St Rose of Lima School students have been busy throughout the month of February.

According to St Rose Director of Mission Advancement Laura Moulder, the month began with two St Rose teachers receiving grants.

On February 3, St Rose School kindergarten teacher Donna Rahtelli and first grade teacher Jeanne Vitetta received grants from Foundations in Education for the following classroom initiatives that they proposed: Kindergarten, Exploring Scientific Wonders in Kindergarten earned a $1,500 grant; and First Grade, Imagination Reading Station earned a $750 grant.

The programs will be implemented for the 2022-23 school year, and will “add a wonderful dimension for kindergarten and first grade students,” Moulder shared.

Then, on February 12, second grade students received their First Reconciliation, which precedes First Holy Communion in May. And just two days later, for Valentine’s Day on February 14, the school community honored St Rose of Lima School Security Officer Edgar Perez. A parent committee collected contributions and surprised Perez with hand-made signs, balloons, and other gifts of thanks for her service and protection to school students every day.

And finally, first grade students took part in a Parade of Presidents and First Ladies event through the school on February 16. Students dressed like former presidents and first ladies of the United States for the event.

“It was part of their social studies unit, which connects with ... Presidents’ Day,” Moulder explained in an e-mail. “Preschool, kindergarten, and grades two to eight lined the halls with flags and cheered as they paraded to the front lobby.”