Catholic Schools Week, a time celebrated around the United States, took place on January 26-31.

The John Carroll School’s Mission Statement is grounded in the focus and practice of Catholic beliefs.

Religion Teacher Rhys Gadbois said, “Catholic Schools Week is a once a year reminder of what type of school we are.”

To begin the week, Youth Ministers and Directors of Religious Education were welcomed into the school for a tour of the building. The school encouraged faculty, staff, and students to reflect on Monday’s message of “Celebrating Our Community.”

The following day was one grounded in reflection, based solely on “Celebrating Our Students.” The students enjoyed a 20-minute block party during Advisory filled with conversation and treats.

On Wednesday, the school was closed due to professional development, but it was still encouraged for students and staff to participate in the reflection and activity of the day. This day’s message was “Celebrating the Nation,” and to show support, JC encouraged its students to make a gift for a current or former faculty or staff member.

The next day reflected on the message of “Celebrating Vocations” and the Class of 2027 received their class pins. On the last day, students were asked to reflect on “Celebrating Faculty, Staff and Volunteers.”

The week concluded with Mass, and Mr. Gadbois added, “The most important thing we can do to celebrate Catholic Schools Week is to celebrate Mass.”

Mathematics Teacher Courtney Von Lange spoke after Mass regarding her position as a Catholic School teacher and former student.

Mrs. Von Lange said, “There are so many big and small ways that a person can make the world a better place, whether it’s through what they accomplish in their job, in their daily encounters with all types of people, or how they take care of their family.  Catholic schools try to get students involved in a lot of different activities, so they can learn what they’re interested in and what their strengths are.”