When Anthony Rohr walks the halls of St. Sebastian Parish School, he’s reminded of the generations who have passed through its doors—students who not only learned their ABCs but also grew in faith, character, and community. This year, the school celebrates 95 years of educating young minds, a milestone that speaks volumes about its enduring commitment to excellence.
“St. Sebastian Parish School has always been more than just a place for education. It’s a community, a family, where faith and learning intersect,” shares Rohr, the school’s Principal. This blend of values has guided St. Sebastian through nearly a century of change, from the retirement of its last serving nun in 2000 to its recognition as a U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School in 2023.
The school’s journey is marked by a series of thoughtful innovations. In 2001, a former convent was transformed into the Center for Early Learning, introducing a preschool program that set the foundation for holistic child development. Over the years, the campus has evolved with cutting-edge resources like an Innovation Lab and Technology Learning Lab, ensuring students in grades 1-8 are equipped with Chromebooks and a robust STEM curriculum. “Our commitment to STEM has been a cornerstone of our growth, and being awarded the Governor’s Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education six years in a row reflects that dedication,” Rohr proudly states.
Yet, the heart of St. Sebastian’s mission remains its Christ-centered approach. The school’s motto—“dedicated to Christ and committed to excellence in education”—is more than just words. It’s a philosophy woven into every lesson, every project, and every service opportunity. Beyond academics, the school focuses on nurturing the whole child: spiritually, academically, socially, and emotionally.
This dedication isn’t a new concept for St. Sebastian. In fact, it dates back to the vision of its founding pastor, Father Zwisler, who prioritized building the school when the parish was established in 1928. By 1929, the doors were open, welcoming students into a space where Catholic traditions were honored, talents were developed, and futures were prepared.
“Our parish has always been instrumental in our success,” St. Sebastian’s Pastor Fr. John Valencheck explains. The support from the church community has allowed the school to grow its programs, maintain top-notch facilities, and provide service opportunities that encourage students to give back. This partnership extends beyond the present, with alumni often sending their children and grandchildren to walk the same halls—a testament to the deep-rooted trust and connection within the community. As Valencheck puts it, “We honor our past, embrace the present, and build for a future grounded in Christ and excellence.”
Tailored Learning for Every Student
At St. Sebastian, the focus is on every student. It’s not just about preparing a group of young minds for the future, but about supporting each one as an individual. It’s like the difference between fitting into a one-size-fits-all sweater and wearing something that’s made just for you—perfectly tailored to your needs, strengths, and areas of growth.
This approach is called differentiation, and it’s the backbone of St. Sebastian’s teaching strategy. Teachers take a deep dive into understanding each student’s academic journey by analyzing their progress, strengths, weaknesses, and MAP scores. This gives them the insights to craft a learning path that works best for the individual. Rohr shares, “The goal is to ensure every student not only feels challenged but experiences success along the way.” It’s this balance of challenge and achievement that builds confidence. And confidence? Is the key in motivating students to work hard and aim higher.
Take math, for example. From the transition between 4th and 5th grade, students’ growth is tracked closely. Teachers don’t just look at grades; they analyze progress in tools like IXL, as well as the students’ personal responsibility and organizational skills. If a student is excelling and showing the potential for higher-level learning, they are invited to join the advanced math program. By 6th grade, these students could be tackling 7th-grade Pre-Algebra. By 7th grade, some of them are already working on Advanced Algebra I, and by 8th grade, they might complete Honors Geometry—effectively finishing two high school math courses before even leaving middle school.
On the other hand, if a student needs extra support, math specialists step in. They work hand in hand with teachers to help students review, practice, and understand foundational concepts before moving forward. This tailored support allows every student to progress at their own pace and sets them up for success.
This philosophy extends beyond math. It’s evident in every subject, for every student. Whether it’s English, history, or science, St. Sebastian’s differentiation strategy ensures that every student has the chance to thrive individually, while also achieving as a part of the whole class. Students aren’t just learning facts; they’re learning how to think critically, how to communicate with confidence, and how to apply their knowledge in real-world situations. The results speak for themselves—St. Sebastian students are consistently recognized for their academic excellence. “We hear it from high school teachers all the time,” Anthony Rohr says. “They can spot a St. Sebastian student by their writing. They’re strong thinkers, well-prepared, and always ready to take on the next challenge.”
And that preparation pays off. The Class of 2024, for example, received over $550,000 in academic scholarships, a testament to the hard work and well-rounded education they received at St. Sebastian.
