Students of St. Rose School in Cuba City perform the play Rock Solid at a recent celebration of the school’s 100th anniversary at St. Rose of Lima Church. (Contributed photo) |
CUBA CITY — In September 1916, St. Rose School opened its doors to 128 students in four classrooms.
The Sinsinawa Dominicans were instrumental in starting the school and educating the students. In the original school, they resided on the third floor.
The first school was next to the old church which stood where the present day school is now.
In 1956, a new school was built.
Now 100 years after first opening its doors, St. Rose of Lima School flourishes with 132 students.
Celebrating a century
On October 23, St. Rose celebrated the anniversary of those 100 great years.
For Mass, the homilist was Fr. Chad Droessler, an alum of St. Rose School Class of 1999 and current pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Monona.
He spoke of the rich tradition of the Catholic school and the importance of the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters.
He encouraged parishioners to look to the future: keeping our great school operating.
He said St. Rose School is a place where we can not only learn our academics, but infuse faith in everything we do.
We are called to know, love, and serve him, just as its mission statement says.
After Mass, the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters who were present were recognized for their years of service as teachers, principals, and staff.
They were presented with two dedication banners to put up at the Sinsinawa Mound and the Villa and a 100 year anniversary mug each for their service.
State Representative Travis Tranel presented Principal Mary Schneider with a personalized historical plaque commemorating St. Rose’s accomplishment.
Alumni of the past classes of St. Rose from more than 75 years ago were also recognized with a 100 anniversary mug.
After Mass, current students performed Rock Solid, a play with the eighth grade students performing the acting parts and the other students, Pre-K through seventh grade, singing.
Following the play, everyone was invited over to St. Rose School for a luncheon and open house.
Many alumni joined in the celebration.