Category: General

Get your tickets to see NDA’s production of Annie at https://ndamusical.ludus.com.

We would like to give a special shout-out to our alumni students who are performing or helping with the show:

Charlie G. – Rooster Hannigan/Ensemble
Pamela J. – Ensemble
Caroline B. – Mrs. Pugh/Boylan Sister/Ensemble
Maya C. – Officer Ward/Judge Brandeis
Alexander G. – Trombone
Ben S. – Bass Guitar
Dominic D. – Drum Set
Gabrielle J. – Clarinet/Bass Clarinet/Soprano Saxophone
Jack S. – Keyboard
Teresa S. – Stage Crew/Props
Maya F. – Tech/Lighting

It is sure to be a wonderful show that you won’t want to miss!

St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.

In a burst of creativity and humor, middle school drama students at St. Bernard recently performed a 30-minute show titled “The 10 Best/Worst Things About Middle School.” The performance, the result of a semester’s dedication, featured hilarious and relatable moments that had the entire K-8 student body laughing.

At St. Bernard School, middle school students choose a fine arts course for the semester, and one option is a drama class. Led by Mrs. Colleen MacDonald, this year’s class of 27 participants from grades 6-8 selected the comedy “The 10 Best/Worst Things About Middle School” by M.G. Davidson. The play humorously explored the challenges of adolescence, resonating with the audience.

The journey to the stage started at the semester’s beginning, with students investing hours in rehearsals, script readings, and character development. The young actors, guided by Mrs. MacDonald, showcased their dedication in every aspect of the production. The result was two performances held on January 12 in Bishop Hall.

The first performance was for grades K-4, offering younger students a glimpse into middle school humor. The second performance, for grades 5-8, resonated with the older students who found the play capturing both the best and worst aspects of their middle school experience.

Feedback from the cast and audience confirmed the success of the performance. Parents, teachers, and students alike were transported back to their middle school days, reflecting on the shared experiences that define adolescence.

Nolan, a 7th-grader who played the narrator, said, “I really enjoyed being a part of this play. It served as a reminder that, despite the challenges and awkward moments, middle school is a shared journey filled with growth, friendships, and unforgettable experiences.”

Johnny, a 6th-grader who played multiple small roles, said, “I was so nervous to perform for the middle school students, but I think it went really well. I was so proud of our hard work. It was fun getting to celebrate and cheer as a cast when it was finally over.”

Parents were invited to attend, and they praised the play. “I haven’t laughed this hard in ages. It’s like they took the essence of middle school and turned it into a comedy masterpiece,” remarked one parent. “I could see my own middle school days unfolding before my eyes. It was like they captured the chaos and charm perfectly.”

Even a kindergartener, Isaac, found it really funny and well done. “I laughed a lot. They did a good job,” he said with a smile.

These first-semester drama students certainly deserve a round of applause and a “Bravo!” from everyone. As the school enters semester two, a new group of students will have the opportunity to participate in drama class, working on public speaking skills for a spring performance. Stay tuned to discover their chosen play!

St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.

We are blessed by many amazing and talented teachers at our school. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to education have truly made a difference in our community! Several GRACE educators have been recognized for this recently, including:

• Jennifer Etter
• Jeff Jodar
• Kymberlee Kickels
• Shannon Kramer
• Tomerot Lambert
• Julie Lamm
• Terri Larson
• Colleen MacDonald
• Clare Zipperer

The list will be narrowed to a list of Teachers of Distinction and from those, recipients will then be selected for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards.

Thank you to our students and families who recognized these individuals as high-quality educators in areas of professionalism, leadership, and innovation.

St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.

The school gymnasium echoed with enchanting melodies as students from grades 4 through 8 showcased their musical talents in a mesmerizing winter band concert led by Ms. Brenda Winkler. The event, held on January 8th, brought together families, teachers, and music enthusiasts to celebrate the achievements of the young musicians.

The concert kicked off with the harmonious tunes of the beginning orchestra, setting a delightful tone for the evening. The young musicians, guided by Ms. Winkler on the piano, displayed remarkable skill and commitment as they performed a repertoire that captivated the audience.

Following the orchestra, the spotlight shifted to the beginning band, where budding instrumentalists from the lower grades took center stage. The gymnasium reverberated with the sounds of various instruments, from percussion to woodwinds, as the students demonstrated their passion for music.

The grand finale of the evening featured the concert band, composed of more advanced musicians from the upper grades. Their performance showcased not only technical proficiency but also a deep connection to the music they played. The audience was treated to a variety of music with a favorite being the song “Let it Snow.” (It was a precursor to the Snow Day they were going to be having the following day.)

