion Rehearsals for parents and students 6:30 pm at the church

Thursday, April 24th, 2025:

• Pizza lunch grade 7 fundraiser – no need to pack lunch
• Track practice 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm. Please pick up your child from the school no later than 4:30 pm. Any students who have not been picked up by 4:30 pm will be sent to the After School Club and you will be charged for this service.

Friday, April 25th, 2025:

• Kindergarten field trip to Lynn Canyon 
• Confirmation interviews at 12:45 pm
• Grade 7 Fundraiser Freezie Sale ($2.00) After School
• Early Dismissal 2:00 pm

St Francis of Assisi Gala:            

Join us for a fabulous evening of dinner and dancing in support of our school!  You definitely don’t want to miss this year’s Gala!

Friday, May 2, 2025
Italian Cultural Centre
6PM Cocktails
7:30PM 4-course Dinner

Don’t wait, buy your tickets now! https://sfaschool.ca/gala-2025/
Email Pamela and Melissa for more information at 2025gala@sfaschool.ca

Save the Date – “Connecting with Our Children” Talk:

We are fortunate to have Susie Lang-Gould come and present to all parents on the topic:  Connecting with Our Children.  Susie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who has over 30 years of experience as a Coach, Teacher, and Clinical Counsellor working in both private and public school settings, Family Services of Greater Vancouver, and Private Practice.  Susie’s presentation will provide parents with strategies and tips of how to engage with your child as they grow, mature and present different challenges.

WHAT:            Presentation by Susie Lang-Gould:  “Connecting with Our Children”
WHEN:           Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 6:30 pm
HOW LONG:  1 – 1 and 1/2 hours
WHERE:         Parish Hall
COST:             FREE

If you are planning to attend, please click on this LINK to confirm your attendance.  Deadline to RSVP:  Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

SFA Carnival:
 

Spring Uniform:
 

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

2025 – 2026 School Application:
We are still accepting applications for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Please forward the attached application package to any family and friends.

UPCOMING DATES:

April 27th – First Holy Communion 1:30 pm 

April 28th – Friars Track Meet at Swangard Stadium, Spring Uniform Starts

April 30th – Notre Dame Musical SpongeBob

May 2nd – SFA Gala at the Italian Cultural Centre 6:00 pm

May 5th – St. Helen’s Track Meet at SFU 

May 10th – Work Bee 8:30 am 

May 13th – Confirmation 7:00 pm

May 16th – Sports Day, Noon Dismissal, After School Club Noon – 3:00 pm

May 19th – Victoria Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 20th – PRO-D Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 22nd – Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, PEC Meeting 6:30 pm

May 23rd – Grade 5 to Victoria, Rosary (Kindergarten), Jeans Day $2.00 for BC Children’s Hospital

May 28th – CISVA Track Meet at Swangard

May 30th – Grandparents Tea 10:30 am to Noon at church hall

Jun 1st – Carnival at church hall and garden

Jun 2nd – Panorama photo – All students to be dressed in winter uniform (including school sweater)

Jun 4th – CISVA Track Meet at Swangard

___________________________________

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

Holy Week:

As we enter the sacred time of Holy week, we are invited to walk more closely with Jesus through His Passion, Death, and Resurrection. This is a moment of deep reflection, gratitude, and renewal—a time to pause and remember the immense love Christ showed for each of us. Let us walk together, as one Catholic family, toward the joy of Easter. May this Holy Week renew your faith, deepen your hope, and fill your homes with Christ’s peace.

Lenten Mass Challenge:

It has been wonderful to see our students at the morning Masses. Please continue to bring your children to the morning Masses. Parents and other relatives are most welcome to attend, too!

• April 14 – Grades 3/6

• April 16 – Grades K/7

Poverty Lunch:

As we continue to journey through the season of Lent, we are aiming to do small acts to show our solidarity with Jesus’ sacrifice. On Monday, April 14, 2025 all of our staff and students will engage in a Poverty Lunch. Students will be provided with a Portuguese bun and we will eat it communally. Students may bring snacks and please ensure that a water bottle is brought to school as well. If you have any questions or concerns please contact your child’s classroom teacher.

