Christmas Assembly

Parents are all invited to the Christmas Assembly at 2pm on Wednesday, December 15th.  We'll have each class work together to complete a challenge in order to win a prize from one of "Santa's elves" the following day.  I should be lots of fun, but I want parents to know that you are invited to have fun with us.  Hope to see you there.

Julian

Partners in Parenting!

“Care for the Heart!”

Physical exercise is a great way to care for your heart.  Your heart is vital to life.  If your heart is not working well or operating at less than 100%, it will impact all areas of life.  The heart beats about 100,000 times each day as it pumps 1,600 gallons of blood over 60,000 miles of vessels.  Amazing!  God has made our hearts to give the rest of the body life through the blood it pumps.  Therefore, it is critical to care for your heart in order to get optimal productivity from it.  Exercise, whether it is walking, jogging, lifting weights, aerobics, tennis, or anything else that increases your heart rate, is beneficial.  I would challenge anyone who does not exercise regularly now to begin walking for 30-45 minutes four times per week.  The heart will benefit from this behavior.  The rest of your body will benefit as well. 

God knows the value of the heart.  He wants us to care for our heart in a way more valuable than physical exercise as well.  He wants us to open our heart to his Word so it can be filled with His love and the Holy Spirit.  Galatians 4:4-6 reminds us of this truth as Paul writes, “But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons.  Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts…”  God values our hearts so much that he would send his Holy Spirit there to dwell.  Amazing!  His Spirit living in our heart should impact all of life just like the blood our heart pumps.  Blood is in the heart giving life to the body.  The Spirit is in the heart giving life to the body and to others.  Care for your heart by exercising it physically and spiritually.  Two simple ways are to go for a walk and read your Bible – challenge yourself to set a goal of four times per week for each.

Family Discussion Points!

Do members of your family need to physically care for their heart better?

Do you (parents) think it benefits your children if you care for your heart spiritually on a regular basis?

Discuss with the whole family what you want to do to care for your heart physically and spiritually – make a goal together.  Encourage each other to reach your goal long enough so it becomes a habit.

Coffee with the Principal Summary to Faculty and Parents

Everyone,

I wanted to put together a short summary of the discussion at yesterday's "Coffee with the Principal" meeting.  We had 25 - 30 people there in the morning (I forgot to count to give you an actual number) and another 10 in the afternoon.  I thought both meetings were great.

The opening devotion was from Genesis Chapter 1.  The account of creation shares that God said that what he had made was good after crating on days 1,3,4,5, and halfway through day 6.  There is no account of day 2 other than God saying that "it was so."  At the end of day 6, after creating man and woman and instructing them to work and be fruitful and multiply, God said it was "very good."  Human beings and their sexuality were created by God and deemed very good by Him.  Creation is a gift. Our body and our very life is a gift.  Sexuality is a gift.  And they all need to be understood as great gifts to value.  That framed the context of our entire conversation about how to implement a cohesive sex education program throughout the school.

Both the morning and afternoon groups seemed very favorable to a plan for sex education that places the parents as the first instructors with good materials before the teachers also go over the same materials in order to support parent's instruction and foster on-going communication with parents as issues related to sexuality arise.  We also talked starting as young as 3 year old preschool with appropriate materials about hand washing, keeping your body which is God's temple clean, and learning that you are unique and valuable.  I would work with the faculty to develop a comprehensive curriculum that would be used each May for instruction, but parents would receive materials ahead of time in order to review it all with their child ahead of time.  Parents present expressed an appreciation for this approach.

A stewardship and savings program for the students was discussed, and I hope we will get that program started in January.  The essence is that students would be able to begin a savings account through Church Extension Fund (CEF) that would provide CEF with money to loan to churches and schools while the kids earn interest on their investment.  The students would get a prize every time they invested, and we'd make it available once/week before school (so just come a few minutes early to make your investment).  I've done this at my previous schools, and I really try to teach students about saving, stewardship, and compounding interest.

