Traditions and transitions.  For over 35 years, St. Michael Parish School has hosted the annual S.M.A.R.T. (St. Michael’s A Remarkable Tradition) auction and gala. This event began at a time in our school’s history when upgrades to the school facility and the establishment of an endowment fund for future tuition assistance were critically needed. A lot has happened in 35 years. 

In our parish strategic plan 2016 – 2026, one of our goals was to fully fund every ministry of the parish through the financial stewardship of all of our parishioners. The one final ministry was the school. Five years ago a dedicated group of parishioners worked diligently to formulate a roadmap to accomplish this. The PACE (Provide Access to Catholic Education) initiative has guided us in taking steps to this reality. Three years ago, we froze tuition, which was actually a reduction because of the 7% inflation rate. Two years ago, we decreased tuition by 10.2%. Last year we reduced it again by 14.5%.

The 2022-23 school year found us full to capacity with 285 students.By March we had 45 people on the waiting list. Through prayerful discernment we made the decision to double grades from pre-k to six grade. We presently have over 50 more applicants for the 2024-25 school year. We are trying to respond to the grace of the Holy Spirit.

To continue to grow the ministry of our parish school as well as faith formation ministries, we have re-envisioned our yearly auction. It has been transformed into a parish wide event: “Saint Michael Parish Gala: Building Hope – Celebrating the Future,” for all parishioners and friends. This year’s theme is “The Roaring 20’s.”