FAIRMONT — Sixth-grade students of St. John Vianney School in Fairmont (SJV) are preparing for their last year before heading off to the High School. As they get ready for the change, some students were able to share their thoughts and memories of their time at SJV.

Several students sang the praises of their teachers, recommending them as a good reason for other kids to come to the school.

“The teachers are nice and understanding,” said Regina Oberbeck. “They teach in a way that is easy to understand.”

Wyatt McGowan said, “I recommend other kids to come because they can meet very nice kids and teachers.” Norah Heille shares that the teachers help students learn good study habits, while Clare Striemer notes that teachers also form a relationship with their students.

While Leo Juarez agrees that “at SJV everyone is nice and helpful,” he also gives a second, and important, the reason for young people to attend. “We get to go on field trips and watch movies,” he said.

The kids also shared some of the life lessons they feel they’ve learned during their time at SJV.

“I’ve learned that no matter how hard school is, you should always try your hardest,” said Jonah Streimer. “I’ve learned how to talk in public better,” said Oberbeck. “I have learned how to write in cursive, and how to be nice,” said Collin Kain.

“I have learned how to be a smart, brave, willing, wise, grateful and kind person here,” said Kenna Fischer.

Most of us also develop fond memories of our time in school, and SJV students are no exception.

“My favorite memories are from the marathon when we walk around the school and do funny dances,” said Heille. McGowan says “In first grade, we hatched baby chickens.”

“One of my favorite memories is Mass every Friday,” said Clare Striemer. “There was also the time we went to Rendezvous Days, where reenactors give you some pretty interesting facts about the Civil War!”

“I love everything, but one thing that I love are all the field trips,” said Fischer. Kain said that he also loved all the field trips, but especially the marathon “where you run for money for your school!”

Oberbeck shared that her favorite memory was going to basketball games and hanging out with her friends, while Juarez said that remembers getting to watch a movie in the gym with popcorn and drinks.

Finally, the students shared their plans for the near future, after completing sixth grade. Fischer said she would work hard to be a good student at the high school, as well as work hard on personal growth to be a “much better person.”

Oberbeck said she will be shifting gears to adjust to homeschooling, while Heille and Juarez said that they want to focus on getting through the next six years of school before moving on to college or obtaining a job.

Meanwhile, a few students shared their long term goals.

Clare Striemer said, “My plans are to become an elementary school teacher, a wife, and an amazing mom!” Wyatt McGowan said, “I want to be a football player and join the Army or Air Force.”