ELLSWORTH – Since 1974, Catholic schools across the United States have joined together annually to observe National Catholic Schools Week. The celebration is a time to recognize the value Catholic education provides to young people and families, and the contributions Catholic schools make to our church, communities, and nation. This year’s observance takes place Jan. 29-Feb. 4, 2023.

The theme for this year’s Catholic Schools Week, “Catholic Schools: Faith, Excellence, and Service,” encompasses three concepts that are at the heart of a Catholic education. Catholic schools have a specific purpose to form students to be good citizens of the world, love God and neighbor, and enrich society with the influence of the gospel and by example of faith. Academic excellence is the hallmark of Catholic education intentionally directed to the growth of the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. The focus of service is intended to help form people who not only carry out Catholic social teaching but are also active participants throughout society.

“The Holy Spirit is present in our classrooms” said Mark Matzek, St. Francis School Administrator. “Our devoted and exceptional teaching staff are second to none. They are true professionals who care deeply for their students’ academic and spiritual well-being.”

Catholic schools have a reputation of academic excellence and faith-filled education for students nationwide. National test scores, high school graduation rates, college attendance and other data show that Catholic schools frequently outperform schools in both the public and private sectors.

There are 5,938 Catholic schools in the United States National average staffing ratio for Catholic schools is 12:1 78.4% of Catholic schools serve children with mild to moderate specials needs High school graduation rate of students who attended Catholic schools is 99% and college attendance is 86% Based on the average public school per pupil cost of $14,455, Catholic schools provide more than 22.7 billion dollars a year in savings for the nation.

These statistics and their own personal experiences confirm to St. Francis Catholic School parents that by choosing a Catholic school education for their children, they are providing the best education available.

During National Catholic Schools Week, St. Francis students will be taking part in daily activities based on the following themes: Celebrating Our Community, Celebrating Our Students, Celebrating the Nation and Families, Celebrating Vocations, and Celebrating Faculty, Staff, and Volunteers. Activities include an open house, book fair, dress-up days, bingo, Books & Breakfast, and a Glow Dance.

Families interested in more information about Catholic Schools Week or attending St. Francis School can visit the school’s website at www.stfrancisellsworth. org. Parents can also arrange for school tours by appointment by contacting the school at 715-273-4391.

Submitted by St. Francis School