SICKLERVILLE – Saint Rose of Lima Elementary School has been honored as a 2022-2024 Camden County Middle School of Character.
The Haddon Heights school was one of 11 recognized for its “creative and interactive” approach to character education. It was the only Catholic institution to receive the award, which is jointly sponsored by the Camden County Commissioners, Camden County College and Camden County Technical Schools.
“Today is a wonderful thing,” said Deacon Joseph Rafferty, school principal, who accepted the award Feb. 18. “Character education illuminates what our students are doing, as representatives of what Saint Rose of Lima School stands for [its pillars of prayer, study, service and community]. They understand their [good] works are faith in action.”
All 80 of Camden County’s private, charter and public middle schools were invited to submit applications describing their character education programs to a review panel. Saint Rose of Lima was recognized for its Student of the Month program. Each month, one K-8 student is honored for modeling an attribute such as affability, generosity, gratitude or prayerfulness. Teachers then instruct on and encourage that month’s attribute in their classrooms.
“This program has helped students recognize the importance of their daily actions and words,” the school stated in its award application, noting that “students work hard throughout the month to achieve this honor.”
Also in attendance to accept the award was Dr. Bill Watson, diocesan superintendent of Catholic Schools; Sally Knapp, who began the school’s Student of the Month program 10 years ago, and Jackie Valvardi, current Student of the Month program coordinator.
Dr. Watson said he was pleased to see the school recognized for its commitment to character and values, which manifest themselves “with commitment to and demonstration of Catholic values.”
Knapp said it was important for students to know of the award. “They need to hear they’re doing a good job.”
Valvardi agreed. “When students see [their classmates honored], it inspires them. When one does good, more want to do better. With the school’s four pillars, the Student of the Month’s virtues line up with what we try to do as a school and as Catholics.”
Deacon Rafferty praised the works of Knapp and Valvardi to “find the goodness” in students.
“It’s important to recognize the little things that make a difference,” he said. “I thank Sally and Jackie for their great love for students. They’re doing things that are necessary to allow students an opportunity to express their faith.”
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