St. Joseph to Kick Off Catholic Schools Week

Students at , one of the area's largest parochial K-8 schools, have a busy week ahead of honoring faculty, community members and themselves.

The local celebration of Catholic Schools Week will begin with an open house and end with a student bowling trip at .

"It's kind of a spirit week. It's for us to enjoy ourselves and thank those people who have been so good to us. It's also to highlight the school and let the community know they are always welcome," said principal Phyllis Karko.

Karko emphasized the school's diverse population, noting that the school has a thriving program for non-native English speakers.

"It is practically a United Nations here, we are so proud of our families from remote locations," she said. "You certainly don't have to be Catholic or even Christian. We have Muslim and Hindu students as well."

The school's celebration of Catholic Schools Week includes the following events:

Sunday, Jan. 29

: 1:15-2:45 p.m. Following a special Mass, the school will open for visitors and early registration. The event also features a school band performance and book fair.

Monday, Jan. 30

Teacher Appreciation Day: Students will present gifts to staff and faculty. There will also be a prize raffle.

Tuesday, Jan. 31

Biography Day: Throughout the day, students will dress up and perform the roles of historical figures.

Wednesday, Feb. 1

: 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Families and community members are invited to tour the school.

Thursday, Feb. 2 Catholic Challenge: Students will honor local public servants, volunteers and businesses that assist the school and community—ranging from local to the UTZ delivery man.
Friday, Feb. 3 Student Appreciation Day: Classes will include games and students will be dismissed at noon for a bowling trip at .