Annual Activities
St. Bernard’s Elementary School proudly hosts a variety of annual events, offering the Bernardian community a chance to witness our students’ hard work and commitment to service in action as they strive to live by our motto, “Deeds, not words.”
ART SHOW & ICE CREAM SOCIAL
St. Bernard’s concludes the year with an event that brings together all Bernardian families. The cafeteria is filled with artwork from Pre-K through Grade 8, showcasing the students’ creativity. To make the evening even sweeter, ice cream sundaes are enjoyed by everyone.
This year, the Ice Cream Social was proudly sponsored by the PTO.
Blessing of the Animals
Each October, in honor of St. Francis’ love for all of God’s creations, Bernardian families are invited to bring their pets to a special ceremony known as the “Blessing of the Animals.”
A variety of pets have included cats, dogs, guinea pigs, turtles, birds, fish, and even a miniature horse. Younger children are also welcome to bring their favorite stuffed animals for a special blessing. No matter the size of the pet, the event is always a memorable occasion for STB students, offering them the unique chance to share their beloved animals with friends and faculty.
Father Dolan always reminds us that all living creatures must come on a leash, in a carrier or in a bowl.
BOOK BUDDIES
St. Bernard’s has a beloved tradition of pairing older and younger students as Book Buddies.
Pre-K students team up with Grade 5, Kindergarteners with Grade 8, First Graders with Sixth Graders, and Second Graders with Grade 7. The Book Buddies share their passion for reading by reading to the youngest Bernardians, and as the younger students begin their own reading journeys, the Book Buddies are there to guide them along the way.
Together, they cultivate a love of books and build lasting friendships. Our older Bernardians serve as inspiring role models, fostering meaningful connections across the school.
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK
National Catholic Schools Week is a yearly celebration of Catholic education across the United States. It begins on the last Sunday of January and continues throughout the week. During this time, schools usually host Masses, open houses, and various activities for students, families, parishioners, and the broader community. These events highlight the importance of Catholic education, emphasizing its positive impact on young people, the Church, local communities, and the nation as a whole.
During Catholic Schools Week, the school honors local veterans, first responders, nurses, with gift baskets to show our appreciation for their service. We also host events including Grandparent & Special Loved One Luncheon, Student Appreciation Day, Teacher Appreciation Day and a sports rally.
CHRISTMAS PROGRAM
Each Christmas, our Kindergarten class shares the true meaning of Christmas with the entire Bernardian community and their families.
The Nativity story is brought to life by the Holy Family, accompanied by shepherds with their flocks, the Magi with their camels, and choirs of angels. Students from Grades 1, 2, and 3 enrich the program by singing carols and traditional Christmas songs.
FATHER – DAUGHTER DANCE
Bernardian ladies dance the night away with their Dads or Special loved ones. Each year has a different theme and creates special memories for all. The evening is held at the Fitchburg Senior Center (the former Amory) which is transformed into a beautiful space for dining and dancing.
Fiesta Shows Carnival at STB
Each spring, St. Bernard’s hosts the Fiesta Shows Carnival to kick off April vacation. This exciting event attracts families from all over the region, offering a wide array of rides, games, entertainment, and delicious food for everyone to enjoy.
Grandparent and Special Loved Ones Luncheon
STB embodies a true sense of community, and each fall, students invite their grandparents and special friends to join them for a luncheon. Hundreds of guests come together to spend quality time with their STB students. Eighth graders volunteer and serve as wait staff for the event, while a delicious meal is prepared by the high school students from the Culinary Program at Monty Tech. It’s always a heartwarming day filled with celebration, appreciation, and love.
MOTHER – SON BOWLING NIGHT
Bernardian boys challenge their Moms and Special loved ones to a Sunday afternoon of Galactic bowling. Pizza fuels the fast paced action which makes the time at Gardner Ten Pins fly by.
Nature’s Classroom
Our Bernardian students enjoy an exciting week in Ocean Park, ME, where they engage in hands-on science learning. Their adventures include exploring the diverse habitats of the area—the woods, ocean, and marsh. The trip is filled with memorable experiences, leaving everyone with happy, smiling faces!
Read Across America Day
Each March, STB participates in Read Across America Day, celebrating the birthday of Ted Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss. Students hear from guest readers and enjoy all things Seussical!
Recent readers have included the Mayor of Fitchburg, the Principal of St. Bernard’s High School, Father Dolan, Trooper Sean Maki, and our much-loved gym teacher, Mr. Steve Maki.