Article previously published in The Bishop's Bulletin
Preview days and open houses offer critical time for parents and families to see some of the reasons Catholic schools are important educational and discipleship hubs in our diocese.
From the very first moments of Preschool Preview Day, held recently at Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools in Sioux Falls, the campuses came alive with wonder. Little learners were welcomed into bright, engaging classrooms and playful spaces where they will soon discover learning through curiosity, creativity and care. Families met the teachers who will guide their children’s earliest steps, witnessing firsthand how Bishop O’Gorman Schools intentionally nurture confidence, character and faith from day one. The joy on each child’s face told the story clearly: this is where strong foundations are built and a lifelong love of learning begins.
“Being a preschool teacher at Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools is very special. We not only teach children how to learn, but we help them believe that they can,” said Jordy Duran-Garcia, preschool teacher at St. Katharine Drexel Elementary. “We give our littlest learners the tools to succeed in school and in life. We help them become successful virtue-seeking professional learners. What an honor that is as a preschool teacher.”
At the O’Gorman Junior High and High School open houses, students proudly showcased activities and experiences, while educators shared how they form the whole person—mind, heart and spirit. Across every age and stage, the open houses revealed one powerful truth: Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools are places where faith leads, community thrives and excellence follows.
For Ashley Kayser, a parent and alumna of the O’Gorman school system, it was especially impactful to see teachers who had taught her and her husband still teaching. They enrolled their children primarily because of the community, faith and strong academics of the school system.
“At the [junior high] open house, it was evident how much these teachers genuinely love what they do,” Ashley said. “They are absolutely the best group of people to connect with students at the junior high level. We have loved witnessing the growth of our children from elementary to junior high and now from junior high to high school. The open house showcased the variety of classes, clubs and activities available to the students.”
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