Category: General

Each year from September 15 to October 15, classrooms across the country celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich history, culture, and contributions of many Hispanic countries. This year, the students at St. Bernard are embarking on a cultural journey through Latin America, exploring a new country each week, listening to music, and dressing up in vibrant colors to reflect the essence of each nation.

Week 1: Mexico
SBS kicked off the celebration by diving into the culture of Mexico, a country known for its colorful traditions, delicious cuisine, and fascinating history. Students learned about Mexico’s independence from Spain, which coincidentally falls on September 16, a date that marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. Classes were filled with excitement as they listened to the iconic song “Cielito Lindo” and discussed its significance. To further bring the lesson to life, students dressed in green to represent one of the colors of the Mexican flag: green, white, and red.

Week 2: Puerto Rico
Next, they traveled to the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, where students were introduced to its unique blend of Taino, African, and Spanish cultures. They learned about Puerto Rico’s history as a U.S. territory and its vibrant traditions, such as bomba and plena music. The highlight of the week was listening to “Manana por la Manana.” To celebrate, students dressed in red which is one of the colors of the Puerto Rican flag, showcasing the island’s spirit and unity.

Week 3: Costa Rica
This is the third week of celebrations so far at St. Bernard. It is dedicated to Costa Rica, a country renowned for its incredible biodiversity and peaceful way of life, captured by the national motto “Pura Vida.” Students will learn about Costa Rica’s decision to abolish its military in favor of investing in education and the environment. They will also explore the rich traditions of Costa Rican music, enjoying the sounds of traditional folk songs. To honor Costa Rica, students will wear blue on Thursday and discuss the country’s love for nature and sustainability.

Week 4: Guatemala
Finally, next week the students will end their journey in Guatemala, a country with deep Mayan roots and breathtaking landscapes. Students will delve into the ancient history of the Maya civilization and learn about Guatemala’s rich textiles, traditional foods, and stunning architecture. Classes will listen to the rhythms of “Luna Xelaju,” a popular Guatemalan waltz. To reflect Guatemala’s flag, students will dress in white as they explore how the country’s history and traditions continue to shape its culture today.

Overall, National Hispanic Heritage Month gives the students at St. Bernard the chance to travel beyond their textbooks and truly experience the diversity and beauty of Latin American countries. Whether through song, dress, or engaging discussions, the month is meant to be a joyful and educational celebration of culture, identity, and unity.

We’re already looking forward to next year’s celebration and another opportunity to explore more of the incredible cultures that make up the Hispanic and Latino communities!

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.

There’s something truly special about the first day of school. The excitement in the air is palpable as students fill the halls, ready to embark on a new year of learning and discovery. This year, we continued a beloved tradition that helps set a positive, unified tone for the school year: the annual Blessing of the Backpacks event.

On the first day of school, all students from grades 3K through 8 gathered in the gymnasium, each carrying their backpacks — symbols of the journey they’re about to undertake this 2024-2025 school year. From the youngest to the oldest, everyone sat side by side, forming a colorful, vibrant sea of backpacks and bright faces, all eager for what lay ahead.

The atmosphere was one of community, joy, and anticipation. This brief yet meaningful gathering allowed us to pause for a few moments, reflect on the year ahead, and come together as a school family.

Deacon Bernie, who leads this event every year, warmly welcomed everyone before saying a special prayer for the students. His words carried hope, faith, and encouragement, reminding us all of the importance of seeking guidance, strength, and wisdom in all that we do. Afterward, Deacon Bernie blessed the backpacks with holy water, a symbolic gesture that reflects the desire for God’s protection and care over each student as they navigate their academic, personal, and spiritual growth throughout the school year.

In just a few short minutes, this gathering served as a beautiful reminder of what makes our school community so special: a blend of faith, support, and love for learning. As students left the gym and walked into their classrooms for the first time this year, they did so with hearts full of hope, knowing they were part of something bigger than themselves.

May this new school year be filled with growth, learning, friendship, and many blessings for all!

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.

As we kick off another exciting school year, I’m filled with gratitude for the chance to lead such a dedicated and vibrant community. At St. Bernard, where faith, education, and community come together so beautifully, I feel truly blessed to be on this incredible journey with all of you.

