Tara Key
Principal, St. Patrick School in Onalaska
Dear Students, Families, Faculty and Staff of the Catholic Schools of the Diocese of La Crosse,
Welcome to a new school year filled with opportunities to learn, grow and deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ. As we begin this journey together, we reflect on the words of the prophet Micah:
“He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Mi 6:8)
The final words of the Bible verse above, “Walk humbly with God,” reminds us that Catholic education is about more than academic achievement. It is about forming minds and hearts rooted in faith, virtue and humble discipleship. Throughout this year, we are called to allow God to transform our hearts and lives as we strive to live out the three important teachings found in Micah’s message.
1 Do Justice. Justice begins by recognizing the dignity of every person as a child of God. Our schools are places of learning, fellowship and fun, where students grow academically, spiritually and socially. We are called to treat others fairly, ethically and with respect. Each day, we hear God’s Word proclaimed at Mass and learn about our Faith in religion class. These lessons are not meant to remain in a church or classroom; they are meant to be lived out in our daily interactions. Whether in the classroom, cafeteria, playground or at school events, we demonstrate justice by respecting our teachers, classmates and ourselves, and by making choices that reflect the values of our Catholic Faith.
2 Love Kindness. Jesus calls us to show compassion, mercy and forgiveness to those around us. Our Catholic schools provide many opportunities to put kindness into action through service projects, food drives, charitable collections and outreach to those in need. Kindness is also found in the small moments of everyday life: helping a friend who has fallen, welcoming someone who feels left out, offering words of encouragement, asking for forgiveness and forgiving others. These acts may seem simple, but they help create school communities where every person feels valued, supported and loved. Through kindness, we become living examples of Christ’s love in the world.
3 Walk Humbly with God. Humility reminds us that we depend on God and are called to align our will with His. At times, we may feel small or wonder if our lives truly make a difference. Yet when we gaze upon the Crucifix, we are reminded that Jesus gave everything for us, opening the gates of heaven through His sacrifice. He invites us to follow Him and allow His grace to transform our hearts and lives. By walking humbly with God, we grow closer to Him and become witnesses of His love to others. Through our faith and example, we can help bring others closer to Christ as well.
May God bless you and your families throughout the 2026-2027 school year as together we strive to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with our God.