Dear Parents,

The sad news of Catholic Schools closings reminds us of how special and fragile is our wonderful gift of Catholic Education. My plan, with your help and prayers, is to make our school better and stronger than ever. Please pray for our students, teachers, staff and me. We will do whatever we need to do to support you and your children. Remember---you are our best ambassadors! Please tell other families and friends why YOU send your children to Our Lady of Refuge.

There will be some exciting changes next year, but there will always be the exceptional education program you have come to expect from us. At the top of our list of changes is moving our grades 6-7-8 to a NEWLY RENOVATED 4th floor. The move will also include a NEW SCIENCE LAB. The Kindergarden will double its space by taking over the old Pre-K room and the Music and Art programs will move into bigger rooms.

If you know any families interested in quality education for their children, please refer them to us. If you refer a new family that registers, you will receive a $1000 tuition credit!  We are ready to host FAMILY TOURS at parents' convenience throughout the summer. Special considerations will be given to students coming from closing schools. Please call to make your appointment.

I will continue to post news here and upload documents from the Superintendent and other officials in the WEDNESDAY FOLDER. I will also use the IRIS alert system to send you phone and text messages and e-mails. 

You are all in my prayers. Please keep me in yours.

God bless us all!


Sincerely,

Robert W. Billings
Principal

Mr. Billings holds a B.A. from Fordham University and a M.S. and P.D. from Iona College. He is New York State certified as a school administrator, district administrator and Social Studies teacher. He has been a principal for 35 years; the last twelve here at Our Lady of Refuge. In 2004, his school, Immaculate Heart of Mary was named a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education.