Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church kicked off National Catholic Schools Week and National School Choice Week last weekend with the celebration of Mass on Saturday, Jan. 24 and Sunday, Jan. 25. The two nationally recognized weeks gave the school ample cause for celebration.
St. Mary’s students led parts for Mass and Sunday’s Mass included the children’s choir.
Immediately following Mass on Sunday was their official launch of Catholic Schools Week & National School Choice Week with an Open House celebration that was “packed full” and began with a freewill donation lunch, a musical performance by children grades pre-k through second.
Ther performances were followed by an Academic Challenge–Catholic school style of grades three though six. St. Mary’s students put their technology and talent to work, and developed videos for visitors to enjoy.
“We love that Catholic Schools Week coincides with National School Choice Week,” reported Judy Caporini. “Did you know that over 9,000 schools are participating in National School Choice Week? National School Choice celebrates parent choice for education. This initiative includes both private and public schools, charter and home school as well. Our students enjoyed the gift of warm, bright yellow fleece scarves from the National School Choice program and have spent time learning the National School Choice dance, which we have captured and included in the videos streaming at open house.”
The school lobby was filled with displays of art and literature projects. And the week-long celebration continues during the school week at St. Mary’s School, with daily activities for the students. Each day, our students open their day with prayer in the lobby.
This week, students enjoyed beginning each day by leading a decade of the Rosary. Monday began the themed days, with country dress day and the opportunity for students to participate in line dancing during recess. Other themed events included pajama day with the focus on reading and each homeroom adopted a class color to wear that day and activities related to the chosen colors. Thursday was Red and Gray day with St. Mary’s students celebrating Ohio State and Shelby Whippets.
Catholic Schools Week concluded Friday evening with a schoolwide dance sponsored by the Parent Teacher Organization. The theme for this year’s dance was “Denim and Diamonds” with DJ music presented by Ken Niese.
Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church and St. Mary’s School is located at 26 West Street.
