St. Anthony of Padua School is a community of faith, knowledge, and service. As a school community, we embody traditions rooted in the teaching mission of the Church with a focus on faith formation, academic excellence, moral development, and a strong sense of service to others. Each of these foundational elements are integrated into every aspect of the learning environment as we provide a nurturing climate with a culture rich in Catholic tradition. At St. Anthony of Padua, we encourage a spirit of prayer to permeate the day. Beginning with our morning announcements, the entire school population participates in prayer, and students pray with their classrooms throughout the day.
An element that separates us from public schools is the inclusion of religion class as a core component in our daily subjects. The ability to intertwine Catholic morals and teachings into typical core subjects provides a connection and application to our faith and beliefs. In addition to the integration of Catholic teachings, students participate in daily religious classes aligned with standards set forth by the Diocese of Cleveland.
Mass and Prayer Services
A key component in the faith formation of students is frequent attendance and participation in Mass and prayer services. All students attend Mass bimonthly, with additional prayer services scattered between these dates. During Advent, students participate in weekly prayer services in preparation for Christmas.
Stations of the Cross
During Lent, students plan and attend Stations of the Cross. On Holy Thursday, students participate in a school retreat culminating with an impactful version of Living Stations presented by our eighth-grade students. Throughout the school year, we encourage families to attend any of these services to share in the growth and celebration of our faith.
Reconciliation
Students in second grade have the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the fall. Children in all grades are encouraged to receive this sacrament regularly. Students in grades 3 through 8 have two scheduled opportunities for Reconciliation throughout the year.
First Communion and Eucharist
Students in second grade prepare for the Sacrament of Communion. Students must attend their First Reconciliation and Jesus Day to celebrate their First Communion in the spring. Students in grades 3 through 8 celebrate the Eucharist during school liturgies.
Christian Formation in Sexuality
The Diocesan Curriculum is the official guideline for Catholic Schools. St. Anthony of Padua School integrates the curriculum into religion and health in grades K through 8 aiming to promote a Christian attitude of respect for life and human sexuality. Parents of students in grades 5 through 8 are given the opportunity to preview the materials used in the classroom program.
Servers
Students in grades 5 through 8 are permitted to become servers at liturgies. Please contact the rectory for more information regarding training and opportunities to serve for parish and school liturgies.
Mission and Charity Collections
Throughout the year, St. Anthony School holds various activities and collections to encourage justice and compassion for others. We believe it is critical for students to participate in missions and charity drives to help those in need throughout the school year. Over the past few years, we have made generous contributions to Ronald McDonald House, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Susan G. Komen Foundation, and St. Jude’s Research Hospital. Annually, students participate in a food drive for our parish food pantry and collect children's items for Providence House.
Homebound Letters
Student Homebound Letters is a partnership between the parish Homebound program and St. Anthony School. Over the course of the school year, classrooms work to build a relationship with homebound parishioners through monthly letters and crafts. Since many of these parishioners are confined to their homes, the opportunity for interaction with students through letters has served as a welcomed relief from daily struggles. Mount Alverna and Holy Family Home Mount Alverna and Holy Family Home are located directly across from the school, serving people needing assisted living and hospice. Aligning with our mission to serve others, St. Anthony of Padua School has fostered a positive relationship with these facilities, and our relationship continues to grow. Holidays can be a joyous and difficult time for families, so we strive to brighten the season for these residents through various activities, crafts, cards, and visits. Students will begin working on items a month in advance to be delivered to each resident. We have found this local connection to be a positive influence on fulfilling our mission to serve others without the need for monetary gifts or donations. We simply take the time to recognize those in need, which has been a powerful impact within our school community.
Service to Others Aligning with our mission to serve others, we require students in grades 6 through 8 to complete mandatory service hours for each grading quarter. Through these service requirements, our students have volunteered with various organizations ranging from assisting younger students in CYO athletics to working with local animal shelters. We believe that through these experiences our students demonstrate their calling to help those in need.