Superintendent's Letter to the Freeport Community . 2.10.11

The theme for Catholic Schools Week, nationally celebrated in early February, was  “A+ for America: Catholic Schools.”

One result of the tragedy in Tucson was a national examination of the responsibilities we all have as people of this great country.  Catholic Schools and the choice they offer to families are benefits available in the United States.  In turn, the schools educate future adults of America and, indeed, of the world.   l

A+ is a symbol for high achievement and excellence.  Students at Aquin Catholic Schools, grades pre-K through 12, are expected to achieve to their potential and adopt excellence as a goal /standard.  The success of Aquin students is not predetermined by catering to a specific group.  Rather, because of the school’s excellent curriculum, its attention to developing the whole child, and the value it places on time-tested educational methods, all students graduating from Aquin are ready for life. They have the tools to succeed.  Recently, Mr. Jim Phillips, a history teacher at HCC, gave the following response to a question regarding the challenges facing college instructors, “I think that student preparedness is the biggest issue.  We devote a good deal of time working with students to get them to an adequate reading, writing, and critical thinking level.”  

Aquin students are able to meet that challenge of preparedness; 55% of the current senior class are attending college classes at HCC utilizing release time from the regular Aquin school day.  All of the graduating seniors are prepared for and go on to college.

The heart of Aquin Schools, elementary, junior high, and high school, is bringing the message of Jesus Christ to students as an integral part of their everyday education.  Families from fifteen different Christian denominations have chosen Aquin for their children, adhering to the scriptural mandate, “Therefore, take these words of mine into your heart and soul…. Teach them to your children ...”  Deut. 11:18,19

By living their faith, Aquin students serve others.  They are becoming good citizens and putting into practice the skills and attitudes they will need to lead our country effectively in the future. The most recent service event sponsored by Aquin students was the Crosstown Classic, a day of fun activities whose proceeds will benefit a local family that suffered injuries in a car accident.  I am grateful to the Freeport community for supporting this endeavor.  In addition to the entertainment provided by alumni of Freeport High School and Aquin (many definitely have retained their basketball skills!) approximately $4,000 was raised to help pay some of the family’s medical expenses.  From younger children singing at Provena, to junior high students making Birthday Boxes for clients at Salvation Army, to those in high school collecting and donating food items to F.A.C.C., Aquin students live a service ethic as a way of life. In turn, the community recognizes their dedication and commitment:

“Your students are great, along with their sponsors, to take the time and effort to purchase presents for all the Head Start children”. -NICAA Head Start Staff

“With great joy, we thank our God for you and your support for life.” -Freeport Pregnancy Center

“These young people certainly gave us a good impression and an example of the type of youth our community has who are ready to serve.” - Human Services Fund Board

To celebrate Catholic Schools Week, the students purchased school supplies for Hope Rural School in Florida, founded by Sr. Marie Celeste Gotti, former principal of Aquin, to serve the children of migrant workers.    

The city of Freeport is facing a number of economic problems.  However, its true value is in the lives of its adult citizens who work together to seek answers, promote unity, and care for those in need.  By meeting the challenge put forth by President John Kennedy fifty years ago to serve others, they act as role models for our youth.  They also welcome, nurture, and recognize the contributions made by Aquin.

Generations of Aquin alumni have demonstrated their faith in Freeport by becoming the doctors and lawyers, the business and civic leaders, the citizens and families of this town.  We celebrate our schools knowing that with the experience of their Aquin education, they will continue to play a major role in guarding the welfare of our town. 

Kathleen Runte
Superintendent
Aquin Catholic Schools