This spring, Saint Peter’s School proudly celebrates middle school religion teacher MaryJo O’Keefe, who has been named a recipient of the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Teaching Excellence. Presented annually by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, the award recognizes ten outstanding Catholic school educators who exemplify excellence in teaching and a strong commitment to faith-based education.

Mrs. O’Keefe was honored for her dedication to forming students in faith and morality, her ability to foster thoughtful, engaging classroom discussions, and her leadership in organizing school liturgies that bring the community together. She has been teaching at Saint Peter’s for seven years, and her connection to the school runs deep—her four children are all proud alumni.

“I was overwhelmed when I found out I had been selected,” said O’Keefe. “It’s such an incredible honor, especially knowing how many outstanding Catholic educators are out there. I felt deeply humbled and grateful.”
​
To be considered for the Golden Apple Award, teachers must be nominated by their school community. The rigorous selection process includes submitting letters of recommendation from colleagues, administrators, parents, and students. These letters highlight the nominee’s dedication, classroom impact, and embodiment of Catholic values in education.

Mrs. O’Keefe’s nomination included heartfelt letters of support from 8th-grade student PJ Wallace and Principal, Ms. Lauren DeZinno. Wallace wrote in his letter: “Mrs. O’Keefe is more than just a great teacher. She is an excellent Catholic role model. She challenges us to be the best versions of ourselves while showing us what it means to live with faith and integrity.” The nomination letter from Ms. DeZinno stated “What makes Mrs. O’Keefe truly special is the way she lives out her vocation as a Catholic educator with humility, joy, and an unshakable sense of purpose. She does not seek recognition of her efforts – rather, she finds fulfillment in serving others, guiding students toward Christ, and helping them realize their God-given potential.”

“This award means so much to me because it celebrates not just teaching, but the mission behind Catholic education—helping students grow in wisdom, faith, and love. To be recognized for that is truly affirming,” O’Keefe said.

The Golden Apple Awards were established by Jack and Rhodora Donahue and their Donahue Family Foundation. Each recipient receives a golden apple trophy and a $5,000 award, recognizing their excellence in teaching and lifelong commitment to Catholic education.

“The heart of my teaching is helping kids know that God loves them, right here and right now,” O’Keefe shared. “If this award means I’ve done even a small part of that well, then I’m truly honored.”
 

By Jane Bornhorst
On April 4th and 5th, Saint Peter’s School staged a full-scale production of Aladdin Jr., delighting audiences with vibrant performances, colorful sets, and theatrical magic.
 
The cast featured dozens of 7th and 8th grade students, along with one enthusiastic 3rd grader. Behind the scenes, a dedicated student crew managed makeup, costumes, props, set design, sound, and lighting. Many audience members praised the show as being on par with a top-tier high school production.
 
Camden S., who played the title role of Aladdin, reflected on the experience: “I really enjoyed working with the entire drama team. It was a great way to end my final year after being at Saint Peter’s for 11 years.”
 
The musical tells the beloved tale of Aladdin, the Genie, Princess Jasmine, and the magical adventures that unfold in Agrabah. The production, held at Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, featured eye-catching costumes and an immersive set that brought the story to life. One of the highlights was the magical flying carpet that carried Aladdin and Jasmine through the air during the show-stopping performance of “A Whole New World.”
 
The play was directed by Phyllis Bottegal, in collaboration with music teacher Peter Nguyen, middle school director Caley Gallagher, art teacher Eunice Pak, and many other faculty and volunteers.

“The success of this year’s production of Aladdin Jr. comes from the entire drama club team with their hard-working efforts and specialized skills,” Nguyen said. “It includes the student cast and crew, teachers, and parent volunteers.  We are grateful for all who are involved in making the magic come to life.”

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.”

Saint Peter’s kicked off the holiday season with the parish’s annual Christmas Bazaar and Breakfast with Saint Nick on December 6 and 7. Friday night featured an Italian dinner, bingo, and opportunities to shop for baked goods, crafts, and household items. On Saturday morning the Parish Hall filled with festive cheer across two breakfast seatings as parishioners gathered for a delicious meal and children eagerly awaited their chance to meet Saint Nick.  

