Our Lady of the Assumption School

🎃 A BOO-tiful Night to Remember! 👻

Dear OLA Families,

What a wonderful reminder of the joy and blessings of belonging to our OLA family! There is something truly special about seeing our students, parents, teachers, and friends come together to celebrate, share laughter, and create lasting memories. Our Halloween BOO-Gie Bash was a beautiful example of the warmth, generosity, and community spirit that make OLA such a special place.

What a spooktacular Halloween BOO-Gie Bash! Our OLA community came together for a wonderful evening filled with laughter, friendship, festive activities, and plenty of Halloween fun!

A heartfelt THANK YOU to our incredible APA Board, whose dedication, creativity, and hard work made this celebration possible. From the early planning stages to the final cleanup, their commitment to creating memorable experiences for our students and families truly shines!

We are also deeply grateful to our parent volunteers and OLA families who generously shared their time, talents, and resources. Whether you helped decorate, hosted a booth, donated supplies, or assisted with setup and cleanup, your contributions made a tremendous difference.

🧡 Special Thanks to Our Generous Sponsors!

We extend our sincere appreciation to the wonderful businesses and families whose generosity helped make this event such a success:

• Apodaca Photo Booth

• Coultas Farming, Inc.

• Golden State Hay

• The Dayton Family

• The Meyers Family

• The Nanda Center

• Ventura Rental

Your kindness and support mean so much to our school community!

Events like our BOO-Gie Bash remind us of what makes OLA such a special place. It is the spirit of community, the friendships we build, and the generosity of families working together that make these celebrations truly memorable.

💙 With Grateful Hearts

As we begin the month of November, a season that invites us to reflect on gratitude and the many blessings in our lives, I am especially thankful for our OLA families. Your generosity, involvement, and love for our school are gifts that strengthen our community each day.

As we embrace our November virtue of Courtesy, may we continue to show our appreciation for one another through thoughtful words, kind gestures, and hearts willing to serve. It is through these everyday acts of love that we build the welcoming and faith-filled community we cherish.

Thank you for all you do to make OLA a place where our children feel loved, supported, and encouraged to grow in faith and friendship.

May God continue to bless our students, families, faculty, and staff as we journey together through this beautiful season of gratitude.

✝️ Today's Readings – Everyone Is Invited to God's Table

Tuesday, November 3, 2026 – Memorial of St. Martin de Porres

Philippians 2:5–11

Today's readings remind us of a beautiful truth: God's love is meant for everyone, and each of us has a place at His table.

In the Gospel, Jesus tells the parable of a great banquet. When the invited guests make excuses and decline the invitation, the host welcomes those who are often overlooked—the poor, those living with disabilities, and those who have no place to call home. Jesus reminds us that God's love is generous and inclusive, reaching especially toward those who may feel forgotten or left out.

St. Paul's letter to the Philippians encourages us to follow the example of Jesus, who humbled Himself and lived a life of loving service. True greatness is not found in status or recognition, but in the way we care for and serve one another.

Today we also celebrate St. Martin de Porres, a wonderful example of humility, compassion, and service. He dedicated his life to caring for the sick, helping the poor, and treating every person with dignity and love. His life reminds us that holiness is often found in the simple, everyday ways we serve others.

What a meaningful message for our OLA students! As we continue our schoolwide theme of Community, we want every child to understand that they belong, that they are valued, and that they have a responsibility to help others feel welcomed and loved.

🍂 The Autumn Triduum – Remembering, Celebrating, and Praying

Over the past several days, the Church has observed three meaningful days often referred to as Allhallowtide or the Autumn Triduum. Together, they invite us to reflect on the gift of eternal life and our communion with the saints and all the faithful departed.

• October 31 – All Hallows' Eve (Halloween): The evening before All Saints' Day, reminding us to prepare our hearts to celebrate the holiness to which God calls each of us.

• November 1 – All Saints' Day: A joyful celebration of all the saints in heaven, both known and unknown, who inspire us to live lives of faith, courage, and love.

• November 2 – All Souls' Day: A special day of prayer and remembrance for our loved ones and all the faithful departed. We entrust them to God's infinite mercy and love.