The concert proved to be a heartwarming experience for many families who attended, witnessing the growth and dedication of their young musicians. Applause filled the air as each performance concluded, with proud parents and relatives cheering on the students.

In addition to the impressive musical display, the winter band concert served as a testament to the importance of arts education in fostering creativity and teamwork among students. The event highlighted the hard work and commitment of both the students and Ms. Winkler, emphasizing the positive impact of music programs in schools.

Principal David Gusloff expressed his admiration for the students’ achievements, stating, “The winter band concert is a testament to the hard work and talent of our students. It’s inspiring to see them come together and create such beautiful music. Our school is not just fostering academic excellence but also nurturing the artistic spirit within each student. I am grateful for all of the hard work and dedication that Ms. Winkler shows to her students.”

As the final notes of the concert resonated in the gymnasium, it was clear that the winter band concert had not only entertained but also inspired. The school community looks forward to future musical events that continue to showcase the talents and achievements of its students.

To see photos from the event and listen to some of the performances, check out the St. Bernard social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.

Please join us for an engaging and informative presentation on “Raising Resilient and Self-Reliant Children” with International Formation and Education Consultant, Sister Pat McCormack, IHM, EDD.

A self-reliant, resilient character is the by-product of daily life practices that nurture security, autonomy, initiative, and industry. When parents apply these practices with consistency, repetition, and continuity, positive identity formation takes root in the child. Over time resilience, self-reliance, and positive self-esteem evolve as byproducts.

This presentation will “unpack” these elements and communicate practical advice, gathered from parents of children in grades K-12 who were recognized for positive self-esteem and character.

This adult event is free of charge and will take place on Monday, January 15, at 6 p.m. at the St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in the Cathedral Center. The Center is located in the main Church building. Parking in the lot will be available. When you enter, please proceed up the stairs or elevator and the center is straight across. Wine and cheese will be served. All are welcome!

St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.

St. Bernard Catholic School (SBS) students are making strides toward technical challenges with their Robotics Teams. Second through eighth graders are eligible to join, and this year there are twenty students on six teams.

The St. Bernard Robotics Team competes in the VEX IQ Challenge, where young innovators come together to harness their skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to construct robots equipped to compete in engineering-themed games. This arena become a testing ground where theoretical classroom concepts meet practical application. This provides students an opportunity to exemplify skills not just in robotics, but in teamwork, leadership and communication, as well. The Team ties in with the STEM curriculum at the school, as there are STEM programs throughout its science program. This includes robots that teachers may utilize.

For the past three seasons, the teams have been adding to their goals. In the first year, they were just trying to understand how to build the robot and troubleshoot. In the second year, building became a little easier, and the students who had done it the year before assisted other teams. This year, the teams are moving along on their builds. The goal is to be able to compete with the coding, where the robot then can move autonomously, to score more points for their team.

Students and their families alike are excited about the SBS Robotics Team. Parent Laura Allard, whose son is a fifth grader on the Team, offers some thoughts: “Our son has looked forward to joining robotics ever since he found out about it in Kindergarten preview day. This is his second year on the team, and he is excited to start building! As a parent, I enjoy coaching and watching the kids grow as young adults and teammates. They have to think outside the box and work together to problem solve and find solutions. It is a big commitment to join the team, however, it is a beautiful thing to be a part of. It is so rewarding to see how much the kids learn and grow from the start of the season up until they start to compete.”

Although this season’s teams are set, students may look forward to signing up for next school year. SBS staff and the Robotics Team coaches wish to share their thoughts about the group.

“We are eager to expand our Robotics Team, offering an increased number of students the opportunity to immerse themselves in this innovative and exciting field. Our aspirations include not just growing in numbers, but also in the scope and level of our competition. In the past season, we made notable strides by doubling our participation from two to four tournaments. This accomplishment fuels our ambition, and in the upcoming seasons, we aim to compete in five or six events, with the ultimate goal of earning a spot at the state competition. But we won’t stop there. Our vision extends beyond state level. We are committed to fostering a team equipped with the skills, knowledge, and passion to reach regional and even national competitions. Each step forward marks our unwavering commitment to provide our students with enriching opportunities that challenge, inspire, and cultivate their potential in robotics and beyond.”

With this inspiration, commitment and participation, the St. Bernard Robotics Team is sure to hit new heights each new school year!

St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.

In every school, there are unsung heroes whose commitment and dedication go beyond the ordinary. St. Bernard School is fortunate to have Mary Kreft, a remarkable volunteer whose tireless efforts contribute immensely to the school’s vibrant and nurturing environment. Mary’s selfless devotion to the students, teachers, and staff has not only made a significant impact but has also earned her the prestigious 2023 Outstanding Volunteer Award. The award recognizes her unwavering dedication, positive influence, and the invaluable support she provides to the school community. It was presented to her at the annual GRACE Welcome Back Mass that was held at Prince of Peace.