The holiday spirit continued December 13, as the school community gathered for the annual Christmas Tree lighting. The evening began with a spirited performance from the school choir who sang a mix of traditional carols and modern holiday hits. Families visited with one another while enjoying warm hot chocolate and cookies. The evening concluded with a special visit from Santa himself, accompanied by the Sandy Spring Fire Department.   

​On December 17, Saint Peter’s held its annual Christmas Show. This year’s show “We Knead a Little Christmas,” depicted the story of Jesus’ birth through a tale about a family run bakery in Bethlehem called “The House of Bread.” As is tradition, sixth graders had the leading roles on-stage as well as working the behind the scenes as technical crew. Grades one through five provided musical performances that accompanied the story throughout.  
​
Finally, on December 18, first graders spread Christmas cheer into the community with a visit to the residents of the Brookdale Senior Living Community in Olney. The students performed Christmas songs and joined residents for crafts. The students previously visited Brookdale during Halloween. The visits provide an opportunity to teach their first graders about the importance of Christian service and how to reach out to others as Jesus did. Principal Lauren DeZinno said, "We want our students to look out instead of looking in. Especially during this time of the year as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the greatest gift given." 

By Tina Banks

This fall students at Saint Peter’s in Olney laced up their sneakers to join the school’s cross country team. Competing in five meets across the Archdiocese of Washington, runners aged 6 to 14 embraced the physical, mental, and spiritual challenges of the sport, making it a season to remember.

Thirty young runners participated in events tailored to their age group: a one-mile course for those under eight years old and a challenging two-mile course for older runners. The all-terrain courses tested both skill and determination, with hills, wooded areas, and narrow paths requiring strategy and grit. Rain or shine, the athletes gave their best effort, demonstrating resilience and growth with each race. 

Coaches Tina Banks, Alissa Czyz, Emily Dhingra, and Shannon Van Why helped guide the team with faith and encouragement, while emphasizing that cross country was about more than running.

“The best part of the season for me, was seeing the runners make lasting friendships with those younger or older,” said Coach Emily.

“It was great to bring Cross Country to Saint Peters,” said Coach Alissa. “We saw such enthusiasm for our team among the kids and the parents.”

From the start, runners set individual goals that motivated them throughout the season. Six-year-old Fiona aimed to complete her first mile without stopping, a feat she accomplished at the last meet. “I was so proud of myself,” she said. “It felt really good to finish strong.”

Meanwhile, 9-year-old Daniela focused on improving her two-mile time, eventually shaving more than a minute off her personal best. “I liked running in the races and pushing myself to achieve new personal bests." 

From the start, the team was more like a family that individuals. Many parents helped by participating in practices and encouraged the young athletes to achieve their individual goals. This camaraderie amongst the parents and the runners helped the team quickly grew into a supportive and united group.
“The best part for me was making friends with the whole team,” said Eleanor.

Practices became a time for encouragement and fostering friendships, with older runners mentoring younger teammates.

Ten-year-old Robbie summed it up best: “I enjoyed cross country because it was not just about going faster than others; it was about beating yourself and cheering on your teammates. It also taught me to practice and work hard to get a faster time than my previous race.”

The season concluded with the Cross Country Championship meet, an event that brought together hundreds of runners from across the archdiocese. The atmosphere was electric, with more than a hundred athletes competing in each division. Two Saint Peter’s athletes earned medals at the meet, marking a proud moment for the team. Eleven-year-old Alexander finished 10th in the 11U division with an impressive time of 14:41, while seven-year-old Connor placed 15th in the 8U division, completing his mile in 7:25. 
​
As Saint Peter’s looks ahead to future seasons, the foundation laid by this inaugural team is a source of pride and inspiration. The runners not only achieved their goals, but also built a community of faith, friendship, and a shared love of running that will carry them forward.

By Jane Bornhorst
On October 21, Saint Peter’s School in Olney held its Inaugural Golf Tournament and silent auction, raising over $16,000 for the school.

Even better, members of the school community whose paths don’t normally cross were able to connect and get to know each other better.

The goal of the tournament, held at Blue Mash Golf Course, was to raise money for the school while engaging a new demographic of parents and building a sense of community among the parents.

“We were blown away by the turnout and by the amount of support we had from volunteers,” said Beth Sanz, Saint Peter’s Director of Development. “I was excited to see several alumni and parishioners come out to support the event as well.”

