Young Live Grounded in Faith and Belonging

Juan and Mateo serving Mass

Juan Marron and Mateo De La Torre have no question about why they love Our Lady of Hope and the Catholic education it provides them.  “Being here makes me a better person,” says Juan. “And I’m more comfortable being around people I know,” Mateo adds. “There’s no drama, no bullying.  We have fun in school without worrying.”

For a pair of 8th grade boys preparing to graduate in the next couple of months, their comments are wise beyond their years.  Their words are also deeply satisfying.  Thanks to Bright Futures Fund, both students are well on their way to significant future endeavors that will be grounded in daily prayer and faith.  Mateo is pretty sure he wants to be a coach.  Juan hasn’t yet committed.  He’s still considering his options.
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They feel safe at Our Lady of Hope.  Both boys agree that’s partially because their teachers keep an eye on them.  “They make sure we’re doing the right thing,” both confirm. Asked if they’ll miss their teachers they nod their heads. “We will,” both agree.  And they’ll miss their friends.  “We’re a family here,” the boys say, knowing families are hard to replace.

Thanks to Bright Futures Fund, both students are well on their way to significant future endeavors that will be grounded in daily prayer and faith. 
Juan Marron and Mateo De La Torre

​As much as they’re looking forward to High School—Juan will be attending Bishop Ward; Mateo is heading to Rockhurst—its clear neither young man is ready to leave.  “Until now I was always looking forward to the 8th grade,” shares Mateo.  Juan agrees with his friend and continues by saying, “And now I want to stay.”  They’re comfortable at Our Lady of Hope.  Yet, they’re also well-prepared for what the future will bring them.  Thanks in large part to the school they’re leaving behind.