These three days remind us that we are part of something much greater than ourselves—the Communion of Saints, united in Christ through faith, prayer, and love.

For our children, this is a beautiful opportunity to understand that Halloween, All Saints' Day, and All Souls' Day are connected through our Catholic faith. We celebrate those who have gone before us in holiness, remember those we love who have died, and reflect on our own call to become saints.

💛 A Thought for Our Families

As we begin November, consider taking a moment together to remember loved ones who have passed away. Share a favorite memory, offer a prayer for them, or talk about a saint whose example inspires your family.

We can also reflect on today's Gospel by asking: “Who might be waiting for an invitation to feel included, welcomed, or loved?”

Sometimes the simplest invitation—a kind word, a seat at the lunch table, or an offer of friendship—can make someone feel that they truly belong.

🙏 Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting each of us into Your loving family. Help us to follow the example of Jesus and St. Martin de Porres by serving others with humility, kindness, and compassion. May the saints inspire us to grow in holiness, and may the souls of all the faithful departed, through Your mercy, rest in peace. Amen.

💛 November Virtue of the Month: Courtesy

“Being thoughtful of others.”

Our virtue for the month of November is Courtesy, a beautiful reminder that the way we treat others reflects the love of Christ in our hearts.

Courtesy is more than simply having good manners or remembering to say “please” and “thank you.” True courtesy comes from a kind and generous heart. It means recognizing the dignity of every person as a child of God and treating others with thoughtfulness, patience, and respect.

Courtesy is often considered an entrance-level virtue because it opens the door to friendship, understanding, and meaningful relationships. A warm greeting, a welcoming smile, or a thoughtful gesture can turn strangers into friends and help someone feel that they truly belong.

As we continue our schoolwide theme of Community, we want our students to understand that even the smallest acts of courtesy can make a tremendous difference. When we listen attentively, speak kindly, show gratitude, and consider the needs of others, we help create a school community where everyone feels valued and respected.

🌿 Saints Who Inspire Us This Month

Throughout November, our students will learn about three inspiring individuals whose lives demonstrate the beauty of courtesy, humility, and loving service.

Preschool–Grade 2: St. Martin de Porres

St. Martin de Porres was known for his extraordinary kindness, humility, and compassion. He cared for the sick, helped those in need, and treated everyone with dignity, regardless of their circumstances.

His example teaches our youngest students that being courteous means showing kindness to everyone, especially those who may need a little extra love and attention.

Grades 3–5: Blessed Solanus Casey

Blessed Solanus Casey was a humble Capuchin friar known for his gentle spirit, patience, and willingness to listen to others. He welcomed people from all walks of life, offering encouragement, compassion, and prayer.

His life reminds our students that sometimes the greatest act of courtesy is simply taking the time to listen, care, and make someone feel important.

Grades 6–8: Venerable Pierre Toussaint

Venerable Pierre Toussaint was a man of remarkable faith, generosity, and dignity. Born into slavery in Haiti, he later gained his freedom in New York and devoted much of his life to helping others, particularly those experiencing poverty, illness, or hardship.

Despite the discrimination and challenges he faced, he remained a powerful example of compassion, forgiveness, and respect for others.

His life challenges our middle school students to understand that true courtesy requires us to recognize the dignity of every person and treat others with kindness, even when doing so is difficult.

🏡 Family Connection

Courtesy begins at home and grows through everyday interactions. We encourage families to talk with their children about how small gestures—greeting someone warmly, holding a door, listening without interrupting, expressing gratitude, or helping without being asked—can brighten someone's day.

A question for your family: How can we make someone feel welcomed, respected, and valued this week?

💛 A Challenge for Our Students

Throughout November, let's encourage our Dolphins to remember:

“Courtesy is kindness in action.”

May our words, actions, and attitudes reflect the love of Christ as we continue building a community where every person feels welcomed, respected, and loved.

Anchored in Faith, We Learn, Serve, and Shine! 🐬💙

APA BOARD CORNER

💙 Get Involved & Support OLA!

