Over the course of the year, we gather in school families on six occasions to celebrate Founder’s Day, Thanksgiving, Advent and Christmas, Catholic Schools Week, Spring, and to celebrate the End of the School Year. School families, led by an 8th grader and comprised of students in each of the younger grades, meet for faith and fellowship, focusing on the school theme, Gospel readings, Habits of Mind, and the liturgical or holiday season. 8th graders gain valuable leadership experience as they design a 45­ minute activity that meets the above criteria and is engaging for students across all grade levels. Students learn to think flexibly in the moment, manage their time, and reflect on successes and areas of growth following each school family event.