Photo submitted to Times Observer During Celebrate Nation day of Catholic Schools Week, St. Joseph Catholic School students and Principal Nancy Warner honor police officers (from left): Conewango Township Police Chief Jason Peters, Conewango Township Police Officer Charlie Andersen, Youngsville Borough Police Chief Todd Mineweaser, and Youngsville Borough Police Officer Ben Leach.

St. Joseph Catholic School is celebrating Catholic Schools Week — Learn, Serve, Lead, Succeed.

“This week we recognize the important role that Catholic elementary and secondary schools across the country play in providing an educational and spiritual foundation for the success of their students,” City of Warren Mayor Maurice Cashman read in the proclamation. “This is a time to honor those who strive to provide a strong future for our children and to recognize the service that Catholic Schools perform for young people, the Church, and the community.”

On Wednesday, the theme was ‘Celebrate Nation.’

Students were encouraged to wear red, white, and blue and patriotic themes. Mass featured the singing of God Bless America.

First responders, veterans, and active duty servicemen and -women were invited to participate in the events at the school.

Photo submitted to Times Observer Ashlynn Zimmerman (left) and Taylor Alexander are among the St. Joseph Catholic School students lining the halls to honor first responders and servicemen and -women Wednesday during Celebrate Nation day of Catholic Schools Week.

Students made posters thanking those personnel for their service. They also made cards to be sent to servicemen and -women.

Thursday will see the celebration of the students themselves and will feature the school’s talent show.

On Friday, students will celebrate family — wearing something that reflects their favorite teams or activities. The school will also contribute to the food pantry in honor of another tradition — Souper Bowl.

During the early part of the week, the school choir led off Sunday Mass, which was followed by an open house featuring student art works.

Students were encouraged to wear pajamas to school on Monday. They made cards and letters to be delivered to community organizations and sixth graders participated in Fun Day in Erie.

Tuesday was a celebration of vocations — the states of lives Catholics live: married, single, ordained, or religious.

Cashman cited John Adams. “There are two educations. One should teach us how to make a living and the other how to live.”