School of St. Mary Honors October Heart of a Crusader Award Recipients

The School of St. Mary recognized outstanding students from both its Primary Grade Center (PGC) and Upper Grade Center (UGC) during October school Masses, celebrating those who exemplify the school’s mission: To Learn. To Serve. To Lead.

Each month, faculty and community members nominate students who demonstrate exceptional character grounded in the Crusader Creed values of respect, honesty, and responsibility. The Heart of a Crusader Award honors students who lead with faith, kindness, integrity, and a commitment to their community. All faculty and staff vote to choose the outstanding Heart of a Crusader honoree for that month.

October Nominees Represent All Grades

Nominees included students from kindergarten through eighth grade who have shown exemplary citizenship, academic effort, and leadership in the classroom and beyond. Students were invited to stand at the altar as their names were read—a tradition that highlights both individual accomplishment and shared community pride.

Nominees represented a wide spectrum of Crusader values, with many students recognized for kindness toward classmates, consistent academic effort, and their willingness to serve and lead.

Primary Grade Center Award Recipients

Two 3rd grade students were honored with the Heart of a Crusader Award at the PGC:
Lexie — Serving & Responsibility
Described as a quiet, steady leader, Lexie is known for helping both teachers and classmates with courtesy and grace. Always prepared for lessons and quick to express gratitude, she leads by example and sets a strong example for her peers.

Rowan — Leading & Responsibility
Rowan brings joy and enthusiasm to every school day. Her teachers describe her positivity, kindness, and dedication to doing her best. A friend to all, she uplifts her classroom community through encouragement and leadership.

Upper Grade Center Award Recipients

At the UGC, two middle school students were honored for their discipline, character, and commitment to learning and service:
Charlie 6th Grade — Learning & Responsibility
Charlie is known for staying focused and giving full effort – even when others may feel tempted to give less than 100%. His determination and quiet drive make him a role model for academic responsibility.

Abby 8th Grade — Leading, Serving & Responsibility
Abby’s nominators describe her as a cheerleader for her peers and a natural leader. Her selfless spirit, strong moral example, and dedication to supporting others embody the essence of the award.

A Community Rooted in Faith and Leadership

A School of St. Mary (SOSM) Crusader demonstrates genuine school pride, a sense of community, personal confidence, Catholic values, and a deep commitment to serving others. Since 1917, SOSM has been educating the whole child, both in and out of the classroom, raising today's students to be tomorrow's leaders. For more than 100 years, the School of St. Mary has remained true to its motto: To Learn, To Serve, To Lead. Call or schedule a tourtoday to see these words in action.