Dear Alums,

We are sure that many of you contribute financially to your college or university, and perhaps even to your high school. But it was at your elementary school that your educational, moral, and religious/faith foundation first began. Your years at St. Stephen School (“SSS”) gave you the academic and ethical foundation for you to aspire to the area's private or public high schools, and beyond. It was at SSS that you developed the core elements of your moral compass and academic base from which you knowingly or unknowingly draw on each day of your life. Whether you’re currently a practicing Catholic or not, SSS gave you the foundation of who you are today. We believe, and we think you do too, that a Catholic education is truly a worthwhile endeavor and should be available for generations to come.

As you probably know, SSS continually strives for academic, religious, athletic, and technological excellence. We are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Moreover, we have shown continued improvement in our STAR (Standardized Tests of Assessment of Reading) testing. For example, this year we are the fifth highest in reading in the Diocese’s elementary Catholic schools. Our reading scores are 9% higher than last year. Our math scores are 6% higher than last year. We are currently 82.5% in proficiency for early literacy (grades K & 1).

When you went to SSS, your parents paid an affordable tuition that covered a portion of the total cost to send you to SSS. The remainder came from the Sunday collection basket at Masses as well as various grants and fundraisers. This financial model is no longer a reality. In general, contributions are lower at Masses due to declining population and less active parishioner participation. Moreover, as you probably know, there are financial challenges facing the entire Diocese.

We are reaching out to you at this time to ask you to partner with SSS to ensure its growth and future success and longevity. Please consider a one-time donation or monthly donations. Your donations are critically important, and will contribute directly to our goal of becoming financially independent and stable for years to come.

We sincerely thank you for valuing the Catholic education provided at SSS and investing in our ability to continue to educate students in the way of our faith for many years to come.

If you would like, your donation can be directed to the St. Stephen School Education Foundation. As you know, your donation may be tax deductible.*

May God bless you and your families!

Sincerely,

Lynn Ortiz

Principal of St. Stephen School

Mitchell Stessing

Vice Chair of St. Stephen School Advisory Board

John Pappano

Chair of St. Stephen School Advisory Board

*Subject to any and all changes in tax laws, codes and/or regulations. Please consult your accountant, attorney or tax advisor. We are unable to provide tax advice.

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Alumni Sponsorship