Thanks For Many Kindnesses

To the Editor:

A word of thanks to all who supported us during a very difficult time for our school. As a result of the bus accident on May 3, many of our students were traumatized and some suffered minor injuries. We are deeply grateful to the Newtown Police Department, the Sandy Hook Fire Department, our local emergency medical technicians, the staff of the middle school, and to the many local authorities who were at the scene to assist our students.

I am especially proud of our school staff for their immediate response to this crisis, of the parents of the children involved for their understanding and patience, and of the students themselves. With the exception of a few tears by our little ones, our students stayed on the bus in perfect order and silence while they were checked by the medical crews and interviewed by the police. They followed all our requests which led to their safe return to the school and a reunion with very concerned parents.

I am especially proud of the concern that all the students expressed about the others involved in the accident, especially Mrs Mularick. They have been praying for her and her recovery. It is moments like this that help us realize that we are doing our job in educating our children not only in academics but in good living. We are also very grateful to the bus driver, Theresa Cash, for her dedication to our students; she is a favorite of theirs.

I also cannot help but think that all the prayers we say throughout the day in school, especially those offered before the students leave, brought God’s protection to what could have been a disaster and allowed our students to walk away with thanks and blessings rather than injuries and fears.

Again, my thanks of our entire parish community for the kindness shown to us during these days.

God’s blessings,

Father Bob Weiss, Pastor

St Rose of Lima Church

46 Church Hill Road, Newtown                                May 7, 2001