“Family” Takes Center Stage at St. Mark School

Stratford, CT – At St. Mark School, Family isn’t just the theme for the 2025–2026 school year—it’s a way of life. Rooted in faith, love, and shared purpose, the theme of Family is guiding everything from classroom instruction to service projects and school events.

“Our goal is to help every child feel like they belong, as a beloved child of God—not just academically, but emotionally and spiritually,” said Principal Melissa Warner. “When we treat each other like family, we create a faith-filled community where everyone can truly thrive.”

Throughout the year, students across all grades participate in initiatives that foster a strong sense of belonging. The school’s long-standing buddy program pairs older and younger students to build cross-grade friendships and mentorships, reinforcing the value of caring for one another.

The spirit of Family is also lived out in everyday moments—teachers cheering on students at sporting events, students celebrating faculty achievements, and families sharing in sacraments such as Confirmation and Baptism. At St. Mark, older students have even chosen teachers as sponsors, a testament to the deep bonds within the school community.

One especially moving tradition is the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Cut-a-thon, held each October. In a bold show of support, boys shave their heads, girls donate their hair or wear pink hair extensions, and the entire community rallies to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer research. The event honors survivors, remembers loved ones, and powerfully reflects the compassion and unity at the heart of St. Mark.

Other Family-themed initiatives this year include:

• The “Our Family Tree” hallway display, featuring photos submitted by families
• School-wide service projects
• Cross-grade buddy events that encourage connection, leadership, and kindness
• Beloved traditions like the Father-Daughter Dance, Mother-Son Night, and Family Bingo

To welcome new families, St. Mark School will host a Pre-K and Kindergarten Open House on November 9. Prospective families are invited to experience firsthand the warmth, faith, and connection that define a St. Mark education.

For more information about the Open House or to learn more about St. Mark School’s mission of faith, family, and academic excellence, email contactus@stmarkschool.org or visit www.stmarkschool.org.