St. Norbert School Celebrates 21 Students In Class of 2021

NORTHBROOK, IL — For 21 eighth-grade students at St. Norbert School in Northbrook, June 6 was a big day. The students are the latest class to graduate from the school after a "beautiful Mass and ceremony."

Rev. Chris Gustafson presided over Mass.

"From St. Norbert, I've learned to actually stand up and talk to people and not to judge anyone after the first glance," said Thomas Grant, who spoke on behalf of the St. Norbert graduating class. " I've learned so much from each class and each teacher. They not only provided an incredible education, but also taught us about our futures and how we want to figure out what we want them to become. My biggest takeaway from St. Norbert is that time really does go by so fast, but it's not about how much time you have but what you do in the time you are given."

Then, in keeping with St. Norbert tradition, Stephen Schacherer, principal of St. Norbert School, presented a series of awards to various members of the Class of 2021.

“A well-educated student combines academic success with community involvement and service to others. Many students give generously of their time and talents for the well-being of the school community,” Schacherer said.

• The Mater Dei award is given to two graduates who live their Christian values and have acted most charitably toward their peers over the year at SNS. This year’s award goes to Keegan Gassmere and Fred Peterson.
• The Monsignor Haggerty award is given to the graduate who has made a positive contribution to the class throughout the year. This year’s award goes to Thomas Grant.
• The Father Lutz award goes to the graduate who has continuously strived for Catholic academic excellence throughout their years at SNS. This year’s award goes to Martin Gonzalez.
• The Father Valker kindness award goes to the student who best exemplifies being kind to others. This year’s award goes to Henry Parker.
• The St. Francis De Sales excellence in writing award goes to Annabelle Dalrymple.
• The Home & School education award goes to the graduate who shows consistent effort and enthusiasm in all aspects of Christian life. This year’s award goes to Martin Sarmiento.
• The Daughters of American Revolution Good Citizenship Award goes to the graduate who has displayed honor, service, courage, leadership and patriotism. This year’s award goes to Piero Giazzon.

"These 21 young men and women have made me very proud, and I know you are going to go on to do remarkable things,” said MaryBeth Schwall, middle school language arts teacher after conferring their diplomas.