Parish School to Celebrate 65th Anniversary and Catholic Schools Week

W ith all the interruptions and cancellations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is so nice to celebrate. In the past few months at Immaculate Conception Catholic School, staff, faculty, and students have had several opportunities to do just that. On Dec. 3, everyone at the school celebrated 65 years of Catholic education in our parish. Then, on Jan. 30, Catholic Schools Week kicked off at Sunday Mass.

Advancement Director Michelle Koch says the 65-year celebration was a very special day. There was an all-school Mass presided over by Bishop Anthony Taylor. An outdoor pep rally and dance was held following Mass. The Cheerleading Team performed a dance that celebrated each era during which the school has been open. At lunch, cupcakes were served. Large 65- year yard signs were erected as a photo opportunity.

“There are a number of Catholic schools that are struggling to maintain attendance,” Mrs. Koch says. “So we want to celebrate that we have been here with quality, Catholic education for all these years.”

Some students have parents and grandparents who attended Immaculate Conception Catholic School. Some of the teachers are alumni of the school, as well.

“It was such a special day, being able to celebrate the school and have the Bishop join us,” Mrs. Koch says.

Immaculate Conception Catholic School opened in 1956 with 136 students. Today, there are 338 students at the school.

At the end of the day, students received a commemorative button. In addition, a leaf to commemorate the day was added to the donor Giving Tree.

National Catholic Schools Week is celebrated each year in late January. The week of fun is a way to celebrate Catholic education and all who play a part.

The week kicked off on Sunday, Jan. 30. At the 10:30 a.m. Mass, students filled the various ministry roles.

“We had a change in activities last year due to the pandemic,” Mrs. Koch says. “It’s fun to get back to more normal activities.”

Non-perishable foods are being collected for local families in need. The week also includes fun dress-up days, an eighth-grade versus faculty volleyball game, and the annual Talent Show.

“It’s been fun to continue the celebrations of our 65th year,” Mrs. Koch says. “I really enjoy watching the kids get excited and participate in dress-up days and activities during Catholic Schools Week.”

For Mrs. Koch, Immaculate Conception Catholic School is an extraordinary place. Her favorite thing at the school is the Buddy Program, through which students in older grades match up with students in younger grades to share in activities and spend time together. She looks forward to many more years working in Catholic education.

“My whole family is here,” she says. “Everyone in my world is in the same building.”

Please visit www.icsnlr.org to learn more about Immaculate Conception Catholic School.

Students and staff gather around a special yard sign in celebration of 65 years.

Cheerleaders gather with our priests and Bishop Anthony Basil Taylor.