10 Ways You Can Celebrate Catholic Schools Week

By Carissa Krautscheid

The end of January is already upon us, and with that comes National Catholic Schools Week! From Sunday, January 29 until Saturday, February 4, students across the nation will be enjoying fun themes, free-dress days at school, assemblies, and special activities. 

But what if you’re not a current Catholic school student or parent? How can you possibly participate? Never fear! Here are 10 simple ways you can support our local Catholic schools during Catholic Schools Week!

1) Attend the Kick-off Mass 

With 25 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Tucson, 16 are parochial which means they are connected to a parish. These parishes are likely having a special kick-off Mass on Sunday, January 29 to celebrate their school. Show your support by going to that Mass!



 

2) Wear Your Catholic School Swag or School Colors

There’s a chance you still have a shirt, polo, hat, or letterman jacket from your local alma mater or your kids’ Catholic school. Dust it off and take pride in your school! 

Or perhaps these were donated long ago. Not to worry! You can still show your support of your favorite Catholic school by sporting their school colors throughout the week.
 

3) Visit Their Open House

Several Catholic schools will be hosting Open Houses (a list can be found here). This is a wonderful time to step beyond the parking lot, meet our local Catholic school teachers, and marvel at the improvements the school has made since you were a student there. They might even have special performances, sporting events, or refreshments!

 

4) Share the Love with Prospective Students

You’ve likely encountered a school-aged young person. There might be a Catholic school here in the Diocese of Tucson that would be a great fit for them! Did you know that there are Catholic school programs for 2-year-olds? Did you know that Catholic University of America has a presence in Tucson for college students? From elementary to middle or high school, the kids you know might benefit from a Catholic education.
 

5) Share Job Openings with Friends

There are jobs available at Catholic schools across the Diocese for teachers of all grades and subjects, administrators, counselors, coaches, substitute teachers, classroom aides, custodians, and cafeteria staff. Your background and skills could be the answer to a prayer at a local Catholic school. Keep an eye on job openings here.
 

6) Volunteer at a Catholic School Near You

If you’re not looking for a paid job, perhaps you have some time to volunteer! Every school has a need for volunteers. Contact a Catholic school near you to learn more.
 

7) Pray for the Catholicity of Our Schools

The Catholic Church is overflowing with rich traditions, spiritual treasures, and long history of unconditional love, service of those in need, and calling others to life-changing holiness. Say an extra prayer for our Catholic schools, teachers, principals, students, and parents, that they recognize and embrace the beauty, truth, and goodness of the Catholic Church.
 

8) Pray for the Daily Themes

Each day of Catholic Schools Week highlights a group of people influenced by Catholic schools. Take a minute each day to pray for them! 

Sunday: Celebrating Your Parish: “Catholic schools benefit all year long from the religious guidance, prayers, and support that parishes provide.”

Monday: Celebrating Your Community: “A central aspect of Catholic education is learning the importance of service to others,” which is Catholic faith in action.

Tuesday: Celebrating Your Students: Acknowledge the passion, creativity, and potential of students in your life.

Wednesday: Celebrating the Nation: “Communicate the value of Catholic education to government leaders.”

Thursday: Celebrating Vocations: “By focusing on faith, knowledge and service, Catholic schools prepare children to use their God-given talents to the fullest later in life.”

Friday: Celebrating Faculty, Staff, and Volunteers: It takes a village to make Catholic schools possible. How can you better support the principals and teachers in their mission?

Saturday: Celebrating Families: “Parents, guardians, and other family members play a vital role in Catholic education by instilling Catholic values and expectations for academic excellence in their children at home.”
 

9) Post Infographics on Social Media

Did you know that 98.9% of Catholic high school students graduate? Did you know that 85.2% of Catholic school graduates attend a four-year college, as opposed to just 44% from public schools?

These infographics and more can be found here. Post one on your social media pages to celebrate Catholic Schools Week! Use the hashtag #CSW23.

While you’re on social media, give your favorite school a Like or a Follow to stay in the loop.
 

10) Donate to Your Alma Mater or Neighborhood Catholic School

In celebration of Catholic Schools Week, consider making a gift to your favorite Catholic school. Donations of any amount are much appreciated and go a long way when pooled with other gifts. 

Some schools might have legacy giving programs, scholarships, or endowments that will continue supporting the school many years into the future. 

With tax season coming up, consider directing your Arizona state taxes to benefit Catholic schools through dollar-for-dollar tax credits. More about the Catholic Tuition Support Organization can be found here.
 

There are many ways that you can support our local Catholic schools, whether you are a current student, parent, alum, or neighbor!