Modern Cone on Harper Avenue in St. Clair Shores hosted a fundraiser for St. Germaine Catholic School on Feb. 26.
By: Alyssa Ochss | St. Clair Shores Sentinel | Published February 28, 2024
ST. CLAIR SHORES — St. Germaine Catholic School has hit both of its fundraising goals and is still working on its enrollment goal of 150 students.
In an email sent to parents, St. Germaine Catholic School Principal Colleen Maciejewski said as of Monday, Feb. 26, they surpassed the fundraising goals.
The goals, as previously reported, were set at $150,000 in donations and $150,000 pledged for the future.
Krystal Moore, a parent of a St. Germaine student, said at the time of publication they had received $187,900 in donations and $156,000 in pledges with the total amount being $343,900.
“This remarkable accomplishment speaks volumes about the dedication and support within our community,” Maciejewski said to parents in her email. “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who contributed to this achievement.”
Their next goal is to hit the needed 150-student enrollment threshold by the March 1 deadline. Several open houses were hosted since the needed goals were announced to parents in an email on Feb. 13.
“I think that the goal is obtainable. We just have to hit it by March 1,” Moore said.
In the email sent on Feb. 26, Maciejewski said they have received deposit checks for 110 students with around 138 families expressing interest in enrolling in the school.
“However, it’s important to note that, in order to be officially counted by the Archdiocese, it’s imperative to submit your deposit,” Maciejewski wrote to parents. “Your verbal affirmation alone won’t suffice in this regard.”
She urged parents to complete the deposit within 48 hours.
Moore also said, while there are no upcoming open houses scheduled, parents and families can ask for private tours of the school or host a shadow day.
“A shadow day is where you get to come and be a student for the day, and they would be able to contact the school office to schedule a shadow day,” Moore said.
Moore said the parents weren’t really sure what to expect when they started fundraising to save the school. She said they’re humbled by the support of the community, local businesses, alumni and current families.
“Honestly, I don’t think anyone ever expected to be in this position,” Moore said. “It’s been very overwhelming, that outpour from the community.”
The emotions brought on by the support have reached both the parents and the students attending the school. Moore said it was interesting seeing her fifth-grade daughter Emma Moore displaying emotions and helping out with events such as the recent “hair-a-thon.”
“Even our youngest people to our oldest people are very, very involved and invested. So it’s wonderful,” Moore said.
Moore said some of those families who were uncertain if they were going to re-enroll in the school have gained interest in enrolling their students again. She understands the difficult decisions they have to make as parents.
“I think that knowing that you are in a community where everyone is stepping up for your child has been kind of that deciding factor for a lot of families that may have been uncertain,” Moore said.
Maciejewski expressed her gratitude to the parents.
“Once again, I want to express my deepest appreciation to everyone who has contributed to our progress thus far,” Maciejewski said. “Together, we’re making remarkable strides towards our shared vision.”
Moore said she is feeling optimistic and hopeful for the future of St. Germaine. She would also like to thank everyone in the community.
“Whether it’s a neighbor or a business or just a family,” Moore said. “We are beyond grateful for the support and continued support.”