Weekdays are always busy at St. Joseph and St. Lawrence Catholic schools.

But this week, the pace undoubtedly is more hectic than usual. Several events are planned this week in celebration of National Catholic Schools Week.

The theme this year is "Catholic Schools: A Faith-Filled Future." St. Joseph Development Director Sissy Clyse said the week is an opportunity for parents, students and the school community to reflect on the value of faith-based education.

"Faith-based education has been proven to be effective,"

Clyse said. "We had 12 or 13 graduates last year and they were offered $700,000 in scholarships. That says a lot."

Again this year, students will send Valentine's Day cards and care packages to American soldiers who are stationed overseas.

"In the past we've sent cards to the VA Hospital, but I think this year we will probably mail most of them to service people. We will probably also send some to our parish's shut-ins," Clyse said.

Students at both St. Lawrence Elementary and St. Joseph High School were treated to donuts yesterday. The high school's National Honor Society and student council members also presented the elementary children with peace pens and cards that contained a prayer for peace.

A joint Mass was scheduled for this morning for students from both schools. On Friday, high school cheerleaders and basketball players will lead a pep rally at the elementary, since this is also "Spirit Week." The homecoming game and high school dance is Friday.

Sixth, seventh and eighth graders will have their dance Saturday night and have invited students from Holy Family School in Ashland, Ky.