MOUNTAIN TOP – During Catholic Schools Week 2025, eighth grade students at Saint Jude School created memories that will last a lifetime.
Among the week’s most anticipated events was the spirited and fun-filled pep rally where eighth grade students face off in a basketball game against their coaches – a tradition that has become a favorite for the whole school.
“It is so much fun. I love Catholic Schools Week because as an eighth grader we get to do all the fun stuff,” student Leah Smith said.
Catholic Schools Week is a time for students, faculty, and families to come together to celebrate the values and educational opportunities that Catholic schools provide.
At Saint Jude School, administrators stress it is not just about academics, but also about building strong relationships and a sense of community. The pep rally and basketball game, which are held in the school gym, perfectly highlighted that philosophy.
“We had all our students here in the stands cheering and we had our cheerleaders come out to do their routines. It made for a fun day,” parent Frank Carone said.
Carone is the father of two students at Saint Jude School. He says the competitive basketball match is all about school spirit, camaraderie, and the bond between students, staff, and parents.
“The atmosphere in this gym was just incredible. Kids cheering and yelling, cheering for the eighth graders against the dads, it makes for such a great time, a great atmosphere,” he added.
Sister Ellen Fischer, principal, says the pep rally is something the kids look forward to every year. She agrees it is much more than just a game – it’s a celebration of the Saint Jude School family – emphasizing the significant role that parents play in their children’s education.
“It gives us a chance to focus on the great things that are happening here at Saint Jude School and it’s time for our children to enjoy the week,” Sister Ellen stated.
Saint Jude School’s commitment to creating a family-like atmosphere is evident in everything they do, especially during events like the pep rally. Throughout the entirety of Catholic Schools Week, the Luzerne County-based school held many other activities to celebrate the school’s values of faith, knowledge, and community, all of which were focused on togetherness.
Students, teachers, staff, and families all shared in the fun, creating lasting bonds and reinforcing the importance of supporting one another, both in and out of the classroom.
“We are a family, from before school starts to after school is over, and every minute in between,” teacher and parent Carrie Grandzol said.
Being able to celebrate each other’s accomplishments is what sets Saint Jude School apart.
“You see this in how our teachers and our administration react to our students and you see how our students react to one another as well,” Grandzol added.