The annual observance of Catholic Schools Week begins today.  This year, St. Joseph School is being evaluated for continuing accreditation by the Western Catholic Education Association and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. This evaluation takes place every five years. The Administration and the Faculty of the School have compiled an extensive self-study as the initial phase of the process. This self-study includes every dimension of the school, from its curriculum, spirit and environment to its administration and finances. A team of educators has begun a detailed on-site examination of the school, to observe first-hand the items covered in the self-study.

I congratulate the Administration and Faculty for the tremendous work they have done to prepare the self-study. Compiling this information has taken many hours of "extra-curricular" activity. Teaching and guiding 301 students is a full-time job. Having to do extra "homework" takes special energy and dedication. The care with which the self-study manual was compiled is evidence of the excellence for which St. Joseph School strives in all its endeavors. It is also an indication that the staff of the school see their work as more than a job; they see it as a sacred vocation.

The parents of our student body entrust their children to the school, so that these young people can develop intellectually, spiritually, physically, socially, and psychologically. Each year of a child's growth is important. Tremendous changes take place between kindergarten and eighth grade. Parents can take comfort in the fact that St. Joseph School tries its best to meet the needs of the children at every age.

One of the assets of an evaluation is that it provides an opportunity to focus on strong points and areas for growth. Every human enterprise is in need of improvement. The self-study and the visitation provide clear areas for helping St. Joseph School live up to its high ideals and reach its lofty goals.

Parents are to be commended for the many sacrifices they make so that their children can have a Catholic education. Much expense is required, not only of money but of time. A Catholic school cannot survive without volunteer involvement. In these difficult economic times, extra effort is needed. Parents need assistance from the parish community.  I hope that a generous response to the monthly second collections will ease the financial burden somewhat. The participation of the whole parish in the annual Casino Night and Auction on March 20 is another way to support the school. Half of the annual Oktoberfest proceeds also go to the school. In addition, special gifts and bequests can help keep the school fiscally sound, so that it can continue its important work.

The Church of the future needs committed, well-formed Catholic leaders. Our nation needs honest, educated citizens. Our world needs good people to guide and serve.

St. Joseph School is doing its best to lay a firm foundation, so that people like this will not be lacking. May God continue to bless our students, parents, faculty, and staff.