WAPPINGERS FALLS—The final week in January is an annual opportunity for Catholic schools across the country to celebrate themselves and St. Mary’s School in Wappingers did just that last week.

The school marked national Catholic Schools Week from January 25 to 31 with a variety of events ranging from a special Mass to an ice cream social and visits by relatives and other guests during the school day.

On Friday morning, teachers were treated to a breakfast sponsored by the Mother’s Guild in the school library. During the breakfast, they took a few moments to reflect on the pleasures of teaching in a small, family-like, faith-filled environment.

“It’s a happy atmosphere,” said physical education teacher Lauren Weyant. “Our kids leave happy every day.”

Support and camaraderie among their fellow teachers and an attitude of personal responsibility that pervades the school, including the student body, were among the other high points the teachers mentioned about their jobs.

“I never worked in a parochial school where I didn’t have fantastic colleagues,” said Ms. Kent, who teachers language arts and literature to sixth, seventh, and eighth graders.

Second grade teacher Patricia Harvie agreed. “It’s nice to know we can always count on each other,” she said.

The teachers had high praise for their students, calling them “the best” and “such great kids” and the students seemed to hold their teachers in equal esteem.

Several eighth grade students remarked that their teachers were helpful and aware of their problems, above and beyond schoolwork,

“They’ll help with pretty much anything,” said student Sarah Piccorelli. “If you’re willing to talk, they’re willing to listen.”

“The teachers always bring something new to the table every day,” said eighth grader Christopher Roberts, who, along with his fellow students, mentioned that their instructors are innovative and flexible, leading them through the mysteries of everything from novella writing to reading Beowulf, and letting science discussions digress into a conversation about saints.

The latter point, the ability to make space for faith in the classroom is what keeps Wisniewski, and likely her colleagues as well, at a Catholic school instead of a public one.

“My faith is important,” said Wisniewski, who said she appreciates the change to integrate that faith into the curriculum.

Students and teachers alike use the word “family” often in their descriptions of life at St. Mary’s. The school’s small size and the fact that students remain with the same peer group from year to year make it a very welcoming atmosphere.

“Everyone knows everyone and that gives a sense of family,” said Harvie.

“It’s a good environment,” said eighth grader Ramona Rodriguez.