Our first day of school on Monday, August 26 was a wonderful start! We gathered as a school community for our annual Blessing of the Backpacks, where Deacon Bernie joyfully sprinkled holy water on everyone’s backpacks. We are truly thankful for this cherished tradition.

We’ve made some fantastic updates to our campus this year. Our new PA system will enhance safety for everyone, and our library is getting a makeover thanks to a generous donor and our collaboration with Wild Blue. We can’t wait to share the final plans with you and welcome any additional support.
I would also like to extend a huge thank you to Doug and Diane DuBois who helped paint and spruce up our main office. The transformation is incredible, and we are so grateful for your hard work and dedication.

We’re also very excited about the new Gaga Pit outside, which has been paved and fitted with a rubber mat, thanks to the generous funding from Pack 4136 of the Cub Scouts. A special thank you goes to Brad, Heather, Parker, and Reagan Johnson, who coordinated and oversaw this project. It’s sure to be a hit during recess and after-school activities. We appreciate Pack 4136 and the Johnson family for this wonderful upgrade!

Our upcoming community events are sure to be exciting! School families will be joining us for our Pet Blessing on October 4th at 2:45 PM on the soccer field. It will be a special time to celebrate and bless our beloved pets. In addition, don’t miss our Día de los Muertos celebration on November 4th from 5-7:30 PM at St. Bernard School. There you can enjoy food trucks, music, crafts, and dancing as we come together to celebrate our traditions.

Finally, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to St. Bernard Parish and our parish office for their steadfast support and prayers. Father Adam and the entire staff have been a tremendous blessing to our school’s success.

As we look ahead, I’m excited for all the opportunities this year will bring. Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to a fantastic school year together.

Blessings,
Mr. Gusloff, St. Bernard Principal

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.

Father Adam Bradley is a relative newcomer to the St. Bernard Parish community; one of the 23 supporting GRACE parishes. He was selected by our Bishop to become the pastor of the parish and school about nine months ago. During this time, he has enjoyed sharing his faith within the many areas of his position, including his church life and the school, fostering a good working relationship between both.

A full schedule greets Father Adam every day! It starts with prayer and Mass. Then, meetings with parish departments and groups, and visiting nursing homes and hospitals. Leading other sacramental preparation appointments, offering adoration and confessions, and dropping by the school are also parts of his usual routine.

Father sees a good rapport between St. Bernard Parish and the school that is fostered through his regular meetings with St. Bernard Catholic School Principal, David Gusloff. He states, “Mr. Gusloff is a very dynamic man. He works well with everyone and helps develop that sense of that we are a Catholic school. We want to do right by the Catholic Church and he has a good vision for that.” 

Part of that vision includes ideas to bring the school and the church together. This year’s Spring Fling was designed as a school and parish event in which the entire community would participate. Another collaboration between parish and school is the sacramental preparation that is conducted within the school setting, rather than within the church.

Father Adam describes his life right now as “really awesome.” He reflects upon his vocational journey by saying that it began in college. 

“I realized the Lord was calling me to something – it might be priesthood. College seminary was the time when I realized this is what the Lord wanted for me; I would give my life to God in a unique way.”

He comments that working with his brotherhood of priests in parish life is a great gift and a life-changing experience. 

“It is the most fulfilling thing.” 

This is an excerpt from the Spring 2024 GRACE Newsletter. Check out the whole newsletter by clicking the button below!

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.

By Matt Riebe, Director of Athletics and Activities, GRACE

I am honored to have been welcomed into the GRACE community since I started in my role in November 2023. This brand-new position to spearhead system-wide athletics and activities resulted from efforts involving key focus areas of the GRACE Strategic Plan. My role at GRACE is focused on helping communication and collaboration between GRACE Schools and to the greater community. GRACE is blessed with so many amazing individuals who give their time and talents to creating positive learning experiences to help our students grow and enjoy being a part of something bigger than themselves. To start, I have focused on identifying needs and supporting athletics programs, but my aim is to work on growing GRACE school activities in the near future.

My first weeks in my role revolved around ingraining myself at each GRACE school community. I met with the principals and athletic directors at each school to gather perspective on what extracurricular opportunities are currently available, common challenges faced by each school, and ideas to help build system-wide athletics at GRACE. My work has focused on creating avenues of communication for site athletic directors, booster clubs, and parish staff to work together and share knowledge between other GRACE schools and communicate effectively. 

