Dear Families, After more than 20 years, I am writing to inform you that I will be stepping down as principal of St. Thomas the Apostle School effective October 30. Mr. Ernie Casile, an outstanding educator whom I have had the privilege of knowing for many years, will serve as interim principal for the remainder of the year. A formal search for the next principal will begin this winter. I did not reach this decision easily, but given the attention I owe my family these days, I know where the Holy Spirit is calling me to be. Being a father is also a vocation. The fact is, I've been praying about this decision for some time; however, the COVID-19 pandemic pushed off the ultimate decision for a bit. I wanted to do my best to get the school I love so deeply reopened and settled before I stepped away. I believe we did as good a job as was possible in reopening (all things considered!), and we continue to maintain the highest standards of safety and health while providing a wonderful Catholic school education. At the beginning of this school year, Fr. Bob Longobucco, the diocesan Vicar for Faith Formation and Education, reminded all of us in Catholic education that God doesn't call the gifted, but he gives the necessary gifts to those whom He calls. Trust me when I say I stand as a testament to that truth. The gifts I have received over the years in the form of teachers, staff, parents, students, parishioners, priests, and fellow administrators and Diocesan leadership are immeasurable. You have helped us to do great things at St. Thomas. We all want to do great things in Catholic schools because Catholic schools do great things for this world. I thank God each day for the gifts you have given to this school community. I thank God for you! God has given us all a wonderful gift in the form of St. Thomas the Apostle School. As I end my ministry as principal of St. Thomas the Apostle School, know that I have a strong faith that wonderful things will continue to bloom; I have a deep hope that you will forever know the lessons that we have taught; and I will love you all forever in my heart. With a grateful spirit, Tom Kane