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Dedicated Teachers Recognized and Nominated

GRACE is blessed by many amazing and talented teachers. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to education have truly made a difference in our community! Several of them have been recognized for this recently. The list will be narrowed to a list of Teachers of Distinction and from those, recipients will then be selected for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards.

Thank you to our students and families who recognized these individuals as high-quality educators in areas of professionalism, leadership, and innovation.


The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-10.

Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.

Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.

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St. Thomas More Catholic School Principal Spotlight

We are so blessed by dedicated and talented leaders such as Dr. Jamie Tyrrell! Join us in thanking her for her commitment to Catholic Education!

Let’s learn a little bit about Principal Tyrrell:

Q: Dr. Tyrrell, why do you choose to work for GRACE/St. Thomas More School?

A: For a time, I thought I wanted to be a professor of education, but I quickly realized that I missed young children too much. I missed the energy and being in the classroom, surrounded by students. God blessed me with this incredible opportunity within a private catholic school. Not only do I get to be around children but I get to live out my Catholic faith every day. This is truly my vocation and calling. I also am thankful to be learning from and about a population that’s different from me with a language that is different than my own.

Q: What are some fun facts about you?

A: I worked at a balloon store in high school and can make pretty awesome balloon arches and arrangements – I decorated for all my proms!

Learn more about the school by visiting their website.


The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-10.

Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.

Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.

All of the GRACE school logos.
Father Jose

Father Jose of Ss. Peter and Paul Parish and St. Thomas More Catholic School

It has been just four years since Ss. Peter & Paul Parish and St. Thomas More Catholic School have been blessed with Fr. Jose Lopez as pastor and mentor. Within his daily life, he celebrates Masses, trains Mass servers, is available for reconciliation and adoration, and is there to talk whenever and wherever he is needed, both within the church and the school.

“What led me to the priesthood was pursuing a vocation and asking what was my mission, my purpose,” he shares. Finding the love of God has fortunately brought Fr. Jose to where he is in life now. Fr. Jose was born in Jalisco, Mexico. When he was just about 12 years old, his family moved to Green Bay. Being a native Spanish speaker, Fr. Jose uses both languages to reach his parishioners, students and their families. He explains, “It’s usually super fun with the kids. They are bilingual, but those who have recently immigrated to the States are in the early stages of learning. According to how they talk to me, I talk to them.”

This means that sometimes communication comes out in the form of “Spanglish.”

One significant connection that Fr. Jose has made with the students of St. Thomas More Catholic School is through playing sports and other activities, especially soccer. Three years ago, an unofficial St. Thomas More Soccer Club was formed, and the group has played for fun against the St. John Paul II Classical School School, with Fr. Jose as St. Thomas More’s coach. Outside his busy days at the parish, Fr. Jose likes to read, learn, have meaningful discussions with friends, and “just hang out with people.”

With a solid commitment to his church and school communities, it is hopeful that Fr. Jose’s mission and purpose will continue to benefit everyone who knows him for many years to come.


The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-10.

Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.

Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.

All of the GRACE school logos.
student spotlight Jane

St. John Paul II Classical School Student Spotlight

Today we are spotlighting a stand-out GRACE student!

Jane is in 5th grade at St. John Paul II Classical School. She is a wonderful example of what it looks like to have the Holy Spirit guiding you in all that you do. She is a positive leader and isn’t ever afraid to step up during any challenge to guide her group to the answer. Her perseverance is motivational to those around her and shines greatly in all of her school work as well as in her life of prayer when we as a class pray Lectio Divina. Jane never fails to bring a smile to those around her!

Learn more about the school by visiting their website.


The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-10.

Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.

Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.

All of the GRACE school logos.
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Father Allouez Middle Days Electives Program

Besides being the traditional “middle day” of the week, Wednesdays are fun days for Father Allouez Catholic School’s middle grade students. In a unique elective program occurring each Wednesday for the past three years at Father Allouez, students in grades five through eight set aside their daily schedule of core content classes and participate in elective classes. These courses are designed to boost students’ growth, academic success and future planning. The elective classes enable the middle schoolers the opportunity to explore their interests, develop a wide range of skills and build confidence. These Wednesday experiences may have a lasting impact on their educational journey and overall development.

Needless to say, many students claim that this is their favorite day of the week. Quinn, a current middle school student shares, “I really like having an elective day because it gives us a break from the regular school schedule while we still get to learn about more topics that we usually wouldn’t be able to learn about. One of my favorite electives is cooking class. I like that one the most because it’s so different from what I usually learn, but so fun at the same time.”

Students can choose four classes each trimester and the classes change from one trimester to the next. Some of the courses that have been offered are:

Middle school is a crucial time for students to explore their interests and discover their passions. Elective classes can help students discover their strengths and guide their career choices. The offerings are a diverse range of subjects from the arts, technology, religion, literature, theater, life skills, math and science. This allows students to choose subjects that align with their learning styles and interests, making learning more engaging and relevant.

One student, Aubrey, relates her excitement about the program, “I love elective day because you get to choose a class you are interested in. It is so much fun! I especially love musicals because I love to perform.”

Electives help develop a student’s social competencies because the class brings together students with similar interests and can help form friendships with those in other grade levels. Success in these classes can also boost self-esteem and confidence.

