The holidays are a perfect time to reflect on everything God has given us throughout the year. But we shouldn’t limit our thanks giving to only one day a year. The Bible tells us:
 
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
 
At Our Lady of Grace Catholic School (OLGCS), we inspire to instill “an attitude of gratitude” in our classrooms. By practicing gratitude, students become more positive and optimistic. They feel more connected – both in the classroom and out. And, overall, they feel better about school and life in general. Plus, by expressing their thanks, students actively live their faith.      
 
Every day, we see our students showing their gratitude in a variety of ways. Here are just a few examples:

1. Smiles. A smile is a simple way to show someone you care or appreciate them. We see our students smiling all the time – in the classroom, in the cafeteria, in the hallways. A smile shared between friends says, I value you and our friendship. A smile given to a teacher shows the student’s appreciation for learning. When a student smiles during a lesson, it also tells a teacher, “I finally get it” – whatever that “it” is that they’re learning. And, knowing that your students understand what they’re being taught can be the greatest gift to a teacher.
2. Teacher appreciation acts. Besides smiles, students show their appreciation for their teachers (and staff) in many ways. Good grades on assignments show that students are paying attention during lessons. A note or card given to a teacher can express their gratitude for all their teacher does for them. The gift of an apple not only says “thanks,” but provides a healthy afternoon snack, too. Or, just a simple “thank you” said at the end of the day can give a teacher an inner glow.   
3. Saying “please” and “thank you.” We love to see our students remembering their “p’s and q’s” every day. A first-grader saying “please” in the lunch line can make a cafeteria worker smile. And, a student saying “thank you” to the school nurse can brighten her day.
4. Sharing. Our students share more than just experiences at OLGCS. Pre-schoolers share toys and games with one another. Art students share paint and construction paper. Gym students share the ball while shooting baskets. Examples of sharing generosity and empathy while working together cooperatively abound within OLGCS’s walls.
5. Serving others. Service is an important part of the faith life for our students. We encourage our students to lend a hand to help others in need – whether that’s collecting food for St. Vincent DePaul or money to buy books for the Appalachian Community of Saint Paul in McKee, Kentucky, or other annual projects. By performing these acts of kindness, children learn to see how abundantly blessed they truly are and just how much God cares for us as well.
6. Prayers. Through daily prayers, students thank God for all he has bestowed on them. Because, God loves to hear thank you’s, too.

 
“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – 1 Chronicles 16:34
 
We encourage you to talk with your children about all the ways they show gratitude while at school, church, and home. The holidays are a great time to have this conversation. But, just remember, expressing thanks is more than just a one day a year event. Help your child learn to say “thanks” and count their blessings every single day.
 
If you want to learn more about Our Lady of Grace Catholic School and the important educational foundation we can provide your child, we invite you to come visit our school to see Christ at work in Catholic education. Please contact Terra Olson, Coordinator of Admissions, Enrollment and Marketing at TLOlson@ologn.org to schedule a visit today!
 
- Elaine of the Our Lady of Grace Catholic School Blog Team