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On Wednesday, August 26, Carroll
Catholic School held its annual back to school night and backpack
blessing for all students from preschool through eighth grade.
CCS Principal David Welch said the backpack blessing is a tradition
for the school which has 75 students enrolled this year. Since the
school is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year, they plan to
have some special events in November.
When the students and parents had made
their way into the school gym, there was a short assembly followed
by the blessing of the backpacks. Welch began by thanking everyone
for being here tonight and entrusting your child to us then said he
was glad to have the student back. This year, there are ten new
students.
Next Welch introduced the CCS staff. The staff include Jennifer
Craig, secretary and assistant administrator; Erika Frakes, cook;
and Howie Fuiten, janitor. Teaching staff include Amber Davis,
preschool; Amy Janssen, pre-kindergarten; Dana Alaniz,
Kindergarten/first grade; Dena Boyd, second through fourth grade;
Michelle Fuiten, fifth/sixth grade homeroom plus middle school math
and science; and David Welch, middle school social studies. The new
staff member is Allison Maaks, kindergarten/first grade classroom
aide.
In the church office is Father Joe, Father Nicodemus, Alicia Baker
and Sister Margaret.
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Before Welch began the backpack
blessing, he had the students come down from the bleachers with
their backpacks. He told them, “[it] really is a blessing for you
wanting you to know and be reminded when you carry your backpack
that everyone at CCS cares about you and is here for when you need
us.” Welch said he hoped they will always carry on what they learn
here.
For the backpack blessing, Welch said.
“Father, bless these backpacks and the children who carry them as
they begin a new year of school. As our students carry them, may
they be reminded of the love and care that surrounds them each
school day. Open their minds to the lessons they will learn both
inside and outside the classroom, and may they discover and develop
the gifts you have given to them.”
Welch continued the blessing by saying, “give these students peace
when they feel nervous, focus when they are distracted and energy
when they feel tired. May their classmates build them up and may
they in turn be friends to those who need them. Guide them in making
good choices as they grow throughout this year. Be ever present with
them in the classroom, on the playground, and at home and may they
feel your loving care in all they do. Amen.”
After the blessing was finished, everyone was dismissed to go visit
the classrooms and visit with the teachers. Students seemed to enjoy
showing their families the classrooms.
Carroll Catholic back to school night photo slideshow
[Angela Reiners]
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