Since 1974, National Catholic Schools Week has been the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It starts the last Sunday in January and runs all week, which in 2017 is Jan. 29 to Feb. 4.
Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with Masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members.
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 new theme will be used for at least three years.
The theme encompasses concepts that are at the heart of a Catholic education.
Schools are communities—small families in their own right, but also members of the larger community of home, church, city and nation. Faith, knowledge and service are three measures by which any Catholic school can be judged.
The logo features a swirl of colors interacting around a cross, which is at the center of all Catholic education.
We at The Observer hope you enjoy these glimpses of life at Catholic schools in the Diocese of Rockford. Our thanks to the schools that participated by providing these photos.
National Daily Themes for Catholic Schools Week 2017
Sunday — In Our 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 — In Our 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 — Celebrating Your Students
Schools encourage students to reflect on the benefits of Catholic education and how the grounding in faith, knowledge and service it provides will help them throughout their lives.
Wednesday — 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 pray for the nation and recognize all those who serve it.
Thursday — Celebrating Vocations
National Catholic Schools Week offers an opportunity for students to explore the many life paths that enable them to use their talents well in the service of God and others.
Friday — Celebrating Faculty, Staff and Volunteers
On this day, schools will honor teachers and principals as well as administrators and staff who support them in their important work and thank the parents, grandparents, alumni, parishioners and school board members who provide volunteer service.
Saturday — Celebrating Families
Parents, guardians and other family members play a vital role in Catholic education. Not only do they volunteer at the school, they instill values and expectations for academic excellence in their children at home. We acknowledge the role of families in Catholic education and celebrate their contributions.