Father Allouez Catholic School will indeed continue to offer elective classes for the middle school students. These classes provide a well-rounded education that includes not only core academic subjects but also opportunities for personal growth and development that nurtures students’ physical, emotional, social and cognitive developments.


The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-10.

Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.

Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.

All of the GRACE school logos.
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Free Parent Event Featuring International Speaker

Please join us for an engaging and informative presentation on “Raising Resilient and Self-Reliant Children” with International Formation and Education Consultant, Sister Pat McCormack, IHM, EDD.

A self-reliant, resilient character is the by-product of daily life practices that nurture security, autonomy, initiative, and industry. When parents apply these practices with consistency, repetition, and continuity, positive identity formation takes root in the child. Over time resilience, self-reliance, and positive self-esteem evolve as byproducts.

This presentation will “unpack” these elements and communicate practical advice, gathered from parents of children in grades K-12 who were recognized for positive self-esteem and character.

This adult event is free of charge and will take place on Monday, January 15, at 6 p.m. at the St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in the Cathedral Center. The Center is located in the main Church building. Parking in the lot will be available. When you enter, please proceed up the stairs or elevator and the center is straight across. Wine and cheese will be served. All are welcome!


The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-10.

Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.

Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.

All of the GRACE school logos.
Jessica DeGroot spotlight

Holy Cross Catholic School Teacher Spotlight

Today we are highlighting a stand-out teacher within the GRACE School System.

Mrs. DeGroot is a preschool teacher at Holy Cross Catholic School. She is passionate, creative, and committed to engaging the youngest learners. She is dedicated to bringing innovative teaching methods to both indoor and outdoor classrooms. Mrs. DeGroot is always looking for ways to provide the best educational experience for her students and has launched our new Abundant Blessings Outdoor Preschool Program!

Learn more about the school by visiting their website.


The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-10.

Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.

Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.

All of the GRACE school logos.
preschoolers catechesis

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Preschool students from Notre Dame of De Pere Catholic School and St. John Paul II Classical School are well on their way to learning about the Mass and God’s love in a successful program called the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. The program started three years ago at NDDP and has grown to include all four sections of the preschool population. The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a program for the faith and spiritual formation of the child. Its focus is to deepen the child’s existing relationship with God. It encourages a personal prayer life, full participation in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church, and the development of a deeper understanding of Catholic identity and tradition. This is accomplished through the use of materials, prayer, song, listening to the Word of God and giving each child time to work with provided materials. There is a short group lesson and then time is given for individual prayers and play.

This CGS initiative at Notre Dame of De Pere is led by Mrs. Jane Charneski, Discipleship Coordinator and trained catechist teacher and assisted by Mrs. Jennifer Kopp, trained catechist teacher for Level I for NDDP three- and four-year-old students. One or two days each week, these students meet in the Atrium classroom, which is set up with child-sized religious education materials. The CGS program is a tie-in with the school’s community and curriculum. The liturgical calendar is observed with colors and songs, and Bible verses are read and reviewed from the weekly scripture from Mass each week.

Mrs. Charneski shares, “All four sections are thriving with little learners on their ourney of falling in love with Jesus.” The student and family response to this program has been overwhelmingly positive. Families are invited to observe or help out and to sit in on class periods to see the students in action. Many compliments and kind words have been shared throughout the years, and parents have truly loved the large candle ceremony at year’s end. Both schools are looking forward to training more instructors and assistants in the future as more sections are added.


The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-10.

Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.

Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.

All of the GRACE school logos.
student spotlight Allie

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School Student Spotlight

Today we are spotlighting a stand-out GRACE student!

Allie is becoming a strong leader at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School. She is a student who can be counted on to help others whenever needed. Allie is involved in the Student Council, plays clarinet, is a server, and sings in the choir for school mass. She also plays volleyball and hockey. Allie has a positive personality and brings great energy wherever she is.

Learn more about the school by visiting their website.


The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-10.

Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.

Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.

All of the GRACE school logos.
Blog thumbnail parent homecoming

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School’s Parent Homecoming

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School kicked off the 2023-24 school year with a fantastic new event for all OLOL parents and staff – Parent Homecoming! On September 8, the school gym was decorated as a replica of a high school homecoming dance, complete with a photo area, music, lights, drinks and snacks. The topper of the evening was a Homecoming Court, complete with the crowning of a King and Queen. This was the first year of the Parent Homecoming, and it was a resounding success with approximately 80 in attendance.

This event was created to help build a strong parent community at the start of the school year by bringing parents together without the need to fundraise. It allowed returning parents to reconnect after a busy summer, as well as afforded new parents the opportunity to meet others and to become fully immersed in OLOL’s amazing culture. The event has been dubbed a “friendraiser,” as its goal is to welcome all parents back into the strong, committed and fun culture of the school and to build relationships that can last a lifetime.

Given the positive reaction to the 2023 Parent Homecoming, it has been decided that this will be an annual OLOL event for all parents to enjoy. The date is still to be decided for 2024, but it will most likely take place at the beginning of September. Check your calendars next summer and be sure to line up your “date” for the dance!


The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-10.

Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.

Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.

All of the GRACE school logos.