Learning to Make a Difference in the World!
Each year, St. Mary’s School selects a theme to guide and enrich learning. This year’s theme is “Go Make a Difference!” Activities are planned throughout the year to help teach faculty, students, and parents that there are many ways we can all make a difference in the world. Here are just a few of the “make a difference” activities our students are engaged in now:
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The kindergarteners enjoyed acting out the bible story “Let the Children Come to Me.” They also had a special celebration for Mary’s birthday on September 8.
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Students in Kindergarten through 8th grade have opportunities to help plan and participate in a weekly mass. As soon as students are able to read (usually by December in kindergarten), they get a chance to have a reading part in the mass.
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Our 4th graders adopted a U.S. Army lieutenant who is stationed in Iraq. They send him pictures and emails and remember him in their daily morning prayers. They will have a special welcome home celebration for him in November when he finishes his first deployment.
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The Family Groups Program follows the example of the Holy Family. Family Groups combine small groups of students from various grades, Kindergarten through eighth, with the oldest student in each group acting as the “head of the household.” At several points throughout the year, the group gathers for a school-wide activity, during which each group goes to an assigned classroom to engage in an educational activity led by the “head of the household” under the supervision of the classroom teacher. This program offers an opportunity for multi-age interaction, emphasizing nurturing and acceptance of others. Each Family Group has a Saint’s name. At the first Family Group gathering, students take time to explore the important characteristics of their Saint.
St. Mary’s is excited to welcome 22 new families to our school family this year. Please keep our school in your prayers as we strive to be the hands of Christ reaching out to those in need–learning how to make a difference in the world!