By Martin Murray ‘20

Every year, Catholic schools throughout the country celebrate Catholic education during the last week of January.

This year, Brother Rice participated yet again.

Students and staff alike had a great time celebrating what makes Catholic schools unique compared to other educational institutions around the country, raising money for worthy causes, and participating in lunchtime activities.

Students virtually had a full week out of uniform, which many enjoyed.

However, despite being out of uniform, the dress down days served another purpose.

Through the dress down days, Brother Rice raised money for the missions as well as the Edmund Rice Camp, showing our constant commitment to helping others in need.

Senior Nate Cook said, “I like dress down days because I get to wear more comfortable clothing to school, and I also contribute to some great organizations.”

New this year was the minute-to-win-it games at lunch. The games were fairly simple yet challenging enough where students wanted to compete. Each day was a different activity, and each day, students tried their hand at a new challenge.

Senior Packy Voves said, “I thought the games were decent. It was something new to do and gave us a new way to compete with fellow classmates.”

On Thursday, Jan. 30, the school came together to celebrate Mass.

At Mass, Fr. Mark encouraged students and teachers to reintroduce themselves and learn more about others before judging them.

The school also took a moment at Mass to recognize and thank our teachers for all they do. In particular, two men specially recognized for their work in Catholic education were Br. Hayes and Br. Collins.

Br. Hayes, a physics teacher, and Br.  Collins, a former principal of the school and avid photographer, have spent numerous years of their lives dedicated to educating young men, and it has not gone unnoticed.

Senior Liam Sheehan said, “I’m very grateful for all the brothers do for us at school. I always see them at school events serving others. I have Bro Hayes for physics this year, and he makes his class easy to understand and fun.”

Additionally, students took pictures with their clubs on Thursday, which reminded us why Brother Rice is such an exceptional place with some extraordinary people.

Senior Steve Walczak said, “Going down to the gym for all the club pictures reminded me of all the good times I’ve had at Rice. I’ve been involved with many clubs, and I’ve met some of my best friends through clubs at Rice.”

Catholic Schools Week was another success at Brother Rice and around the country. Hopefully, Catholic education will keep going strong for many years to come.