Fencing at St. Mark

Recently an idea has been brought forth to consider adding fencing to our cocurricular list of activities. Fencing is a classic sport that teaches self control, sportsmanship, discipline, while increasing strategic thinking skills. Fencing also helps build strong bodies and provides a great outlet for physical activity. The costs of starting such a program are relatively low. Would such a program with a possible weekly commitment be something our students would be interested in? Possible AM practices could be considered to prevent interference with other athletic activities. Comments please?

Gym Shoes and P.E.?

What are everyone's thoughts on allowing gym shoes to be worn to school. I realize it doesn't look as classy as dress shoes. The benefit is saving the minutes each day that it takes to change shoes for P.E. The older the students the less time it takes. It also eliminates classroom space being used to store gym shoes, less scuff marks in the hallway, and overall less expensive for parents? Any thoughts and comments? Please share and thanks for all your previous posts.

Summer Programs

A handful of local schools and schools across the nation have devised summer programs for students. Usually these summer programs take one of two forms. They are either a daycare type program for younger students peppered with valid learning excursions and physcial activities or a series of camps for older students focused on certain academic areas. Examples of the latter include camps like Math or Science based programs. The school makes some money, the kids gain some valuable experiences, working parents are provided with a safe, instructional, daycare alternative. Would the St. Mark School Community be interested in the creation of such programs?

New Uniforms?

A handful of local parochial schools are switching school uniforms to go with a single vendor. The most populat package is opting for a navy or khaki pant with a polo shirt complete with school emblem in one to two colors. The benefits includes one stop shopping, easy enforcement, and good prices for quality clothing. The draw back would be increased immediate costs for the first year of implementation. Notre Dame High School switched to this format two years ago and St. Thomas' Junior High will be adopting a new dress code next fall. Any comments or concerns?