Mary’s journey as a volunteer at St. Bernard School began with a simple desire to support teachers in their daily tasks. With a warm smile and a can-do attitude, she took charge of laminating, running copies, and creating visually appealing billboards that adorn the school’s hallways. Mary’s meticulous attention to detail and creative touch has transformed the learning spaces, creating an environment that inspires both students and educators.

But Mary’s commitment doesn’t stop within the four walls of the school. She extends her caring nature to the school playground, where she ensures the safety of every child during their playtime. As the designated Playground Supervisor, Mary watches over the students with a keen eye, making sure that laughter and joy are the only things on their minds. Her presence provides a sense of security, allowing both teachers and parents to trust that their children are in good hands.

Mary Kreft stands as a shining example of how one person’s dedication and kindness can transform a school community. Her willingness to go the extra mile, whether it’s in the teacher work room, in the hallways, or on the playground, sets a standard for volunteerism. St. Bernard School is not just a place of education; it’s a community enriched by individuals like Mary, whose selfless contributions make it a better place for everyone.

Thank you, Mrs. Kreft!

St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.

In the bustling world of education, one after-school program is making a significant impact on the academic journeys of young students at St. Bernard. Homework Huddle provides additional support for students in grades 3-8 to work on their homework. Started in 2016, this program not only aids students in conquering their academic challenges but also fosters essential skills such as organization and time management.

Homework serves as a bridge between classroom learning and independent application. However, not all students have access to the necessary resources and guidance to navigate their assignments effectively. Recognizing this gap, Homework Huddle steps in to provide a valuable service, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive academically.

Homework Huddle is offered after school on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays and meets for one hour. Intermediate students (grades 3-5) are led by Mrs. Shellenberger and Ms. Druar. Middle school students (grades 6-8) are led by Ms. Dudzik and Ms. Peper. The program is free for all students, eliminating financial barriers that may hinder a child’s access to academic support. This inclusive approach reflects the program’s dedication to promoting equality and ensuring that no student is left behind in their educational journey.

Students participating in the program are provided with quiet study spaces, allowing them to focus on their assignments without distractions. This designated space fosters concentration and helps students develop effective study habits that will benefit them throughout their academic careers. In addition, students are given the opportunity to receive one-on-one support in areas they are struggling with.

In 2020, Homework Huddle expanded to offer a Saturday session for students in grades 6-8. These sessions are held the Saturday before the end of the mid-trimester and the two Saturdays before the end of the trimester. Each session is offered from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. As the end of a mid-trimester or trimester approaches, the pressure to wrap up assignments and ensure all work is completed can be overwhelming for students. Recognizing this challenge, this dedicated time offers students the chance to catch up on any missing assignments and gives them a final push toward academic success.

“I am extremely proud of the program that we have built over the years. It started out with about 10 students total in grades 6-8. Now, we have 60-70 kids per session each week expanding through grades 3-8. The benefits of this program speak for themselves. We have parents asking about it every year, and it is one of those things that make St. Bernard a truly special place to learn,” said Ms. Dudzik, Homework Huddle founder and assistant principal.

“I really enjoy going to Homework Huddle each week. It gives me a chance to get my homework done and ask for extra help if I am stuck on something. I also like that my friends are with me, so it makes it a kind of cool place to hang out while still getting my work done,” said Hallier, a student who has attended the program for three years now.

Homework Huddle is more than an after-school program; it’s a catalyst for academic empowerment. By offering free support for students in grades 3-8, this initiative strives to bridge educational gaps, promote equality, and build a community of learners. Through quiet study spaces and personalized assistance in organization and time management, Homework Huddle is shaping the future by investing in the potential of young minds.

St. Bernard Catholic School (PK3-8) is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school with open enrollment serving preschool students and elementary students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. St. Bernard provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.

The Fall 2023 GRACE newsletter is here! Learn how the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program is teaching students about the Mass and God’s love, discover what the middle days elective program is all about, read about how one school is carrying on a 15-year-old tradition at the monthly Mass, and more!

St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.

Today we are highlighting a stand-out teacher within the school.

Father Adam Bradley is the new priest for St. Bernard Parish and St Bernard School. He has been a priest for six years and has loved every minute of it. Most of all, he enjoys helping others to draw into a deeper relationship and understanding of God. When he is not at St. Bernard, he enjoys spending time with friends and family as well as all types of water skiing. Barefoot water skiing is definitely a favorite!

This school year, he is looking forward to praying with everyone at Mass as well as visiting the different grades in their classrooms. It sure is wonderful to see his smiling face in our hallways and hear him spread the word of Jesus!

St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.