Saint Joseph School recently observed a meaningful Veteran's Week, combining prayer, service, and community involvement to honor those who have served our country.

In the days leading up to Veterans Day, students participated in a school-wide good deeds initiative to benefit the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). By completing extra chores at home, helping neighbors, and performing acts of kindness, students were encouraged to "earn" donations in support of veterans. The project culminated in a $2 Patriotic Dress Down Day, where students and staff traded uniforms for red, white, and blue attire—and plenty of New England Patriots jerseys following the team's big win over the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Together, these efforts raised $546, which Saint Joseph School donated to the DAV. In gratitude, the DAV provided the school with 48 American flags. On Wednesday, November 12, the school community celebrated the success of the fundraiser with a group photo in the gymnasium showcasing their patriotic outfits and school spirit.

The following Friday, November 14, the focus turned from fundraising to visible tribute. Parents who are veterans or spouses of active-duty military, their children, and members of the Saint Joseph School National Junior Honor Society gathered in front of the Nowak Gymnasium to assemble the school's Field of Flags. Each flag placed in the ground served as a visible reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and selfless service of the men and women who have worn our nation's uniform.

As an additional sign of appreciation, military personnel in attendance were given red, white, and blue ribbons from the school. These small tokens symbolized Saint Joseph School's ongoing gratitude for the sacrifices made not only by service members themselves, but also by the families who support them.

The purpose of the Field of Flags is twofold: to honor veterans in a public and prayerful way, and to educate students about the importance of remembering and supporting those who have served. Throughout the week, teachers and staff encouraged students to reflect on the freedoms they enjoy and the responsibilities that come with them.

This Veteran's Week initiative is closely tied to Saint Joseph School's mission statement, which emphasizes Religion, Respect, and Responsibility.

  • Religion: Students prayed for veterans and their families, asking God to watch over them and to bring healing to those who carry visible and invisible wounds of service.

  • Respect: By learning about the experiences of veterans, students were taught to honor the dignity of each person and the sacrifices made on their behalf.

  • Responsibility: Participating in the fundraiser, contributing good deeds at home, and helping to build the Field of Flags reminded students that they have an active role to play as citizens and people of faith—called to serve others, give back, and support those in need.

Through these Veteran's Week activities, Saint Joseph School not only raised funds for the Disabled American Veterans but also formed hearts and minds. The Field of Flags now standing in front of the Nowak Gymnasium serves as a powerful, daily reminder to students, families, and visitors that freedom is never free—and that gratitude must be shown not only in words, but in action.