Monday, April 14th 2025:

• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Grade 3 and Grade 6
• Poverty lunch at the Church hall 11:30 am
• Track practice 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm. Please pick up your child from the school no later than 4:30 pm. Any students who have not been picked up by 4:30 pm will be sent to the After School Club and you will be charged for this service.

Tuesday, April 15th 2025:

• Long Distance Track Practice at Templeton 7:45 am, Please drop your child off with the teacher. Students will be walked back to school.

Wednesday, April 16th, 2025:

• High Jump practice 7:30 am. Please drop your child off with Miss Pratley at the Parish Hall. Students will be walked back to the school
• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Kindergarten and Grade 7
• Throwing practice at lunch
• Hot Lunch

Thursday, April 17th, 2025:

• Holy Thursday Retreat, Stations of the Cross 1:00 pm at Church
• NO TRACK PRACTICE TODAY

Friday, April 18th, 2025:

• Good Friday – NO SCHOOL

Save the Date – “Connecting with Our Children” Talk:

We are fortunate to have Susie Lang-Gould come and present to all parents on the topic:  Connecting with Our Children.  Susie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor who has over 30 years of experience as a Coach, Teacher, and Clinical Counsellor working in both private and public school settings, Family Services of Greater Vancouver, and Private Practice.  Susie’s presentation will provide parents with strategies and 

WHAT:            Presentation by Susie Lang-Gould:  “Connecting with Our Children”
WHEN:           Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 6:30 pm
HOW LONG:  1 – 1 and 1/2 hours
WHERE:         Parish Hall
COST:             FREE

If you are planning to attend, please click on this LINK to confirm your attendance.  Deadline to RSVP:  Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

St Francis of Assisi Gala:            

Friday, May 2

Italian Cultural Centre

Cocktails 6PM | Dinner 7:30PM

DON’T MISS OUT – EARLY BIRD ENDS APRIL 15!

Live sax, DJ Storm, 4-course dinner + wine, prizes, auction, and more!

Tickets: $125 each

Early Bird Table of 10: $1125 (until April 15)

Can’t attend? Sponsor a teacher’s ticket for just $65!

SFA Carnival:

The SFA Carnival will be held on June 1st, 2025.

We will have carnival games, balloon twisting, live entertainment, a full concession and so much more. We are looking for volunteers and cake bakers to make this event extra fun. If you are able to help, please sign up here : 2025 SFA Carnival Volunteer Sign Up

Talent show is back! The talent show will be held between 2 – 4 during the Carnival. Sign up is first come first serve and space is limited. 
SFA Student Talent Show Sign-Up

We are also collecting new unopened items for our prize table. If you have items to donate, please drop them off at the school office.

Please reach out to sfa.carnival@sfaschool.ca with any questions.

Upcoming Pizza Lunches:

Our Grade 7 Fundraising continues with pizza lunches coming up on April 24, 2025 and May 8, 2025.  We truly appreciate the support you have given over this past year!  To order a pizza lunch for your children on:

APRIL 24, 2025 – CLICK HERE (deadline to submit the order is April 16, 2025 by 3:00 pm)

MAY 8, 2025 – CLICK HERE (deadline to submit this order is April 30, 2025 by 3:00 pm)

Notre Dame Musical:
All SFA students will be attending the Notre Dame Musical “SpongeBob” on April 30th. The show will feature some of our alumni. Students will walk or be bussed to and from Notre Dame.

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

2025 – 2026 School Application:
We are still accepting applications for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Please forward the attached application package to any family and friends.

