Last month, Grade 1 students at St. Thomas More Catholic School completed a meaningful learning project as part of their unit on needs and wants. Through thoughtful discussions, students learned that many people, right here in our own city, do not always have all of their basic needs met. Guided by our faith, students reflected on our call to love our neighbors and care for those in need, as Jesus teaches.
As a class, students put their faith into action by gathering items for birthday bags to donate to Paul’s Pantry. This service project helped students understand the importance of sharing God’s love through kindness, generosity, and compassion.
The unit also encouraged students to recognize that they are important members of their community and that their voices matter. Students were asked to identify an issue they considered especially important. Through discussion, the class chose to write about the belief that all people, regardless of their background, are created by God and deserve to be welcomed with dignity and respect. Students shared that it is unfair when others are made to feel unwelcome.
Students learned the parts of a letter, how to respectfully share their opinions, and how writing can communicate ideas and advocate for positive change. Each student wrote a letter to the Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich, explaining why they believe people from other countries should be welcome in our city.
We were thrilled to receive a response from Mayor Genrich, who wrote:
“Ms. Gossen’s class, thank you so much for taking the time to share your ideas for our city with me! As your mayor, I rely on the input of residents like you to do the best job I can. Thanks again, and have a great 2026!”
Through this experience, our students learned that living out our Catholic faith means serving others, standing up for fairness, and using our voices to build a more loving community. We are proud of our first graders for showing what it means to be thoughtful, faith-filled citizens.
St. Thomas More Catholic 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). The school has open enrollment and provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually. To learn more about St. Thomas More, browse their website, stmoregb.com, or call the office at (920) 432-8242.