We are planning a Christmastime assembly for the students, and we may need some parents to help with that.  You can contact me if you'd like to assist.

We talked briefly about dress code feedback and suggestions.  As I expected, we had thoughts of loosen it up, keep it the same, and tighten it up.  Good points were made by everyone, but nothing was decided or recommended for the future.  It was good for me to hear parent's thoughts though. 

I think that adequately summarizes things for everyone who couldn't make it (including faculty).  I appreciate the great and respectful communication that occurred!  Great job and thank you!!

In Christ,

Julian Petzold, Principal

Partners in Parenting, Nov. 15, 2010

Deer Day!

Today is the opening day of the Michigan firearm deer hunting season.  It is every year here in Michigan while other states around the country have opening day always fall on a Saturday.  I grew up in a small farming community, and November 15th was an automatic "No School" day.  I was talking with a good friend of mine who teaches in northern Michigan, and he informed me that on his school calendar November 15th still says, "No School - Deer Day."  This is a big day to many people here in Michigan, but don't we all have days that that we look forward to every year?  Days like Christmas, your birthday, Valentine's Day, your anniversary, etc. can be days to look forward to with anticipation.  It is helpful when they are consistently on the same day unlike Easter which fluctuates.  The Bible talks about Jesus' return to earth to take all believers home to eternity as a certainty, but without a specific date.  It's going to happen, but we don't know when.  We should look forward to this day with great anticipation accompanied with plenty of comfort knowing that on that day, we will be with Him forever.  Kids always look forward to special days.  Help them look forward to this special day with anticipation and comfort!

Family Discussion Points!

Have every member of the family share two of their favorite days of the year.

Have everyone share a day they don't like that appears on the calendar.

Consider what Jesus best day and worst day might be based upon Scripture.

Parents, talk about Jesus return some day to take all believers to heaven - this will be better than the best birthday party your kids can imagine!!

Coffee with the Principal Agenda

Everyone,
Sorry it's been awhile since I've posted anything.  I've not been here at the computer much this week at all.  Here is the agenda from yesterday.  I'll be sending a little summary of the discussion as well.  Have a wonderful weekend!

Coffee with the Principal

Trinity Lutheran Church, School, and Early Childhood Center

November 18, 2010

1.      Refreshments:  Katha Huff, Ruth Isenhoff

2.  Devotion:     Very Good!

What are some of your favorite things in all creation?

What do you think are some of God's favorite things in His creation

Genesis Chapter 1

How does this relate to teaching our kids about sex??

3.       Prayers:

1. That we would marvel and wonder more often at God's creation.
2. That we would effectively guide our children as parents.
3. That we would be more thankful for who God has made us to be.

4.                  Calendar

1. Friday - Casual Dress Day (not Dress Down) - Non-perishable food items
2. NO SCHOOL – November 24-26
3. December 17 - Christmas Break begins at the end of a half day  (11:30am dismissal)
4. MCREST here at Trinity over Christmas Break - volunteers needed (Adele Hartop)
5. January 3 - Classes resume
6. NO SCHOOL - January 17 MLK Day

5.                  Future plans / Vision

1. Lunch tickets and Fast Direct - how's it going?
2. Detention Policy and other School Handbook changes coming
3. After school clubs - see me if interested in offering something
4. Bible Study from 8am-9am was mentioned before - what day works best to offer one??
5. CEF Stamp Program for kids' future - minimum 3 volunteers needed

6.                  Sex Education discussion

7.                  Events:

1. Yearbook volunteer needed to help Karen Moore - interested??
2. Open House/Ice Cream social - I have one volunteer, need 2 more to make it happen
3. Need volunteers to help Mr. Brown and myself with a Christmas assembly and celebration of St. Nicolaus Tag

8.                  Assessment/Other

1. Communication patterns and desire to be more effective

      Blogs vs email

      Student responsibility for work vs parents

      emailed Leader each week

      Etc.

