Catholic Schools celebrate Catholic education in unique ways

January 26, 2014

Catherine Rogan

Catholic Schools celebrate Catholic education in unique ways
By Catherine Rogan, Media Relations Specialist, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston

With a theme of “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service,” the 60 schools of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston are celebrating National Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 26 – Feb. 1, 2014. Instituted by the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), the week is dedicated to celebrating faith and the exceptional standards of Catholic schools, as well as their achievements and communities.

It is also an ideal opportunity for these schools to open their doors to parents interested in learning more about Catholic education for their children. Parents will find that when they choose a Catholic school, they will provide their child with a foundation of faith which will carry them through their entire lives.

From Saints Alive Jeopardy to creating models of the Mars Rover, and from a Living Museum to a Battle of the Books, the schools throughout the Archdiocese will be celebrating education in a variety of ways this week. All the activities involve students, staff, families and local communities.

“The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston is once again looking forward to participating in Catholic Schools Week. This national event celebrates the importance of Catholic schools in educating students who become well-rounded, moral and service-oriented members of society,” said Dr. George Laird, Interim Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese.

Throughout the week, every school has a number of fun and unique events, ranging from students being principal for a day to college spirit activities and parent and grandparent appreciation events. At St. Rose of Lima Catholic School, students will take part in Pigs and Rocket Races. The Mayor of Sugar Land will be at St. Laurence Catholic School with a proclamation declaring the day as “Catholic Schools Day.” The Regis School of the Sacred Heart will have an “Earth-tacular” science night in which students can build electrical circuits, participate in gravity challenges and more.

Additionally, all schools have community service projects. One school has “Penny Wars” which benefits those served at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. At another school, students will be serving lunches to the needy. Other activities include a Wounded Warriors project and a community service fair. Plus, every school will host at least one Open House during which parents interested in learning about the possibility of Catholic education for their children can come and tour their local school and have any questions answered.

“Through activities and events, our schools invite interested families to tour their facilities and learn about our vision, mission, values and curriculum. Persons of all faiths are welcome in our schools, and we offer tuition assistance available to qualifying families,” Laird continued.

Catholic schools are known for their unwavering standard of academic excellence and offer rewarding athletic and extra-curricular programs. The education students receive develops their values in faith and prepares them to be strong leaders and good stewards in their communities. Catholic Schools Week is a perfect way to celebrate these accomplishments.

About the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston Catholic Schools:
• The Archdiocese has the largest private school system in Texas and welcomes students of all faiths.
• There are currently 60 schools throughout the counties of the Archdiocese.
• More than 18,000 students are enrolled.
• The schools serve students PreK-3 through 12th grade.
• Tuition assistance is available.