Blog thumbnail of SJPII gym

Announcing the SJPII/CA Gym Facility Project Webpage

St. John Paul II Classical School and Chesterton Academy of St. John Paul II Classical School, in partnership with St. Philip Parish and the GRACE Catholic School System, is excited to announce the gym facility addition plan to the school building! We have been examining the needs of the school and formulating a plan to upgrade facilities which includes adding a gymnasium to the current building.

Please click here to learn more on the official webpage. We also invite you to pray for the success of this campaign!


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 PK3-12.

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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GRACE President Kim Desotell

GRACE President Writes Article on Importance of Educational Choice

Strong communities are built on strong schools.

In her latest article, GRACE President Kimberly Desotell highlights the importance of educational choice and how it empowers families in our region. Rather than dividing schools, we should work together to ensure every child has access to the education that best fits their needs.

Read more here. 


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 PK3-12.

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 10 GRACE school logos
Volunteer spotlight

Outstanding Volunteer Spotlight: Father Allouez Catholic School

In the conclusion of our GRACE Outstanding Volunteer Spotlights for 2024-25, GRACE is delighted to recognize Heather Milbach. Heather was presented with this award at a Mass on February 20th.

For the past seven years, Heather has helped Father Allouez Catholic School in every imaginable way: in some big ways, and often just as important, in a thousand little ways. She volunteers as a Girl Scout leader and in the lunchroom, serving meals and cleaning up with a smile. Every year she works tirelessly on the Auction Fundraiser — these past two years as a Co-Chair! Heather is also Vice-Chair of the Site Advisory Council, where she leads the “Activities and Community Outreach” branch and her light shines through her presence at Resurrection Parish — on Pastoral Council, where she serves as a school liaison, and when she helps with Hospitality after Masses, with Generations of Disciples, and with Vacation Bible School.

Heather is always there when called upon: for Field Day, for Catholic Schools Week, to substitute teach, and for her many other community roles and contributions. Her dedication to her wider community is vast.

Heather, we are incredibly grateful for all the kindness, wisdom, and dedication you put into serving our school. One of our great blessings is having the light of people like Heather Milbach in our midst!

Learn more about FACS here.


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 PK3-12.

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 10 GRACE school logos
Food

Outstanding Food Service Manager Spotlight

GRACE is blessed to recognize Lori Stary as one of our wonderful food service managers! She works at St. John Paul II Classical School and Chesterton Academy. Thank you for your outstanding work, Lori!

Learn more about SJPII and CA here.


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 PK3-12.

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 10 GRACE school logos
Volunteer

Volunteer Spotlight: St. John the Baptist

GRACE is blessed to recognize Mary Vandenberg as another Outstanding Volunteer. Mary was presented with this award at a Mass on February 20th.

Mary, your commitment to carefully shelving the many books in the library at St. John the Baptist School each week has kept the library organized and has fostered a love for reading in our students. The care you demonstrate each week reflects your dedication to our school community. Your involvement is sincerely appreciated and makes a difference in our mission.

Your presence at the Site Advisory Council meetings each month also adds a unique and valuable perspective, enriching the discussions with your insights as an involved grandparent and parishioner. Thank you for the quiet dedication and positive influence you consistently bring to our students and staff. We are grateful to have you as a part of the St. John’s family.

Learn more about SJB here.


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 PK3-12.

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 10 GRACE school logos
Sam Headshot

Our New Director of Marketing and Communications

We are delighted to announce that Samantha Mirkes has joined GRACE as our new Director of Marketing and Communications!

Samantha brings a dynamic blend of marketing expertise, graphic design talent, and a deep passion for community engagement that will help elevate and strengthen our mission. With a background in brand storytelling, strategic marketing, and creative design, Samantha has dedicated her career to helping organizations connect with their audiences in meaningful ways.