Connecting STEM, Arts, and the Real World
Even though St. Sebastian may no longer hold the formal title of a STEM-designated school, the commitment to STEM education is as strong as ever. And it’s not just about teaching the core subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math—it’s about connecting them with the world around us. At St. Sebastian, STEM education isn’t just about reading textbooks or solving equations; it’s about learning through real-world experiences that engage students’ creativity and critical thinking.
Rohr explains, “STEM education embodies everything we value in a well-rounded education. It’s rigorous, student-centered, and it gives students the skills they need to succeed in the world.” But here’s the twist—St. Sebastian doesn’t limit STEM to the four core areas. Instead, they integrate it with the arts and humanities, providing a richer, more holistic approach to learning. It’s the perfect example of how subjects don’t exist in isolation—they overlap and complement each other, just like the real world.
Take the roller coaster project in science class. Students learn more than just physics; they discover how math, engineering, and even design all work together to solve a real-world problem. This is where St. Sebastian really shines. It doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Field trips offer students hands-on experiences that link classroom theory with the real world. Whether it’s learning how drones are used in business or exploring biology principles through a visit to the University of Akron’s Geosciences and Biology Department, these experiences make learning come to life.
And then there’s the Soap Box Derby Club, which is a long-standing tradition at St. Sebastian. It’s a program that started with just a handful of students building one car, and has grown to over 25 students participating and designing multiple cars each year. The best part? Every student in the club gets to drive their car down Derby Downs Hill in Akron, Ohio, taking the learning from concept to execution.
St. Sebastian also recognizes the importance of financial literacy, adding lessons on personal finance, banking, and entrepreneurship to the curriculum. Students work with guest speakers from local banks, accounting firms, and participate in the stock market game sponsored by the University of Cincinnati to understand how financial principles apply to real-life scenarios.
As for the future, St. Sebastian is all about giving students the chance to explore careers in STEM. By inviting professionals from fields like biochemistry and genetics to speak with students, the school helps them see the wide range of opportunities available. The school’s field trip to the Henry Ford Rouge Plant and other local industries allows students to see firsthand how science, engineering, and business intersect in the workplace.
At the end of the day, St. Sebastian’s approach to STEM education is all about making sure students don’t just learn concepts—they learn how to apply them. They don’t just study the past or the present; they’re preparing for the future. And they do it all with a creative, hands-on approach that makes learning not just meaningful, but fun.
Fostering Excellence and Connection in Every Student
St. Sebastian shines as an example of inclusive education, where every learner finds the support they need to thrive. Using the Response to Intervention (RTI) model, the school ensures that students, regardless of their unique challenges or abilities, are met with resources tailored to their needs. From tutors and reading specialists to a psychologist and a dedicated counselor, a strong network of professionals works collaboratively to guide each student’s journey. For those eager to stretch their academic wings further, the Minds in Motion program offers enrichment opportunities for grades 2-8. Designed by the school’s Gifted Intervention Specialist, this program challenges advanced learners, blending intellectual rigor with creativity, ensuring no talent goes unnoticed.
But St. Sebastian isn’t just about academics. In the fall of 2020, the school embraced a revolutionary approach to social and emotional learning (SEL) through the Friendzy program. This isn’t your typical classroom initiative—it’s a movement that teaches children the art of friendship. “Friendship isn’t just about finding good friends; it’s about becoming one,” says Rohr, emphasizing the program’s broader life lessons. Drawing inspiration from scripture, Friendzy addresses core competencies like self-awareness and decision-making, all while creating a tight-knit community of kindness and support.
What makes the program even more special are the “grade buddies”—an innovative pairing system where older students mentor younger ones. Whether a kindergartener learning about kindness or an eighth-grader practicing leadership, these moments create bonds that last beyond the classroom walls. And speaking of connections, meet Weller, the school’s beloved golden retriever therapy dog. Weller’s wagging tail and gentle presence are a daily reminder that emotional well-being matters just as much as academic achievement.
Technology, too, plays a central role at St. Sebastian, enhancing creativity and competence in every classroom. Chromebooks, interactive boards, and weekly computer science classes empower students with skills like coding, robotics, and 3D printing. A standout project? Students recently programmed the school’s 3D printer to craft ornaments for the Christmas tree—a delightful blend of tech and tradition.
Through a thoughtful blend of academic rigor, emotional intelligence, and cutting-edge tech, St. Sebastian ensures that its students are not only learners but also compassionate, well-rounded individuals.
Service, Leadership, and Growing Hearts
At St. Sebastian, service isn’t an extracurricular activity; it’s a way of life. Every year, students rally behind meaningful causes, from Thanksgiving food drives to clothing donations for – local homeless charities. “We believe in teaching students that giving back isn’t just a duty; it’s a joy,” shares Rohr. The school garden, tended with care by students, produces fresh produce donated to the Good Samaritan Hunger Center—a partnership that speaks volumes about the school’s dedication to its community.
