CBA Celebrates 2021 Catholic Schools Week
February 8, 2021
While certainly not the same event-filled celebration as previous years, Christian Brothers Academy recognized Catholic Schools Week with a series of pointed messages and small student initiatives each day.
Catholic Schools Week has been celebrated for 47 years, led by the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA). This year’s theme was “Faith, Excellence, Service” which fits nicely with CBA’s mission.
Each day recognizes a certain aspect of Catholic education, including service, students, vocations and teachers.
While Monday was a virtual learning day due to winter weather, CBA President Brother Frank Byrne kicked off the week with a special morning prayer. Monday’s theme was revolved around service, which is an important part of the CBA experience. Amid the pandemic, Academy men have done an excellent job doing what they can to help those in-need, while staying safe and healthy themselves.
Students were the focus of Tuesday’s theme, as they truly are the lifeblood of any Catholic school. While smiles are shaded by masks, CBA students have brought a positive attitude each and every day. The CBA brotherhood has preserved in the classroom, on the stage, in the community, and on our sports teams.
Wednesday featured a celebration of the nation, and senior Michael Jakub delivered a morning prayer to ask for resilience and cohesion across the country. Students were able to “dress down” in red, white and blue colors, and Jakub delivered with his t-shirt.
The Student Council led a “thank you” card writing initiative to veterans who have defended our freedom. Students were able to write these cards during each lunch period. While simple messages, students extended their deepest gratitude to all of the men and women who have served in our Armed Forces.
Thursday focused on the vocations that are so important to Catholic schools. At CBA, the Brothers of the Christian Schools have played an integral role since the school’s founding in 1959. Junior Liam Barrett sent a sincere thank you to the Brothers, and our chaplain Father Zec, on behalf of the students, lay faculty and staff.
Finally, Catholic Schools Week wrapped up with a celebration of our excellent teachers, staff and administration. As senior Eric Ticse pointed out, the faculty and staff help CBA students reach their fullest potential both in the classroom and with extracurricular activities.
They truly make every piece of the Academy experience special for our students: teaching engaging lessons, offering sound advice, moderating dynamic clubs & activities, fostering performing arts, coaching athletic teams, and so much more.