RSM celebrated Catholic Schools Week in style

Thursday, February 8, 2018

By RSM Journalism Catholic Schools Week, which took place from January 28 through February 2, began with an all-school prayer service. The transitional kindergarten to second grade provided special music for the prayer service. Middle school teacher, Kim Phillips spoke about all of the things that made her love teaching at Remsen St. Mary’s. Siblings in both high school and younger grades also carried up symbols of the St. Mary’s School System. After the prayer service, everyone enjoyed a hearty breakfast of pancakes to start off the week. On Tuesday, the school gathered to pray a living rosary with different members of the school community each taking a place along the rosary. On Wednesday, the high school enjoyed their student appreciation day. The group began the day by going to “The Greatest Showman” at the Promenade in Sioux City. Everyone enjoyed the musical and the message it sent about accepting others. Then they went to the mall for lunch before taking in some roller-skating at the Rollerama. On Wednesday night, the school community gathered together for an evening of fun and games. It featured several performances by different grades, dodgeball, and a quiz bowl competition. Thursday was Throwback Day at the school, where everyone broke out their vintage St. Mary’s apparel to show school spirit. On Friday, everyone attended the All-School Mass and then picnicked in the gym with their families. Esther Bunkers was named the Volunteer of the Year for her many years of service and dedication to RSM. Elementary teacher, Betty Benson was also honored for her 40 years of teaching at RSM as she plans to retire at the end of the year. It was a great week to celebrate RSM and everything that makes Catholic schools great.

The entire school gathers together in the shape of a cross to celebrate Catholic Schools Week on Monday morning. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))
Grandparent and school supporter, Tom Augustine, leads a Hail Mary during the living rosary. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))
Grades preschool through eight with faculty and staff participated in the Alzheimer Walk on Wednesday of Catholic Schools week. The group raised $1,294.36 for the Alzheimer's Association. ((Photo contributed))
Pictured from left, Liam Kelly, Abraham Gerrietts, Quinton Mohning, and Mason Matgen do the chicken dance with their classmates. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))

Catholic Schools Week began at RSM with an all school prayer service at the Sue Treinen Memorial Gym. Early elementary music teacher Nicole Bohnenkamp's students closed the prayer service with "Our God is an Awesome God"Вќ. ((Photo contributed))
Father Bill awards Esther Bunkers the Volunteer of the year award. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))
Former students (and now current parents of students) of Betty Benson surprise her with a massive group photo. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))
Fun Night was on Wednesday evening. Along with the physical activities of dodge ball and dancing, everyone enjoyed a Quiz Bowl pitting the teachers against high school students. Master of Ceremonies was RSM Quiz Bowl moderator, Mr. Paul Mugge ((Photo contributed))
The RSM high school enjoyed roller skating as part of the their student appreciation day. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))
Catholic Schools Week closed with Mass and an indoor family picnic. The program consisted of an announcement of the May 8, date for TFJO this year, a teacher recognition, and the volunteer of the year award. ((Photo contributed))
Isabella Arens reads a speech on why she likes going to Remsen St. Mary's. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))
Members of the school community take part in a living rosary. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))
Noah Schroeder throws a dodgeball at the freshman. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))
Pictured from left, Stephen Brazil, Will Galles, Brett Galles, and Zach Ruden showcased their Quiz Bowl skills by defeating a group of teachers at Family Fun Night. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))
Sisters, Brittany and Becca Johnson hold hands as they roller skate for student appreciation day. ((Photo by RSM Journalism))