The end goal is to find a way to communicate effectively and to cultivate environments that lead to positive experiences for students. We are working to increase participation in athletics at each school and building bridges across the system to open opportunities to play as many sports that may not be available at every school. We want to showcase the great things our schools are doing for students.

The connection with our CatholicLink partners, St. Norbert College and Notre Dame Academy, has opened up tremendous experiences for our students. We are creating amazing experiences for our students to interact and learn from high school and college student-athletes. Through this partnership, all GRACE students can attend St. Norbert College and Notre Dame Academy athletics events for free! Student-athletes from both schools are eager to give back and we are opening up opportunities for some great experiences for GRACE students.

I am very excited for the future of athletics and activities and I hope you join in on the fun!

Accomplishments

• Met with administrators at every level of athletics at each GRACE School to better understand the system, share knowledge, and provide support & guidance
• Hosted 7th and 8th grade basketball and track and field championships at St. Norbert College
• Formed a booster club at Chesterton Academy to help guide growing athletics programs and engage the school community
• Created a communication hub for all athletics seasons on gracesystem.org
• Established partnerships with area organization to supplement referee pools for games
• Met with CatholicLink partners to set up numerous collaborations such as volunteer programs, event passes to SNC/NDA games, and facility rentals
• Held an archery clinic for middle and high school students at St. John the Baptist, which included students from every GRACE school
• Guided the Holy Family Booster Club in filling their athletic director role and served as their interim athletic director to support the leadership transition

Future goals

• Growth of activity offerings and create collaborations between schools
• Introducing the GRACE Athletics Handbook to better communicate common policies and showcase opportunities for students in all sports
• Fostering athletics participation and forming independent teams at St. John Paul II and St. Thomas More
• Seek out opportunities to play other Catholic schools in our diocese

At Chesterton Academy, our Catholic Classical high school, athletics and activities have started to grow with boys and girls basketball and golf teams that finished their second seasons, as well as a chess team that finished in the top ten in the state this spring. We will be starting cross country and track & field programs starting next year, guided by the newly-created booster club to help build the necessary structure to support students and create strong high school programs.

This is an excerpt from the Spring 2024 GRACE Newsletter. Check out the whole newsletter by clicking the button below!

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.

Dear Members of the GRACE Community:

Warm spring greetings during this beautiful time of Easter, growth and reflection. I am filled with gratitude for the blessings that continue to enrich our beloved GRACE community. 

One of the cornerstones of our mission is to ensure that our schools are beacons of faith and knowledge, open to all those who seek the light of Catholic education. With the support of our 23 GRACE-affiliated parishes, we are steadfast in our commitment to welcoming every child into our classrooms regardless of background or circumstance. Together, we embrace our community knowing that it is through unity that we truly thrive to reach the kingdom- our ultimate yearning. 

The impact of a GRACE education extends far beyond the walls of our schools. By providing more students with access to quality education, we not only foster academic excellence but pave the way for brighter futures and boundless opportunities. Our commitment to nurturing a thriving community around us is rooted in the belief that Catholic education is the cornerstone of our students’ futures. 

I am delighted to report that our enrollment remains strong, a testament to the unwavering dedication of our staff and families and the enduring appeal of Catholic education in greater Green Bay. With robust and thriving schools, our students are provided not only with excellent academic opportunities but also with vibrant social experiences that help shape them into well-rounded individuals. Each child brings a unique perspective to our community enriching our classrooms with a tapestry of personalities and ideas. 

A steady enrollment also serves as the bedrock of our fiscal practices, ensuring the stability and sustainability of our schools for generations to come. Through the support of our growing community, we are empowered to uphold the traditions and teachings of our Catholic faith in partnership with our parents and parishes, nurturing the hearts and minds of our students. 

By Samantha Skifton, Technology Integration Specialist, GRACE

Artificial Intelligence. If you read those words and immediately think that it can’t be good for the future of education, many would likely agree. Artificial Intelligence (AI) hit the world like a tidal wave in November of 2022 thanks to ChatGPT, a chat-based platform that can instantly generate text. There are a few common misconceptions we would like to clarify. First, AI is not a new creation. It has been part of the technological world since 1950, albeit in different forms. Second, you use AI almost daily and might not realize it. Do you ask Siri or Alexa to play your favorite songs or to schedule a reminder? Have you ever Googled something? Has your digital map recommended the shortest route? And don’t get me started on personalized ads! These daily tasks all use AI to some degree.

