Nikki Ward
Superintendent, Utah Catholic Schools 
This year’s National Catholic Schools Week theme – “United in Faith and Community” – was visible across Utah Catholic Schools during the celebration these past few days. Starting on Monday, the first day of the celebratory week, I had the opportunity to visit the majority of our schools and witness firsthand how the mission of faith formation, academic excellence and the individual growth of students is carried out each day.From serving as the pronouncer for a school spelling bee – a reminder of the rigor, confidence and encouragement that shape our learning environments – to attending a joy-filled fourth-grade Utah history presentation that included a performance of the beloved “county song” – I was continually reminded that our schools are places where faith is lived, learning is celebrated and students are known and supported.
Students also lived their faith through service this week. At Juan Diego Catholic High School, Senior Service Week gave students the opportunity to use their time and talents to serve the broader community – an authentic expression of faith in action.
I was deeply moved by the generosity shown, as several schools hosted fundraisers in support of the Raise $15,000 campaign to benefit Holy Cross Ministries, honoring the enduring legacy of the Sisters of the Holy Cross and 150 years of Catholic education.
Catholic Schools Week, which was Jan. 25-31 this year, made visible what is true each day in our schools: Catholic education in Utah is vibrant, mission-driven and rooted in community. I am grateful to our pastors, administrators, teachers, staff, families, and especially the
students for their joyful witness. It is a privilege to walk alongside them as we strive to form hearts and minds in faith, knowledge and service.