PJPII students: An attitude of gratitude

By Claire Worchel
Pope John Paul II High

As the Thanksgiving season has melded into Advent and Christmas, I have so much to be thankful for at Pope John Paul II High.

After family and health, of course, I’d like to encourage all students to include being thankful for their education, and all that comes with it.

At Pope John Paul II, we have so much gratitude to share with our community.
Over 190 Jaguars were honored for achievement at the  honor roll breakfast. Thanks to all who helped with the event, including  the anonymous sponsor who provided sausage biscuits and grits.

We were thankful for more than 125 students and their families who attended our open house in October, and those who were involved in and attended our annual November Christmas Bazaar.

We are thankful for leadership opportunities on campus. Among our newest clubs are HOSA (Health Occupations Student Association) and our Global Jags program (formally known as our Travel Club). These clubs promote good health and teach us to explore and appreciate our world.
At our recent All Saints’ Day Mass, the family of Kevin Haynie was in attendance to award a scholarship to a deserving student. This year, PJP sophomore Ethan Abbenante was selected as the recipient and received the scholarship at the end of Mass. This annual scholarship honors and remembers those taken away too soon from our school community.
We are grateful for our coaches and athletic department who work tirelessly with our student-athletes to encourage sportsmanship and instill a strong work ethic. As a case in point, our volleyball team recently earned its fourth consecutive state title on Nov. 11. Way to go, Lady Jags!
And, most importantly, we are thankful for opportunities to serve others. We held a Thanksgiving food drive, and PJP again participated in Project Christmas to assist needy families this season.

Claire Worchel is a junior at Pope John Paul II High School in Slidell.