UPCOMING DATES:

April 20th – Easter Sunday

April 21st – Easter Monday – NO SCHOOL

April 22nd – School Mass at 9:00 am (Staff), Easter Egg Hunt & Bingo, Mite boxes due back

April 23rd – First Communion Retreat 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, First Communion Parent & Student Rehearsal 6:30 pm at the Church

April 25th – Kindergarten fieldtrip to Lynn Canyon

April 27th – First Holy Communion 1:30 pm 

April 28th – Friars Track Meet at Swangard Stadium, Spring Uniform Starts

April 30h – Notre Dame Musical “Spongebob” (All students attending)

May 2nd – SFA Gala at the Italian Cultural Centre 6:00 pm

May 2nd – SFA Gala at the Italian Cultural Centre 6:00 pm

May 5th – St. Helen’s Track Meet at SFU 

May 9th – Mother’s Day School Mass and May Crowning at 9:15 am (Grade 1)

May 10th – Work Bee 8:30 am

May 16th- Sports Day, Noon Dismissal, After School Club Noon – 3:00 pm

May 19th – Victoria Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 20th – PRO-D Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 28th – CISVA Track Meet at Swangard

May 30th – Grandparent’s Tea 10:30 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

SFA Playground:

Families may have noticed that the northeast corner of the school playground has been fenced off.  We have a company working on some drainage issues that have been occurring in that particular location of the playground.  The company needs a few solid dry days in a row in order to complete the work.  Pray for the sun to shine continously!

Poverty Lunch:

As we continue to journey through the season of Lent, we are aiming to do small acts to show our solidarity with Jesus’ sacrifice. On Monday, April 14, 2025 all of our staff and students will engage in a Poverty Lunch. Students will be provided with a Portuguese bun and we will eat it communally. Students may bring snacks and please ensure that a water bottle is brought to school as well. If you have any questions or concerns please contact your child’s classroom teacher.

Lenten Mass Challenge:

It has been wonderful to see our students at the morning Masses. Please continue to bring your children to the morning Masses. Parents and other relatives are most welcome to attend, too!

• April 7 – Grades 3/6

• April 9 – Grades K/7

• April 10 – Grades 1/5

• April 11 – Grades 2/4

• April 14 – Grades 3/6

• April 16 – Grades K/7

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

Monday, April 7th 2025:

• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Grade 3 and Grade 6
• Grade 4 Owl Presentation at the Church Hall at 10:00 am
• Track practice 3:00 pm – 4:15 pm. Please pick up your child from the school no later than 4:30 pm. Any students who have not been picked up by 4:30 pm will be sent to the After School Club and you will be charged for this service.

Tuesday, April 8th 2025:

• Long Distance Track Practice at Templeton 7:45 am, Please drop your child off with the teacher. Students will be walked back to school.
• In School Spelling Bee at Church Hall at 10:30 am

Wednesday, April 9th, 2025:

• High Jump practice 7:30 am. Please drop your child off with Miss Pratley at the Parish Hall. Students will be walked back to the school
• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Kindergarten and Grade 7
• Throwing practice at lunch
• Hot Lunch

Thursday, April 10th, 2025:

• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Grade 1 and Grade 5
• Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser
• Track practice 3:00 to 4:15 pm. Please pick up your child from the school no later than 4:30 pm.  Any students who have not been picked up by 4:30 pm will be sent to the After School Club and you will be charged for this service.

Friday, April 11th, 2025:

• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Grade 2 and Grade 4
• Stations of the Cross (LSC) at 1:00 pm at the Church
• 2:00 pm Dismissal, Grade 7 Candy sale after school $2.00

St Francis of Assisi Gala:            

Join us for a fabulous evening of dinner and dancing in support of our school!  You definitely don’t want to miss this year’s Gala!

Friday, May 2, 2025
Italian Cultural Centre
6PM Cocktails
7:30PM 4-course Dinner

Early Bird Table Special until April 15: Buy 9 tickets and get the 10th free!
Don’t wait, buy your tickets now! https://sfaschool.ca/gala-2025/
Email Pamela and Melissa for more information at 2025gala@sfaschool.ca

2025 – 2026 School Application:
We are still accepting applications for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Please forward the attached application package to any family and friends.

