The Kuemper Catholic School System has started its celebration of 2026’s National Catholic Schools Week, with a theme of “uKnighted.” They opened the events on Friday by hosting a Chamber coffee at the high school and welcoming members of the public into their halls, despite classes being canceled due to the cold. Each day from Jan. 25 through Jan. 31 is dedicated to a specific intent. Sunday centers on the parishes, as the school system is a part of the Catholic church, and its local priests, parishioners, and families make up the core of the Kuemper family. On Tuesday, Jan. 27, students will welcome Bishop John Keehner, who took over leadership of the Sioux City Diocese last February, for an all-school mass. Following that service, Bishop Keehner will bless Kuemper Catholic’s uKnighted capital campaign to raise $28.5 million for a proposed campus expansion. That program begins at 10 a.m. at the Holy Spirit gymnasium, and school officials are expected to announce their fundraising total to date. Wednesday focuses on recognizing the community’s heroes, whether they are local veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, or other first responders. These individuals are invited to a coffee social at 8:30 a.m. in the Kuemper High School cafeteria. Other highlights of the week include Mornings with Mom and Donuts with Dad on various days at different attendance centers, as well as games and activities for students, staff, and families to celebrate their Catholic identity.
