This week's Student of Virtue is Spencer Bingaman, 4th Grade. Spencer picked up litter on the playground without being asked to do so. This exhibits the virtue of respect for the earth and for the school grounds. Way to go Spencer!

Gabe voluntarily offered to sit with a new student at lunch to help him feel welcome. Other boys joined them, following Gabe’s example. By the end of the lunch, the boys were all laughing and having fun together.

During the first House Retreat, Saleem took a new Kindergarten member under his watch without being asked. He mentored this young student by helping him find numbered pages in the liturgical singing books and helped him follow along with the words. Saleem did all of this very gently & lovingly for this new member of the Gemma House.

Ella shows the virtue of gratitude every single day in our classroom. Ella says “thank you” to her teachers and classmates. When a teacher ties her shoes or a friend helps her zip her coat, she always remembers to be thankful.

Eric is a hard-working student. He is kind, patient, and focused. Eric is never rude or mean-spirited with his classmates or students in other grades and is eager to read with his “reading buddy”. He works hard and has the courage to work through any challenges he faces.

In reflecting upon this month’s virtue of magnificence, it brought to mind a 1st grade student. Magnificence means to do something great and Brynn was nominated for her great actions, excellence, and generosity. She continuously goes above and beyond what is asked, volunteering daily for jobs around the classroom. She tackles challenging math problems and reading with a great amount of effort. Lastly, Brynn puts others before herself, whether it be through sharing, lining up, or taking turns.

Ava shows love for learning, others, and Jesus each day. Ava comes to school each day with a positive attitude and a loving heart. She tries her best in all that she does and inspires others to do the same.

Spencer is a member of Maximilian Kolbe House and was nominated for this week’s Student of Virtue. It is hard to choose just one virtue that describes Spencer because he is quick to forgive, is patient, and is honest. He follows the example of “The Little Flower” by performing acts of love and kindness every day. What stands out most about Spencer is that he always gives the best of himself and continues to grow in virtue.

During House Retreats, Jordan models many virtues. He is responsible and a model of his faith when he sings, watches over and engages younger students in activities, and helps out. He uses prudence and shows respect in how he treats members of his House. He went out of his way to sit with a younger student that was sitting alone.

Roberta repeatedly gives her time and positive attitude to others around her. She is always the first to volunteer an extra hand, whether it is cleaning up on activity or helping a friend clean up theirs. On one occasion she gave up her seat (unprompted) to an approaching teacher, stating she wanted them to have it. She has also been a guest reader to the younger students, providing a positive role model in academics and actions. Roberta continues to be a strong example of kindness in our school!

Layton shows kindness in many ways. He helps classmates tie their shoes and zip their coats. If a student falls down, he offers to help them up and asks if he or she is ok. Layton helps straighten papers and cleans up without being asked.

Brian constantly steps up to help others. He doesn’t even need to be asked but takes the initiative, whether it is hold the door for an adult or entire class, bringing in extra tissues or volunteering to babysit for HASA meetings. Brian Gring does all of this - with a smile on his face!

Lydia is a great example of faith. She volunteers her time and talents cantoring and singing in the Children’s Choir. She is always willing to step in when Mr. Finkelstein is short a cantor.

Each week, Yuryanna sings beautifully and participates fully in Mass. She is setting a great example of faith for other students!

Michael is very kind, respectful, and always helps without being asked. He consistently lends a hand to classmates, as well as helping teachers. He sets a wonderful example to others and takes care of our school environment. He is very thoughtful and caring, and is such an important part of our school community!

During the championship basketball game, Dareon collided with the player from the opposing team, who fell to the floor. Even though play continued, and we had the ball, Dareon stopped to help the opposing player. He helped him up, checked that he was ok and showed great respect! The parents from the opposing team even applauded Dareon for his actions. After the game, Dareon made it a point to congratulate all his teammates for their contribution to the win.

Sebastian is a hard-working student who puts consistent effort into his work. He follows the classroom rules and routines. He is eager to help out around the classroom and will ask if he can help with anything. He is kind and respectful to everyone.

Emma greets the Pre-K students almost daily at the school entrance. She graciously volunteers her time to help others and the school. For Christmas, she not only gave to the Giving Tree donation, but gave extra money that she earned from serving funeral Masses. She spreads her sunshine to all!

Jenna is a wonderful student to have in class. She is always respectful to her teachers and classmates. She consistently picks up the floor and classroom without being asked, even if she did not contribute to the mess. Her kindness and care for our community is appreciated!

Sophie shows respect for teachers and peers. She is honest and trustworthy in dealings with others. Sophie is thoughtful in interactions with others. She faithfully performs classroom tasks. She stands with her friends and is concerned about the feelings of all of her classmates.