Generation Health:
Generation Health Community is a FREE 10-week healthy lifestyle program for children and their families, delivered through YMCA BC and in partnership with the Childhood Healthy Living Foundation. Program participants will meet virtually or in person to learn about healthy eating, physical activity, goal setting, body image, self-esteem and more!  
We have 4 program days to choose from : Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday Virtually or Sunday in-person. This program requires prior registration through these details: phone 1-888-650-3141 or send an e-mail to generationhealth@bc.ymca.ca .  
Families who join this program receive a complimentary membership to the YMCA.  

UPCOMING DATES:

April 13th – Palm Sunday

April 17th – Holy Thursday Retreat, Stations of the Cross 1:00 pm at Church

April 18th – Good Friday – NO SCHOOL

April 20th – Easter Sunday

April 21st – Easter Monday – NO SCHOOL

April 22nd – Easter Tuesday Prayer Service, Easter Egg Hunt & Bingo, Mite boxes due back

April 23rd – First Communion Retreat 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Parent & Student Rehearsal 6:30 pm at the Church

April 27th – First Holy Communion 1:30 pm 

April 28th – Friars Track Meet at Swangard Stadium, Spring Uniform Starts

May 2nd – SFA Gala at the Italian Cultural Centre 6:00 pm

May 5th – St. Helen’s Track Meet at SFU 

May 13th – Confirmation 7:00 pm

May 16th- Sports Day, Noon Dismissal, After School Club Noon – 3:00 pm

May 19th – Victoria Day –  NO SCHOOL

May 20th – PRO-D Day –  NO SCHOOL

___________________________________

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

Spring Break:

The school will be closed for Spring Break from March 17th to March 28th. School will re-open at 8:40 am on March 31st. We encourage you and your children to take this time to relax, recharge, and enjoy some family fun. 

Lenten Mass Challenge:

It has been wonderful to see our students at the morning Masses. Please continue to bring your children to the morning Masses. Parents and other relatives are most welcome to attend, too!

• April 2 – Grades 1/5

• April 3 – Grades 2/4

• April 7 – Grades 3/6

• April 9 – Grades K/7

• April 10 – Grades 1/5

• April 11 – Grades 2/4

• April 14 – Grades 3/6

• April 16 – Grades K/7

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

Monday, March 31st 2025:

• School re-opens at 8:40 am

Tuesday, April 1st, 2025:

• Confessions Grade 3 and Grade 5 at 1:00 pm

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025:

• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Grade 3 and Grade 5
• Grade 7 Confessions at 10:45 am 
• Hot Lunch

Thursday, April 3rd, 2025:

• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Grade 2 and Grade 4

Friday, April 4th, 2025:

• School Mass at 9:15 am Kindergarten ($2.00 Collection for Catholic Charities)
• Grade 3 Walkathon Field Trip Prize to Granville Island Adventure Park at 10:30 am

Saturday, April 5th, 2025: Work Bee 8:30 am

St Francis of Assisi Gala:            

This year’s Gala is being planned by the parent duo who brought you the amazing and super fun parent social at the Waldorf. Join us for a fabulous evening of dinner and dancing in support of our school!  You definitely don’t want to miss this year’s Gala!

The next 10 tables sold will gat an extra bottle of wine on their table.

Friday, May 2, 2025
Italian Cultural Centre
6PM Cocktails
7:30PM 4-course Dinner

Early Bird Table Special until April 15: Buy 9 tickets and get the 10th free!
More information coming soon. Don’t wait, buy your tickets now!
https://sfaschool.ca/gala-2025/
Email Pamela and Melissa for more information at 2025gala@sfaschool.ca

B.C. Training and Education Savings Grant:            

Please see attached a flyer for information on a $1200.00 grant for children for children between their 6th birthday and the day before they turn 9.

2025 – 2026 School Application:
We are still accepting applications for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Please forward the attached application package to any family and friends.

