KEKAHA — St. Theresa School students, staff and families returned from winter break to in-person learning and the sad announcement of their annual fundraising carnival being canceled for a second straight year.
The cancellation of the carnival was one of the “downs” mentioned by STS Principal Wendy Castillo in her monthly newletter.
To make up for funds that would traditionally come from the carnival normally held in April, Castillo said STS will embark on a series of monthly fundraisers, including the current Westside Staycation that launched earlier this week.
“If there are people in the community who want an opportunity to participate, we welcome their contributions at the school’s front office,” she said.
The first prize includes a two-night stay at Waimea Plantation Cottages. Other prizes include a wine-and-dine package that includes a $100 Wrangler’s Steakhouse gift certificate, and the hit-the-beach package of a pop-up tent, two beach chairs and a cooler.
Donation tickets for this Westside Staycation program are available at the St. Theresa School front office, and calling 808-337-1351 ahead of getting tickets for the Feb. 3 drawing is appreciated.
“The carnival usually brings us about $80,000 profit,” Castillo said. “Last year, we struggled without the carnival because of the pandemic. But following a series of fundraisers that could be held under the COVID guidelines, private donations, and grants, we ended the year to where we felt confident and filled with joy in being able to operate our 162-student school.
“We are moving right along with in-person learning, and our learners are loving it,” she said. “The COVID pandemic is not going to fade away gently as we had hoped. But St. Theresa School will stay cautious, stay safe, and keep the blessing of in-person learning as our priority.”
Registration for STS returning families will open on School Speak starting Feb. 14. Paper registration forms will also be available at the school’s office as well as posted on the sttheresakauai.com website. Class sizes will be capped at 16 learners, and registration opens to the public starting on Feb. 22.
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
Cancelling is the right and proper thing to do during this pandemic. I wish others would follow suit and stop holding large gatherings. It is selfish of them to put making money above the health of our people.