St. Francis Holy Ghost Catholic School is making a powerful impact both inside and outside the classroom through its “Shining Knights” program, an initiative designed to build kindness, character, and community among its youngest learners.
Led by first-grade teacher Barbie McCormick, the program serves students in kindergarten through fourth grade and has quickly become a cornerstone of the school’s positive culture.
Through the Shining Knights program, students earn tickets when they “show up in the best way”—whether by demonstrating kindness, helping others, going above and beyond, or showing strong character. These tickets are entered into weekly and monthly drawings, giving students a fun and meaningful way to be recognized for doing the right thing.
But the impact doesn’t stop at the school doors.
Each year, St. Francis Holy Ghost students take their lessons in kindness into the community by supporting St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Students collect activity items and necessities to help make hospital stays a little brighter for children and their families.
This year, students went above and beyond—raising more than $500 in cash donations. The funds are used to purchase coffee K-pods for families and hospital staff, offering comfort during what can often be long and challenging days.
School leaders say the mission is simple: spark joy wherever possible.