2. School Satisfaction Survey results from last spring
3. Prayer requests are welcome at any time to myself or a teacher - we are committed to praying for our students and families.
4. Dress Code thoughts and feedback / Suggestions for next year

9.                  Refreshments for the next Coffee with the Principal – Monday, January 10, 2011

1. ?
2. ?

10.              SCRIP and/or CEF Program Questions

11.              Feedback/Comments/Concerns/Ideas etc.

12.              Closing Prayer

13.              Next meeting:

            12 Key Factors of engagement discussion

Teacher's -let me know if you see this

Teachers,
If you see this, let me know because you'll get a small prize!!!  There is chocolate involved, so don't miss out!!
Julian

The Mirror Lies - Every single time!!

The other day, I was asked a few times why my face was so red.  I went to the bathroom to use the mirror to see what I looked like.  Now, let me explain!  I rarely look in the mirror.  I never comb my hair. I brush my teeth without taking a look - just brush, spit, and go.  No makeup, of course. Um, oh yeah, I do use a mirror to shave!!  It's been said, "The mirror never lies."  But I believe otherwise.  When I do look in the mirror at myself, I see things like pimples, a nose, some wrinkles, ears, eyes, hair line, teeth, hair in places I don't want it, etc. etc. etc.  Basically, I can see all kinds of things to critique and wish were better.  It's all a big lie Satan wants us to believe - You are messed up and you always will be.  But that's not true!  God made us, and He did a great job.  Not only that, but God doesn't see blemishes and imperfections because of Christ.  We see ourselves through our own human eyes.  He sees us through His own sight!  God sees the heart as well as the face.  It is only through faith in Christ that we are seen without imperfection.  The mirror will never tell you that truth because it can't see the heart! "For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight."  Ephesians 1:4

Family Discussion Points

Share with your spouse or family what you see in the mirror and don't like.

Share at LEAST one thing you do like - don't be too critical.

Discuss why we see so much imperfection.  (It's because we are sinful)

Why is it so comforting that God sees us as holy?  How can he see our heart?

Tetherball and Hot Lunch

Dear Parents,

I have two things to share today.

#1 is that I am in need of 3 volunteers to work with Walt Bul, our facilities manager, to install a new tetherball that we just received for the school through the money received from Box Tops.  Thank you for making this possible for us.  It could be done in an evening or on a Saturday.  Just let the office know if you are willing to help.

#2 is that we are no longer offering discounted prices for lunch tickets or bagel tickets that are purchased in large quantities.  However, we have credited your account initially with the full number of lunches and bagels that you purchased.  (example:  You paid $5.50 for a bagel ticket.  We credited your lunch account with $6 to give you full credit for 6 bagels)

I hope this information is helpful and clear.  Please call us if you need any clarification!  Thanks.

Monday, November 1st

Parents,

I hope to see you at Buffalo Wild Wings tonight.  I hope that we gather as a Trinity family to enjoy time together first and foremost.  The fundraising part will be a bonus to our evening.

We are all set to begin using Fast Direct to process all payments for our hot lunch program.  We will no longer sell lunch tickets beginning November 1st.  Watch your Fast Direct acocunt next week to see your balance.  We'll credit you for all the lunch tickets your child(ren) has next week, so don't be surprised to see a negative balance on Monday.

School ends at 3:15pm beginning Monday, November 1st.  Don't forget!!!!

In Chrsit,

Julian Petzold

Partners in Parenting!

