Catholic Schools Week is an exciting time that many students and faculty look forward to. This year, it was held during the week of January 30th to February 3rd.
Catholic Schools Week was filled with themed out-of-uniform days, an Upper School service day, and new this year, a CSW Party that ended the week. Although the festivities are wonderful, there is more to this week than just the fun dress up days and a break from the homework load. The main reason we celebrate Catholic Schools Week at PA is to celebrate our faith and appreciate our Catholic education.
Libby Bruce, ‘24, reflected, “I like Catholic Schools week because it reminds me why we are at this school, and reminds us of our priorities in life.”
Upper School religion teacher, Mrs. Angela Jendro noted, “To me Catholic Schools Week means pausing to appreciate what a gift Catholic education is. We can get so busy with the work of school that we forget how blessed we are to learn, especially the things that matter the most.”
On Wednesday, February 1st, Upper School students spent the morning participating in service activities before getting to enjoy a fun afternoon off campus. Students tied blankets, made sandwiches for those in need, and made Valentine cards for children in the hospital. The Lecture Hall and Atrium were filled with students enjoying time talking with their classmates and completing their service projects. Additionally, some students packed meals at Feed My Starving Children.
In the afternoon, students had the option of either going rock climbing, attending cooking school, bowling, Whirly Ball, or seeing the musical “Footloose” at the Chanhassen Dinner Theater. At the end of the day, Upper School students returned to PA to watch the annual Junior boys vs Senior boys volleyball game. The result was an impressive win by the Seniors.
Lily Regensburger ‘24 reflected, “Catholic Schools Week is a great source of community and I love the energy throughout the week.”
To conclude Catholic Schools Week, on Friday night, Providence Academy hosted the first ever CSW Party for the Upper School students. The night was filled with fun casino-style games, bingo, and prizes. It was a lively night, full of entertainment and laughter.
Catholic Schools Week 2023 was a fantastic time and was a great reminder of how blessed we are to attend Providence Academy and receive a Catholic education.
Father McClellan said, “Catholic School Week is a time for us to celebrate and have gratitude for the things that make Providence Academy what it is.” He added, “The goal of Catholic education is to pass on the best that we as a culture have to offer and draw out the best from each student. In both cases, that’s Jesus Christ. We are able to really do this at a Catholic school, and I’m grateful for that.”