Half day Wednesdays, why did they start, why have they been a part of our school calendar for so many years and how will it change for next year?

The Notre Dame Altar and Rosary Society began serving Senior Luncheons in the 1970’s. They  provided an enjoyable social event for the seniors of the parish and for residences in nursing home facilities in the area. The luncheons have also provided a service opportunity for the Notre Dame Catholic School eighth graders as they have loved assisting the seniors. School families have helped by providing side dishes for the luncheon. It truly has been an amazing community event.

The luncheons have always been held in the gym, and it is definitely the best facility for the luncheon. The kitchen is available to prepare the food and there is plenty of room for thte seniors who wish to come. The school community has understood the value of the luncheon as it has become a wonderful tradition. Because we are unable to have a regular schedule for our school day during the luncheon it was determined many years ago to have a noon dismissal. The afternoons have always been used as a time for staff development.

The lunches were held for years on the second Wednesday of every month September through May, except for December. A couple of years ago that changed to having the Senior Luncheon every other month. This year that changed again and there were only three lunches: September, November and March. The decision was made to have fewer lunches as the people preparing and serving the lunches were dwindling in numbers. Because there will only be the three lunches next year we have decided that it is no longer necessary for a noon dismissal in the months when the lunches will not be held. Next school year’s calendar will reflect this change.