Oct. 25, 2010

I was reading in 2 Timothy the other morning, and I thought to myself:  Parents need to be preachers.  You might wonder how I arrived at that thought, so let me explain.  Paul is telling Timothy to “Preach the Word” to those around him.  He wants Timothy to share the truth of scripture to those who need to hear it.  That is true for every Christian.  We should be sharing the word with others at every opportunity.  We have so many opportunities to do that in our homes with family members, and I pray that each parent will embrace the chance to read Scripture and talk about its truth with their children.  Right now is a great time to start if you need material because Pastor Hoft has written devotions for each day of the week based upon the sermon theme for the week.  Ask me for a copy if you want one, and they are available on our website (www.trinityct.org).  It is so important to do that with “great patience and careful instruction.”  In other words, be patient with your children when they don’t seem to be learning what you are teaching them and continue to diligently teach them the truth of His Word.    Don’t give up on this task, and I highly recommend also going to church together as a family.  Parents can “preach” of God’s love during the week, and Pastor can preach of God’s love at church.  It is a great combination.  “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.” 2 Timothy 4:2

Family Discussion Points

Talk about your child’s memory verse with them (if they have memory).  Make sure they understand its meaning – not just the words.

Use the daily devotions we have right now with your family a few times each week.

Plan for a time to read a chapter of the Bible together one night each week (or more).

Talk about Pastor’s sermon on your way home from church every week so it carries beyond the walls of the church.

Maybe go shopping for a family devotion book – there are plenty to choose from.

Partners in Parenting and November 1st Changes!!!

Partners in Parenting!

Winning the Prize!

On Saturday, I had a chance to see the 5th and 6th Grade Volleyball team play for the championship of the tournament.  With each point scored, the tension grew.  With every serve, the crowd became silent.  With each great play, the crowd cheered in appreciation.  And in the end, our team won 1st place!  The team was jumping up and down, hugging, and squealing like I've not seen in a long time.  The team and parents were all happy and excited because of what they had accomplished.  All that enthusiastic tension got released in an instant when the final point was scored.  I was reminded afterward of how much rejoicing there is in heaven when a sinner repents and is forgiven; when a believer enters eternity with God; when a person who was "lost" comes to faith...  The volleyball rejoicing was based upon what the team had accomplished - 1st place!  The heavenly rejoicing is based upon what Jesus has accomplished for us - eternal life!  In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."  Luke 15:10  Congratulations, volleyball team!

School Day Extended - Beginning November 1st!

On Monday, November 1st, we will end school at 3:15pm instead of 3:00pm.  This will continue for the remainder of the school year.  I discussed this at the last Coffee with the Principal, and the feedback I received was to add minutes to the end of the day instead of the beginning.  We (the faculty and I) pledge to be outside for dismissal by 3:20pm every day.  This will allow us to meet the required number of hours of instruction for the school year.  We will still end half days at 11:30am as before.  On occasion, athletic teams may need to leave at 3pm to arrive at games on time, but that will be rare.

No More Lunch Tickets - Beginning November 1st!

Beginning November 1st, we will only utilize our Fast Direct system to process our hot lunch accounting.  We will automatically deduct from each family account what the child actually purchased during lunch.  We will be able to utilize this for extra pizza, bagels on Thursday, and other lunchtime "extras."  This will be helpful with cutting down time in the morning for teachers and keeping your hot lunch account known to you through Fast Direct at any time.  I will explain this more next week.

This is directly from the school newsletter today. 

In Christ,

Julian

Michigan vs Michigan State and other stuff

Dear parents,

We had a wonderful day today with our dress down day for the game tomorrow, but I originally planned to have this for the Red Wings opening game tonight at the Joe.  Great how that worked out. 

I want to reiterate the invitation to Bible Study on Sunday at 9:30am in the 7th grade room.  Everyone is welcome to attend.

Next week Tuesday, we will have a professional video team here doing many live shots of the school for a promotional video that will be on the front of the Macomb County website soon.  That will be a great way to promote our church, school, and early childhood center!!

Have a wonderful weekend!!

Julian Petzold

Coffee with the Principal Agenda

In case you weren't able to attned today, here is the agenda!!

