The following article was contributed by Jennifer David, Principal at Saint Patrick Catholic School in Meridian, MS.
St. Patrick School has been a strong presence in Meridian, Mississippi for over 140 years with a current enrollment of 162 students. This rich tradition, dating back to 1873, provides children in Pre-K3 through 8th grade with an education based on high academic standards and expectations. You will hear former students proudly proclaim, “I got my start at St. Patrick School!” These alumni of all generations excelled academically, spiritually, and socially and went on to become successful adults. Most will testify this success was largely due to their fruitful foundation at St. Patrick School. Andrew Yarger, a young alumnus, remarked, “While attending St. Patrick School I developed a solid foundation spiritually, personally, and academically that I am blessed with to this day. In the small environment of a Catholic School I developed friendships that have lasted into adulthood.” The diocesan theme this year is “We are FAMILY: Faith, Academics, Mission, Integrity, Love, and You.” This speaks to the rich environment where all students feel loved and nurtured. It is a true family atmosphere where every member is an important part of the whole.
St. Patrick School has a diverse student population where differences are celebrated. Mrs. David, principal of the school added, “We teach our children to talk and listen to one another and work out their problems peacefully. Respect, forgiveness, and compassion are big words that we explain and put into practice through daily interactions. Our differences should not divide but unite us because God made each of us special and unique just the way we are!” Our staff enjoys working at a school where they feel like their work is valued by students and parents. A special part of their day is teaching religion. Melanie Pressly, 1st grade teacher at St. Patrick for 13 years, says, “I enjoy every aspect of teaching, but my favorite part of the day is Religion. They are eager to learn and I am blessed to be able to share my love for the Church with them.”
Another important part of our curriculum is service learning through the following projects: Thanksgiving Baskets for the needy, Toys for Tots, Hope Village for Children, Habitat for Humanity, among others. By participating in these projects, we teach our students to look for ways to serve others as part of our larger human FAMILY.
Because the hurried footsteps and voices from the back, we all react nervously and start to run away, with terrified ears to his head. So it is better for you to swerve on the other side of the street, make a circle and come face to face with the object. Or just speed up adult friend finder app, overtake the young lady, and then turn around in the distance and start walking slowly towards her. And remember: you have about five seconds.
