Northern Chautauqua Catholic School in Dunkirk is the last remaining Catholic school in Chautauqua County.
As the 2023-2024 school year winds down, graduating eighth-grade students at Northern Chautauqua Catholic School have reflected on their time spent at the last Catholic school in Chautauqua County.
Excerpts from their essays include:
— As I think about my 8th grade year coming to an end at NCCS it makes me realize how much I will miss this school. I’ve made so many great friends here that I share many memories with. Leaving NCCS feels like saying goodbye to a big chapter of my life that I hold dear. As I reflect on all the incredible moments and friendships I’ve made, I know that I’ll carry a piece of NCCS with me wherever I go. I’ll always remember the support and love I’ve felt at this school. NCCS is an irreplaceable part of who I am today. It’s not a goodbye, but rather a heartfelt thank you for shaping me into the person I am today. — Emersyn Strefeler
— At NCCS, the small class sizes give us the chance to have extra help in areas if we need it. The teachers encourage us to ask questions and are always dedicated to helping us gain knowledge from everything. We have religion class every day, and it helps teach us fundamental points of the Catholic faith and how to be a better Christian. We also can start Foreign Language Classes from PreK3 to 8th grade which prepares us for high school.
Even though we may have a few broken lockers and creaky chairs, dusty ceilings and cluttered shelves, no other school can compare to NCCS. Without this school some of my closest friendships would have never been made, I would not have had the chance to experiment with sports, and all in all it has helped me become a better Christian. I appreciate all the time and effort all of the teachers and faculty have put in this school and I hope it continues to thrive. — Maggie Mikula
— NCCS offers an excellent opportunity to receive a great education while creating lasting friendships and cherished memories. There are many after-school activities such as sports teams, clubs, and community service programs that allow you to show your Christianity while having fun and learning a lot. You will make many memories along the way that you will cherish for a lifetime.
Attending NCCS is an essential step in achieving your goals in life. It provides you with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that you can use to pursue your dreams. By attending NCCS, you can gain valuable experience, develop problem-solving skills, and learn how to work effectively with others. Additionally, it can open up many opportunities for personal and professional growth. So, if you are looking to succeed in life, attending NCCS is a vital step that you should not ignore. — Aria Green
— The kids here at NCCS hold a strong bond, often being compared to a family. The word “family” is most commonly used to describe us because, just like any regular family, we experience conflict, yet together we overcome it. NCCS teaches the many kids here to be kind, faith focused young men and women. The open, yet disciplinary teaching style plays an extensive role in helping any child to be the best they can be. The many extracurricular activities NCCS offers, especially musicals and sports, exceed expectations. NCCS is an inspiring, yet magical place that helps young kids be the best they can be in the classroom, on the stage, and on the court. — Julia Askar
— I will miss the classes as well because they challenged me mentally and prepared me for the next step in my academic career. I will also miss the Catholic education because it has taught me to be a better person and many life lessons that have already helped me so much. It has brought me closer to God and his teachings. — Landon Trippi
— When thinking about Catholic education, think about your family values. Sometimes don’t worry about what the popular opinion/choice is but what you think matters and what you believe in. Parents should be able to do what they think is right and follow their beliefs. In the end, it’s your education and you determine your future. — Robert Harrington V
— NCCS is a very special school which makes up a large part of my heart along with many others. Many things make it such a special school such as the students, the teachers, the events, the mistakes we have learned from, and so much more! — Alex Hoth
— I think going to this school has been a life changing experience for me and for many others. — Jonovan Kristan
— While at this school I’ve met some of the best people in my life. Since the classes are small, we form great friendships. — Hannah Powell
— One great thing about NCCS is that the teachers are willing to take the extra time to help students with their classwork after school. Since it is a small school, everyone knows everyone, unlike a public school where you are in a huge building and are restricted to your grade and sometimes even less. — Landon Warnes
— I will miss this school and all the wonders it’s done for me. NCCS is a lovely school. I will always thank NCCS for the 3 years of fun, lovingness, and faith it has brought to my life. — McKenna Crawford
— This school has helped me so much. — Garrett Engle
Now being in eighth grade even though we added some people and some people left I still feel like I’m in one big family. All the teachers in this school have done so much for me and impacted my life in such a great way. I could never have asked for a better 11 years of my life and a better education than I’ve gotten from this school. Everything in this school has been so helpful to me so I could become ready to go to high school and be the best I can be.
Mr Ludwig every morning has repeated the same saying that I will remember forever to be “Kind, Respectful, and Christ-like in our words and actions”. Everything and everyone in this school I will miss so much but I am so happy that I got to spend my elementary and middle school years here. I am so grateful for everything this school has done for me and all the memories I get to have because of it. — Lailynne Tarnowski
Northern Chautauqua Catholic School is in the middle of its annual Angels Campaign and are also registering students for the 2024-25 school year. Charitable Angels’ donations can be sent directly to NCCS at 336 Washington Ave. in Dunkirk and can also be made on line by visiting our website. Those who would like to know more about the school and the opportunities offered can call at 716-366-0630.