Celebrating Community, Growth, and the Heart of Arete

This Thanksgiving season, Arete Scholars had the joy of visiting three wonderful schools in Savannah, Georgia—St. James Catholic School, Calvary Day School, and Rambam Day School—to share gratitude, holiday goody bags, and heartfelt support with students and their families.

Arete represents excellence in action, virtue, courage, and a life well-lived. During Shelley and Marilyn's recent visits to Savannah, Georgia, they were reminded every step of the way why this mission matters: witnessing children thrive, families empowered, and communities strengthened through meaningful partnerships and opportunities.

Our first stop was St. James Catholic School, a vibrant, faith-filled community where character, creativity, and joy are woven into every corner of campus. Principal Sister Joan Felicia O’Reilly welcomed us warmly, sharing her inspiring vision for a school where students grow academically, spiritually, and socially.

As we delivered Thanksgiving baskets and treats to families, we were met with enthusiastic gratitude from students whose excitement for learning filled every hallway. From colorful artwork to lively classroom discussions, St. James clearly cultivates a space where students thrive in both mind and heart.

Next, we visited Calvary Day School, where we dropped off more Thanksgiving baskets and connected with families as we learned about the school’s exciting major building addition—set for completion in spring 2026. The expansion will include dedicated preschool classrooms and new spaces for grades 4–8, currently sharing instructional areas.

From STEM hovercraft experiments to vibrant art projects, Calvary students embody the virtues of Arete: excellence, courage, and joy in learning. Sharing holiday support with these families made the day even more meaningful.

We finished our visit at Rambam Day School, a school deeply connected to the local Jewish community. Principal Ester Rabhan welcomed us with warmth and shared the school’s joyful progress this year.

As we handed out Thanksgiving baskets and gingerbread house kits, we were reminded why this work matters. Over 20% of Rambam students attend thanks to Arete scholarships, and hearing firsthand how this support changes lives was incredibly moving. Office Manager Ruchoma Nitekman shared the personal impact Arete has had on her family—enabling her children to attend a school where their faith and identity are nurtured daily.

Throughout our visits, the highlight was spending time with students and families, sharing Thanksgiving grocery gift cards and gingerbread house kits, and celebrating the virtues these students practice every month. Their curiosity, kindness, and joy were contagious, reminding us why Arete exists: to celebrate children, empower families, and foster opportunities that help each student flourish.