Parent David Craig golfed at the event and thought it was a big success. “I really enjoyed the golf tournament and definitely look forward to playing again each year. The venue was great, and they did a good job with the beverages and meals.”

After a round of golf, players enjoyed lunch in the clubhouse followed by an awards ceremony.

For the day-long silent auction, parents from each grade at the school donated items for baskets with different themes, such as pickle ball, Yeti, and fitness. The baskets were bid on during the event. Supporters who didn’t attend the tournament were able to bid on items online.

EuroMotorcars Germantown sponsored a hole in one contest, in which players had the chance to win a new Mercedes Benz.

Saint Peter’s hopes to hold the event again next year. Organizers are collecting feedback from parents and volunteers to make the event even better in the future.

On the morning of August 28, students filed into the Parish Hall at Saint Peter’s School for the first day of the 2024-2025 school year. The “first day” represents an important milestone for all students, but for five students, this first day was extra-special, as it marked their eleventh and final first day at Saint Peter’s.

Abby, Liam, Keegin, Nicholas, and Camden started their journey at Saint Peter’s as preschoolers. They’ve been through a lot of first days togethers, but this one was different. Liam described it as feeling like “the first goodbye.”

“To have four fellow students that have been with me through all my time at St. Peter’s is really cool to see how all of us grew differently with almost the same education and school experience,” said Abby.
 
“It did not feel real that I had made it to 8th grade since I have been at Saint Peter's for so long,” said Nicholas. “I think it's cool that we've been here all together and all have gone through every Saint Peter's event with one another.”
 
The five students share a collection of memories spanning from preschool to middle school. From being the younger buddies to becoming the older buddies, from class field trips to school dances, from transitioning to online learning and back, they have grown together every step of the way.
 
“One of my favorite early memories is going on bear hunts in Pre-K music class. Mr. Nguyen would play a bear hunt song and the whole class would sing and dance together to get through the hunt,” remembered Abby.
 
Camden’s first memory was playing with a red toy pick up truck in Mrs. Graham’s PreK-3 class. Keegin recalls a memorable second grade field trip when he caught crawfish with his friends. Nicholas enjoyed making the sacraments with his classmates and the times he got to spend with his older buddies. Liam remembers when he first played the ukulele and Fantastic Friday Afternoons with Mrs. Nichols.
​
Each of the students are looking forward to adding to those memories throughout the upcoming year.

“I’m thankful for the education I’ve received and the friends I’ve made,” said Keegin, “I am looking forward to the 8th grade vs faculty basketball game and more fun times with my friends this year.”

“My favorite part of being a Saint Peter’s student is the environment at the school. All the teachers push you to learn your best and have fun while doing it. Everyone is friendly and works hard to make Saint Peter’s a wonderful place, said Abby.
 
Liam is looking forward to the 8th grade field trip and hoping to have a role in the school musical. “The teachers care about me and are there for me. I have had a lot of opportunities with drama, choir, ensemble, the morning show, and student council.”

Camden is looking forward to being involved in the school masses, participating in the drama program, and hosting the school’s Morning Show. “Having friends from PreK-3 still with me feels very special. They are the kind of people I will not easily forget the names of, and I could see myself meeting up with them later in life to catch up.”

by Elisha Gabriel

This year, Saint Peter’s embarked on beginning their own Summer Program for the youth of Olney. This undertaking began in October of 2023 with a team of planners: Angela Busby, Cindy Dixon, Maria Hauge, Father Magro, and Eric Stone. Each of these individuals works within the school or the parish and were dedicated to designing a program to benefit the youth of Olney. They worked tirelessly to make sure the program would provide a fun summer camp experience for children ages 4-12, a volunteering opportunity for adolescents ages 13-15, and a workplace for young adults ages 16-23. The program was designed to give the young adults a place to work for the summer and provide an environment to grow in their faith formation.

The program began with a retreat for all counselors to spend time getting to know their coworkers and the camp procedures. After the retreat, the demanding work began for the counselors: planning and preparing for seven weeks as camp counselors. They met with their small groups and began planning activities for their young campers to enjoy when they arrived for the week.

