So What's the Deal with Valagrams?

As a parent, I've often found myself struggling to remember Valagrams the one week each year that Valentine's Day sneaks up on me. As a new parent, I remember wondering, what IS a Valagram? Then, as my kids got older, they would ask for quarters for Valagrams themselves, but they were always for sale after I had to be at work, so I was never sure how best to acquire a Valagram for my kids, let alone my kids' teachers or other Saint John's staff I wanted to remember in some special way. Then, enter a pandemic, right?

Well never fear, here's a quick-shot guide to navigating Valagrams in 2021. View the Student Council flyer by clicking here, and read on for more information about acquiring your own. Seriously, my favorite part about Valagrams is that our students design them, and they are SO creative, you've just got to purchase one of each design!

What Is a Valagram?
Valagrams are student-designed Valentine messages of kindness and encouragement, that our Student Council members sell for distribution throughout the school on the day we celebrate St. Valentine here at Saint John's (this year, that's Friday, February 12, although his feast day is, of course, February 14). Each note comes with a piece of candy, and space for a personalized message from the buyer.

Who Can Purchase Valagrams?
Anyone can enter the Gathering Space, following all social distancing and sanitation protocols (distance of 6 feet, wear a mask at all times, do not enter if sick), and purchase a Valagram for 25 cents/piece between 8:30 and 9:00 AM February 4-10. Yes, that means send some quarters with your students so they can purchase some, but also feel free to stop by, and tell grandparents / grand-friends they are welcome, too. 

What If I Can't Stop In?
This was absolutely my story as a working mom who sent her kids to Eagle Club at 6:30 AM prior to the pandemic (which brought my work into the home and, eventually, our school). So this year, thanks to the generosity of one Mrs. Karla Schultz at the front desk, you can also call 651-484-3038 and place an order. You can send in an envelope with the money, marked Mrs. Schultz, so the kids don't know what it's for. The caveat is we need these orders placed no later than noon Wednesday, February 10, to accommodate the assembly of the Valagrams. 

Who Can Receive Valagrams?
Again, anyone! Student Council distributes Valagrams on February 12 throughout the school (February 11th for our Tuesday/Thursday preschoolers), so teachers, staff, students, preschool, even Principal Hurley can receive a Valagram. On occasion, students will purchase these for their parents, too, and they'd get sent home with the student on February 12.

Watch the Student Council Valagram Contest Video Here.