Our Lady of Lourdes VIP day a hit

Our Lady of Lourdes School

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Photo and story courtesy of Our Lady of Lourdes School

SALT LAKE CITY — Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School students had a chance to share their school day experiences with their loved ones when they invited their family members and special guests to VIP (Very Important Persons) Day.

Grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles and other special guests came to the school Sept. 11 to spend time in students’ classrooms and attend Mass. The event was a collaborative effort of teachers, administrators and students.

"It is really, truly a celebration of learning," Our Lady of Lourdes Principal Tina Bergquist said. "It makes family a part of their child’s education."

VIPs began their day with the students in the gym for opening prayer. After that, for a scheduled time, they went to the students’ classrooms. The teachers embraced the event by preparing curriculum-based learning activities that encouraged intergenerational interaction.

Melaine and Robert Mallory, grandparents of fourth-grader Marshall Owens, came from Ogden to attend VIP Day.

"We enjoy being there for our grandson. He loves his class and really fits in," Melaine Mallory said. This is Marshall’s second year at the school.

"I think it is special for the kids, and I think it is special for the VIPs to see what we do," fourth-grade teacher Amy Ferre added.

After time in the classroom, VIPs were invited to attend Mass with the students. The Mass was hosted by the eighth grade and commemorated Patriot’s Day. The introduction and petitions were written by the eighth-graders and the offertory included flowers, candles, a Bible and an American flag symbolizing unity, hope and peace. Father J.J. Schwall mentioned how nice it was to see the church so full.

Having the VIPs in the classroom as well as at Mass demonstrated the school’s commitment to academic excellence and providing a Catholic education that teaches the children in a strong community of faith.

It was apparent from the smiles, laughter and joy that filled the school and parish that VIPs and students enjoyed sharing the morning with one another.

"It was a great way to show off all that the students are proud of to the people that mean the most," Bergquist said.