National Catholic Schools week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It begins the last Sunday in January and runs all week. This year, the event was celebrated Jan. 27 through 31.

Schools typically observe National Catholic Schools week with Masses, open house and activities for students, family, parishioners and community members. These events allow schools to focus on the value of Catholic education.

"Communities of faith, knowledge and service around the nation is the theme for the National Catholic Schools week," said Mrs. Karen Gabryluk, principal at Sacred Heart School.

On Jan. 26, Sacred Heart invited self published author Cynthia DeLuca of Nazareth to give a presentation to students in kindergarten through eighth grades. This was her first presentation in a school. DeLuca, a retired school teacher, provided a brief background on pursuing her goals and dreams. In her mid thirties, she said she attended community college. Later, at 41 years of age, she graduated with honors.

"I want to make a difference and inspire children," DeLuca said. " I want them to know that dreams do come true."

DeLuca explained she begins with a written prayer before she begins to write, asking for guidance. At the end of each prayer. she writes down five things she is grateful for. DeLuca ended the presentation by reading one of her books to the students and answering questions.

On Jan. 29, Christine Porter, a NED Show performer who travels within the Lehigh Valley as well as Canada, the U.K., Australia and New Zealand, provided a presentation to the children.

"The White House has even invited us to perform on 11 occasions." Porter said. "We carry out our mission and values through The NED Show, a character education program designed to help kids become champions at school and in life. We believe students can accomplish amazing things, if they're given positive motivation and specific directions that lead to success."

Finally, on Jan. 30, children in kindergarten through eighth grades participated in a talent show. Singing, dancing and gymnastics were just a few of the many talents students displayed.