Hannah More School E-newsletter – June 2008

This newsletter is published on a monthly basis (September-June) and as needed during the summer months when school is not in session.  To unsubscribe to the newsletter, please send an email to enews@hannahmore.org.

Hannah More School Mourns the Loss of Two Friends

Our hearts go out to the families of Burnics Ratliff, and Dr. Richard Gulas. Mr. Ratliff, one of our job coaches, passed away from complications due to lung cancer last month.  "Slim," as he was known to us, began his tenure at Hannah More as a one-to-one assistant. Mr. Ratliff made many contributions to our school; he most recently was instrumental in helping to establish our maintenance enclave, which created more opportunities for students to go out into the work setting in groups.  Mr. Ratliff's demeanor, enthusiasm, and friendship will be greatly missed by staff and students. 

Dr. Richard Gulas, former Principal of Hannah More, was killed in a motorcycle accident on April 25th.  He was Assistant Principal from 1980-84 and Principal from 1984-88.  Dr. Gulas was instrumental in the development of the early academic foundation of the school and helped pave the way for the highly respected program we have today.  After leaving Hannah More, Dr. Gulas served in administrative positions in Carroll County and Frederick County.  He spent the last several years as Principal of Gettysburg High School.   We will always appreciate his contributions to our school’s growth.

Parents’ Association Spring Fair a Fun Event Despite the Showers

Even though it poured during the second half of the PA Fair on Saturday, May 31, everyone made the best of it. Before the rains came, families and friends of the school enjoyed the moon bounce, played carnival games, ate hot dogs, cupcakes, and popcorn, and browsed the wide variety of items for sale. Thanks to everyone who came out to support the event. We also extend a big thank you to PA President, Helaine Radinsky, Vice President, Rita Daugherty, and all of our Parents’ Association volunteers for their hard work raising money this past school year, all of which goes to purchase equipment or provide services for students. Since donations are still being received, the total amount raised after expenses will be announced in a future e-newsletter. 

Heavenly Ham Makes Donation for Staff Appreciation Luncheon

Many thanks to our friends at Heavenly Ham for their generous donation towards the Staff Appreciation Luncheon on June 3rd.  Large platters of ham, turkey and other goodies were enjoyed by all.  We appreciate Heavenly Ham’s ongoing support of our school!

Monday, June 30th is the Deadline for Gifts to this Year’s Annual Fund

We need your support to meet our $40,000 goal for the 2007-2008 Annual Fund which covers costs for equipment, supplies and school expenses not covered through tuition reimbursements. To make a donation please visit our donation web site, www.active.com/donate/hannahmoreschool or send your check to: Hannah More School, Attn: Development Office, 12039 Reisterstown Rd., Reisterstown, MD 21136. Thank you for making your gift before June 30th so it can be counted as part of this year’s campaign.

Grants Available for Families Struggling with Child Health-Related Costs

The United Health Care Children's Foundation has announced that grants of up to $5,000 will be awarded to parents and legal guardians of disabled children for health care services and medical equipment inadequately covered by insurance. UHCCF provides grants to families to  help pay for services such as speech therapy, physical therapy,  occupational therapy sessions, prescriptions, and medical equipment such as wheelchairs, orthotics, and eyeglasses. For more information visit http://www.uhccf.org/

Important Dates to Remember

June 12 – Last Day of School for Students (Students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m.)

June 13 – Last Day of School for 10-month Staff

July 1- First Day of Summer School

July 4 – Independence Day –School and Offices Closed

July 31 – Last Day of Summer School

I hope you have a wonderful summer!

Mark Waldman

President

Hannah More School

12039 Reisterstown Rd.

Reisterstown, MD 21136

mwaldman@hannahmore.org

www.hannahmore.org