Coffee with the Principal

Trinity Lutheran Church, School, and Early Childhood Center

October 4, 2010

1.      Refreshments:  Chris Kasper, Theresa Asoklis, Aimee Kilcher, others??

2.  Devotion:     Trouble source and Peace source

Worst punishment you ever got from your parents from getting into "trouble."  Cutting wood!

John 16:33

Jesus is speaking: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world."

Faith is supposed to give us peace.

What is the opposite of peace?

What can we expect in this world?

Is Jesus contradicting himself?

3.       Prayers:

1. That we might enjoy peace in our hearts despite circumstances.
2. That we would be effective witnesses so others can enjoy God’s peace.
3. That individuals would “take heart” and have troubles lessoned.

4.                  Setting the framework for this and future "Coffees"

1. Open sharing time
2. Honest feedback but with respect to others
3. Distribution of volunteers to utilize gifts and avoid burnout - enjoy your service
4. Help be supportive and knowledgeable of issues
5. Make this a better and better place for Christian education to occur
6. Kind of "replace" PTL or do PTL differently

5.                  Calendar

1. Picture Day - October 5th
2. NO SCHOOL – October 22nd - District Teacher's Conference
3. W  October 27 - Buffalo Wild Wings Night Fellowship and Fundraiser
4. W, Th  November 10,11 - Half Day
5. F  November 12 - NO SCHOOL

6.                  Future plans / Vision

1. Lunch tickets and Fast Direct
2. One uniform turn in day for all fall, winter, spring sports - need volunteers (beginning or end of day best?)
3. Dress Down Days for missions or others instead of for here
4. Detention Policy and other School Handbook changes coming
5. Hour of instruction for this year and the future need to be increased - any preferences and reasons for your preference
6. After school clubs - see me if interested in offering something
7. I have a LONG list if little things to accomplish
8. 5th grade teacher for next year and the process I'll take

7.                  Events:

1. Entertainment Book Fundraiser - need coordinator, we are on the "hook"
2. Open House/Ice Cream social - cancelled for a later date volunteer
3. Others to discuss and prioritize from PTL list
4. Have the kids been involved in choosing events?

8.                  Assessment

1. How do you like all the Half Days of school?  There are 10 this year!
2. What kind of bible study would you like to have/attend on Sunday morning? Other time of the week?

9.                  Refreshments for the next Coffee with the Principal – Thursday, November 18, 2010

1. ?
2. ?

10.              SCRIP and/or CEF Program Questions

11.              Feedback/Comments/Concerns/Ideas etc.

12.              Closing Prayer

September 29, 2010 letter

This is coming via regular mail as well!!

September 29, 2010

Dear Parents,

I am writing to all the school families of Trinity today in order to communicate some things that I think are pretty critical.  I don't want to just put them in the Leader for fear that some things will be missed.  Please read this entire letter carefully, and I'll do my best to keep it short for you.  I will also post it on my blog today.  Thanks.

Please come to my Bible Study class!  I am really trying to meet (and remember your names) all of you.  One way to foster that would be to attend the Bible study I'll be leading this Sunday, October 3rd and each Sunday for the 7 weeks following.  Our fall sermon focus here at Trinity is "Fateful or Faithful Attraction" that discusses sin like anger, greed, sloth, etc. as well as the Godly flipside to those sins.  I love to teach children and adults, so I'd love to have you there.  It is from 9:30-10:30 on Sunday morning.  You can just show up or email me to notify me.  We'll meet in 7th Grade classroom!  If you can't make it to this week, just come whenever you can.  Missing one won't put you "behind" for the next week.

Coffee with the Principal!  On Monday, October 4th, I will have the first open forum meeting with any and all parents interested in attending.  I promise to do my best to make it fun, informative, and interactive.  I hope you'll plan to be there!  Here's what I've had in the Leader the last few weeks: 

I want to invite any and all parents to a special meeting with me on Monday, October 4th at 8:10am, 2:00pm, or 5:00pm in the lobby.  I want to meet with all interested parents for a time of sharing about the school's mission and future direction as well as allowing people to volunteer for leading (or helping) with upcoming events. You will also have a time to ask questions, provide input, and share about the school.  It should be fun, informative, and a great way to stay involved in your child's education.  Attendance is optional, of course, so don't feel guilty if you can't make it.  I plan to have more meetings like this throughout the school year. 

