Magis Houses develop life-long relationships

​In January of this year, we introduced Magis Houses at the Catholic Schools of Fairbanks with a huge unveiling in the gym and a day of activities. Students from across all grade levels were assigned to one of 13 Magis Houses named after Catholic Saints. Mrs. Kathleen Balko, our religion director, helped the school develop the plan for these houses. “The idea came from former CSF PACE teachers who attended Catholic schools with “houses.” I loved the idea of everyone belonging to their own pre-K through 12 family inspired by a particular saint.”
The word magis means “more” or “greater” in Latin. To further describe the word, it means to do more, to be more, to strive to do better in all that we do–not just for ourselves, but for the greater good. 
The goal of Magis Houses is to help further create a sense of community and belonging in our schools. Each house includes students from pre-K through 12th grade and two or three staff members. Students will stay with their Magis House throughout their entire tenure at our schools. Besides sitting together for all school Masses, students are grouped by Magis House for special activities throughout the year. There is an emphasis on older students mentoring younger students.