Crafton School Celebrates 100 Years

CRAFTON (KDKA) -- How does a school celebrate a century?

Students, faculty and parents at St. Philip School of Crafton decided on a walk through town, and a "whiteout."

"I went to school here, my family went to school here, and you children are special," says Crafrton Mayor Jim Bloom.

St. Philip School has classes from pre-school through eighth grade. The students' Centennial Spirit Walk through Crafton was greeted by clapping and waves of support.

Former student Sharon Gaitas, coordinator of the event, says parents and businesses bought white signs for $25 apiece, raising more than $10,000 for the school. It's a family thing.

"I am an alum of Saint Philip School," she says. "And between my family and my husband's family, we've had 25 members go through Saint Philip. Three of my four children are here now, and my oldest son's finished school here."

One hundred years for one school is remarkable enough. But Saint Philip Church is celebrating its 175th anniversary.

The school, founded by the Sisters of Charity, has survived in an era when others are closing. Principal Geri Marr says it's not just about academics.

"We have the children try to live out of their hearts, which means they live a holy, healthy life. We call it the 'Angel Way.' Achieving natural goodness in every day life."

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