By Jean McDermott
Pacelli President/Principal

National Catholic Schools Week (CSW) is an annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States.

Now entering its 46th year, CSW is traditionally held the last week in January. Schools observe the week with Masses, assemblies and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members to celebrate and congratulate.

This year’s theme is “Catholic Schools: Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed.”  Pacelli Catholic School begins it celebration of CSW this weekend with Masses at the three Catholic Parishes: Queen of Angels, St. Augustine, and St. Edward. Special activities, gatherings and events will take place during the week of Jan. 27-31 at Pacelli in all grades.  The celebration will conclude on Feb.  2 with a Pancake Breakfast sponsored by the Knights of Columbus from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Jennings Hall at St. Augustine Catholic Church.  All are invited!

Why choose Catholic Schools?  Here are a dozen reasons to consider as presented by the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA): 

1. We offer an education that combines Catholic faith and teachings with academic excellence. 
2. We partner with parents in the faith formation of their children.
3. We set high standards for student achievement and help them succeed.
4. We provide a balanced academic curriculum that integrates faith, culture, and life. 
5. We use technology effectively to enhance education.
6. We instill in students the value of service to others. 
7. We teach children respect for self and others.
8. We emphasize moral development and self-discipline.
9. We prepare students to be productive citizens and future leaders. 
10. We have a 99 percent high school graduation rate.  Eighty-five percent of our graduates go to college. 
11. We cultivate a faculty and staff of people who are dedicated, caring and effective. 
12. We provide a safe and welcoming environment for all.

If you are interested in learning more about Pacelli Catholic Schools, please visit our website at www.pacellischools.org or email admin@pacellischools.org or call 507-437-3278 anytime during regular school hours.