"Catholic schools are established to bring out what is best in each student, to name gifts and draw them forth so that they can be used to build the Kingdom of God as we serve others," according to the Very Reverend Samuel Esposito, Regional Vicar for Vicariate III which includes Beaver County.
Our Lady of Fatima Students at World Vision Distribution Center
Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School in Hopewell Township is particularly proud of their work with World Vision. Seventh and eighth grade students enjoy spending a day at World Vision's Pittsburgh Global Distribution Center in Sewickley. The students help sort and pack a variety of supplies to be shipped all over the world for those in need. The students have also sponsored Vaibhav, a child from India, for many years and enjoy participating in Mission Day each spring, but their experience at the World Vision Global Distribution Center truly makes a grand impression on how much work there is to do. Mrs. Martin, teacher sponsor, said, “The students were over whelmed by the amount of items that needed to be packed for distribution. They didn’t realize how much of what they have and take for granted is not available to so many others.” It was a true eye-opener that will impact the giving spirit Our Lady of Fatima instills in students.
Saint Monica Catholic Academy students Devyn Moye and Ashley Mineard displaying the fundraisers last year for the Chimbote Foundation
Saint Monica Catholic Academy (formerly Divine Mercy Academy) in Beaver Falls, takes a unique approach to the Diocese of Pittsburgh's Chimbote Foundation which supports mission work in Chimbote, Peru. The foundation helps missionaries operate the Social Works Center which provides an outpatient clinic, maternity ward, and orphanage in Chimbote and all schools in the Diocese participate in raising money for the foundation. Fundraisers at Saint Monica occur throughout the school year and are organized and planned by 6th grade student Devyn Moye and 8th grade student Ashley Mineard. Events have included Movie Day at School, Minute to Win It Physical Challenges, a scavenger hunt, and Tape the Priest day. Ashley said, "Fundraising is a lot more work than you think but it is worth it for a good cause."
Saints Peter and Paul students and staff on Pink Out Day
Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School students in Beaver were inspired by the successful battle with breast cancer of math teacher, and basketball coach Dawna Miocic. Students at Saints Peter and Paul dedicate the entire month of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, to raising money and awareness for the Susan G. Komen Foundation by participating in a number of "Pink Out" fundraisers. They make, sell, and wear pink bracelets to help raise awareness. Students also participate in "Pink Out" Days where a donation allows them to wear pink clothing instead of their school uniforms. "Our students become much more aware of the fight against breast cancer watching Mrs. Miocic as she worked to defeat the disease. It really hit close to home for them and we decided as a school community to make a positive out of the situation and have dedicated a lot of time and attention to raising money and awareness for cancer research during the school year," according to Cindy Baldridge, Principal Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School.
Catholic Education is a commitment to developing the minds, body, and spirits of students. The faculty and staff are dedicated to ensuring children have not only a strong academic background but develop a strong moral compass guided by Jesus Christ. It is never too late to give your child the gift of a Catholic Education. Enrollment is open throughout the school year. For more information about the Beaver Valley Catholic Elementary Schools please visit www.beavervalleycatholic.org.