On Monday, June 24th at 8:30 a.m., campers began arriving for the first week of camp. The excitement and energy filled the parish hall as we welcomed the campers and began a program that had been eight months in the making. “All the time, I have fun!” said camper Karoline, capturing the joyful spirit of the camp.
Throughout the weeks, the counselors grew in their leadership, collaboration, and communication skills all while providing a Catholic environment for their campers. Camper Ellie expressed, “I love camp because it’s so fun!” and her enthusiasm was echoed by many others.

Saint Peter’s Summer Program offers a wide variety of camps, ensuring there was something for every camper to enjoy. With options ranging from baking and basketball to American Girl Doll and fun/gross science, the program catered to diverse interests and talents. Camper Taylor shared her enthusiasm: “All the camps are fun, but American Girl Doll is my favorite.”

Meanwhile, Anjali appreciated the opportunity to explore new skills, stating, “I like that I get to learn how to do things that I do not know how to do. Like in filmmaking I learned how to film something and in painting I learned how to paint animals.” This range of activities not only provided enjoyment but also helped campers discover and develop new interests throughout the summer.

Once the campers left for the day, counselors and volunteers enjoyed lunch and time off before their catechesis. Throughout the summer, various priests and religious lay people came to Saint Peter’s to provide talks and holy hours to our teens and young adults. They received lectures on several topics like the Holy Spirit, magnanimity, prayer, New Testament vs. Old Testament, death, interior spiritual life, conversion stories, and testimonies. Following the talks, a holy hour with adoration began for the young teens and adults to sit with the Lord. Volunteer Matthew reflected, “Volunteering here gives me a sense of community and helps me grow closer to the people in my community.”

As counselor Josh summed up, “Good, positive environment!” perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the program. This summer, Saint Peter’s Summer Program created a space where fun, faith, and community came together seamlessly, making it a memorable and impactful experience for everyone involved. 
 

The Maryland Association for Environmental & Outdoor Education (MAEOE) recently recognized Saint Peter's School as a new 2024 Maryland Green School.    

Maryland Green School certification is awarded to school’s that demonstrate and document a continuous effort to integrate sustainable environmental management practices, environmental education curriculum, professional development opportunities, and community engagement into their daily operations. The award signifies a school’s commitment to developing stewards of the earth and reducing the school’s impact. 
“Saint Peter's is proud to be the first school in the Archdiocese of Washington to receive this recognition. Stewardship of our planet aligns with the tenets of our Catholic faith,” said Ms. Lauren DeZinno, Saint Peter’s Principal.  

Parent volunteer, Mrs. Margaret Giron, spearheaded the effort to become a Green School. Starting in 2021, Giron collaborated with faculty members Mrs. Kelly Nichols and Mrs. Kim Caldeira, parent volunteers, and the Student Environmental Club, to plan and implement practices that promote stewardship of our earth.  
Over the last two years, all grade levels have participated in environmental projects. Activities have included creating eco-friendly cleaning products, campus and community trash clean-ups, recycling drives, building bird and insect habitats, a Walk N’ Roll to School Day, using and maintaining outdoor learning spaces, and planning, designing and installing a rain garden.  

“With all the scientific data we have today, integrating environmental awareness and stewardship into as many aspects of our curriculum across the board is simply responsible education. Being good stewards of the Earth aligns with tenets of our Catholic faith and beliefs. It was an honor to collaborate with students, teachers, and our community to achieve this award. We look forward to continuing these hands-on activities, engaging our students and the Saint Peter’s community to live up to MAEOE’s goals and objectives,” said Mrs. Kelly Nichols, Faculty Green Team Lead and 2nd Grade Teacher. 

“It has been a delight to see the spirit of stewardship taking root in our students. As Catholic Christians, our faith reminds us of our responsibility to care for the Earth, which is our common home and the inheritance we share with all of humanity. Even with all the distractions of modern life, our students' love and concern for our environment remains a vigorous source of inspiration to the adults in our school community,” said Mrs. Kimberly Caldeira, Environmental Club Lead and Middle School Science Teacher. 
​
MAOEO established the Maryland Green School Program in 1999 to allow schools and their communities to evaluate their efforts in environmental sustainability. There are 654 active Maryland Green Schools, 34% of all Maryland schools. According to MAOEO, this network of Green Schools is significantly improving the environment at schools and in the community by reducing and managing waste, energy, and water. 

