WIXOM — Students at St. William Catholic School in Walled Lake received a "warm" welcome from a neighboring Catholic high school when sub-freezing temperatures forced a temporary building closure last week.
Weather conditions caused damage to several classroom buildings at St. William, prompting administrators at nearby St. Catherine of Siena Academy in Wixom to reach out and offer St. William students and teachers the use of their campus.
St. Catherine welcomed sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders to the high school campus Dec. 5, allowing the younger students to continue in-person learning while participating in aspects of campus life.
St. Catherine students created "welcome" signs and treats for St. Nicholas Day, and have helped St. William students feel at home.
"The students have embraced their new surroundings and are participating in our school life, including joining us for daily Mass," said Lia Johnston, president of St. Catherine of Siena Academy. "They have brought a wonderful energy that truly enhances the Christmas spirit here."
Judy Hehs, principal of St. Catherine, said the opportunity allows St. Catherine to live its values as a Catholic school by offering help.
"During the Advent season, and this week designated to hope, we feel that this situation aligns perfectly with the local focus of offering support to those in need," Hehs said in a statement on Facebook.
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