Our APA Board continues to work hard to create wonderful opportunities that bring our school community together while supporting the programs and experiences that make OLA so special. We invite all our families to get involved!

🎉 Help Us Plan Our Annual Auction & Dinner!

Planning is underway for our Annual OLA Auction & Dinner, one of our school's biggest fundraising events, and we would love your help in making this year's celebration a success!

We are looking for enthusiastic parents to join our Auction Planning Committee. There are many ways to contribute, including securing donations and sponsorships, organizing auction items, assisting with decorations, and helping coordinate event activities.

Whether you have a little time or a lot, every helping hand makes a difference!

Joining the committee is a wonderful opportunity to:

• Earn parent volunteer hours

• Connect and build friendships with other OLA families

• Share your talents and creativity

• Support an important fundraiser that benefits our students and school

Interested in helping? Please reach out to the APA Board at apaboard@olaventura.org.

Together, we can make this year's Auction & Dinner our best yet!

🎁 Charleston Wrap Fundraiser – Shop & Support OLA!

Our Charleston Wrap Fundraiser kicks off today! Just in time for the holiday season, Charleston Wrap offers more than 2,500 gift ideas, including holiday gifts, birthday presents, hostess gifts, corporate gifts, and much more!

Best of all, OLA earns 40% of all sales! Every purchase helps support our school while making your holiday shopping a little easier.

Here's how to participate:

• Register online: www.registercw.com

• Browse the wonderful selection of gifts and holiday items.

• Share the fundraiser with family and friends.

• Place orders by December 5 for holiday delivery.

Thank you for supporting our school through your purchases and for helping spread the word!

🐬 Thank You, OLA Families!

We are incredibly grateful for our APA Board and the many parents who generously share their time, talents, and resources. Your involvement strengthens our school community and helps provide meaningful opportunities for our students.

Together, we make OLA shine! 💙

🎄 Holiday Wreath & Centerpiece Fundraiser – Ends Tomorrow!

Get a head start on decorating for the Christmas season while supporting Our Lady of the Assumption School!

Our Holiday Wreath and Centerpiece Fundraiser ends tomorrow. These beautiful holiday decorations are perfect for bringing Christmas cheer into your home or giving as thoughtful gifts to family and friends.

🌟 Holiday Items Available:

• Fresh Holiday Wreaths – $30

• Festive Centerpieces – $25

📅 Important Dates:

• Orders and payment due: Wednesday, November 4

• Pickup: Items will be delivered to OLA for pickup the week after Thanksgiving break.

🎁 Sending Holiday Cheer to Family and Friends?

Direct shipping is also available! If you would like to send a holiday wreath or centerpiece directly to someone, please place your order using the link below:

Order Online – Holiday Wreath & Centerpiece Fundraiser

Thank you for supporting our OLA school community. Your participation helps make our fundraising efforts a success while spreading a little Christmas joy!

Questions? Please contact the school office at (805) 642-7198.

🎄 Thank you for your continued generosity and support!

Calendar Highlights  

         Extended Day Care registration packets are available in the school office. 

Contents of Weekly Brown Envelope

Please remove contents, complete and return any forms in the signed Brown Envelope every Wednesday. 

• Charleston Wrap Fundraiser Packet

• Virtue of the Month Flyer

• Prayer of the Month Flyer

Sports at OLA

🏐🏈 OLA Athletics – Our Dolphins Are Making Waves!

It's been an exciting couple of weeks for OLA Athletics! Our Girls Volleyball and Flag Football teams continue to demonstrate wonderful teamwork, determination, and Dolphin spirit. We are proud of our student-athletes for their hard work, sportsmanship, and dedication!

🏐 Girls Volleyball – Two Victories for Our Dolphins!

Congratulations to our OLA Girls Volleyball team on two outstanding wins!

• Tuesday, October 27: OLA defeated Our Lady of Guadalupe!

• Thursday, October 29: OLA defeated St. Anthony's!

Way to go, ladies! Your teamwork, perseverance, and encouragement of one another continue to make us proud. Keep up the great work!

🏈 Flag Football – An Exciting Victory Over St. Augustine!

