Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service

The theme for the National Catholic Schools Week 2016 is "Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service." The annual observance, which is a project of the National Catholic Educational Association, starts the last Sunday in January and runs all week, which in 2016 is Jan. 31-Feb. 6. Schools typically celebrate Catholic Schools Week with Masses, open houses, and other activities for students, families, parishioners, and the community at large.

The logo and theme, developed for NCSW, was in response to member requests for a theme and logo that would last more than a year. The theme will be used for at least three years. This will provide opportunities for schools to brand the week with repeated mentions and use of a consistent logo.

Catholic schools offer academic excellence and faith-filled education for students nationwide. National test scores, high school graduation rates, college attendance and other data show that Catholic schools frequently outperform schools in both the public and private sectors. There is a strong demand and enthusiasm for Catholic schools. Thirty-two percent of Catholic schools have waiting lists for admission and new schools are opening across the country.

There are suggested daily themes and celebrations for this year's Catholic Schools Week. Sunday's theme is "Celebrating Your Parish." Catholic schools benefit all year long from the religious guidance, prayers and support parishes provide. Many parishes join in the National Catholic Schools Week celebration by devoting a Mass to Catholic education.

Monday's theme is  "Celebrating Your Community." A central aspect of Catholic education is learning the importance of service to others. When students take part in service activities - both local and beyond - they demonstrate the values and faith they gain through their Catholic education and learn how to make the world a better place.

Tuesday's theme is "Celebrating Your Students." Schools celebrate students during National Catholic Schools Week by planning enjoyable and meaningful activities for them and recognizing their accomplishments.

Wednesday's theme is "Celebrating the Nation." On National Appreciation Day for Catholic Schools, students, families, educators and other Catholic school supporters communicate the value of Catholic education to government leaders. They share information on the significant contributions Catholic schools make to the nation and their role in preparing students to be good citizens.

Thursday's theme is "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. Catholic Schools Week offers an opportunity for students to explore the many life paths that enable them to use their talents in the service of God and others through a religious vocation, by nurturing a family through sacramental marriage, by volunteering in church activities or another career that makes the world a better place.

Friday's theme is "Celebrating Faculty, Staff and Volunteers." Teachers are honored on National Teacher Appreciation Day. On this day, schools also recognize the administrators and staff who support teachers in their important work and thank parents and those who provide volunteer service.

Saturday's theme is "Celebrating Families." Parents, guardians and other family members play a vital role in Catholic education.