Alumni News

Our 50th Class Reunion

Written by Barbara Myers Class of 1961

On October 22, 2011, the 1961 graduating class of St. Michael's school celebrated their 50th anniversary.  We started at the school and were warmly greeted by Mrs. Okoro (8^th grade Homeroom teacher) and Mrs. Hellinger (7^th grade Homeroom teacher).  They kindly provided refreshments as we arrived and then gave us a tour of the school.  There was a lot of excitement when we first arrived at the school and greeted old friends that we had not seen for 50 years.  While we did not recognize each other right away, we were soon hugging and reminiscing.

During the tour we realized that while much of the school was the same, there were many differences.  Some of the classrooms looked the same, but in 1961 there were no computer labs or science rooms, and air conditioners were unheard of. We were told that the hand bell is still rung for change of classes and dismissal.  When we were in school, we did not change classes during the day. We had the same teacher for everything and stayed in one room.  Many of us started St. Michael's in first grade and can remember that we had 70 students in one room with one teacher, a nun.  From the 2nd grade through 6th grades there were two classes for each grade.  In 7th and 8th grade the boys and girls were separated in the classroom and on the playground.  Seventh and eighth grade boys were on the basketball court, and the girls were in the front of the school - with a nun walking between the two areas to make sure we did not talk to each other.  All of us wore the same style uniform.  The girls wore green jumpers, tan blouses with a tie that clipped on, tan socks, and brown oxford shoes.  The boys wore corduroy pants with a tan long sleeved shirt and tie, and the same brown oxford shoes and socks.  It was not until later in the 60's that the uniform style changed.

Our fondest memory is the May Procession, where every class participated and sang songs to honor our Blessed Mother as we walked down Wayne Ave. to Cedar St. and around the back of the rectory and into church.  Girls wore pretty pastel dresses and flowers in their hair, the boys wore suits.  A May Queen was chosen from the 8th Grade girls and she was given the honor of placing a crown of roses on the statue of our Blessed Mother.

After the tour of the school we attended the 4:00 p.m. Mass at St. Michael's church.  It was a pleasant surprise to have our presence acknowledged and given the honor of bringing up the offertory gifts.  Afterwards we met more classmates for dinner at the Golden Flame.  It was a wonderful afternoon and evening and everyone expressed an interest in another get together again next year.

Alumni Updates

• We note with great sadness the passing of Sister Josetta Maria Preller, SNJM (age 95), on Tuesday, April 19, 2011. Sister Josetta Maria was a long time teacher and past Principal of St. Michael the Archangel School and of St. Gabriel School. Sister Josetta was also greatly involved in the community of St. Michael the Archangel Church in scripture ministry and minstry to the elderly in the parish. Sister was the beloved Aunt of Drew Boyland and is also survived by a grandniece, grandnephews and her Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary religious community. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on April 24th at St. John the Evangelist Church and internment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Eternal Rest grant unto her, O, Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and all the souls of the faithfully depart Rest in Peace. Amen.

Alumni and Friends of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic School are invited to update their contact information, send inquiries or share your memories and thoughts about your school.

If you would like to assist St. Michael School with donations, volunteer time or reconnect with the St. Michael community, please email Mr. Larry Savoy, Principal, at l.savoy@st-michaelschool.org