Our OLA Flag Football team celebrated an impressive 31–16 victory over St. Augustine!

Congratulations to our touchdown scorers:

• Mark Avila (#20) – 2 touchdowns

• Conner Matsuk (#4) – 1 touchdown

• Cade Stiffler (#10) – 1 touchdown

• Jayden Truong (#00) – 1 touchdown

What a wonderful team effort! Our Dolphins demonstrated determination and teamwork throughout the game.

🏈 November 2 – A Hard-Fought Game Against Our Lady of Guadalupe

Our Dolphins faced Our Lady of Guadalupe on Monday, November 2, in an exciting game that came down to the very end.

Final Score: Our Lady of Guadalupe 19 – OLA 18

Although our Dolphins came up just one point short, they battled until the final whistle and showed tremendous heart and perseverance!

Congratulations to our touchdown scorers:

• Ryder Matsuk (#1) – 1 touchdown

• Conner Matsuk (#4) – 1 touchdown

• Mark Avila (#20) – 1 touchdown

We are proud of the entire team for their effort and determination!

📣 Upcoming Flag Football Games – Come Cheer on Our Dolphins!

🏈 Wednesday, November 4 – HOME GAME

OLA vs. Ventura Christian

🏈 Monday, November 9 – AWAY GAME

OLA vs. St. Sebastian

Location:

We encourage our OLA families to come out and support our student-athletes!

💙 Celebrating Teamwork and Dolphin Spirit!

As we begin November and focus on our virtue of Courtesy, our student-athletes have wonderful opportunities to put this virtue into practice. Showing respect for opponents, encouraging teammates, listening to coaches, and demonstrating good sportsmanship are all ways we live our faith through athletics.

A heartfelt thank you to our coaches, parents, and families for your continued support and encouragement. Your dedication helps make our athletic programs such a meaningful part of the OLA experience.

Congratulations, Dolphins!

Keep playing with heart, determination, and pride! 🐬💙

Stay up-to-date with access to events, documents, news from administrators, student stories, and even emergency notifications.

OLA School App Video

You can download the app for free on Google Play or Apple App Store.

Download for Android https://bit.ly/3HRxTwQ

Download for iPhone https://apple.co/3JwStCO

📋 Absent Reporting Reminder

If your child will be absent from school, please complete the Absent Reporting Form.

You can find the form:

• On our OLA School App (tap the menu button)

• On our school website under Quick Links

Submitting this form ensures that a daily report is generated and shared with teachers so they are aware of your child’s absence.

✅ Thank you for helping us keep our records accurate and our communication smooth!

The digital marquee birthday flier is available in the school  office.  Announce your child's next birthday on the OLA marquee! Announcement cost is $15

School Office Hours

The best times to conduct school business in the office are:

Mornings

8:30 am - 12:00 pm

Afternoon

12:50 pm - 2:30 pm

Closed for Lunch(12:00-12:50)

After Dismissal hours:

3:00pm-3:30pm 

Please do not come in during dismissal. We are calling students for pick-up and are unable to give you uninterrupted attention.  The office is closed for lunch from 12:00pm-12:50pm, if your child needs to leave early from school Please pick them up before 12:00 pm or after 12:50pm. 

 Safeguard Training

Protecting God’s Children

Keeping the Promise Alive (Recertification)

Sacred Heart Catholic Church (Ventura)

Thursday, November 12, 2026
7:00 PM

Please call 805-647-3235 ext. 300 to reserve a spot.

Protecting God’s Children: 3 hours.  

Our Lady of Assumption (Ventura)

Saturday, November 14, 2026
12:00 PM

Please call 805-642-7966 to reserve a spot 

Please arrive on time.

Initial Certification Requirement

New Dates Coming Soon!

There is an online option. If interested, please email olasafeguard@ola-vta.org.

Finger Printing

Fingerprinting Requirement

Student Learning Expectations (SLE’S)

OLA Students aim for the S.T.A.R.S when they: 

SHOW AND LIVE THEIR FAITH 

THINK CRITICALLY AND WORK COOPERATIVELY

ACTIVELY MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

RESPECT OURSELVES AND OTHERS