National Catholic Schools Week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It begins on Sunday, Jan. 31 and ends on Friday, Feb. 6. The theme for the National Catholic Schools Week is “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service.” BL will be celebrating this annual week with Masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members. Each day of the week has a theme and is designed to commemorate the value of Catholic education in the United States.
“We have a very superior education here with amazing teachers and dedicated students,” said social studies teacher Mrs. Beth Storm. “In addition to learning, we are privileged with the institution of Catholic morals and values, which is something that we need to celebrate.”
Monday, Feb. 1 was known as “My Community Monday.” This day was designed to serve those in need. To accomplish this, we celebrated Mass and took a “Change the World” collection from our spare change to donate to the students at Truett Elementary School.
Tuesday, which is known as “Turn Back Tuesday,” was designed to honor the parents and guardians who dedicate much of their time to furthering our Catholic education. Students were invited to wear an accessory to represent their diocesan Elementary school such as letter jackets, hair bows and t-shirts. Students also greeted the parents with coffee and breakfast during morning drop-off.
“BL stands out in the community of Catholic Schools because of its bonded community,” explained Mrs. Storm. “Not only are the students involved, the parents and siblings are involved, which helps to create a family-like atmosphere.”
“We are BL Wednesday” focuses on faith, knowledge and service. This day was designed to allow students to explore their talents that God has given them. Speaker Chris Stefanick spoke at the assembly to share his message.
On “Thankful Thursday,” BL honored teachers, principals and administrators. Students wrote thank you notes to teachers who have had a significant impact on their lives. Students were encouraged to dress up as their favorite BL teacher.
On “Flipped Friday,” BL is celebrating the community of students by planning activities for them and recognizing their accomplishments. Students are encouraged to reflect on the benefits of Catholic education and the impact that it will have later on in their lives. Friday is a half day and students are allowed to wear jeans to school.
“My favorite part of Catholic Schools Week is the ability to bring people into the school from outside the community and have them experience what it is like to be at BL,” said Mrs. Storm. To see the excitement in the parents, students and administration is very special because it shows that Catholic Schools Week is important to all of us.”