Throughout the United States this week, Catholic communities celebrate Catholic Schools Week. Annually we recognize the faith, excellence and service offered through Catholic education. We acknowledge the important phenomenal difference Catholic institutions, from preschools to universities, have made a to our nation, the Church, and the world. The events during Catholic Schools Week showcase and celebrate the rich traditions and incredible value of Catholic education.
At Sacred Heart Villa we try hard to bring this celebration down to the young children’s level of understanding as we focus on one aspect of our school community each day.
- On Monday, we celebrate being part of a caring community and neighborhood. The students will also learn how local businesses on The Hill help support our school. To show our appreciation for their support, the classes will make thank you cards to give to a local business, community leaders and first responders. The families have been asked to bring in items to help the Humane Society of MO. Needed items include collars, leashes, old towels, and treats.
- We will celebrate our amazing faculty and staff of The Villa on Tuesday. Our staff will be treated to catered breakfast at school provided by Chris’ Pancakes. Parents are encouraged to send a note or card to their child’s teacher.
- Then on Wednesday we celebrate the students’ gifts, talents, and faith. The children will have a pajama day - a favorite activity! In the morning, we will gather all the children in the playroom for a sing-along. For lunch, Sr. Margaret is preparing a picnic style menu which will be served in the playroom when the whole school gathers again to eat together. We are also having a book swap. Families can bring in three used books and then pick out three “new” books to take home.
- On Thursday, we will especially celebrate and acknowledge the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the religious Sisters who minister at SHV. We will have classes Zoom with Sisters who had once worked at The Villa and are now living in Connecticut at the Sisters’ retirement home. The presence of these Sisters at The Villa is such a blessing!
- Lastly, on Friday we will celebrate our wonderful, supportive families. We will offer coffee, donuts and healthy treats from 7:30 – 8:30 in the second floor lunch room. Families are encouraged to sign-up to read to their child’s class in February. Since this day is also First Friday, the PreK-1 and Little Tykes classes will lead us in a prayer service to celebrate God’s love and pray we can bring peace to our world. The Kindergarten will celebrate mass in the school chapel.
As we celebrate our Catholic school, we are very grateful to the parents who have entrusted the care of their precious little ones to us. Sacred Heart Villa is strong, thriving and well known because our parents share the good news of what we do here, providing an exceptional educational program rooted in strong Catholic values.