By Erin Pant

Saint Peter’s School’s spring production of “The Little Mermaid JR.” made a splash, transporting audiences into a magical kingdom under the sea.   
 
Eighty students brought the classic fairy tale to life with outstanding vocal performances, lively choreography, vibrant costumes, and enchanting sets. “Under the Sea,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and “Kiss the Girl,” were a few standouts from the twenty-nine musical numbers performed.    
 
Drama Director Mrs. Phyllis Bottegal was thrilled to bring “The Little Mermaid JR.” to the stage, noting the many valuable lessons it has to offer. One of the biggest lessons is to never give up on your hopes, wishes, and dreams.  
 
The spring production is a culmination of months of practice. 
 
“We begin in September with auditions. We then hold callbacks. Our students fill both front and back of the house roles. They are actors, stage crew, lights, microphones, sound, props, costumes, makeup, ushers, and spotlight workers,” said Bottegal.  
 
The students attend rehearsals twice a week where they learn the blocking, music, and lines. 
 
“My goal is to provide the students with an opportunity they may never have the chance to do once they go off to high school. Over the course of the year, I see the students build their confidence and learn to work and support one and other as a team,” Bottegal also said.  
 
Producing the play is also a team effort on the faculty side. Mr. Nguyen, the music director, helps with choreography and sound. Mrs. O’Keefe assists with costumes, props, and the set. Mrs. Pak manages the makeup. Mrs. Hauge oversees the finances and creates the printed program and Ms. Gallagher serves as the producer handling a variety of important tasks including purchasing, and communication between the parents, students, and administration. 
​
“Our students did an amazing job. I love seeing how each year the students work so hard and are so proud of themselves and the accomplishments they have done. It’s so eye opening for them to see how we begin and end, with a great show each year,” said Bottegal.  
 
Mrs. Bottegal is already looking forward to next year, which will mark the 25th anniversary of Saint Peter’s School Drama Program. “I tell the students that being in drama opens a world of opportunities for them. It helps them to build courage, self-discipline, and teaches them to use their voice so that they will be heard.” 

​On the fourth Friday of Lent, Saint Peter’s School participated in a school-wide Day of Service. All students donated items to support the day. In the morning, students in Grades 2 to 5 assembled sandwiches for Martha’s Table, while students in Grades 6 to 8 assembled care packages for the Montgomery County Family Justice Center. Grades PK to 1 created cards to go with the care packages. The school donated more than 200 sandwiches to Martha's Table and 60 care packages to Montgomery County Family Justice Center. 
 
Students began the day in the Parish Hall listening to special guest speakers. Mrs. Linda Ruszkowski from The Academy of the Holy Cross spoke about the many ways in which she has served communities and the importance of serving others. She discussed how when we all work together on something, we can be much more powerful than when we work alone. Next, Father Emanuel Magro discussed the works of mercy we are called to complete.  
 
In the afternoon, students prayed a Living Rosary together. Grades 2 through 8 concluded the day attended Stations of the Cross. Sixth grade homeroom teacher and middle school department chair, Ms. Gallagher, coordinated the Day of Service for Saint Peter’s School. She said the goal of the day “was to aid in forming our students' Catholic Identities and to deepen their understandings of how and why we should participate in works of service as Catholics.” 

By Jane Bornhorst
​
In February, the Saint Peter’s School “Green Team” worked with students to beautify the school and to provide habitats for small creatures. Parent volunteer, Margaret Giron, and middle school science teacher, Mrs. Kim Caldeira, led the activities.

The Green Team and the Environmental Club for 4th-8th graders, teaches students about ways they can be eco-conscious and increase their classmates’ awareness of the environment around them, the impact they have on it, and how they can become responsible protectors of God’s creations.

Recently, Saint Peter’s School kindergartners created insect hotels, man-made habitats for insects that help them survive in the wild. The students used natural materials to construct them. 

Remi, a kindergartner, said she enjoyed making a tiny home for ladybugs.

First graders built bird houses and decorated the roofs with finger paints. Taylor Fahey said she enjoyed decorating the project. “We got to hang them up for birds to live in,” she said. P.E. teacher Mr. Rob Carlsen assisted in hanging the habitats.

