About Us

A Message from Susan Friesen, Elementary School Principal

Valley Catholic Elementary School affords a well-rounded education, rooted firmly in the core areas of language arts and mathematics, supported by strong programs in social studies, science, social skills education, computer technology, library/media, physical education, art, and music. Overarching this solid, comprehensive curriculum is our Catholic identity.

Catholic school teachers strive to teach as Jesus did, helping children to learn the message of God’s word, working together in community, and experiencing the chance to perform service for the benefit of others — message, community, and service. That is the essence of Catholic school teaching, as well as the ideal example of a Catholic school graduate.

Our school is very multicultural. We have children whose families come from all over the world. This rich mix of cultures gives our students the opportunity to gain an appreciation and respect for each other on a very personal level. To paraphrase Jesus, to know someone, is to love them.

The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon founded our school in 1903. Tradition is rich and deep here. When I meet people outside of our community and mention Valley Catholic or St. Mary of the Valley School, I’m frequently met with an excited reply of familiarity or some kind of connection to the school. If my new acquaintance is an alumnus, they often speak with fondness for particular Sisters and their experiences here. The Sisters’ influence runs deep and wide in the Oregon Catholic community and beyond. Many children have grown up and prospered under their tutelage.

The present faculty, staff, and I have an awesome task, carrying on the Sisters’ legacy. We are standing on their shoulders, looking deep into the 21st century. If we have done our job well, we will see our students walking out our door with God’s message in their hearts, the skills and desire to work in community with others, and the natural response to be of service wherever there is a need. Those traits and the solid education offered here, will perpetuate the Sisters’ legacy!     


sfriesen@valleycatholic.org