Leadership and connections: That’s what the middle school House system at St. John Paul II Catholic School is all about.
The program, which began in the 2021-22 school year, is expanding in 2024-25 thanks to sponsorship by Siwek Lumber & Millwork Corp. The House system encourages community through collaboration, competition and service.
The four original Houses have expanded to six: St. Anthony, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, St. Maron, Our Lady of Lourdes, St. Constantine and Sts. Cyril and Methodius. Each House has begun building its unique identities with qualities, colors, shields, patron saints and partner churches. Scholars learn about JPII’s regional supporting parishes, especially their history and culture. And they learn the geography of the neighborhood.
“Especially significant was when the Archbishop of Syria visited Holy Cross and Chorbishop sharbel Maroun [pastor of St. Maron parish] celebrated Mass,” teacher Jessi Weakley said. “A portion of the middle schoolers were already familiar with St. Maron and their traditions, which helped them get more out of the experience.”
Other key elements of the House system include:
• Participating in House service projects and leading service initiatives with elementary partners.
• Praying and completing spiritual works of mercy.
• Developing leadership skills.
• Learning to provide voice/feedback and then managing
projects/changes.
• Mentoring lower school scholars in a buddy program.
• Discerning vocations and careers.
• Developing peer mentorship skills.
Service projects have included managing a sock drive, picking up trash around the Holy Cross Parish and JPII campus and writing positive thoughts and affirmations on sticky notes and posting them around the school.
“Moving forward, we are excited to partner with the parishes on their existing fundraisers and service projects,” Weakley said.
Siwek’s sponsorship will allow the Houses to plan off-campus learning opportunities, such as a daylong retreat in the fall and a three-day overnight experience in the spring. It will also help them be more visible in the school and community with House T-shirts and banners.
Several partnerships enhance the House experience. These include Inspire MSP, which brings scholars to visit workplaces where they learn about various careers. Last year, JPII scholars went to the State Theater and Target Field and learned about behind-the-scenes roles at these venues. More field trips are in the works for this year.
The Catholic Schools Center of Excellence (CSCOE) program called Super Charged Middle School is helping build the leadership portion of the House program.
Modern Catholic Pilgrim will be key to future plans to complete annual walking pilgrimages with each House.