Walk-a-thon 2010 Update!  I learned that you had a Walk-a-thon on May 14, 2010 to raise money for a number of needed items in the school.  I heard that it was a great time for everyone involved and that you raised $15,600.  That is outstanding.  It was communicated to you that the money was to be used for these items:  Lego Science Kits, food warmer for the kitchen, assemblies set by the PTL, software for the Smart Boards and other technology needs, and to pay a portion of the digital electronic sign.  I'm happy to report that the Lego Science Kits, assemblies for 2010-11, Type 2 Learn 4 software for keyboarding, up-to-date online map software, color laser printer for the computer lab, Smart Board with a projector and mount, and the digital sign have all been purchased.  A food warmer will not be purchased, but a freezer that is greatly needed will be purchased instead.  Thank you for making these things possible through your efforts with the Walk-a-thon.  It is greatly appreciated, and I wanted you to know the impact you helped make here at Trinity Lutheran School.

Thanks for your continued support!

In Christ,

Julian Petzold

Principal

Fateful vs Faithful Attraction

Our church's fall series "Fateful vs Faithful Attraction" begins this weekend.  I have had a number of families sign up to attend the Bible Study based on the sermon series that I am leading, but I'd love to get to 20 families total.  Please let me know if you'd like to come by calling me or emailing me.  I promise to make it fun as we learn together!!  If you don't come every week, it won't put you "behind" at all.  You'll be able to just pick up with each lesson, each week!

In Christ,

Julian Petzold
jpetzold@trinityct.org
586-468-8511 x131

Picture Day and Yearbook

Parents,
Please remember that Tuesday, October 5th is Picture Day!  Better get those haircuts, etc. this week or weekend:)  I know that I will be doing that.

I want you to be aware that the order forms are a bit different in the past.  Lifetouch will be doing our pictures once again this year, but they will take two pictures instead of one of each child.  From those two pictures, they will be able to create multiple options for you as you choose to make your purchases.  It is a new system that really provides you with lots of choices.  The yearbook picture will be a head and shoulders picture like it has been in the past, but your options for purchasing are greatly expanded.  You have the ability to view all your options online - that information is on your order form that was sent home last week.  If you have any questions, you may call the office for clarification or you may call our Lifetouch representative, Dennis Lewis at 517-582-2410.

Another order form came home yesterday for ordering a yearbook.  You may write one check for both pictures and a yearbook, BUT YOU MUST HAND IN BOTH FORMS.  Just put a note in the envelope for the yearbook indecating that you paid with one check if you decide to do this.  Thanks.

Finally, thanks for a great beginning to the school year, and I am thankful to be able to serve here at Trinity.  Keep me informed if I can help in any way.

In Christ,

Julian Petzold

Awesome Experiences

Parents,
I've had some awesome experiences over the past week.  I got to attend 6th grade camp, attend my first Parent Advisory Committee meeting, have our first after school faculty meeting, watch some very close volleyball games, learn how to put information on our new electronic sign, and eat lots of birthday treats from students.  All of this, and more, reminds me of the great school that we have here.  As I consider the awesome things, I'm reminded that it is the students, faculty, and parents that I've had a chance to be with that makes this place so special. 
My prayer is that you feel that too!!
Some things to note:

• If you have a 2nd grader, ask them about the chapter book I am reading with them.  It's called "Runaway Ralph" by Beverly Cleary.
• I am going to be teaching a Sunday morning Bible Study beginning October 3rd.  The study runs for 8 weeks, but you DO NOT need to be at every one since they are all independent.  I have 4 families signed up, and my goal is to have 20!!  Please talk to me if you are interested.
• Monday, October 4th will be Coffee with the Principal at 8:10am, 2:00pm, and 5:00pm.  They are all the same content, so just pick one if you'd like to come.  I'd love to have a big turnout.  ALL PARENTS ARE INVITED!  Check out the Leader for details.
• Friday, September 24th is a Dress Down Day!  Sports theme this time!!