Most recently, she served as the Marketing Manager at Downtown Green Bay, Inc., where she successfully promoted local businesses, major events, and initiatives through innovative marketing strategies, social media campaigns, and compelling visual content.

In addition, Samantha has extensive experience in freelance graphic design, branding, and digital marketing, working with businesses and non-profits to enhance their outreach and visibility. Samantha is eager to bring her talents to GRACE, working to share the incredible stories of our schools, students, and faculty while expanding our presence in the community. She is excited to collaborate with each of you to continue promoting and celebrating the mission of Catholic education.

Please join us in giving Samantha a warm welcome! We look forward to seeing the creativity, innovation, and passion she brings to our team.


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 PK3-12.

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.

Spotlight

Student Spotlight: Notre Dame of De Pere Catholic School

Today we’d like to highlight one of our outstanding students from Notre Dame of De Pere Catholic School, Callan!

Learn more about NDDP on 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.

Teacher spotlight

Teacher Spotlight at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School

Today we’d like to put a spotlight on one of our fantastic teachers at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School!

Mrs. Lambert’s classroom at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School is filled with mutual respect and cooperative learning. Her classroom environment encourages students to take responsibility for their learning and challenges them to get the most out of their lessons. Her classroom management style puts students in the right frame of mind so that learning opportunities are maximized.

Thank you, Mrs. Lambert!

Learn more about OLOL on 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.

Headmaster

Headmaster Spotlight: St. John Paul II Classical School and Chesterton Academy

Thank you, Mr. McKeown!

Classical education always seeks what is good, true, and beautiful, recognizing that God is truly at the center of everything. Mankind’s first sin was one of pride, putting himself before God. Indeed, this sin continues into modern times and only changes with external circumstances. St. John Paul II Classical School recognizes that as humans, we are part of the great story of which God is the ultimate author. Our curriculum therefore reflects this fact, and our staff joyfully helps to deliver this to our students. The teaching method employed is one that the Church has used and perfected through the ages, all geared toward bringing our students to sainthood.

At Chesterton Academy of St. John Paul II Classical School, we embrace our motto Cultura Vitae, the culture of life. In this way, we heed Christ’s call to have our fullest life in Him. This intentional joy for life and learning is imbued in our classical curriculum with a strong emphasis on the development of Christian virtues and an appreciation of beauty. We create environments where students experience the joy of community and the discovery process, providing them with an opportunity to live out their spiritual lives in an atmosphere of joy and fun. Our curriculum is centered on skills seemingly forgotten in our modern society – reading, writing, oral presentations, and the development of critical reasoning skills through logic and philosophy.

Learn more at www.sjpclassicalschoolgreenbay.org


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 10 GRACE school logos
Golden Apple Awards winner

GRACE Teacher Shawna Fischer Honored with Prestigious Golden Apple Award

On Tuesday, February 4, the Greater Green Bay community gathered to honor Mrs. Shawna Fischer, a dedicated fourth-grade teacher at Holy Family Catholic School, as she was surprised in her classroom with a Golden Apple Award.

Accompanied by Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) President Kim Desotell and Holy Family Principal Sarah Sharkey, representatives from the Greater Green Bay Chamber, WLUK-TV FOX 11, and the Green Bay Press Times joined in presenting this distinguished honor. The Golden Apple Award recognizes excellence in teaching and is a testament to Mrs. Fischer’s unwavering dedication to her students and her passion for Catholic education.

“Mrs. Fischer’s influence extends far beyond the classroom,” said Kim Desotell. “She not only fosters academic success but also nurtures the spiritual growth of her students, inspiring them to strive for holiness and a lifelong love of learning.”

Through her compassion, enthusiasm, and commitment, Mrs. Fischer has left an indelible mark on the lives of her students, colleagues, and the entire Holy Family Catholic School community. This well-deserved recognition celebrates the countless hours she has dedicated to shaping young minds and fostering curiosity, growth, and success.

Learn more about Holy Family Catholic School here.


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 10 GRACE school logos