2024 Catholic Schools Week Video
Catholic Schools Week
Catholic Schools Week began in 1974 by the National Catholic Educational Association and celebrates Catholic education nationwide. The CSW Committee has planned a terrific lineup of events as we celebrate St. Raphael School and Nursery School and all those who make our community so remarkable!
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK 2023-2024
Jan. 28 – Feb. 2
Sunday, Jan. 28: Mass &
Annual Reflection
School families are invited to attend the 10:00 am Mass, with students dressed in their school uniform. Following Mass, families will be treated to coffee and donuts in the Trumpet Room. Food and beverage contributions are needed for the reception following Mass.
- Annual Reflection, written by Ginger Browning.
For many years, SRS Parent Ginger Browning, former Disney illustrator, has provided the school with spiritual and creative direction for Catholic Schools Week. Ginger selects an inspired theme that influences the décor and appreciation activities during the weeklong celebration.
This year, our inspiration for Catholic Schools Week is 'Called to Witness: Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.' The theme will be celebrated visually through the colors of gold, silver, white and dusty blue inspired by the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
Monday, Jan. 29: Parent Appreciation Day
The Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary embody love and compassion in Christianity. Reflecting on these symbols during Parent Appreciation Day promotes appreciation for the parental role and encourages us to emulate their virtues of love, sacrifice, and nurturing.
And we thank our amazing families for entrusting St. Raphael with their precious children daily. Parents will receive a gift bag sent home with their oldest child and offered with gratitude for their sacrifice to send their children to SRS and SNRS.
** Sports Day - Wear your favorite team jersey or shirt
Tuesday, Jan. 30: Teacher and Staff Appreciation Day
We are overwhelmed with gratitude for our teachers and staff who share the gift of learning with our children, as well as the gifts of grace and mercy. On this day, teachers and staff will be treated to a very special catered dinner, commemorative booklets of student letters and pictures, and a gift bag.
- Donations for the teacher/staff gift bags as a sign of gratitude for all they do.
Letters/Pictures from Students: Have your student(s) write letters/draw pictures for teachers, staff members, and volunteers who impact their daily life at SRS or SRNS; refer to the list of St. Raphael teachers and staff names below. These notes will be put into booklets and given out at the Teacher and Staff dinner.
Deadline: Friday, 1/26 for both SRS and SRNS. Letters should be dropped off to the receptionist or placed in the outside bins labeled SRS and SRNS Teacher Appreciation. Typed or scanned SRS letters and pictures can also be emailed to Laura Long.
Use the templates below or your own 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper.
- 2023-24 St. Raphael Teachers and Staff
- Template No. 1: Letter with prompts
- Template No. 2: Letter, blank
- Template No. 3: Draw a picture
** Dress like a Teacher Day - Match your outfit with one of your teacher's. (Similar to matching Monday)
Tuesday, Jan. 30: Many Gifts, One Nation
A Day of Giving to Catholic Schools: This national campaign during CSW begins at noon and runs for 24 hours. Our community is invited to donate toward our operating budget and tuition assistance. With your help, we can continue to fulfill our mission of offering a St. Raphael Catholic education to our community. Thank you, Guardian Angels!
Wednesday, Jan. 31: Community and Clergy Appreciation Day
In Community Appreciation Day 2024, SRS students will be asked to provide essential items for three foster children through 'Foster the Family DC.' This nonprofit organization is seeking age and gender specific donations of clothing, hygiene essentials, comfort items, and a meal gift card for the family. To participate in contributing to this worthy cause refer to the Sign Up Genius.
Students will also express their appreciation of our priests with handwritten letters completed in school, along with a gift from SRS.
** Patriotic Day - Wear red, white and blue.
Thursday, Feb. 1: Career Day
Younger students (K-3) can explore their career interests by dressing up in an outfit that represents their dream job. Older students (4-8) will wear their school uniform and attend Career Day presentations given by parents who love their professions. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to be inspired and think about how they might contribute to society in the future, as well as receive practical advice on how to achieve those dreams.
** Career Day - Students in grades K-3 and nursery school dress-up as their favorite career person, and grades 4 - 8 wear their uniform.
Friday, Feb. 2: Student Appreciation Day
Class Fun (Teacher's Choice): The children are the reason for our school, and we treat them to special festivities to thank them for all their hard work this year! During CSW, all students receive class pictures and a special token of appreciation as a gift.
** Pajama Day - Wear your PJ's and bring your favorite stuffed animal.
Friday, Feb. 2: Family Fun Night
Join us from 6-8 p.m. as we close out Catholic Schools Week with a glow/dance party at Family Fun Night! There will be a DJ from Unique Dreams Entertainment, dancing, glow sticks and more to enjoy.
Be sure to complete the online order form and pre-order your pizza. Don't miss out on this fun event!