February 12, 2023

Dear St. Monica Academy Families,

Tomorrow, Monday February 13, 2023, we will remember Molly with a Molly Monday. Students may come out of uniform and are invited to wear Molly gear, leopard print, orange, and yellow.

Ms. Shaye, a licensed counselor provided to us through the Office of Catholic Schools and Dr. La Civita, a long time SMA counselor, spoke with students in first through fifth grade on Friday. They worked with small groups of students inviting them to draw and write letters while they talked through their feelings and questions around the loss of our beloved Molly. Many of the children expressed concerns about their own safety, wondering, “Can I catch cancer?” or “Could this happen to me?” Others shared memories of beloved family members or pets who had passed. Some also wanted to know if they would see Molly in heaven and would she remember them. These are all deep and challenging questions. Please invite your child to talk with you about any questions or concerns they may have. If you notice your child is having particular difficulties about this loss, please let me know.

Dr. La Civita will join us again this week to support our children. We will also welcome Patrick, the St, Patrick’s High School therapy dog this week. Please remember you can always decline these supports for your child. Simply email me or your child’s teacher and let us know your preferences.

Many of you have asked about funeral services for Molly. As soon as we have that information, we will share it with our families.

Finally, a reminder that school is not in session Friday while our teachers participate in some professional development. 

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