Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School (OLS) recently announced the integration of a new, school-wide House system into its already outstanding curriculum. The system is modeled after the original program developed by award-winning education pioneer Ron Clark. The Ron Clark Academy House system in Atlanta has been a gold standard and has been adapted by hundreds of schools since 2007.

The general purpose of a House system is to promote a positive, unified, character-focused school environment that complements its strong academics. The program assists in leading the OLS 5th through 8th grade students as they grow in faith and character, form new friendships, and work together to accomplish a myriad of goals through continual participation in activities and service within their school and community. 

The OLS House program includes six houses rooted in the Catholic faith. “Our theme is ‘Six Houses - One Home,’” said OLS Principal Mary Jane Dorn. “Each house name is based on an apparition of our Blessed Mother Mary and is represented by a particular color,” she said. The houses are as follows: Fatima, Lourdes, Guadalupe, La Salette, Kibeho, and Genazzano.

The older students received t-shirts in their house color and name that they wear with their uniform bottoms every Wednesday when the houses meet. “All of our faculty and staff have been assigned to a house and will cheer on their house throughout the year,” said Dorn. “Our Kindergarten through 4th grades are ‘buddy’ classes and were also assigned to a particular house.” The younger students received color coordinated bracelets to match their buddy house to feel a part of the program and can wear them at any time. “We are all excited about the opportunities for our students with this program and look forward to a good year.”