Month: May 2024

Bringing Water and Hope to Chikanza Community School

Inspired by the book A Long Walk to Water, students from Notre Dame of De Pere (NDDP) recently raised funds for a well (borehole) at Chikanza, a rural school in Zambia that serves orphans and other vulnerable children.

Currently, Chikanza students must walk more than a mile to collect water from shallow, muddy streams. During the dry season, water might not even exist. With the construction of a well, clean water will be ensured throughout the year. In addition, it will serve not only the school children but also the surrounding community. It will be life-changing!!

Addie Beauchamp, an NDDP 5th grader, was so moved by the book and remembered her grandparents, Judy, and Jerry Turba, had just returned from a mission trip to Zambia and mentioned a school they had visited in rural Africa where children had little access to clean water, just like in the book. Together they coordinated a presentation for 5th grade teacher Ms. Cindy Kabat, principal, Mrs. Mares, and 5th grade student council coordinator, Mr. Casey Siegler. All agreed that raising money for a well would certainly fit the mission of the school. The student council unanimously agreed to coordinate efforts and that’s when the work began.

With the cost of the well at $3,000 USD, raising funds was no simple task. Water bottles with Chikanza labels were made and sold as were baked goods and freezer pops. Addie’s mom, Jessie Turba Beauchamp, assisted Addie with the development of a webpage and QR code for online donations. The entire school also participated in “Penny Wars”, with classrooms competing to see who could raise the most money. 

Amazingly, more than $4,000 was raised!! The additional funds will be used to support a feeding program at Rosamystica, an urban Zambian school also serving extremely vulnerable children where a school lunch may be the only meal eaten all day. 

On Tuesday, May 28, 5th graders from Notre Dame will have the opportunity to “meet” Rosamystica students through a Zoom call. They can converse with the students they are supporting and learn about one another. 

Once the well is completed at Chikanza (construction will begin this May), images will be shared with the NDDP students and they will be able to see the results of their efforts.

Notre Dame of De Pere students are making a difference half a world away—offering hope (and water) where there is little. Indeed, they are the hands and feet of Christ.

Notre Dame of De Pere School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. NDDP provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually. The best way to learn more about NDDP is to visit! Click here to schedule a tour.

Dear Members of the GRACE Community:

Warm spring greetings during this beautiful time of Easter, growth and reflection. I am filled with gratitude for the blessings that continue to enrich our beloved GRACE community. 

One of the cornerstones of our mission is to ensure that our schools are beacons of faith and knowledge, open to all those who seek the light of Catholic education. With the support of our 23 GRACE-affiliated parishes, we are steadfast in our commitment to welcoming every child into our classrooms regardless of background or circumstance. Together, we embrace our community knowing that it is through unity that we truly thrive to reach the kingdom- our ultimate yearning. 

The impact of a GRACE education extends far beyond the walls of our schools. By providing more students with access to quality education, we not only foster academic excellence but pave the way for brighter futures and boundless opportunities. Our commitment to nurturing a thriving community around us is rooted in the belief that Catholic education is the cornerstone of our students’ futures. 

I am delighted to report that our enrollment remains strong, a testament to the unwavering dedication of our staff and families and the enduring appeal of Catholic education in greater Green Bay. With robust and thriving schools, our students are provided not only with excellent academic opportunities but also with vibrant social experiences that help shape them into well-rounded individuals. Each child brings a unique perspective to our community enriching our classrooms with a tapestry of personalities and ideas. 

A steady enrollment also serves as the bedrock of our fiscal practices, ensuring the stability and sustainability of our schools for generations to come. Through the support of our growing community, we are empowered to uphold the traditions and teachings of our Catholic faith in partnership with our parents and parishes, nurturing the hearts and minds of our students. 

As we celebrate our successes, let us also cherish the bonds of friendship and unity that are forged within our GRACE family. Together, parents and educators alike form a supportive network that cultivates our beautiful community and creates a sense of belonging and lasting friendships for our students that endures long after graduation. 

I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every member of our GRACE community for your unwavering support and dedication to our mission. Together, let us continue to uphold the values of faith, excellence, and community that define us, inspiring future generations to shine brightly in the light of God’s love. 

With prayers, peace and warmest regards as we enter into these final days of the academic year!

Kimberly A. Desotell

President, GRACE 

This is an excerpt from the Spring 2024 GRACE Newsletter. Check out the whole newsletter by clicking the button below!

Notre Dame of De Pere School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. NDDP provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually. The best way to learn more about NDDP is to visit! Click here to schedule a tour.

The latest GRACE Spring 2024 newsletter is now available to read! This issue highlights the Father Allouez Catholic School Faith Fair, puts a spotlight on newcomer Father Adam Bradley, a thoughtful reflection from Deacon Dan, an update on GRACE athletics from new Director of Athletics and Activities, Matt Riebe, and even more!

Check it out by clicking the button below.

Notre Dame of De Pere School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. NDDP provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually. The best way to learn more about NDDP is to visit! Click here to schedule a tour.

We hope to see you there!

Notre Dame of De Pere School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. NDDP provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually. The best way to learn more about NDDP is to visit! Click here to schedule a tour.

Here is what is happening to honor our staff throughout the week. 

Please consider asking your child(ren) to write a sincere note of appreciation, make a card, or draw a picture! These small gestures will mean the world to your teacher(s)!

Notre Dame of De Pere School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. NDDP provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually. The best way to learn more about NDDP is to visit! Click here to schedule a tour.