From the Desk of the President: How was your summer?

“How was your summer?” Have you ever noticed how often we hear that question this time of year? Have you also noticed that we rarely ask each other about the other seasons? You don’t hear, “how was your fall?” Or spring? Or, particularly in Minnesota, “how was your winter?”

What a strange occurrence that we favor one season in our speech this way! But, I have a theory as to why. Summer stands apart because it’s the missing piece of the two-part calendar many of us live for the majority of our lives: the school year and summer.

We put a lot of focus on the summer for the warm weather, trips to the beach, vacations, and extra time with friends. It’s a time of rejuvenation and preparation . . . for school! For the first quarter-century of our lives, our days are centered around what happens at school. For the second quarter-century, we’re focused on providing schooling for our children. More so than any other period of time, summer is the key marker between each year. . . each school year.

With school being so central to our lives, it’s no wonder that our conversations are shifting from, “how was your summer,” to “are you ready for the school year?” It’s also no wonder why families put so much time and effort in choosing the right school that best serves their children. For the Aim Higher Foundation, Catholic schools are at the forefront of that conversation. The proven benefits they provide—from helping students prepare for and succeed in high school and college, to forming more civically engaged, spiritually-focused adults—are why we invest so much in ensuring that every family that wants a Catholic education for their children can access one.

I must confess that this time of the year is my absolute favorite; the anticipation of the first day of school, the scramble for those last-minute school supplies, and the traffic that begins to back up as the school buses are out practicing their routes. They all bring me great joy. This year, however, the joy I feel is overflowing. The role Aim Higher Foundation has had in helping more children attend a Catholic school has grown again. As the school year begins, 1,345 children will be attending their Catholic school in this Archdiocese with the help of an Aim Higher Scholarship.

Because of you, our donors and friends, more scholarships are in the hands of children and their families, helping open the door to the Catholic school of their choice. More students will have access to the life-changing benefits of a Catholic education. And Catholic schools are stronger because of your support.

So, are you ready for the school year? Please know of the Aim Higher Foundation’s thoughts and prayers as you begin the new year. We look forward to supporting our scholars throughout the year and invite you to join our efforts attending the upcoming Night of Light which takes place on September 27, 2019, at the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront. Be sure to register today!

Have a great year!
Jean