GRACE’s Technology Services team was tasked with researching AI at the start of the school year. Immediately hundreds of questions posed threats to how we view education. Did students need to hand write essays? Was this something that students or staff should even use? The questions didn’t stop, and neither did we. We knew that AI couldn’t be brushed under the rug for another day. Our investigation started exactly where it should: with our faith. Pope Francis has been addressing AI since 2016, and throughout that time his opinion hasn’t changed: AI is a gift from God which needs to serve our human potential and will challenge our teaching methods, however we are called to use AI morally and ethically to promote critical thinking (Address of His Holiness Pope Francis to Participants in the “Minerva Dialogues”, March 2023). 

Our focus became finding AI tools that were created specifically for educators. These tools save our teachers something precious: time. AI provides an almost instantaneous digital assistant to our teachers. The teacher who used to spend three hours creating review materials for students can now create a starting point in seconds. The first-year teacher who wants to create a project based on the novel Wonder has a multitude of ideas in minutes. The teacher who wants to give each student a personalized Christmas story can save hours of time creating them.

There are a few things we would like to affirm. We discourage teachers from distributing AI materials without first editing and making materials their own. AI is a starting point not the final draft. The use of ChatGPT is discouraged for all because, quite honestly, there are better tools available. As for students, the expectation is that their assigned work be original, not AI generated.  Blocking or banning use is almost impossible, instead the focus within the classroom is exhibiting academic honesty while demonstrating skill mastery.

We have before us a rare opportunity to pioneer an ethical and moral use of AI for education grounded in our GRACE mission. Our teachers will focus on utilizing AI to enhance academic rigor, professionalism, effectiveness, and evangelization while striving for excellence.

This is an excerpt from the Spring 2024 GRACE Newsletter. Check out the whole newsletter by clicking the button below!

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 thrilled to share with you a heartwarming event that took place recently at St. Bernard. On May 24, we had the honor of welcoming back 22 high school seniors who once walked our halls as eager elementary students. These exceptional individuals returned to receive a special blessing during Mass, partake in a parade through the school, and reunite with their former teachers in a delightful social gathering.

The day began with a beautiful Mass ceremony, where the high school seniors, adorned in their graduation attire, sat amongst our current students, teachers, and staff. It was a moment of reflection and gratitude as they received a heartfelt blessing, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey.

Following the Mass, the high school seniors had the opportunity to parade through the familiar halls of their former school, greeted by cheers and applause from current students and teachers alike. For many, it was a chance to reconnect with cherished memories and revisit the classrooms where they once sat as eager learners.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the social gathering held in Bishop Hall, where the high school seniors were reunited with the teachers who had nurtured and guided them during their formative years. Laughter filled the air as stories were shared, and bonds were rekindled. It was a touching reminder of the lasting impact our educators have on the lives of their students.

“It’s incredibly special to welcome back our former students as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives,” said Ms. Dudzik, assistant principal of St. Bernard. “Seeing how much they’ve grown and knowing that we played a part in shaping their journey fills us with immense pride.”

For the high school seniors, the reunion served as a reminder of the supportive community that helped mold them into the individuals they are today. As they prepare to take their next steps into adulthood, they carry with them the lessons learned and friendships forged during their formative years at St. Bernard.

As the event drew to a close, there was a sense of gratitude and optimism in the air. Though their paths may diverge after graduation, the bond between these students and their elementary school alma mater will forever remain unbreakable, serving as a testament to the enduring power of community and connection.

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.

Dear Members of the GRACE Community:

Warm spring greetings during this beautiful time of Easter, growth and reflection. I am filled with gratitude for the blessings that continue to enrich our beloved GRACE community. 

One of the cornerstones of our mission is to ensure that our schools are beacons of faith and knowledge, open to all those who seek the light of Catholic education. With the support of our 23 GRACE-affiliated parishes, we are steadfast in our commitment to welcoming every child into our classrooms regardless of background or circumstance. Together, we embrace our community knowing that it is through unity that we truly thrive to reach the kingdom- our ultimate yearning. 