Have a fantastic day in the Lord!

Julian Petzold

Thank you!!!

Parents,

Thank you so much for your outstanding participation on Curriculum Night.  It was great to have all of you here.  On Friday this week, I am having an ice cream party for the 2nd, 5th, and 8th grade for having the highest percetage of parents present.  2nd and 5th had 92% and 8th had 100%!!!

Also, I want to thank you for the great cooperation with the dismissal.  It seems to have ironed itself out well, and I credit all of you for that!!

It's been a great school year so far, and I am very happy to be here.  Please let me know if I can help you in any way!

In Christ,

Julian Petzold

Curriculum Night

Parents,

I am looking forward to seeing you on Tuesday evening, September 7th at 6:30pm for Curriculum Night.  We'll meet in the church and begin right at 6:30pm.  I have so many things to share with you about the school year that has just begun, and I'm excited to be a part of such a wonderful school. 

I know the teachers are looking forward to having you here as well so that they can familiarize you with their classroom.

This is not my school or the teacher's classroom as I see it.  It is ours to share as we partner in the ministry of Christian education.  Tuesday night is just one of many examples of how we will be partnering together in the months ahead.

See you there!

Oh yeah, have the kids mentioned that I'll provide ice cream sundaes for the class with the highest percentage participation by parents on Tuesday night?  That might be why they are asking you to come if they have done that already!!!!

In Christ,

Julian Petzold

Cell phone usage after school

Parents,

I want you to be aware of what I have shared with the students and faculty regarding cell phones, ipod, and other electronic devices after school.

I have asked that no cell phones or electronic devices be used by students without permission from a teacher until students have been picked up. 

The reason for this is that students begin texting, sharing music, or calling people when they are to be preparing to go home or do their schoolwork after school.  We have almost no way to monitor the use of these devices if everyone is allowed to use them from 3:00pm on.  Therefore, their use will depend upon when the student leaves for home.

Thanks for understanding!

In Christ,

Julian Petzold

Prayer Requests

Parents,

The faculty and I are committed to praying for you, your children, and your entire family.  We meet each morning during the school year for devotions and prayer time.  Please call or email with any prayer requests that you have throughout the year.  You may contact me or your child's teacher.  We want you to know that we are here to support you as you have need throughout the year.
Also, as I stated in my "Welcome back" letter you recently received, my cell phone number is 248-931-5394 for you to use in emergency situations.
Have a fantastic day, and I hope to see you on Monday for the first day of school and chapel (Chapel starts at 8:30am)
In Christ,

Julian Petzold
586-468-8511
jpetzold@trinityct.org

My first post

Parents, Students, and Staff,

This is my first post on a blog of any kind.  I'm proof that we need to continue to learn every day.  I had no idea how to do this yesterday, and I'm off and running with it today.

I believe it is more important for our students be life-long learners in today's world than ever before.  Life-long learning does not have an end to it - except a transfer from earthly life to eternal life.  We all need to continue to learn, grow, improve, stretch, etc. as we go through life.  It is not enough to have mastered the curriculum so you can stop learning.  In a brief time, the world will pass by the person who perscribes to that way of thinking.  I will do my best to maintain an atmosphere of creating life-long learners as students enjoy their time here at Trinity.

I will post information here periodically, not daily.  I want posts to be significant and of importance.  I prefer quality over quantity, and I bet you do too. 

May God richly bless you and your family as we prepare to begin another school year!

In Christ's service,

Julian