St. Clare Of Montefalco Catholic School Students Celebrate Work, Play, And Christmas

As the Christmas season begins, the students at St. Clare of Montefalco Catholic School are looking forward to the holidays. The school year is always a busy time, and students are committed to working diligently at their studies.

Certainly, St. Clare places an emphasis on strong academics. Teachers and staff are serious about providing a good education for their students, and work hard to do that. Students know, however, that in order to learn and get good grades, they have to put in the effort.

Though good grades are a goal for all St. Clare students, the school takes pride in its philosophy that learning is not only about academics, but is found in providing a well-rounded education.

Fr. Andrew Kowalczyk, Michaelite priest, and pastor of St. Clare of Montefalco Catholic Church, oversees the school, and says St. Clare works to give students a comprehensive experience. “There are many activities to support the overall growth of students in the areas of academics, sports and faith.”

St. Clare teachers want students to enjoy their time at school and to feel it is a fun place to learn. To this end, they are dedicated to mixing hard work with fun events throughout the year. From field trips to camping outings, students share in a variety of experiences that offer opportunities for fun and fellowship.

A trip to Blake’s Apple Orchard in the fall allowed students to pick apples, eat donuts and drink cider.

Students also participated in a Halloween costume parade, took part in the popular Blessing of Pets ceremony, and developed their speaking skills through the Forensics Club, just to name a few of the events that have helped to make the school year memorable.

One event students love is the “Turkey Trot.” This annual Fun Run serves as a fundraiser for the school. Meghan Harris, in her first year as Principal says, “the ‘Turkey Trot’ is “a beloved St. Clare tradition that brings together students, families, and staff in support of our school.”

While keeping a focus on strong academics, and creating an enjoyable environment for students, Harris also believes in the school’s tradition of service. She says, “St. Clare has to carry out its mission of faith and service to the community.”

One of the ways St. Clare does this is through its annual Thanksgiving Food Collection Drive, led by students in the National Junior Honor Society. Food is collected and distributed to the less fortunate. Students get to help others celebrate the holiday as they put into practice the charity they learn about in their faith-based classes.

The birth of Jesus gives students, teachers, and staff the chance to close their books, unwind, and turn their minds to spending time with family and friends.

Fr. Kowalczyk hopes students, teachers, and staff will enjoy a well-deserved break after all the hard work of the school year thus far, and extends Christmas greetings to them, and to the surrounding community, “On behalf of St. Clare of Montefalco Catholic School we send wishes for peace, blessings, and a very merry Christmas to everyone!”