First grader Logan said, “We painted our house a bunch of colors – green, orange, and white.”
Connor Kelley also enjoyed working to build and paint the houses. “I am going to look for mine on the back field. I hope a bird lives there”.

Another recent project led by the Green Team was the painting of colorful steppingstones for the school’s rain garden, created by the Environmental Club earlier in the school year. The garden reuses rainwater and decreases runoff. Creating an attractive outdoor space helps students to appreciate their environment, explained Marget Giron, leader of the Green Team.

This spring, the club is applying for the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE) Maryland Green Schools Certification. This program gives students educational opportunities that empower them to make changes to reduce environmental impact, practice environmental stewardship, encourage sustainability, and foster environmental literacy.
MAEOE Maryland Green Schools benefit from the instructional support and partnership of Green Centers and Green Leaders. Green Schools have access to an extensive network of partners in their community and statewide resources.
 

By Dora J. Gomes
 
Saint Peter’s School is participating in the Scripps National Spelling Bee for the very first time this year. A healthy competition like the spelling bee is a thrilling and motivating way for students to improve their spelling and vocabulary. The competition began with students from grades 2-8 participating in spelling bees in their individual classrooms. Winners from each classroom then advanced to participate in a school-wide spelling bee held on February 23rd.

The students and teachers were tremendously excited about the contest. The fourteen spelling bee participants took the stage and were celebrated and cheered throughout the competition. After several exciting rounds, seventh grader Su Hlaing became the school champion, and fifth grader Otto Raedeke was the runner-up. Su will go on to represent Saint Peter’s School in the Scripps National Spelling Bee regional competition at Landon School in Bethesda, MD, on March 7.

Sixth grader Dominic said the spelling bee was a great learning opportunity for him and for his classmates.
Third grader Kavi loved having a spelling bee at school, “I had a fun time participating and it's something we can now look forward to each year.” 

The coordinator and initiator of the event, fourth grade teacher Mrs. Eunice Pak, said the contest exceeded her expectations. "My hope from the beginning was for the spelling bee to be not only an academic motivator but also to encourage the students to participate in a fun, healthy competition. I am grateful to our principal Ms. DeZinno for embracing the idea and for her support in making this happen for our school.”
Mrs. Pak especially thanks Ms. Gallagher (middle school English teacher and department chair), Mrs. Caldeira (middle school Science teacher), Mrs. Cotter (school librarian), Mrs. Bottegal (drama director), and Mr. Nguyen (music teacher) along with all the other teachers, students and parents who helped to make the event successful. 

By Erin Pant

Right before Christmas break, Saint Peter’s third graders were busy reading and replying to the latest letters from their pen pals. With each letter that arrives, they learn a little more about their pen pals, who are third grade students at Saint Elizabeth School in Rockville.

Saint Peter’s third grade teachers, Ms. Deoudes and Mrs. Bieberich introduced the pen pal project last year when Ms. Deoudes, who previously taught at Saint Elizabeth School, saw an opportunity to keep in touch with former students while providing an engaging way for the students to enhance their writing skills.

Throughout the school year the students exchange letters with their pen pals a total of four or five times.

“The letters are usually centered around the upcoming holidays. We encourage students to ask a lot of questions, so they get to know their pen pals. We also encourage describing fun events we have here at Saint Peter’s,” said Deoudes.

The project allows the students to practice writing skills, particularly letter writing, while also improving their communication skills.
 
“Letter writing opens up a dialogue between students and allows students to get to know someone they’ve never seen or met. Our hope is for the students to develop friendships with students at other Catholic schools,” said Bieberich.
 
“I like being able to communicate with friends without having to go to their school. My favorite part is receiving notes because you get to learn about your pen pan and you can answer your pen pal’s questions,” said third grader Gabriella.
 
The pen pal project would not be possible without the cooperation of the third grade teachers at Saint Elizabeth, Mrs. Gardner and Ms. Haddad.  
 
“We are very appreciative of the time and support that Mrs. Gardner and Ms. Haddad give toward this endeavor,” said Deoudes.
 
Saint Peter’s third graders anxiously await replies to their December letters to learn how their pen pals spent winter break and they look forward to several more months of letter exchanges as they continue to hone their writing skills and build deeper friendships with their pen pals.