Service projects go hand in hand with leadership opportunities, and St. Sebastian excels at nurturing young leaders. The student council takes charge of organizing initiatives, while Student Ambassadors act as the school’s welcoming faces, guiding tours and representing the institution at events. These experiences instill a sense of purpose and responsibility in every participant, helping them grow into community-minded individuals.
Beyond service, St. Sebastian fosters bonds that transcend age and grade through its buddy system. Post-pandemic, the school expanded this initiative, pairing students across grades to build relationships and a deeper sense of belonging. Whether working on a shared project or simply enjoying each other’s company, these interactions create a ripple effect of positivity and connection throughout the campus.
At its heart, St. Sebastian’s commitment to service and leadership equips students with more than academic knowledge. It nurtures empathy, instills responsibility, and inspires action—qualities that prepare them not only for the next phase of their education but for a lifetime of making a difference.
Where Families Make the Difference
At St. Sebastian, families are more than spectators—they’re an integral part of the school’s beating heart. From the first welcome picnic to heartfelt “Welcome Back” coffees, the school creates an atmosphere where families feel not only invited but essential. “Our families are the glue that holds this community together,” says Rohr. Whether it’s reading to a classroom, hosting a career talk, or orchestrating a class party, parents are active partners in shaping the school’s vibrant culture.
The Home and School Association (HASA) embodies this spirit of collaboration. Acting as a bridge between the administration and families, HASA enriches the classroom experience with teacher stipends, field trip funding, and scholarships. But the magic doesn’t stop there. HASA also brings joy through events like Santa Shop and parent-child dances, adding layers of connection and fun to the school year.
Meanwhile, the parent-led Socials Committee has redefined staff appreciation, pooling resources for gifts, treats, and workplace improvements that leave no doubt about the value parents place on teachers. And for the athletes? St. Sebastian’s Booster Club is the driving force behind a thriving sports culture, ensuring students have the tools, mentorship, and opportunities to shine both on and off the field.
This synergy between school and families is what transforms St. Sebastian into more than just a place of learning. It’s a true community where every member plays a vital role.
Traditions That Shape a Legacy
What makes a school memorable? At St. Sebastian, it’s the rich tapestry of traditions and activities that leave an indelible mark on students and families alike. From the rhythmic beats of one of the area’s only elementary school bands to the spirited Halloween Parade, there’s always something magical happening.
The band program alone is a gem, offering a musical journey for students in grades 4-8 with beginner, cadet, and advanced levels. Each October, these talented musicians lead the way during the Halloween Parade, where parents line the route, cheering as students showcase their costumes and creativity.
Beyond the big events, there’s an extracurricular program for just about every interest. Budding writers shine in the award-winning Power of the Pen program or join St. Sebastian Scrawlers, a pre-writing club for younger students. Book lovers find their haven in Literature at Lunch, while geography buffs test their knowledge in the Geography Club.
For students fascinated by numbers, programs like MATHCOUNTS, Catholic Math League, and Crazy 8s offer dynamic, math-focused challenges. Science and technology enthusiasts dive into projects through the Genius Project, Lego Club, and Drone Club, where operating drones becomes an exciting gateway to learning and innovation.
“Extracurriculars at St. Sebastian aren’t just about adding activities to the calendar,” Rohr shares. “They’re about unlocking passions, building relationships, and nurturing well-rounded individuals.” With such a diverse menu of opportunities, every student can find their place, their people, and their spark.
Grounded in Mission, Reaching for the Future
At the core of St. Sebastian’s philosophy lies an unwavering commitment to nurturing every dimension of a student’s growth. Religion classes are a cornerstone of daily life, instilling Catholic values, traditions, and a spirit of service that prepares students to lead lives of faith and purpose.
But Social-emotional learning (SEL) is just one piece of the puzzle. Faith formation takes center stage alongside academics, ensuring students develop resilience, empathy, and the skills to thrive as compassionate, moral leaders. “We aim to develop the whole child—mind, body, and spirit,” says Rohr. “That means teaching them to think critically, act kindly, and grow confidently.”
Looking ahead, St. Sebastian has its sights set on building meaningful partnerships with local businesses and universities. These collaborations promise to bring real-world learning experiences into the classroom, bridging the gap between academics and practical application.
St. Sebastian Parish School isn’t just preparing students for the next step in their education. It’s shaping future thinkers, doers, and dreamers who will navigate the complexities of the modern world with courage and conviction. Rooted in tradition and driven by a bold vision, the school continues to shine as a beacon of excellence in faith, learning, and community.
For More Info: https://www.stsebastian.org/school