UPCOMING DATES:

April 7th – 8:00 am Lenten Mass Grade 3 and Grade 6, Track Practices start this week, Grade 4 Owl Presentation at the Church Hall at 10:00 am

April 8th – In School Spelling Bee at Church Hall at 10:30 am

April 9th – 8:00 am Lenten Mass Kindergarten and Grade 7

April 10th – 8:00 am Lenten Mass Grade 1 and Grade 5

April 11th – 8:00 am Lenten Mass Grade 2 and Grade 4, Stations of the Cross (LSC) at 1:00 pm

April 13th – Palm Sunday

April 17th – Holy Thursday Retreat, Stations of the Cross 1:00 pm at Church

April 18th – Good Friday – NO SCHOOL

April 20th – Easter Sunday

April 21st – Easter Monday – NO SCHOOL

April 22nd – Easter Tuesday Prayer Service, Easter Egg Hunt & Bingo, Mite boxes due back

April 23rd – First Communion Retreat 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Parent & Student Rehearsal 6:30 pm at the Church

April 27th – First Holy Communion 1:30 pm 

April 28th – Friars Track Meet at Swangard Stadium

May 2nd – SFA Gala at the Italian Cultural Centre 6:00 pm

___________________________________

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

Lent Begins:

Dear SFA Parents and Caregivers,
The season of Lent gives us a wonderful time to pause and reflect on our lives. Are we living as God wants us to live? God only wants for us what will truly give us joy and peace. It is during this time we can make changes (small or big) to help conform our lives more deeply with God. The traditional Lenten practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving provide us with guidance. I pray that these 40 days allow you and your families to come closer to Christ and to anticipate the joy that Easter brings.

Celebration of Learning:
Thank you to all SFA families who came last night to our Celebration of Learning. Your children did a great job showing samples of their learning and we hope you were able to gain a better insight into your child’s learning in a variety of subject areas. Look out next week for Term 2 Learning Updates which will provide more teacher feedback on your child’s progress.

Lenten Mass Challenge:

As part of our school’s sacrificial Lenten effort, buddy classes are invited on the dates below to attend 8:00 am Morning Mass. It will be wonderful to see our students show our wider parish community the willingness we have to start the day with the celebration of the Mass. Parents and other relatives are most welcome to attend, too!

• March 10 – Grades 1/5

• March 12 – Grades 2/4

• March 13 – Grades 3/6

• March 14 – Grades K/7

• April 2 – Grades 1/5

• April 3 – Grades 2/4

• April 7 – Grades 3/6

• April 9 – Grades K/7

• April 10 – Grades 1/5

• April 11 – Grades 2/4

• April 14 – Grades 3/6

• April 16 – Grades K/7

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

Monday, March 10th, 2025:

• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Grade 1 and Grade 5

Tuesday, March 11th, 2025:

Wednesday, March 12th, 2025:

• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Grade 2 and Grade 4
• Hot Lunch

Thursday, March 13th, 2025:

• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Grade 3 and Grade 6
• Speech Arts Final at St. Joseph’s School
• Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser
• PEC Meeting @ 6:30 pm 

Friday, March 14th, 2025:

• 8:00 am Mass Challenge, Kindergarten and Grade 7
• Stations of the Cross (LSC)
• Last Day of Classes Before Spring Break, Grade 7 Candy Sale $2.00 exact change please, Noon Dismissal, No After School Club

Re-Registration Packages:

Re-registration packages were due back to school on Thursday, March 6th. Please note: as per school policy any packages returned after March 6th are subject to a late fee of $50.00. Late payment can be made by cheque or cash.

St Francis of Assisi Gala:            

Join us for a fabulous evening of dinner and dancing in support of our school!

Friday, May 2, 2025
Italian Cultural Centre
6PM Cocktails
7:30PM 4-course Dinner

Early Bird Table Special until April 15: Buy 9 tickets and get the 10th free!
More information coming soon. Don’t wait, buy your tickets now!
https://sfaschool.ca/gala-2025/
Email Pamela and Melissa for more information at 2025gala@sfaschool.ca

Parent Support Group Update:

Thank you to Ms. Tina Lu, she has agreed to join the Parent Support Group (the Parent Support Group applies and receives provincial gaming grant money for our school).  Many thanks to Mrs. Lucia Herdin who is in her last year as a Parent Support Group member.  We thank her, for her many years of service!

