Category: General

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.

In a testament to the dedication and linguistic prowess of its students, St. Bernard School’s annual Spelling Bee for 5th to 8th-grade students unfolded with remarkable intensity and enthusiasm. With over 75 participants vying for the coveted title, the event proved to be a thrilling showcase of intellect and determination.

Held in the Bishop Hall, the atmosphere was electric as students and teachers gathered to witness the spectacle. The stage was set, quite literally, for a battle of words—a battle that would stretch over 10 rounds and nearly two hours, pushing contestants to their mental limits.

From the outset, it was evident that the competition would be fierce. Participants approached the competition with a mix of nerves and excitement, ready to face the challenge head-on. As the rounds went on, the young contestants were tested on their spelling skills with both common and difficult words.

Despite the mounting pressure, the students remained undeterred, spelling out each word with unwavering focus and determination. Missed letters elicited sympathetic murmurs from the audience, while correct spellings were met with resounding applause—a testament to the supportive atmosphere that permeated the event.

As the rounds wore on, the field of competitors gradually narrowed, with each elimination bringing the remaining spellers one step closer to victory. And then, after an exhilarating display of linguistic prowess, a champion emerged—Asher, a 6th-grade student whose mastery of words left no doubt about his worthiness for the title.

With a combination of poise, intellect, and a dash of luck, Asher navigated through the final rounds with confidence, clinching the championship with the word “amphitheater.” His victory was met with thunderous applause and cheers of admiration from the audience—a fitting tribute to his remarkable achievement.

The Spelling Bee not only showcased the academic excellence of its participants but also served as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and grit. As contestants grappled with challenging words and pushed themselves to their mental limits, they exemplified the resilience and determination that are hallmarks of the St. Bernard School community.

As the curtain fell on another successful Spelling Bee, participants departed with a sense of accomplishment and pride, their passion for learning reignited and their thirst for knowledge ignited. In a world where success is often measured by individual achievements, events like the Spelling Bee remind us of the power of community and the value of collective effort.

Congratulations to Asher and all the participants of the St. Bernard School Spelling Bee for their outstanding performance and unwavering commitment to excellence. May their love for words continue to inspire and illuminate the path to success for years to come.

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 School was abuzz with excitement as 7th and 8th-grade students were recently honored for their academic excellence and commitment to service. The prestigious National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) welcomed a new cohort of outstanding scholars into its ranks during a special induction ceremony held in St. Bernard Church on Monday, April 29, 2024.

The event, which marked a significant milestone in the academic journey of these young students, was attended by faculty, proud parents, and current members of the St. Bernard NJHS chapter. With candles aglow and hearts brimming with pride, the school community gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of these exceptional students.

The induction ceremony began with a warm welcome from the school principal, Mr. David Gusloff, who commended the inductees for their dedication to scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship—core values that epitomize the essence of the National Junior Honor Society.

Following the principal’s address, Ms. Terri Larson shared a speech reminding the students of the significance of service and the impact it will have on their lives. Her inspiring words served as a reminder of the importance of academic excellence and the pursuit of noble endeavors.

As the highlight of the evening, each inductee was called forward to receive their membership certificate and pin—a symbol of their commitment to uphold the values of the National Junior Honor Society with integrity and honor. This was given to them by current members of the group who will soon be graduating the school. The 15 new members then signed their names into the membership book to be marked as a member of the group forever.

Mrs. Colleen MacDonald, the NJHS advisor at St. Bernard School, expressed her pride in the students’ achievements and emphasized the importance of service and leadership in shaping future leaders. “We have been part of NJHS for ten years now. It is a wonderful offering that we have at St. Bernard School, and I love the leadership opportunities it provides for our students. I am so proud of these 15 new members we inducted this evening.”

The newly inducted members took a solemn oath, pledging to uphold the principles of the National Junior Honor Society and to continue their pursuit of excellence in scholarship and service both within the school community and beyond.

Parents beamed with pride as they watched their children take this important step in their academic journey. Many expressed gratitude for the school’s dedication to nurturing not only their children’s academic growth but also their character development.

The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt round of applause, as those in attendance congratulated the newest members of the National Junior Honor Society and wished them continued success in their future endeavors.

As these bright young scholars embark on this new chapter of their academic journey, one thing is certain—the values instilled in them through their induction into the National Junior Honor Society will serve as guiding beacons, illuminating their path to success and making a positive impact on the world around them.

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’d like to spotlight one of our outstanding educators!

Mrs. Alvarez is the new librarian at our school, where her two daughters proudly attend. She believes that her job is not just about books; it’s about igniting a passion for reading in young minds. Reading is the secret gateway to learning, imagination, and endless adventures. When she isn’t at school, her life revolves around her family.

You’ll often catch her racing around to keep up with her daughters’ adventures and nephews’ soccer games. She is also a catchiest at St. Philip’s, helping first-year students prepare for their confirmation. Whether Mrs. Alvarez is at home with her family, on the field, in the library, or nurturing young minds in faith…she believes that her life is one big, fun, and incredibly meaningful adventure!

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.

On Earth Day, third and fourth-grade students at St. Bernard School embarked on a special project: building birdhouses to celebrate and support local wildlife. This annual tradition, spanning 23 years, has become a beloved event for Mrs. Waack, a fourth-grade teacher at the school. Armed with drills and hammers, the enthusiastic students eagerly dove into their work, guided by Mrs. Waack’s expert instructions.

Bishop Hall buzzed with excitement as the children assembled the wooden pieces, transforming them into cozy homes for feathered friends. The project would not have been possible without the support of several volunteers who generously gave their time to assist the students. They created an assembly line where students were able to use power tools to assemble the sides, roof, and door and then use a hammer to create a small perch for birds.

Through this hands-on activity, the students not only honed their woodworking skills but also learned about the importance of environmental conservation. They discovered how providing shelter for birds can contribute to a healthier ecosystem, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature.

“I have been doing this project for over 23 years, and it is something that I truly love. Altogether, I have probably helped create over 1,000 birdhouses with students,” said Mrs. Waack. “I have heard from many parents over the years say how much their children loved this project and that they still have their birdhouse in their backyard from years ago. That makes me smile.”

As the afternoon drew to a close, the students proudly admired their creations, knowing that they had made a positive impact on their environment. Mrs. Waack’s commitment to this project has not only inspired generations of students but has also left a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship in her classroom.

“I am so excited to take my birdhouse home!” said Sam, a fourth-grade student. “It was really fun to make, and it felt cool knowing that I was going to help out our Earth.”

Through projects like this, the students and staff at St. Bernard are creating a brighter future for our planet. To see photos from this experience, visit the school’s social media pages 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.

St. Bernard Catholic School is rooted in the life and works of Jesus Christ and our patron saint, providing a peaceful, prayerful community while inspiring each student to become a lifelong learner. We believe that by living the message and participating in the community, we are able to choose effective ways to make a positive impact on the world in which we live.

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.