Saint Peter's School celebrated the contributions of Black Americans throughout February with a series of school-wide presentations. Nine eighth grade students volunteered to be part of the Black History Month planning committee. The students researched topics for their presentations during lunch and recess. They decided to highlight lesser-known figures who have contributed to bettering their community, as well as pivotal moments in the civil rights movement. The students shared their presentations during the Monday morning assemblies as well as the weekly Morning Shows.
 
Presentations focused on influential figures like Rosa Parks, Jane Bolin, and James Hubert Blake, the accomplishments of actors such as Yara Shahidi and Denzel Washington, the work of directors like John Singleton and Jordan Peele, and the contributions of space explorers and athletes. Key events that were covered included the ratification of the 15th Amendment and the desegregation of Major League Sports.
 
A highlight of the month was a special performance by the Bright Star Theatre Company from North Carolina. Their play, Dr. King, told the story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life from the point of view of two students writing a report. The production touched on the struggles that Dr. King faced due to living during the time of segregation in the south.
 
In addition to these school-wide activities, each grade-level participated in lessons and projects that allowed them to dive deeper into the achievements and legacy of Black Americans.
 
The Black History Month activities at Saint Peter’s were both inspiring and educational, encouraging students to reflect on the past and showing them the importance of speaking out against injustice.

By Jane Bornhorst
The Saint Peter’s School community came together in January to joyfully celebrate Catholic Schools Week, a time dedicated to faith, excellence, and service—the very heart of the school’s mission.

“Celebrating Catholic Schools Week is such a special time for our school. We love honoring everyone in our community,” said Beth Bieberich, third-grade teacher.

The week-long festivities began with students and their families attending weekend Mass at Saint Peter’s, proudly wearing their school uniforms. Throughout the week, students participated in meaningful service projects, including a food drive benefiting SOME (So Others Might Eat) and the Saint Peter’s Parish food pantry, creating spiritual bouquets for parish priests, and delivering heartfelt tokens of appreciation to parents and families during morning drop-off.

Students also enjoyed exciting activities, such as Career Day featuring guest speakers from the parent and alumni community, engaging assemblies, and a free tag day in celebration of the students themselves.

“Each day had a fun activity that reminded me of all the great things about Saint Peter’s School and my community,” shared fifth grader Caroline R.

On Friday, January 31, the school turned its focus to celebrating its dedicated teachers. Faculty and staff took part in friendly competitions, while teachers received thoughtful surprises and gifts.

“I loved Teacher Appreciation Day, especially how many students took the time to say kind words to me,” said middle school science teacher Kimberly Caldeira. “Parents treated me to a huge basket of goodies. I am so grateful to be part of such an appreciative community!”

Bieberich added, “We especially want to thank our fantastic parent community. Their generous support strengthens the bonds we share as a faculty and brings us so much joy. We are deeply grateful for their kindness and the thoughtful ways they help us spread God’s love.”