Candy Sale:

Our next CANDY SALE is March 14 at noon dismissal.  Candy will be for sale for $2. Please bring exact change. The money raised goes towards the Grade 7 Farewell Ceremony. Thank you so much for your support!

2025 – 2026 School Application:
We are still accepting applications for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Please forward the attached application package to any family and friends.

UPCOMING DATES:

March 17th to 28th – Spring Break – NO SCHOOL

March 31st – School Reopens at 8:40 am

April 4th – School Mass @ 9:15 am (Kindergarten) (Mass Collection $2.00)

April 7th – Grade 4 Owl Presentation at the Church Hall @ 10:00 am

April 8th – School Spelling Bee

April 11th – Stations of the Cross (LSC)

April 13th – Palm Sunday

April 17th – Holy Thursday Retreat, Stations of the Cross 1:00 pm at Church

April 18th – Good Friday – NO SCHOOL

April 20th – Easter Sunday

April 21st – Easter Monday – NO SCHOOL

April 22nd – Easter Prayer Service, Easter Egg Hunt & Bingo

April 23rd – First Communion Retreat 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Parent & Student Rehearsal 6:30 pm at the Church

April 27th – First Holy Communion 1:30 pm 

April 28th – Friars Track Meet at Swangard Stadium

May 2nd – SFA Gala at the Italian Cultural Centre 6:00 pm

___________________________________

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

Lenten Mass Challenge:

As part of our school’s sacrificial Lenten effort, buddy classes are invited on the dates below to attend 8:00 am Morning Mass. It will be wonderful to see our students show our wider parish community the willingness we have to start the day with the celebration of the Mass. Parents and other relatives are most welcome to attend, too!

• March 10 – Grades 1/5

• March 12 – Grades 2/4

• March 13 – Grades 3/6

• March 14 – Grades K/7

• April 2 – Grades 1/5

• April 3 – Grades 2/4

• April 7 – Grades 3/6

• April 9 – Grades K/7

• April 10 – Grades 1/5

• April 11 – Grades 2/4

• April 14 – Grades 3/6

• April 16 – Grades K/7

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

Monday, March 3rd, 2025:

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025:

• Mad Hat Day/Shrove Tuesday/Pancake Lunch

Wednesday, March 5th, 2025:

• Ash Wednesday Mass (Grade 3) @ 9:15 am, Meatless Hot Lunch, Pizza Lunch orders due @ 3:00 pm today
• Meatless Hot Lunch
• Mite boxes sent home

Thursday, March 6th, 2025:

• Celebration of Learning 11:30 am to 6:00 pm, (school closed from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm) No regular classes today
• Re-Registration packages due back to school

Friday, March 7th, 2025:

• Stations of the Cross (LSC)
• Early Dismissal at 2:00 pm

Mad Hat Day/Shrove Tuesday/Pancake Lunch:

Tuesday March 4th is Shrove Tuesday. Students are encouraged to wear a crazy hat (Full Uniform is Required). Students will also receive a pancake lunch from Fuel Catering. Please remember to send snacks with your child for lunch and recess. 

Re-Registration Payments and Packages:

Please pay your re-registration payment online before March 6th. Re-registration packages are due back to school on March 6th. Please click on the link to pay. https://sfaschool.ca/re-register-your-child/

Celebration of Learning:

“Celebration of Learning”, will be on Thursday March 6th from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm. There are no regular classes this day and parents will come to school with their child at their appointment time. All students are to be dressed in their school uniform. 

Volunteer Opportunities:

We need more volunteers to assist with planning the SFA Gala (May 2). If you need more parent participation hours and would like to assist with the Gala please contact Pamela Audia palzner85@gmail.com.

