This is the seventh in a series of informational flyers developed by St. Dominic School Principal Peggy Henseler. Mrs. Henseler has 13 years of experience as a middle school teacher and a total of approximately 30 years in the field of education. The information shared in these flyers is based on research and Mrs. Henseler’s own experience and strong beliefs.
Additional articles to read on this topic:
How does “Catholic” add to the many benefits of a K-8 school?
The benefits of a K-8 school being an ideal school to educate children ages 5-12 are magnified by the fact that our K-8 school is Catholic. The Catholic identity of our school is the key component of what we are about. It is central to our mission, philosophy, goals, and student creed. Religion is not just one of the many subjects taught at our school, it is an integral part of our school life in general and is woven throughout our day and curriculum. Children not only learn the facts of our faith, they live the traditions, participate in the celebrations, and are joined together in prayer daily.
We are so lucky to be able to weave our faith life with our academic life!
We bless our school to start the school year and our pets on St. Francis Day. We pray for our families and classmates in times of need. We follow Jesus’ example of forgiveness with each other. We join the entire Catholic community in celebration of the Eucharist, and when tragedy strikes our nation, we not only learn about the events as they unfold, we reach out to God and join in prayer.
Why is it especially important for middle school students to be in a “Catholic” K-8 school?
In the midst of so much physical, emotional, and developmental change, it is most important for middle school age students to have a firm faith life on which to depend. Making that faith life an important component of each school day gives these students an opportunity to draw on that faith and develop their relationship with God. During adolescence a child is faced with many choices, ranging from somewhat minor issues to life changing decisions regarding morality and sexuality. What better context to make those decisions than from a Catholic faith perspective?
Since middle school age students’ emotions can range from extreme joy to deep depression (and this can happen within a frame of five minutes!), it is important for them to know that God is only a prayer away. Developing a strong prayer life now . . . individually, with their family, and in school . . . will lead to a life-long relationship with God.
|