The impact of a GRACE education extends far beyond the walls of our schools. By providing more students with access to quality education, we not only foster academic excellence but pave the way for brighter futures and boundless opportunities. Our commitment to nurturing a thriving community around us is rooted in the belief that Catholic education is the cornerstone of our students’ futures. 

I am delighted to report that our enrollment remains strong, a testament to the unwavering dedication of our staff and families and the enduring appeal of Catholic education in greater Green Bay. With robust and thriving schools, our students are provided not only with excellent academic opportunities but also with vibrant social experiences that help shape them into well-rounded individuals. Each child brings a unique perspective to our community enriching our classrooms with a tapestry of personalities and ideas. 

A steady enrollment also serves as the bedrock of our fiscal practices, ensuring the stability and sustainability of our schools for generations to come. Through the support of our growing community, we are empowered to uphold the traditions and teachings of our Catholic faith in partnership with our parents and parishes, nurturing the hearts and minds of our students. 

As we celebrate our successes, let us also cherish the bonds of friendship and unity that are forged within our GRACE family. Together, parents and educators alike form a supportive network that cultivates our beautiful community and creates a sense of belonging and lasting friendships for our students that endures long after graduation. 

I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every member of our GRACE community for your unwavering support and dedication to our mission. Together, let us continue to uphold the values of faith, excellence, and community that define us, inspiring future generations to shine brightly in the light of God’s love. 

With prayers, peace and warmest regards as we enter into these final days of the academic year!

Kimberly A. Desotell

President, GRACE 

This is an excerpt from the Spring 2024 GRACE Newsletter. Check out the whole newsletter by clicking the button below!

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 latest GRACE Spring 2024 newsletter is now available to read! This issue highlights the Father Allouez Catholic School Faith Fair, puts a spotlight on newcomer Father Adam Bradley, a thoughtful reflection from Deacon Dan, an update on GRACE athletics from new Director of Athletics and Activities, Matt Riebe, and even more!

Check it out by clicking the button below.

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.

Springtime is not just about blossoming flowers and warmer weather. At St. Bernard, it’s also about the flourishing talents of young students through music. This year’s Spring Music Concert shone bright in a symphony of youthful talent and boundless enthusiasm. The event, held in the school church, was a celebration of melodies and harmonies performed by students in grades K-4, along with a special performance by the 5th-8th grade choir. The theme of the event was “Singin’ in the Rain” with a variety of familiar songs and tunes.

The concert commenced with the vibrant energy of the primary students, who captivated the audience with their renditions of familiar melodies including “Waltz of the Flowers” and “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands”. Their pure voices resonated throughout the auditorium, setting a joyful tone for the evening ahead.

As the concert progressed, the third and fourth graders took the stage, demonstrating their growing musical prowess. They began with their rendition of a song in sign language, showcasing not only their musical abilities but also their inclusivity and creativity. They followed by singing the song “What a Wonderful World” which absolutely delighted the audience.

In addition to vocal performances, the concert also featured students showcasing their instrumental talents. Some students showcased their skills with the recorder, while others dazzled the audience with their proficiency in playing the hand bells. Each performance was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the students and St. Bernard’s music teacher, Ms. Finke.

The highlight of the evening came with vocal performances by the 5th-8th grade choir, whose harmonious voices filled the auditorium with a rich tapestry of sound. Their collective talent and dedication shone through as they performed a medley of religious and classic songs, leaving the audience spellbound. They even sang a song in both English and Spanish!

But the surprises didn’t end there. Some students showcased their solo talents, bravely stepping forward to sing melodies that touched the hearts of everyone present. Others exhibited their mastery of the piano, enchanting the audience with their nimble fingers dancing across the instrument, producing melodious tunes.

As the students all gathered together at the end, there was a palpable sense of joy and accomplishment in the air. Together they sang the songs “This Land is Your Land” and “A Place in the Choir.” As they sang their final notes, the audience erupted into thunderous applause, showering the young performers with well-deserved praise. It was a night filled with moments of joy, inspiration, and unity, as students from different grades came together to create beautiful music that transcended boundaries.

In the end, the Spring Music Concert was not just a showcase of musical talent; it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the transformative power of music. As St. Bernard bids farewell to another successful concert, they look forward to witnessing the continued growth and achievements of its young musicians in the years to come.

To hear short clips of the music from the concert, visit the school’s social media pages!

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.