School Closures Due to Weather:

Please note: For any school closures, an email will be sent out to all families by 6:30 am. If the school remains open there will not be any communication sent. Please remember it is always the parents’ decision if you want to keep your child home it you feel it is unsafe to travel.

Cold Weather:

Please make sure your child has a jackets/gloves/hat with them everyday. Students will be outside in the morning and during recess time. Winter boats are recommended during the snowy weather. Please remember to send runners on your child’s gym day.

2025 – 2026 School Application:
We are still accepting applications for the 2025 – 2026 school year. Please forward the attached application package to any family and friends.

UPCOMING DATES:

March 13th – CISVA Speech Arts Finals at St. Joseph’s (select students), Grade 7 Pizza Lunch Fundraiser, PEC Meeting @ 6:30 pm 

March 14th – Stations of the Cross (LSC), Last day of classes before Spring Break, Grade 7 Candy Sale, Noon Dismissal, No ASC

March 17th to 28th – Spring Break – NO SCHOOL

March 31st – School Reopens at 8:40 am

March 14th – Last day before Spring Break, Noon Dismissal, Learning Update #2 sent home, No ASC

March 17th to 28th – Spring Break – No School

March 31st – School Reopens at 8:40 am

April 4th – School Mass @ 9:15 am (Kindergarten)

April 7th – Grade 4 Owl Presentation at the Church Hall @ 10:00 am

April 8th – School Spelling Bee

April 11th – Stations of the Cross (LSC)

April 13th – Palm Sunday

April 17th – Holy Thursday Retreat, Stations of the Cross 1:00 pm at Church

April 18th – Good Friday – NO SCHOOL

April 20th – Easter Sunday

April 21st – Easter Monday – NO SCHOOL

April 22nd – Easter Prayer Service, Easter Egg Hunt & Bingo

April 23rd – First Communion Retreat 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Parent & Student Rehearsal 6:30 pm at the Church

April 27th – First Holy Communion 1:30 pm 

April 28th – Friars Track Meet at Swangard Stadium

___________________________________

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

Meetings with Father Lucca:

Please only schedule a meeting with Father Lucca if you believe you meet the requirements for Category 1. You DO NOT need to schedule a meeting if you are a Category 2 or Category 3 family. If you are a Category 2 family, please check the box and there is no need of a signature from Father Lucca. If you need to cancel your appointment please email the office at office@sfaschool.ca

Lenten Mass Challenge:

As part of our school’s sacrificial Lenten effort, buddy classes are invited on the dates below to attend 8:00 am Morning Mass. It will be wonderful to see our students show our wider parish community the willingness we have to start the day with the celebration of the Mass. Parents and other relatives are most welcome to attend, too!

• March 10 – Grades 1/5

• March 12 – Grades 2/4

• March 13 – Grades 3/6

• March 14 – Grades K/7

• April 2 – Grades 1/5

• April 3 – Grades 2/4

• April 7 – Grades 3/6

• April 9 – Grades K/7

• April 10 – Grades 1/5

• April 11 – Grades 2/4

• April 14 – Grades 3/6

• April 16 – Grades K/7

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

Monday, February 24th, 2025:

• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Boys Basketball Practice at Ray-Cam @ 7:30 am

Tuesday, February 25th, 2025:

• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Girls Basketball Practice at Ray-Cam @ 7:30 am
• Speech Arts at the Church Hall, 9:00 am Primaries, 10:30 am Intermediates

Wednesday, February 26th, 2025:

• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Boys Basketball Practice at Ray-Cam @ 7:30 am
• Grade 2 Snowshoeing, Arrive at school at 8:30 am
• Pink Shirt Day (Pink t-shirt with uniform bottoms)
• Hot Lunch

Thursday, February 27th, 2025:

• Grade 5, 6 & 7 Girls Basketball Practice at Ray-Cam @ 7:30 am

Friday, February 28th, 2025:

• Rosary (Grade 5)
• Early Dismissal at 2:00 pm