On Thursday, June 9, 2022, Fifth Grade students led the Middle School in our annual Brad Ost Memorial Blessing of the Animals Celebration. The event began with a moving performance of “All Things Bright and Beautiful” by Seventh and Fifth Grade, and then Fifth Grade students shared their year-long study of the Human-Animal bond. This milestone event concluded with a special blessing of the animals in our community by Pastor LeCroy of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church.

Throughout the year students thoughtfully studied the Human-Animal bond in a special class called Essential Questions.  This year they focused their study on the importance of animal sanctuaries, after reading a book called Saving Lilly by Peg Kehret which centers around a group of students who want to rescue a circus elephant named Lilly.  At the start of the year, they began their research on different types of animal sanctuaries, including wildlife, equine, and farm sanctuaries.  Then students interviewed the wonderful people who work in animal sanctuaries in our area. They interviewed Katie Parker and Gabrielle Stubbert of Tamerlaine Sanctuary, Sarah Lindsay of Oasis Animal Sanctuary, Doreen Jakubcak of Marty’s Place Senior Dog Sanctuary, and Marylou Tortorello from 13 Hands Equine Sanctuary.  Using the information they gathered, students wrote special chapter books to celebrate each of these dedicated individuals.

After sharing the work these people do to help rescued animals, Fifth Grade students took time to honor the legacy of Brad Ost.  Brad was an avid animal lover and beloved All Saints parent.  His work with animals inspires our students each day.