31-03-2025
Martinsburg mayor proclaims Catholic Schools Week at local school
MARTINSBURG, — Martinsburg Mayor Kevin Knowles officially declared Catholic Schools Week during a March 7 assembly at Saint Joseph School, according to a community announcement.
While the national celebration took place Jan. 26 to Feb. 1, Knowles emphasized that the lessons taught in Catholic schools extend beyond a single week.
A product of Catholic education himself, Knowles shared a personal story about standing up for a friend who was wrongly accused, highlighting the importance of honesty and bravery.
'That day, I learned that being honest and brave can make a big difference in someone's life,' Knowles said.
He told the crowd that Catholic Schools Week is a time for students and staff to come together as a family to discuss how their school helps everyone grow into kind, honest and brave individuals.
Knowles said that Catholic schools teach students how to live out their faith, make good choices, help others and develop traits such as respect, responsibility and thoughtfulness. Their teachers are superheroes who guide with patience and care, he added, using stories from the Bible and their own lives to educate children about truthfulness, courage and standing up for what is right, even when it's hard.
'Always remember that each one of you has a bright light inside, ready to shine out and make the world a kinder, better place,' Knowles said.
The proclamation was shared in front of staff, students in kindergarten through grade eight, and their families in the school's packed gymnasium.
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This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: The mayor of Martinsburg officially declared Catholic Schools Week
