NEWTOWN—St. Rose School showed tremendous spirit and marched in the annual Newtown Labor Day Parade. Leading up to this event a few industrious school families constructed a float that replicated the original school building and filled it with antique desks, a chalkboard and all things of yesteryear. St. Rose is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year and fittingly, St. Rose School first opened its doors on September 3, 1958, the same day as this year’s parade. What better day than Labor Day to celebrate a school that was founded and built on the hard work and dedication of so many. St. Rose School has a rich history and bright future.
School spirit and good cheer were in the air as SRS cheerleaders performed routines marching down Main Street ahead of the float. The lovable and brave (considering the heat) mascot Ramsey was on board along with HSA reps, Sister Thaddeus, students, Monsignor Bob and Mr. Gjoka, St. Rose School’s principal, all waving to the crowds and tossing out candy and St. Rose School monogrammed beach balls. Mrs. B, a beloved teacher of 21 years, walked alongside the float and captured wonderful photos. Mrs. Rahtelli, a Kindergarten teacher, marched with a sign and was met with hugs from current and former students along the route.
All of the hard work and great spirit was rewarded when St. Rose School won the Best School float category!
St. Rose of Lima School is accredited by the NEASC. They are very proud of the following achievements, which are a reflection of our commitment to academic excellence:
• 2009 Blue Ribbon School of Excellence—U.S. Department of Education
• Ranked among the top 15% of all private schools nationally
• Nationally recognized recipient of Gold Level Award in the Math Counts competitive program
• More than $500,000 in academic scholarships granted to our graduating 8th grade class each year
Dr. Steven Cheeseman, Superintendent of diocesan schools, said that in the coming days almost 9,000 students will be returning to 20 elementary schools, five high schools, and one special needs school sponsored by the diocese.
“Catholic schools in the Diocese of Bridgeport have a long tradition of success evidenced in part by the fact that 50% of our schools have received the National Blue Ribbon of Excellence and that, year after year, standardized test results show our elementary students exceeding national averages in math and reading,” he said.
St. Rose of Lima School is located at 40 Church Hill Rd, Newtown, CT 06470 Main Phone: 203.426.5102 Pre-School Phone: 203.426.3405. Visit the website: www.dioceseofbridgeportcatholicschools.com.
